Know more About Essential Kitchen Equipment for Converted Van

The heart of your converted van is in the kitchen. It’s very convenient for cooking and washing up inside your van in any given weather conditions and it feels like home too. It’s the ultimate convenience on the road living.

The challenging part about kitchen sink installation is plumbing. You must plan and know your needs. Plumbing system can be run on both kitchen sink and shower.

In choosing what kitchen sink will fit to your converted van, there are few common considerations you must take note off.

> First you must layout your counter where you plan to put the appliances like sink, stove or oven.

> Dimensions of your sink for your fresh and grey water tanks underneath the sink and built in stove if you plan to have one.

> The height of the cabinet from the top of the counter to the floor.

> If want to have filtration system for quality taste drinking water in your converted van, you must have available holes for the spigot of your filtered water.

What type of sink you need?

There are two types of sink:

> Under mount sink does have rim, but not visible it rests at the bottom of the counter. It slightly increase counter space.

> Drop-in-sink is also called self-trimming it’s the most common type of kitchen sink. It has visible lip around its perimeter but it is easy to clean and less expensive.

Kitchen Faucet for your Tiny Kitchen

Faucet is a significant source of water use. A good faucet can reach with ease and being able to wash dishes thoroughly, quickly and save water to your converted van.

Installing quality faucet base on your needs is something you should take a look into. Remember every space is important in your converted van it must be functional and efficient.

Practical key things that you should take a look when choosing a faucet for your small kitchen:

> Size

The size should be proportional to your kitchen sink. Get the dimensions of your upper cabinet or window to provide adequate clearance with your kitchen faucet.

> Control

What control features of kitchen faucet suits your needs? The most practical is having a kitchen faucet with pull down spray head. It allows you to wash heavy items through pulling the faucet head and clean thoroughly, quickly than pick and hold them up one by one it saves the use of your water and your time.

> Durability and Safety

Know what materials the faucet made off, you can check this with the manufacturer. It must be well built and feels sturdy even after installation. Your kitchen faucet must be a health utility, a rust proof and corrosion proof.

> Price

There are wide price ranges in the market. Always consider your budget base on your van life needs. And make your vanlife adventures a comfortable and convenient one.

2 Common Ways to Store Water in your Converted Van

> Water Tank

Most vandwellers choose to fit a water tank underneath their converted van to free up space inside their van. It’s great that you don’t have to constantly stopping at gas station to refill fresh water or dispose grey water at van’s dump station.

> Gallon Plastic Jugs

For some vandwellers they simply store fresh water or grey water in gallon plastic jugs with spigot on the bottom. It’s cheaper and has easy plumbing set up. Just fill the jugs through inlet with ordinary garden hose and you’ll have water straight out of the faucet.

Use of Fresh Water Storage Tank

Fresh water tank in your converted van is use for cooking, drinking, washing, cleaning and flushing almost the same with use of fresh water at home.

Having large fresh water tank you don’t have to fill it up too often and it still fit nicely under your van. When filling up your fresh water use potable water, if you intend to drink it use filtration system to avoid bacteria. Filling at the campsite would be easy as long as you have a hose pipe or large watering can to get water into your tank.

Keep in mind that it’s important to manage your water consumption when travelling less usage of water is equivalent to less power. Being less wasteful is also better for the environment. And always be mindful when using fresh water, know that some parts of the countries experience water shortage although fresh water is always available it takes a lot of work and effort to make it so.

Clean tank for clean water. It’s important to thoroughly clean the tank itself on regular basis to prevent growth of bacteria. Water tanks are usually maintained by adding a cleaning product once or twice a season.

Tips in handling your fresh water

> Keep your water system clean and sanitized.

> Use water purifying tablets to prevent build-up of bacteria to your fresh water tank.

> Remember to use only potable water for your fresh water tank and keep your tank full as possible to reduce bacteria growth in your fresh water tank. You can have indicator on the control panel to let you know how full your waste tank is.

