6 Best Water Inlet Bulkheads For Custom RV Builds Nomads Swear By

There’s nothing quite like the slow-drip sound of a water leak inside your rig to ruin a peaceful night. You trace it back to the wall where your city water hose connects, only to find a cracked plastic flange—the one cheap part you didn’t think twice about during your build. Choosing the right water inlet isn’t just about connecting a hose; it’s about creating a secure, leak-proof seal that protects your home on wheels from its most insidious enemy: water damage. This single component is your rig’s primary defense against the elements at a critical entry point, and getting it right from the start saves a world of headache later.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Selecting the Right Water Inlet for Your Rig

The water inlet you choose is a statement about your build philosophy. Are you prioritizing a sleek, integrated look, or is bomb-proof durability your main goal? Do you need the security of a locking cap, or is a simple, reliable connection all that matters? These aren’t just random questions; the answers will guide you to the perfect part for your specific needs.

Before you buy, consider the core factors. Material is paramount. Standard UV-stabilized plastic is cost-effective and works well for years, but it will eventually become brittle. Stepping up to stainless steel or chrome-plated brass offers marine-grade longevity and a premium feel, but at a higher cost. The mounting style—flange versus flush-mount—also dictates both the final look and the precision required during installation.

Don’t overlook the small features that make a big difference. A built-in check valve is non-negotiable; it prevents water from your onboard tank from back-flowing out the city connection when your pump is on. Some inlets even include a pressure regulator to protect your plumbing from dangerously high campground water pressure. The type of cap, the quality of the gasket, and the thread material all contribute to a system you can trust, day in and day out.

SHURflo City Water Entry: A Timeless Classic

If there’s a "standard issue" water inlet in the RV world, the SHURflo City Water Entry is it. You’ve seen this white or black plastic flange on countless manufactured RVs and custom builds for a reason: it’s affordable, widely available, and dead simple to install. It’s the definition of a known quantity.

This inlet typically features a durable plastic body, a standard 1/2" FPT interior connection, and a reliable internal check valve. The flange design is forgiving, allowing you to cover up any minor imperfections in your cutout. For builders on a budget or those who just need a part that works without any fuss, the SHURflo is a fantastic starting point. It’s a workhorse that gets the job done.

The primary tradeoff is longevity, specifically against UV exposure. Over many years of direct sun, the plastic can become brittle and the cap may yellow and crack. While it’s easy and cheap to replace, it’s a maintenance item to keep an eye on. For a rig that will live its life in the harsh desert sun, you might consider a more robust material from the get-go.

Valterra Flush Mount Inlet for a Clean Look

For builders who obsess over clean lines, a flush-mount inlet is the only way to go. Unlike a traditional flange that sits on top of the exterior wall, a flush-mount model recesses into the siding, creating a sleek, almost seamless appearance. The Valterra flush-mount series is a popular choice for achieving this modern aesthetic without breaking the bank.

These inlets require more precision during installation. You need a perfectly sized hole saw cut, as there’s no wide flange to hide mistakes. But the payoff is a professional look that elevates the entire exterior of your rig. They come in various colors to match your siding and often feature a hinged door that snaps shut, protecting the connection from road grime and insects.

Functionally, they offer the same core features as their flanged counterparts, including a check valve and standard hose connections. The main decision here is whether the aesthetic benefit is worth the extra installation effort. For van conversions and skoolies where every exterior detail contributes to the overall "stealth" or custom look, the answer is often a resounding yes.

Scandvik Stainless Steel for Marine-Grade Life

When you refuse to compromise on durability, you look to the marine world. Scandvik’s stainless steel water inlets are built to withstand the harshest conditions imaginable—salt spray, constant sun, and physical abuse. Bringing this level of quality to an RV build means you’re likely installing a part that will outlast the vehicle itself.

The difference is tangible. A Scandvik inlet is heavy, precisely machined, and feels indestructible. The 316 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion and UV degradation, making it a true "buy it for life" component. The cap often screws on with a satisfying, watertight seal, and the internal components are built to the same exacting standards.

Of course, this quality comes at a price. A stainless steel inlet can cost several times more than its plastic equivalent. But for full-time nomads, overlanders, or anyone building their forever rig, the investment is easily justified. It’s peace of mind, knowing that a critical system component won’t fail you in the middle of nowhere.

