Straighten your external filter pipe

You know the problem. You drop your Whale external filter into your Aquaroll, trying to ensure that the filter unit on the end goes right to the bottom of the tank. That way, you don’t have to refill the water sooner than necessary. But often it feels as though the pipe is bending and not sitting as low as it might, probably because of air in the filter causing it to float upwards. Rod has a simple solution…

1 He uses Pipe Snaps – cheap, plastic sections of tube with a split down the side. These are designed to quickly and easily clip around 13mm domestic radiator feed pipes, to save you having to paint them.

Measure from the top of the filter to just under the filler neck, and cut a piece of Pipe Snap to that length.

2 Next, snap it over the Whale pipe, ensuring it butts right up to the filter.

3 This straightens the pipe and will keep it at the bottom of the barrel.

4 The pipe compresses and clips easily into the groove on the caravan end of the Whale filter unit, keeping it off the ground when you go to get water.

Note: Truma external pump owners can use a length of rigid plastic and cable ties to achieve the same effect.

After more great DIY inspiration? Then head to our Back to Basics: DIY & Maintenance category, where you’ll find some brilliant projects and ideas to try out.

Future Publishing Limited, the publisher of practicalcaravan.com, provides the information in this article in good faith and makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Individuals carrying out the instructions do so at their own risk and must exercise their independent judgement in determining the appropriateness of the advice to their circumstances. Individuals should take appropriate safety precautions and be aware of the risk of electrocution when dealing with electrical products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, neither Future nor its employees or agents shall have any liability in connection with the use of this information. You should check that any van warranty will not be affected before proceeding with DIY projects.

You’ve carried out the DIY – it’s now time to find the ideal place to head to for your tour! If you need a helping hand, our guide to the best caravan sites is full of ideas.