> Your water pumps have filter ensure to clean this annually to avoid debris from getting to your tank. And always drain down your water systems to prevent damage to pipes and fittings cause by cold.

Use of Grey Water Storage Tank

Grey Water is the used water in your sink and shower it usually located under your converted van. You need to dump it in right place like vans dump stations, camp bathrooms or down the gutter, you simply open the valve and let the water run out or attach a hose to it for more precise drainage.

Know that stored grey water doesn’t stay grey especially if it stored long, it will turned black with growth bacteria on it with unpleasant smell too. It’s very important to dispose it in proper way in the right place.

Most of the campsites have rules regarding disposing of grey water from your converted van some provide a grey water drain where you can direct disposing it using their outlet hoses. While at free camps they mostly request to simply direct grey water onto the grass. Remember to open your waste tank valve slowly to avoid splash, once the flow started you can open the level the full way. Once the tank is empty, wash down the area with fresh water and the hose provided so it will be clean for the next person who will use.

To avoid unpleasant smell into your converted van due to grey water tanks consider the following:

> Use eco-friendly soaps and liquids without chemicals.

> Remove residue on your dishes and pans before washing.

> Use on-site washing facilities

> And most importantly if possible empty your grey tank daily and clean your grey tank periodically.

As vandwellers it’s our responsibility to dispose our grey water responsibly on appropriate disposal at suitable facility as discharge it on ground under or near your van or in campground. Note that grey water can have potential impact on natural water resources and aquatic life if not dispose properly.

Investing in grey water tank is a great idea to maximize the environmental sustainability of your converted van.

All the waste from your outlets goes into grey water tank. Always remember that your motorhome waste and water should be managed on daily basis.

Water Pump

If you plan to have sink or shower in your converted van you need to have water pump. The water pump used to push the water through to get fresh water into your tank. Pump can either be hand powered or small electric submersible pumps.

> Manual Water Pump

Manual Foot Water Pump is manually operated. It works in two ways, either pressurizes the entire system or they pull water from the line as you pump. Its installation is simple just mount it on the floor or wall or even better to mount the manual pump between the exit line or drain of your tank and the inlet of your water pump. Just ensure to have easy access on it as it requires regular change of screen. It’s less expensive, especially if you don’t want to connect it to your 12V fuse board but it can be pretty slow.

> Electric Water Pump

Electric Water Pump requires 12V electric supply. It is quite complicated to install compare with manual foot water pump but has benefits of consistent water pressure and being able to hook up on hot water heater to your sink and shower.

For more strong pumping system you want to install inline pump that delivers high pressure to your shower. Note that 30 psi pump and above may be too much for van’s water heater, it is too strong that it can blog the components of your heater, so ensure to check your appliances to confirm the pump isn’t too much to operate.

What to consider when buying Water Pump to your converted van?

> System Pressure

> GPM (Gallons Per Minute)

> Power Usage

> Noise or Interference

> Can run dry or Self-Priming is a bonus

Water Pump will make little noise when faucet is on but silent when off. What you can do is pair your water pump with accumulator and strainer to make the pump much quieter and to strain debris on it. It will also prolong the life of your pump at some point. If you don’t want to spend simply mount piece of foam rubber between the pump and the wall to cut a lot of noise.

Water Filtration System

Water filtration system in your converted van will give you a constant access to safe and healthy water supply, water that has clean and fresh taste. It get rids off bacteria, particulates and chemicals such as chlorine with the help of fine physical barrier or by biological or chemical process.

Water Filtration System is easy to attach to the supply line of your converted van. You will only need extension hose and polypropylene filter cartridge. And it’s easy to use just set it to start to function.

Having water filtration system in your converted van saves you money and makes you healthy.

Types of Drinkable Water Filtration System you can install in Converted Van

> In line filter

It does basic filtration to get rid of some chemicals, bad odor and leave a clean taste. And it’s a wise choice if you wish to use it for cooking and washing dishes. In line filter can be installed beneath your sink. It also supplies bypass line which can be installed once you winterize your vehicle.

