Water Outlets & Washdown Spigots

What Are Water Outlets & Washdown Spigots?

Water outlets and washdown spigots are essential plumbing fittings found throughout boats and RVs, serving as the terminal connection points where pressurized fresh water is delivered for drinking, cleaning, or rinsing. Whether you need a deck-mounted spigot to rinse off anchor chain and fishing gear after a day on the water, or a recessed outlet inside your camper's galley, these fittings are the final link between your onboard water pump and the real world.

Unlike standard household faucets, marine and RV water outlets are engineered specifically to handle the vibration, saltwater exposure, UV radiation, and space constraints that come with life on a boat or in a recreational vehicle. Choosing the right fitting means considering the material (chrome-plated brass, stainless steel, or UV-stable polymer), the thread standard (typically 1/2" NPT or 1/2" BSP), and whether the outlet will live in an exposed cockpit, a protected interior, or somewhere in between.

Why They Matter for Your Boat or RV

A quality water outlet does more than just deliver water — it protects the integrity of your plumbing system. A poorly fitted or corroding spigot can become a source of leaks, contamination, or pressure loss that cascades into bigger problems. On a boat, saltwater intrusion at a deck spigot can damage surrounding woodwork or wiring. In an RV, a failing outlet connection behind a cabinet wall can go unnoticed until mold or structural damage appears. Investing in purpose-built marine and RV outlets saves money and headaches over time.

Washdown spigots in particular are a practical necessity for any serious boater. Mounted on deck or in the cockpit, these robust fittings connect to a washdown pump and hose, allowing you to blast mud off an anchor, clean fish on the transom, or rinse equipment before stowing it — tasks that would otherwise consume fresh water far less efficiently.

Top Brands in Water Outlets & Washdown Spigots

Scandvik is one of the most recognized names in marine plumbing hardware, known for their robust stainless steel and chrome-plated brass construction. Their washdown spigots and deck fittings are designed specifically for saltwater environments, making them a go-to choice for offshore and coastal boaters alike.

Dura Faucet specializes in RV-grade plumbing fixtures that combine modern aesthetics with durable, lightweight materials. Their water outlets are popular among RV owners looking to upgrade factory fittings with components that resist the rigors of travel and temperature extremes.

Scanstrut brings a focus on precision engineering and weather-sealed design to marine deck hardware, including water outlet solutions suited for modern powerboats and sailboats where clean installation and long-term reliability are paramount.

Flow Rite is respected for innovative fluid-management products, and their offerings in this category reflect the same focus on leak-free performance and ease of installation that defines the brand across marine plumbing applications.

Groco has a long heritage in American marine plumbing, manufacturing bronze and stainless fittings built to demanding standards. Their water outlets carry the same reputation for durability and corrosion resistance that has made Groco a trusted name in boatyards for decades.

What to Look for When Shopping

• Material: Stainless steel and marine-grade brass resist saltwater corrosion; UV-stable polymers suit RV interiors.
• Thread Type: Confirm NPT or BSP compatibility with your existing plumbing before ordering.
• Mounting Style: Deck-mount, surface-mount, and recessed options each suit different installation environments.
• Pressure Rating: Match the outlet's rating to your pump's output to avoid leaks or premature wear.
• Finish: Chrome, brushed stainless, and white polymer are common finishes — choose one that matches your existing fixtures.