How much does van plumbing cost?

What you spend on a camper van water system comes down to scope. The parts for a basic cold water layout usually run 800 to 2000. That covers a small fresh tank, compact pump with accumulator, PEX or reinforced vinyl lines, a faucet, a strainer, and a modest grey tank with venting. Step up to hot water and an indoor shower and your parts bill can reach 2500 to 6000 as you add a heater, mixing valve, shower hardware, waterproofing, and more plumbing.

Here is a practical breakdown of common components and typical price ranges for parts only:

• Tanks and fittings: Fresh tanks from 10 to 30 gallons are often 150 to 400. Grey tanks and mounting hardware add 150 to 500. Black tanks for cassette or flush toilets vary widely but plan 200 to 800 if required.
• Pump and accumulator: Expect 120 to 300 for a quality 12 volt diaphragm pump plus 30 to 70 for an accumulator and 10 to 30 for a strainer.
• Lines and fittings: PEX or food grade hose, tees, elbows, valves, clamps, and bulkheads often total 150 to 400 depending on run length and quantity of fittings.
• Filtration and treatment: A sediment prefilter runs 30 to 80. Carbon filters are 40 to 120. UV treatment systems start near 200 and can exceed 500.
• Water heater: Options range from compact electric tanks at 250 to 500, to diesel or propane fired heaters near 700 to 1600, to high output on demand systems from 900 to 1800. Electric heaters require careful energy planning.
• Fixtures: Sink, faucet, shower valve, shower head, and outdoor rinse points commonly add 200 to 700. A durable shower pan and waterproofing can add 300 to 900.
• Monitoring and vents: Simple tank sensors and a vent kit can add 60 to 200.

Labor costs vary with scope, van model, and finish level. A straightforward cold water system without hot water or shower may take 15 to 25 hours. At shop rates of 100 to 180 per hour, that is 1500 to 4500. Full hot water systems with interior shower, waterproofing, panel fabrication, and clean routing often need 35 to 60 hours, or 4000 to 9000 in labor. Custom metal brackets, tank cradles, cabinetry mods, and sound or thermal isolation add time.

What drives van plumbing cost up or down

Several variables move the final number more than you would think:

• Hot water choice: Electric heaters draw heavy power and may require battery or inverter upgrades. Combustion heaters cost more up front but reduce electrical load.
• Shower decisions: Indoor showers require framing, waterproofing, drains, pans, and ventilation. Outdoor shower boxes cost less but are seasonal in cold climates.
• Freeze protection: Heating pads, insulated lines, interior tank placement, and glycol safe design add parts and labor to keep water systems safe below freezing.
• Tank sizing: Larger tanks mean stronger mounts, additional plumbing, and possibly suspension upgrades if total payload climbs.
• Noise and vibration control: Soft mounts, flexible lines, and thoughtful routing add time but keep pumps quiet and fittings stress free.
• Service access: Hidden runs behind finished panels look clean but require extra planning, access hatches, and quick disconnects.

Example cost tiers

• Weekend cold water kit: Parts 800 to 1500, labor 1500 to 3000. Fresh tank, pump, filter, sink, and a small grey tank.
• Hot water without indoor shower: Parts 1500 to 3500, labor 2500 to 5000. Add heater, mixing valve, exterior rinse, safer routing.
• Full shower and four season: Parts 3000 to 6000 plus, labor 4000 to 9000. Includes shower pan, waterproofing, freeze protection, and refined controls.

Do not forget power, ventilation, and safety

A water system does not stand alone. The pump needs clean 12 volt power and the heater may require both fuel integration and electrical supply. If you add an electric heater, budget for battery capacity and inverter headroom. Many builders plan an extra 500 to 2000 for electrical upgrades that support water heating and pumping.

Freeze protection and four season details

Cold climate use introduces heat pads for tanks, thermostats, insulation sleeves, and interior routing of lines away from van skins. Expect 250 to 800 in parts and several hours of labor to protect lines, valves, and filters. In subfreezing travel, design choices like recirculation loops and drain downs can prevent repairs later.

Material quality and serviceability

Choosing quality pumps, stainless fittings where needed, and PEX with proper support reduces leaks and noise. Service loops, unions, and access panels make future maintenance quicker, which lowers lifetime cost. A few extra dollars in clamps, sealants, and mounts go a long way.

Budget planning and realistic expectations

Start with daily water use. Many travelers consume 3 to 5 gallons per person per day without long showers. That figure sets your tank size and refilling cadence. Match the heater to your energy system and climate. Keep a line item for filters, sanitizing products, and annual replacements. Over a year, expect 60 to 200 for filter media and maintenance items.

Common cost traps to avoid

• Oversizing tanks without payload headroom creates ride and mounting challenges.
• Underestimating electrical needs for hot water leads to slow recovery and tripped breakers.
• Skipping access for service can turn a simple repair into a cabinet rebuild.

Hitting the right balance means the system is quiet, dependable, easy to winterize, and simple to service.

OZK Customs designs and installs complete van water systems with clean routing, quiet operation, and freeze smart details built for real travel. Explore our Recreational vans to see how water, power, and layout work together. If you want a ground up build that includes hot water and a shower, our Custom van build approach aligns plumbing, cabinetry, and electrical from day one. Looking for a finance friendly platform path. See Mainstream vans for package based options that still deliver dependable water on the road.

Tell us how you camp, how many people you travel with, and your climate goals. We will specify the right tanks, pump, heater, and freeze protection, then install it with clean lines and service access. Fill out the form and let OZK turn the question how much does van plumbing cost into a clear plan and a finished system that lasts.