Connecting to full hookups should be simple, but if you’re new to RVing or just need a refresher, getting it right can save you a lot of stress. At Coastal Cowboy RV Park, we offer easy-to-access water, sewer, and electric hookups at every site, and we want your experience to be clean, safe, and hassle-free. Here’s everything you need to know about doing RV hookups the right way, along with a few common mistakes to avoid.
Water Hookups: Start Fresh Every Time
Before connecting your RV to the park’s water supply, always use a dedicated white portable water hose; never use a garden hose. These are specifically made for safe drinking water and won’t transfer plastic or rubber taste into your system. Make sure to use a pressure regulator at the spigot to protect your RV’s plumbing. Park water pressure can vary, and high pressure can crack fittings or damage your lines.
Once you’re connected, turn on the water slowly and check for leaks. It’s smart to let water run briefly through the hose before attaching it to flush out any debris. If your RV has a water filter system, be sure it’s installed and ready to go. It’s all about starting clean and staying that way.
Sewer Hookups: Connect Carefully
Hooking up to the sewer is easy when you know the routine. Always use a high-quality RV sewer hose with a tight-fitting elbow or connector that seals properly at the campground’s sewer inlet. A clear elbow helps you monitor flow and ensures the connection is seated correctly.
Keep your black tank valve closed until the tank is at least two-thirds full. This allows solid waste to break down and prevents the dreaded “poop pyramid.” Only open the valve to dump when the tank is mostly full, then flush thoroughly. Leave the gray tank valve closed, too, until you’re ready to dump that one. It’s helpful to empty the gray tank last so the soapy water cleans out your hose before stowing it.
Sanitation: Keep it Clean, Keep it Safe
It’s tempting to rush this part, but keeping your hookups sanitary is critical. Always wear disposable gloves when handling sewer connections. Never place your sewer hose on the ground without support. Use a sewer hose support system to keep a proper slope, so waste flows easily and doesn’t collect in the hose.
After dumping your tanks, rinse out the hose and store it away from your fresh water equipment. Keep your sewer gear in a separate container or bin to avoid contamination. A little organization now goes a long way toward keeping your system sanitary and stress-free.
The Do’s of Hookups
Do use new or well-maintained hoses and fittings. Cracks and leaks are not only annoying, but they can also cause serious damage to your site and to your neighbor’s. Do label and separate your clean water gear from sewer gear. This keeps your hookups safe and avoids contamination.
Do routinely check your connections. A quick look every few days ensures nothing is loose or leaking. Do ask for help if you’re unsure. At Coastal Cowboy RV Park, we’re always happy to walk you through the setup or help troubleshoot an issue. There’s no shame in asking; we’ve all been there.
The Don’ts You Need to Avoid
Don’t leave your black tank valve open at all times. Doing so lets liquids drain while solids build up, creating a nightmare scenario that’s expensive to fix. Don’t use a hose without a pressure regulator. It’s one of the cheapest tools in your kit, and it protects your RV’s plumbing from serious damage.
Don’t mix up your water hoses. Even if you rinse them off, cross-contaminating a sewer hose with drinking water equipment is a bad idea. Don’t ignore small leaks or slow drainage. These signs often point to clogs, cracks, or improper setups that should be fixed before they become costly problems.
Respect the Site and Your Neighbors
A clean campsite benefits everyone. Make sure your sewer connections are sealed and odor-free. Keep hoses coiled neatly and avoid running them across walkways. If you have a spill while dumping, clean it up immediately and let park staff know.
Noise, light pollution, and unsightly setups affect the experience for everyone. Keeping your area clean and your hookups professional helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere we’re proud of here at Coastal Cowboy.
Why Hookups Matter at Coastal Cowboy RV Park
At Coastal Cowboy RV Park, we offer full hookup sites with reliable water, sewer, and electric access, so your stay is comfortable from the minute you arrive. Our power pedestals and sewer connections are designed for easy use, but what really makes the difference is how you set up and manage your gear.
Following these do’s and don’ts helps protect your rig, keeps the park clean, and ensures your visit goes off without a hitch. We believe a great RV experience starts with smooth hookups and ends with a relaxing stay.
Contact Us Today!
Experience the comfort, community, and coastal charm of the Texas Gulf Coast. Whether you choose Coastal Cowboy RV Park, Redfish Bay RV Park, or Sunrise RV Resort, you’ll find the perfect place to relax, recharge, and feel at home from the moment you arrive.