First Impressions of Camco Clean Out Hose System
The Camco Clean Out Hose System promises a more sanitary and convenient way to manage the often-dreaded task of RV sewer hose cleaning. Marketed by Camco, a trusted name in RV accessories, this system includes a 10-foot RhinoFlex gray water hose and a rinser cap with a 4-way water pressure blaster. The bright orange hose is a thoughtful touch, designed to prevent accidental cross-contamination with potable water hoses.
My journey to finding the Camco Clean Out Hose System began with a simple need: a better way to clean my RV sewer hose. After multiple camping trips, I was tired of the messy, inefficient process of rinsing the hose with whatever water source was available, often resulting in lingering odors and a general feeling of uncleanliness. I was specifically looking for a system that would provide a more thorough rinse and prevent accidental mixing of gray and potable water.
Upon unboxing the Camco Clean Out Hose System, my initial impression was positive. The hose felt durable and well-made, while the rinser cap appeared sturdy and functional. The bright orange color was definitely noticeable and a welcome safety feature.
I considered other options like the Valterra Viper Clean Flush System and the Thetford SmartSewer system, but ultimately chose the Camco Clean Out Hose System due to its reputation for reliability and ease of use, combined with a competitive price point. It seemed like a straightforward solution without unnecessary bells and whistles.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The system seemed promising, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the claims of a more sanitary and convenient sewer hose cleaning experience. The bright color and sturdy feel gave me hope that this would be a worthwhile addition to my RV gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Camco Clean Out Hose System to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Camco Clean Out Hose System came during a weekend camping trip to Lake Isabella. After dumping the RV’s black water tank, I immediately connected the system to the sewer hose and campground water spigot. The rinser cap attached easily to the bayonet fitting, creating a watertight seal.
The Camco Clean Out Hose System performed admirably in the dry, dusty environment of the Southern California campground. The 4-way water pressure blaster in the rinser cap provided a surprisingly powerful rinse, effectively flushing out residual waste from the sewer hose. The water shut-off valve on the cap was also a convenient feature, allowing me to control the water flow without having to run back to the spigot.
The Camco Clean Out Hose System proved to be remarkably easy to use right out of the box. No special tools or adapters were required, and the entire setup process took only a few minutes. I was pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of the rinser cap and the overall simplicity of the system.
The only minor issue I encountered during the first use was a slight difficulty in detaching the rinser cap after the cleaning process. This was likely due to the tight seal created during the rinse, but it was easily resolved with a gentle twist. Overall, the first use was a resounding success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Camco Clean Out Hose System has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my RV equipment. It has consistently performed well during numerous camping trips in varying conditions, from hot desert environments to cooler coastal campgrounds. The bright orange hose has retained its color and remains flexible, showing no signs of cracking or deterioration.
The Camco Clean Out Hose System has held up exceptionally well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The rinser cap still creates a watertight seal, and the water shut-off valve continues to function smoothly. The hose material is resistant to abrasions and punctures, even after being dragged across rough surfaces.
Maintaining the Camco Clean Out Hose System is a breeze. After each use, I simply rinse the hose and rinser cap with clean water and allow them to air dry. The system stores easily in a standard RV storage compartment, taking up minimal space.
Compared to my previous method of cleaning the sewer hose with a garden hose, the Camco Clean Out Hose System is a significant improvement. It provides a more thorough rinse, is more convenient to use, and prevents accidental contamination of potable water sources. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Camco Clean Out Hose System
Specifications
The Camco Clean Out Hose System boasts the following technical specifications:
- Manufacturer: Camco
- Hose Length: 10 feet (approximately 9 feet according to some specs)
- Hose Internal Diameter: 5/8 inch
- Rinser Cap Fitting: 3-inch bayonet fitting
- Additional Features: Water shut-off valve, 4-way water pressure blaster
- Width: 3.5 inches
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 1.85 lb
These specifications directly impact the Camco Clean Out Hose System‘s performance and usability. The 10-foot hose length provides ample reach for most RV sewer connections, while the 5/8-inch internal diameter ensures adequate water flow for effective rinsing. The 3-inch bayonet fitting is a standard size for RV sewer connections, ensuring compatibility with most RVs. The water shut-off valve and 4-way water pressure blaster enhance the rinsing process, while the orange color adds a safety element by preventing accidental mixing with potable water hoses.