JR Products Multi-Purpose Flange Inlet

Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, no-nonsense part that solves a problem. The JR Products Multi-Purpose Flange Inlet is exactly that. It’s a simple, robust plastic inlet that often features a slightly larger flange than other models, making it an excellent choice for retrofits or for covering up old holes from a previous installation.

This inlet is all about function over form. It provides a secure connection, has the essential check valve, and mounts with a few screws and some sealant. There are no fancy doors or complex mechanisms—just a simple, effective seal against the side of your rig. It’s the kind of part you install and forget about, which is often the highest praise you can give a utility component.

Its utility shines in builds where practicality reigns supreme. If you’re converting a cargo trailer or an older bus, the wider flange can be a lifesaver, providing a clean installation over uneven surfaces or pre-existing openings. It’s a reminder that the best part isn’t always the most expensive or stylish, but the one that fits the job perfectly.

Sea-Dog Locking Water Deck Fill for Security

While most of this list focuses on pressurized city water inlets, you can’t forget about the port for filling your fresh water tank. The Sea-Dog Locking Water Deck Fill is a classic marine-grade component that adds a crucial layer of security. It’s a gravity fill port, not a pressurized inlet, but its design principle is essential for any nomad.

The key feature here is the lock. Using a special key (or "deck plate key"), you can secure the cap, preventing anyone from tampering with your fresh water supply. This is invaluable when parked in urban areas, at festivals, or any location where you don’t have total privacy. It prevents both accidental contamination and malicious acts.

Built from chrome-plated brass or stainless steel, these deck fills are incredibly robust. They install flush with the surface and provide a heavy-duty, watertight seal. While designed for boat decks, they are perfectly suited for RVs and van conversions, offering a level of security and durability that standard plastic gravity fills simply can’t match.

Jabsco Port Flange: The Pro-Builder’s Pick

When you look at high-end custom builds and professional conversions, you start to notice certain brands appearing again and again. Jabsco is one of them. Their Port Flange water pressure connection is a favorite among pro-builders who value long-term reliability and serviceability above all else.

Jabsco’s reputation is built on making components for the demanding marine environment. Their inlets feature high-quality plastics that resist UV damage better than cheaper alternatives, along with robust internal check valves and often a pre-installed pressure regulator set to a safe PSI. They are designed to be installed and trusted for years of continuous use.

This is the choice for the builder who measures twice, cuts once, and wants to minimize future maintenance. While it may look similar to other plastic inlets, the material quality and engineering are a clear step up. It represents a middle ground between standard RV parts and expensive stainless steel, offering professional-grade performance at a more accessible price point.

Installation Tips for a Leak-Free Connection

The best water inlet in the world will leak if installed improperly. A successful, watertight seal comes down to technique and materials. Getting this right is one of a builder’s most important jobs.

First, use butyl tape, not silicone. Butyl tape is a pliable, gummy sealant that you place on the back of the inlet’s flange. As you tighten the screws, the tape compresses to create a permanent, flexible gasket that moves with your rig. Silicone will eventually dry out, crack, and fail.

Follow these steps for a perfect seal every time:

• Use a hole saw that is the exact size recommended for your inlet. A sloppy cut is hard to seal.
• Apply a continuous strip of butyl tape to the back of the flange, overlapping the ends slightly.
• Press the inlet into place. The butyl tape will ooze out slightly around the edges. This is a good sign.
• Use high-quality stainless steel screws to prevent rust streaks down the side of your rig.
• Tighten the screws in a star pattern, like you would a tire, to ensure even pressure. Do not overtighten and crack the plastic.
• Once snug, you can trim the excess butyl tape with a plastic tool, but many builders leave the "squeeze-out" as proof of a good seal. Finally, connect your plumbing internally and pressure-test the system before you close up your walls.

Ultimately, your water inlet is a small part that plays a huge role in the integrity of your home. Whether you choose the timeless utility of a SHURflo, the clean aesthetic of a Valterra, or the lifetime durability of a Scandvik, the decision reflects your priorities. The best choice is the one that lets you connect your hose at a new campsite, turn on the water, and walk away with absolute confidence, knowing your system is secure, sealed, and ready for the next adventure.