Camco RV Water Heater By-Pass Kit - Permanent Winterizing Saver

In this review the Camco RV Water Heater By-Pass Kit is evaluated for RV owners who winterize their rigs and want to stop wasting antifreeze. The biggest reason to buy is straightforward: install it once and route antifreeze around the water heater so you save gallons of antifreeze and speed up winterizing. For owners of 10-gallon camper water heaters this kit promises a clean, permanent solution that reduces repeated line disconnections and simplifies seasonal maintenance.

Key Features

• Permanent install: Mounting the kit once removes the need to disconnect lines every winter, cutting time spent preparing the plumbing each season.
• Compatibility: Designed for 10-gallon RV water heater tanks and 1/2-14 NPT tapered threads so it fits common camper heater setups without complex adapters.
• Durable fittings: The kit includes brass 3-way bypass valves with shutoff for long-term corrosion resistance and reliable operation.
• No-kink hose: A 12-in nylon reinforced crimp-proof bypass hose keeps flow steady and resists collapse during routing around the heater.
• Flow indication: Valve handles feature built-in flow indicators so you can visually confirm open or bypass positions quickly.
• Complete kit: Includes two 3-way valves, one bypass hose and Teflon tape so you have what is needed for installation in most camper systems.

Who It's For

The kit is aimed at RV and travel trailer owners with a 10-gallon water heater who want a simple, repeatable winterizing routine and to lower antifreeze consumption. DIY minded campers who are comfortable with basic plumbing connections and thread fittings will appreciate the permanent mount approach and the included brass components.

It is less suitable for owners whose water heater uses nonstandard thread sizes or who need a temporary, removable bypass for rental rigs or very infrequent winterizing. Also, anyone concerned about maximum flow or leak resistance in older plumbing should test connections after install, since some buyers reported mixed experiences with flow and sealing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reduces antifreeze use and simplifies seasonal winterizing by routing around the heater.
• Brass 3-way valves and a reinforced hose make for a durable, long-lasting installation.
• Clear flow indicators on handles give quick visual confirmation of valve position.
• Comes with Teflon tape and all parts needed for a permanent install in most systems.

Cons

• Some users report mixed results for water flow and occasional leak resistance concerns, so careful sealing is recommended.
• Only specified for 10-gallon tanks and 1/2-14 NPT tapered threads, so it will not fit every RV without adapters.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Camco RV Water Heater By-Pass Kit is a practical value buy for owners of 10-gallon RV heaters who want a one-time install to save antifreeze and speed winterizing. With brass valves, a reinforced bypass hose and clear flow indicators it offers durable, easy operation, though installers should check fittings for leaks and verify flow for their specific plumbing. For the right rig it pays back in saved antifreeze and less hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my RV water heater?
It fits 10-gallon tanks with 1/2-14 NPT tapered threads; owners with different thread sizes will need an adapter.

Does the kit include everything needed to install?
Yes, it includes two 3-way brass valves, a 12 in nylon reinforced bypass hose and Teflon tape for most installs.

Are there common issues to watch for?
Some users report mixed results on water flow and leak resistance, so tighten and seal threaded connections and test after installation.