Performance & Functionality
The Camco Clean Out Hose System excels at its primary function: cleaning RV sewer hoses. The 4-way water pressure blaster in the rinser cap provides a powerful and effective rinse, ensuring that residual waste is thoroughly flushed out of the hose. The water shut-off valve allows for precise control of the water flow, preventing unnecessary water waste. The bright orange color clearly identifies the hose as a gray water hose, minimizing the risk of accidental cross-contamination.
The main strength of the Camco Clean Out Hose System lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It is easy to use, reliable, and provides a thorough rinse. One potential weakness is the hose’s flexibility, which could be improved to prevent kinks and bends.
Overall, the Camco Clean Out Hose System meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a convenient, sanitary, and effective way to clean RV sewer hoses.
Design & Ergonomics
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is designed with functionality and ease of use in mind. The materials used are durable and resistant to wear and tear, while the lightweight design makes it easy to handle and store. The rinser cap is ergonomically designed with four wings, making it easy to install and remove.
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is very user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to operate. The setup process is straightforward, and the water shut-off valve provides intuitive control of the water flow. There is no learning curve associated with this product.
Durability & Maintenance
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is built to last. The hose is made from a durable, UV-resistant material that can withstand exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions. The rinser cap is constructed from high-quality plastic that is resistant to corrosion and cracking.
Maintaining the Camco Clean Out Hose System is simple and requires minimal effort. After each use, rinse the hose and rinser cap with clean water and allow them to air dry. Store the system in a dry place to prevent mildew and mold growth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Camco Clean Out Hose System comes with a rinser cap and a 10-foot RhinoFlex gray water hose. There are no official customization options offered by Camco for this specific system.
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is compatible with standard 3-inch bayonet fittings used on most RV sewer hoses. This allows you to use the rinser cap with other sewer hoses if desired.
Pros and Cons of Camco Clean Out Hose System
Pros
- Effective cleaning with the 4-way water pressure blaster.
- Easy to use and requires no special tools or skills.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Bright orange color prevents accidental contamination of potable water.
- Affordable price point makes it a great value for RV owners.
Cons
- Hose flexibility could be improved to prevent kinks.
- Detaching rinser cap can be slightly difficult after use.
Who Should Buy Camco Clean Out Hose System?
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is perfect for RV owners who value cleanliness, convenience, and safety. It is an essential accessory for anyone who regularly uses their RV’s sewer system and wants to maintain a sanitary and odor-free environment. It is also ideal for those who are new to RVing and want a simple and effective way to manage their sewer hose cleaning.
Those who primarily camp at locations with full hookups and prefer to use disposable sewer hoses might find this product less essential. Also, RVers who prefer more elaborate or automated sewer cleaning systems might want to explore other options.
There are no must-have accessories or modifications for the Camco Clean Out Hose System. However, a pair of disposable gloves can be helpful for handling the sewer hose during the cleaning process.
Conclusion on Camco Clean Out Hose System
The Camco Clean Out Hose System is a well-designed, effective, and affordable solution for cleaning RV sewer hoses. It offers a significant improvement over traditional cleaning methods, providing a more sanitary and convenient way to manage this essential RV task. The 4-way water pressure blaster ensures a thorough rinse, while the bright orange color prevents accidental contamination of potable water.
The price of $45.89 is justified by the Camco Clean Out Hose System‘s durability, effectiveness, and ease of use. It is a worthwhile investment for any RV owner who wants to maintain a clean and sanitary RV environment.
I would personally recommend the Camco Clean Out Hose System to any RV owner. It is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for a common RVing problem.
If you’re looking for a better way to clean your RV sewer hose, look no further than the Camco Clean Out Hose System. It’s a small investment that will make a big difference in your RVing experience!