> Compact canister

It is use mainly in house system, it is same with in line filter but it is more compact. It will fit nicely in your converted van.

> Sediment Filter

It serves as mechanical strainer that catches particles of water. It is effective in protecting your water pump, faucets and water heater. However sediments have tendency to tangle up water system components of your van.

> Carbon Filter

It’s capable of removing odor, some chemicals and removes chlorine taste leaving a clean water taste. However you can’t expect that it will filter all sediments of your fresh or potable water. It is recommended to install one sediment filter for water sediments.

> Ceramic Filter

If you’re concern about biological pests in your water supply this is good choice. It also has small holes that screen out bacteria, sediments and protozoa.

> Reverse Osmosis

If you want your water to be purified as its highest this is good choice, it has semi-permeable membrane that blocks all particles bigger than water molecules. It works effectively as water softener, purifier and filter in one system. You can process as much water as you have but remember that almost 70% of the water you intend to use will be considered brine.

To have drinking water that taste clean and removes chlorine it’s not necessary to have water purifier. Anything that is capable of getting rid of any bacteria and chemicals is already helpful.

Inline units with combine carbon filtration and sediment removal are best water filter systems for converted van. It removes unpleasant odor and provides clean taste. For many this is more convenient to use. However most of these have shorter life span.

If you prefer longer life span water filter, the standard size canister system is good choice. It can be customized and configured for special purposes.

How often should you replace your water filter?

Six to twelve months is the advisable change of filter but it depends on the brands and the quality of the product. You can notice it if the water flow tends to slow down or the water turns dark it’s the indication that you need to change your filter.

When cleaning your filter just unscrew the canister and take out the filter element, clean and rinse the canister. Install the new filter elements in the right canisters if you have multiple filter elements like carbon filter and sediment filter. Then screw the canister.

This is also the perfect time to assess the O ring found within the canister if have cracks. It needs to be replaced or if dry need to put lubricant. Examine also the hose washer found on the systems inlet inside if dry or have cracks.

What are the common things you need to know when buying Water Filtration System?

> Microns how many particles the filter can remove. The smaller the micron, the smaller the particle it can remove.

> NSF Ratings, Class I is the best as it removes 75 to 100% of the chlorine in water.

> Life of cartridge filter

> Flow rate in GPM (Gallons Per Minute) the filter can handle

Clean water is vital for life. There are no guarantees that you will find it at every stop you make.

Having Water Filtration system installed in your converted van allows you to relax and enjoy your vanlife adventures, no more lugging of bottled water from store.

Water Heater

Living full time in converted van at some point you’ll want hot water run through your shower or sink especially in cold weather.

Water Heater is one of the key appliances to living comfortably in your converted van. A nice hot shower does have effects in your mood making you feel good and more relaxed.

Common Categories of Water Heater

> Propane

Water heater uses propane to heat the water as it flows through the unit itself. It provides hot water on demand whenever turn on the hot water taps in the sink or shower. You must be aware on the amount of air intake that it needs to safely operate in ventilation.

> Electricity

It uses generator or solar panel to run the water heater. It’s easy to install and considered cost effective and environmentally friendly. For safety perspective some vandwellers preferred travelling without using compressed gas aboard in their converted van.

> Engine Heat

Source of power is through engine battery.

Each of these heating element increases temperature of the water inside internal tank or bucket ready once operate. And most of these models have excellent heat insulation inside the unit to ensure that there is little heat lost once the water reached the desired temperature.

Tank and Tankless Water Heater

> Tank

The Tank acts as a holder for the water while it’s heated up and then dispensed. The common types of heaters that require a tank are electric, diesel or gasoline. It is reasonably small but meets all hot water needs. However it does use quite a lot of power. To offset this most vandwellers use alternator charger to help heat the water when driving. It is environmentally friendly as this can be powered up using Solar Panel System.

>Tankless

Tankless Water Heater requires some sort of bucket. It does not require dedicated storage for hot water as a pump will draw cold water into the heater. It is one of the most efficient water heating options. The common type of tankless water is propane or LPG. For this type venting is vital to operate it safely.

