Let’s Dive into Thetford Exterior Shower Hose
The Thetford Exterior Shower Hose is a seemingly simple product, but it plays a crucial role in the comfort and convenience of RV living. Manufactured by Thetford, a trusted name in RV sanitation and appliance solutions, this 60-inch white hose is designed as a direct OEM replacement for exterior showers. It boasts a robust design, intending to provide a reliable water connection for outdoor rinsing.
My journey to finding this particular hose was born out of necessity. The original shower hose on my vintage camper finally gave way after years of sun exposure and general wear and tear, leaving me with a frustrating leak and no way to rinse off after a day of hiking or fishing. I needed a durable and reliable replacement that was easy to install and would withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Upon receiving the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose, my initial impression was positive. The hose felt sturdy and well-made, not like the flimsy, cheap plastic hoses I’ve encountered in the past. Its clean white color gave it a fresh and professional look.
While other similar hoses are available on the market, I chose the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose based on Thetford’s reputation for quality RV products and the hose’s specific design as an OEM replacement. This gave me confidence that it would fit properly and perform as expected. I also looked at a Camco hose and a no-name brand available online, but I went with Thetford for piece of mind.
My first impressions were generally positive, though I confess a shower hose isn’t the most exciting piece of gear to unbox. I felt a sense of relief knowing I had a solution to my leaky shower situation and was eager to get it installed and back to enjoying the outdoors.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thetford Exterior Shower Hose to the Test
First Use Experience
The first opportunity I had to test the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose was during a weekend camping trip to the Deschutes National Forest in Oregon. I connected the hose to the exterior shower fixture on my camper and used it to rinse off my muddy hiking boots and gear after a day exploring the trails. The temperature was cool and damp, a classic Oregon spring day.
The hose performed admirably. There were no leaks at the connection points, and the water flowed smoothly. It was easy to maneuver and direct the spray where I needed it.
Installation was a breeze, as expected, and the hose immediately stopped the leaking that I experienced with the old one. I immediately noticed it was a far more durable feel than the OEM hose that was installed at the factory 40 years ago!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my RV setup. I’ve used it in various conditions, from hot and sunny days to cool and rainy evenings, and it has consistently performed well. It has held up perfectly.
There are no signs of wear and tear, cracking, or fading. It is still going strong. The white color has remained bright and clean, despite exposure to dirt and sunlight.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to the original hose, this Thetford replacement is a significant improvement in terms of durability and reliability. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Thetford Exterior Shower Hose
Specifications
- Length: 60 inches. This is a standard length for RV exterior showers, providing ample reach without being cumbersome.
- Color: White. A clean, neutral color that blends well with most RV exteriors.
- Material: (Material not specifically stated, but assumed to be a durable, flexible plastic or rubber compound). The material’s flexibility allows for easy maneuvering, while its durability ensures resistance to cracking and leaks.
- Design: Original factory part / Direct OEM replacement. This ensures a proper fit and compatibility with existing RV shower fixtures.
- Robust Design: Ensures longer product life and resistance to wear and tear.
Performance & Functionality
The Thetford Exterior Shower Hose performs its primary function – delivering water from the RV’s plumbing system to the exterior showerhead – effectively and reliably. The hose is easy to connect and disconnect, and it provides a consistent water flow without leaks.
Its robust design contributes to its overall reliability and longevity. However, without information on specific pressure ratings it is hard to give a full perspective on this issue.
The hose meets my expectations for a replacement RV shower hose. It’s a simple product that does its job well.
Design & Ergonomics
The hose is lightweight and easy to handle. The smooth exterior makes it comfortable to grip, even when wet.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is no learning curve; it’s easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience thus far, the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose is built to last. The material feels durable and resistant to cracking, fading, and general wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. This simple maintenance routine helps to prolong the hose’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thetford Exterior Shower Hose is a straightforward replacement part and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, though you could potentially use different showerheads or quick-connect fittings depending on your needs and preferences.
It is compatible with standard RV shower fixtures and fittings. There are no included accessories, but standard quick connect adapters would connect to this hose easily.
Pros and Cons of Thetford Exterior Shower Hose
Pros
- Direct OEM replacement ensures perfect fit and easy installation.
- Robust design provides durability and long-lasting performance.
- 60-inch length offers ample reach for outdoor showering and rinsing.
- Simple and functional design, easy to use and maintain.
- Thetford’s reputation provides peace of mind in the product’s quality.
Cons
- Material composition not specifically stated, making it difficult to assess its UV resistance definitively.
- The hose is only available in white, which may not match all RV exteriors.
Who Should Buy Thetford Exterior Shower Hose?
The Thetford Exterior Shower Hose is perfect for RV owners who need to replace a worn or damaged exterior shower hose. It is ideal for those who value a direct OEM replacement for easy installation and reliable performance.
Anyone looking for a stylish or high-end shower hose should skip this product. If you need specific features like hot/cold mixing capability, then this is not the product for you.
A thread sealant tape for the connections may be required to ensure a leak free connection. Quick connect fittings would enhance the usability of the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose.
Conclusion on Thetford Exterior Shower Hose
The Thetford Exterior Shower Hose is a practical and reliable replacement part that delivers on its promise of providing a durable and functional water connection for RV exterior showers. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of more expensive options, its simple design, robust construction, and easy installation make it an excellent value for the price of $21.45.
The price is certainly justified by its quality and functionality. It is a small price to pay to ensure leak-free performance and a reliable water source for outdoor activities.
I would definitely recommend the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose to any RV owner in need of a replacement. It’s a straightforward solution that provides peace of mind and enhances the overall RV experience. Don’t wait until your old hose fails; upgrade to the Thetford Exterior Shower Hose today and enjoy worry-free outdoor showering on your next adventure!