aking a shower in an RV is not exactly exotic. Most showerheads push out a boring stream of water, designed to get the job done with little fanfare. Multiple showerheads or a rainforest fixture can up the entertainment factor appreciably but adding such hardware may not be possible without major modifications to your rig. And even if the accoutrements in your shower invite lingering, water consumption plays a pivotal role — and don’t forget the limitations on hot water capacity (unless, of course, you have an instantaneous model like Truma’s AquaGo). Ecocamel, though, offers a number of products that restore luxury to showering in RVs.
The London, England-based company’s most interesting product is the Orbit SoftWater, a showerhead that combines a unique soft-water feature with multiple spray nozzles in a ring-shaped head. While it’s nice to have a strong stream of water that covers the body while showering, the soft-water portion targets a common problem for RVers: calcium damage introduced by hard water that can build up in water lines.
If you happen to live in the desert like many snowbirders who spend up to six months escaping the cold weather, the hardwater is even more damaging to the RV’s water system. Calcium and other minerals restrict flow, stain glass and faucets and contribute to a less-than-stellar experience when soaping up.
My first reaction to the product’s stated capabilities was met with skepticism, since water softening usually requires an inline device that relies on salt and is a much more sizeable operation. However, initial showering experiences proved the Orbit to be a valuable addition to the shower — and our testers swear that the “soft” water makes it easier to wash long hair and lather up.
The second part of the equation is the ability of the showerhead to produce a stronger stream of water. This is accomplished as air is forced through holes in the handle, which mixes with the water to increase pressure out the nozzles. The company calls this process “AirCore Technology,” and the end result is very satisfying while also conserving water. The Orbit SoftWater is somewhat heavier than others on the market, but that is not an issue when holding it in the shower.
For owners who prefer a simple, water-saving showerhead, the Jetstorm is the company’s most popular model. With a $39.95 price tag and svelte profile, it uses the same AirCore technology (whereby air is mixed with water to provide a nice stream of water with a comfortable pattern). The water stream is not as powerful as the Orbit, but still gives the user a pleasant showering experience. The spray plate can also be cleaned by rubbing the nozzles with your fingers or thumb. Since we enjoy the Orbit showerhead inside, we’ve adapted the Jetstorm for outside use after modifying the stock shower hose with a coiled counterpart — perfect for washing the dog or sand/mud off your feet.
Lastly, you’re going to love Ecocamel’s stainless-steel, chrome-plated Flexi Hose for connecting the showerhead to the diverter valve. It’s the most flexible hose we’ve ever used — and even remains super pliable in colder weather. It sells for $14.50.
Whichever shower you opt for, using the Ecocamel Orbit and ORB SPA will have you singing in the shower again. All you have to do is remember the words.