Let’s Talk About Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in
Let’s face it, dealing with RV waste is nobody’s favorite part of camping. Managing and storing the sewer hose can be a messy, frustrating affair. That’s where the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in comes in, promising a more civilized and convenient solution for transporting your sanitation lifeline.
I had been searching for a way to keep my sewer hose from taking up valuable storage space in my RV’s underbelly compartment. My previous method of haphazardly stuffing it into a plastic bin was inefficient and, frankly, a bit gross. I wanted a dedicated carrier that would protect the hose, keep it contained, and ideally, make setup and breakdown quicker.
Upon receiving the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in, my initial impression was that it seemed reasonably sturdy. The plastic felt durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel, and the interlocking vented caps appeared to provide a secure seal. The included mounting brackets were a welcome surprise, suggesting a straightforward installation process.
I considered a couple of other options, including adjustable-length carriers and some with integrated hose rinsing systems. Ultimately, I chose the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in for its simplicity and reputation for reliability. Some of the fancier models seemed prone to leaks and mechanical failures, and I preferred a more straightforward, no-frills approach.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the plastic didn’t feel indestructible, it seemed adequate for the task. The design was simple and functional, and I was eager to see if it would live up to its promise of hassle-free sewer hose storage.
Real-World Testing: Putting Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in during a week-long camping trip to a dusty state park in Southern Utah. The conditions were dry and windy, creating plenty of opportunities for dirt and debris to accumulate. The carrier was mounted underneath my RV using the included brackets, a fairly straightforward process that took about 30 minutes.
Performance was generally good. The hose fit snugly inside the carrier, and the vented caps did a decent job of keeping out dust and debris. The rounded handles on the caps made them easy to grip and twist, even with slightly damp hands.
One minor issue I encountered was that the strap intended to prevent cap loss was a bit flimsy. I could foresee it breaking with repeated use, so I might replace it with a more robust bungee cord.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and approximately a dozen camping trips, the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or significant wear and tear on the plastic. The vented caps still seal tightly, preventing leaks and keeping the hose contained.
Maintenance is a breeze. I simply rinse the carrier out with a hose after each trip, and it’s good to go. I’ve also applied a UV protectant spray to the plastic to help prevent sun damage and prolong its lifespan.
Compared to my previous method of storing the hose in a plastic bin, the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in is a significant improvement. It’s more organized, cleaner, and significantly more convenient. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a product in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in
Specifications
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in boasts a few key specifications that directly impact its functionality. The Valterra carrier’s length, as the name suggests, is 46 inches. This is designed to accommodate most 20-foot standard RV sewer hoses, with the exception of some 20-foot triple-wrap hoses, which may be too bulky.
The carrier is constructed from durable black plastic. It also features interlocking vented caps and rounded handles for easy opening and closing. Mounting screws are included for installation.
These specifications are important because they dictate the size of hose the carrier can accommodate, the ease of use of the caps, and the overall durability of the unit. The 46-inch length is a crucial factor for RV owners with standard-length hoses, while the vented caps help prevent pressure buildup and odors.
Performance & Functionality
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in performs its primary job of storing and transporting a sewer hose effectively. The hose fits securely inside the carrier, preventing it from dragging on the ground or taking up valuable storage space. The vented caps are easy to use and provide a tight seal.
The main strength of the carrier is its simplicity and ease of use. It requires minimal effort to install and operate, and it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. A potential weakness is the plastic material, which may be susceptible to cracking or damage in extreme conditions.
Overall, the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in meets expectations. It provides a convenient and reliable way to store and transport an RV sewer hose without the need for excessive complexity.
Design & Ergonomics
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in features a simple and functional design. The black plastic is lightweight and easy to handle, and the rounded handles on the caps provide a comfortable grip. The carrier is designed to be mounted underneath an RV, which helps to save space and keep the hose out of sight.
The design is generally user-friendly, although the mounting process may require some basic mechanical skills. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the carrier.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in depends largely on the conditions in which it’s used. In moderate climates and with proper care, the carrier should last for several years. In extreme conditions, such as prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or freezing temperatures, the plastic may become brittle and more susceptible to damage.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. The carrier can be easily cleaned with soap and water, and the vented caps can be removed and rinsed separately. Applying a UV protectant spray can help to prolong the lifespan of the plastic.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in comes with mounting screws. There are no other accessories included. Customization options are limited, although some RV owners may choose to add additional straps or supports to further secure the carrier to their RV.
The carrier is compatible with most standard RV sewer hoses. A larger diameter or adjustable length hose carrier might be required for extra-long or bulky hoses.
Pros and Cons of Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in
Pros
- Easy to install. Mounting brackets are included, making the process relatively simple.
- Keeps sewer hose contained. Prevents messy storage and potential damage to the hose.
- Durable enough for regular use. The plastic construction is reasonably robust.
- Simple to use. The design is straightforward, with no complicated mechanisms.
- Affordable price. Offers good value for the money.
Cons
- Plastic may be susceptible to cracking. Extreme weather conditions could shorten its lifespan.
- The strap to prevent cap loss is flimsy. It might need to be replaced with something sturdier.
Who Should Buy Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in?
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in is perfect for casual campers and RVers looking for a simple and affordable way to store and transport their sewer hose. It’s also well-suited for those who value organization and cleanliness. Anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of stuffing a dirty hose into a storage compartment will appreciate this product.
Those who should skip this product include full-time RVers who frequently camp in extreme weather conditions. They may want to invest in a more robust and durable carrier made from heavier-duty materials. Also, those with extra-long or bulky sewer hoses might need to opt for a larger carrier.
A must-have modification for this product is a sturdier strap for the caps. I’d also recommend applying a UV protectant spray to the plastic to help prevent sun damage.
Conclusion on Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in
The Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in is a worthwhile investment for RV owners seeking a simple and effective solution for sewer hose storage. It may not be the most luxurious or high-tech option on the market, but it gets the job done reliably and affordably.
The price of $74.99 is justified by the convenience and organization it provides. It prevents messy storage, protects your hose, and makes setup and breakdown easier.
I would personally recommend the Valterra Ez Hose Carrier – 46in to anyone looking for a no-frills, dependable sewer hose storage solution. If you’re tired of wrestling with a dirty hose and want to keep your RV storage compartments clean and organized, this carrier is a solid choice. Upgrade your camping experience today!