It can be vented in two ways:

> Power Vent uses indoor air for combustion and vents the exhaust to the outside. To have adequate make up air for gas combustion it must be placed in large room.

> Direct Vent pulls air from outside your converted van.

Things to consider when looking for Water Heater for Converted Van

> Water Consumption

Estimate your water consumption and determine the frequency of using this for multiple appliances all at once. Showering in average uses around 4.5L or 1 gallon per minute depending on water pressure and kitchen sink in general uses 4L or 1 gallon per minute.

> Power Source

What source of power you will use to run your water heater. There are three common power sources for your converted van using battery or engine heat, electric and propane operated gas.

> Size and Space

Check the dimensions of water heater and look at the allocated space in your converted van if it fits the water heater, consider also the weight choose the lighter ones.

> Flow Rate

Check the amount of hot water releases each minute. The best one can supply around 2 to 2.5 gallons of hot water per minute.

> Safety Protection

Ensure to have water heater with safety features like voltage shortage and spikes as well as electronic ignition triggered by excessive heat.

Refrigerator

One of the most useful appliances you can have in converted van is refrigerator. It keeps your food cold and ice chilled.

Know the Refrigerator Energy Source you want for your converted van

There are three common energy source of Refrigerator

> Compressor Fridge

It works using compressor to controls the flow of fluid refrigerant and produces sound that is not obnoxious. Compressor Fridge cooling efficiency does not affect by ambient temperature. It has lower power consumption and can be powered by Solar Panel, leisure battery and power surge inverter or by using generator and moderate battery bank to convert it without using solar. The installation is easy no need to cut holes in the side of vehicle for ventilation to expel heat. It is maintenance free.

> Absorption Fridge

It converts the liquid refrigerant into a gas using just a heat source, it works without moving parts. It operates silent. However cooling efficiency is affected by ambient air temperature. The power source use is 12V, 240V or LPG. It runs 2-way or 3-way. A 2-way creates heat either by burning propane or using electric heating element 120V AC. The 3-way has added capability of using battery power for the heat 12V DC. Good ventilation is essential for this type of refrigerator.

> Thermoelectric Fridge

Same with absorption fridge it has no moving parts and no refrigerant fluids making them environmentally friendly. It runs quietly and powered by 12V or 240V.

Now there is hybrid camper fridge that is modern and versatile. It is a hybrid between an absorption and run by compressor. It gives optimal use for the consumer.

Know the size of fridge you want for your converted van

Mini fridge on typical converted van is size between 4 and 12 cubic feet. Make sure you measure few times the space you have to have accurate measurement and you’ll have the best fit of fridge possible.

Know that the best converted van for you is the one that suits your needs.

Usage Tips to prolong the service life and conserve energy of your Refrigerator

> Turn your fridge early turn it on night before you plan to use it.

> Leave space for cool air to move between items. Don’t over pack your fridge.

> Load cold items in your fridge can help it cool down faster.

> Keep doors shut as much as possible to help fridge cool faster and save power.

> Check seals if clean and tight to ensure no cool air escape. Also the level of your fridge if even if not it can ruin the run of your fridge.

> Have time to check if your fridge needs to be thaw.

> To prolong your fridge don’t leave it too long without running make run as often as possible. And ensure to have at least 4-6 inches clearance on each side for proper ventilation.

Converted van fridge is fairly simple to maintain. It’s how well you take care of it depends the length of service your fridge provides.

Kitchen Stove

One of the most useful single appliances in your converted van is having kitchen stove. The ability to cook your meals brings comfort living in converted van.

You can use it daily when travelling from simple hot water to full on multi course meals.

Having stove in your converted van you can cook same meals you normally make back at home.

3 Main Options Kitchen Stove for Converted Van

> Cooktop is consists of 2 or 3 burners and has a space saving countertop surface.

> Cookrange is a miniature version of full size stove and comes with oven. It’s a freestanding stove that can fit between two cabinets. It’s quite expensive than cooktop.

> Portable Stove

A single ring portable stove is perfect for cooking inside and outside your converted van. It’s easy to store and very light weight. And the propane tank is easy to attach.

It reduces fuel consumption when boondocking.

Type of Kitchen Stove

Kitchen stove must be compatible with your converted van. Know the available fuel source you have.

> Propane Stove

It runs off by propane gas and requires a propane tank. It is cost effective and requires good ventilation.

> Diesel Stove

It uses Diesel fuel to heat the cooking surface. It has no open flame like propane stove making it safer to use. It’s efficient especially when dry camping without utility hook-ups and convenient to use as diesel fuel is easy to find.

> Electric Stove

This is popular options for kitchen stove in converted van. It does not use propane tank. It’s efficient however when boondocking it will put strain on your battery.

Electric stove utilize nowadays with an electromagnetic filed known as induction stoves. It heat up the pan without heating up the cooking surface. It’s great for those converted van with tight kitchen space.

> Sink Stove in one

It combines sink and stove in single appliance. It runs usually by propane. Yes it’s not that common stove we find in converted van but its convenient option for those with super tight kitchen space. It saves your counterspace.

Tips for efficient and safe way of using kitchen stove in your converted van

> Plan your meals ahead of time ensure you buy the ingredients you need.

> Prepare more food so that you have leftover to eat for lunch or dinner the next day.

> Always allow stove to cool after using and before stowing away for travel.

> Have adequate ventilation and tidy cooking habits to avoid lingering food odors.

> To avoid smelling up your trash can sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of the trash can.

Lastly be mindful on safety compliance when running stove in your converted van. It’s always best to get things done right the first time and not to waste money.

Kitchen Drawers

Limited space is one of the biggest challenges of living in a van. Having drawers, cabinets or shelving can make your space more efficient. You can install deep drawers under the bed for camping gears, clothes, kitchen supplies and more.

For your kitchen set up use of heavy duty drawer’s sliders can add a lot of efficient space. Most vandwellers have their drawer under the sink for easy access of kitchen utensils and some cooking supplies.

Make your drawers durable, functional and easy to make on a budget for your converted van.

Here are some key tips when installing drawers in your converted van

> Design and plan out your desired drawer

> Measure and cut the materials, note that before cutting put pencil marks on plywood to ensure you have the exact measurement.

> Screw the sides together then add the bottom last. If there are unbalance going on cut some scrap wood to the right size to fit between the spot.

Note that drawer faces and drawer slides must be securely screw or bolted in your framing.

> For the handles you can use router and grinder to carve notches into one strip on each drawer.

> Install heavy duty drawer runners for smooth sliding on both bottom of van’s floor and the drawer’s bottom. Or have your drawer bottoms with a non-adhesive liner to protect your drawer and keep items from sliding around.

> Install the drawers by connecting the drawers to the runners and slide it in.

Camping Chair

The reason why most people are living in converted van is to spend more time outside that’s why a camping chair is essential to vanlife whether you are relaxing in the mountain or just enjoying the sunset on the beach.

Equip yourself with a good camping chair that is lightweight, comfortable and convenient one. A chair that reclines is a great way to relax out in nature and relax in a fresh rocky mountain air. Have one that makes your back comfortable to avoid unwanted strain or stress on your back.

Camping chair makes relaxing outside more comfortable one.

Camping Table

Enjoying the sunshine, warm weather and long summer evenings is often best done outdoors. To have a camping table is a great set up for eating, camping and hanging out with other overlanders. It is simple, portable and brilliant to have at the same time.

Camping table should have stability to support the weight of your food, drinks or condiments. The weight and size to bring in your converted van and carrying when backpacking must be considered when having one.

It’s all depends on your lifestyle what table style suits you and your need.

Overall the ability to get away spontaneously and freely is priceless.

Learn more about Living in Converted Van:

Know More About Solar Panel Used in Converted Van

Know More About Van Life with Bath & Bed

Know About Van Life Safety Gears