An RV takes you on epic adventures free from the world’s cares. Most RVs have all the modern facilities you need for wild living. For instance, portable solar for power generation for a water pump, among others. Being able to shower normally, wash your hands, or access clean water is one of the major benefits of an RV water pump. A well-functioning RV water pump is among the many simple joys of living off-grid.
But what if all of a sudden, the water stops flowing in your RV? Possible reasons for your RV water pump not working are an empty water tank, clogged pipes, loose connections, and water leakage. Another major possible reason is the lack of winterization.
In this article, we shall discuss the possible reasons why the water pump in RV not working. Various RV water pump troubleshooting techniques and how to maintain it. Please keep on reading.
Most Common Problems with RV Water Pumps
One of the major issues the RV owners face during their adventures is the loss of water due to problems with their water pumps. Common RV water pump issues include the RV water pump won’t shut off, the RV water pump leaking, and the RV water pump not working, among others.
The following are major RV Water Pump issues and RV Water Pump Troubleshooting.
1. Leaking RV Water Pump
A faulty or leaky pump is one of the most evident scenarios that all is not well with your water pump. Some of the reasons why the RV water pump leak is due to worn seals and gaskets, poor sealing of the water line, and loose connections. A loosely connected water system causes gaps through which water seeps.
It would be best to regularly inspect the water pump, replace the worn-out seals and gaskets, and fasten the loose systems to prevent RV water pump leaks.
2. No Water Flow
Another common issue is that the RV water pump keeps running without water. If your RV water pump is running but has no water flow, possible issues could be a low water table due to overusing your water supply, a failing filtration system, clogged pipes, a blocked sediment filter, or power surges damaging the capacitors.
Switch the water filtration system to the ‘bypass’ mode to fix the issue. If the issue is corrected, then no need to proceed. Also, check valve positioning and adjust where necessary, clear the clogs, and replace the blocked filters and other faulty components.
3. Electrical Problems
Another issue to consider is the water pump in RV not working at all. The problem could be electrical issues. Electrical issues such as voltage surges, low voltage, or defective control boards cause the water pump to stop working.
If the water pump has stopped working, check the motor. If the resistance reading is zero, the stator is damaged and must be replaced. Also, a defective capacitor will cause the pump to stop working.
Another electrical issue causing the RV water pump to fail is damaged switches, fuses, or broken wiring. To fix the problem, replace the damaged wires, fuses or switches.
4. Airlock Issues
Have you experienced a situation where you turn on water, but none comes from the pipe, yet the pump is running? The problem could be due to the airlock. It happens when air pockets are trapped by flowing water, thus preventing free water flow.
Other causes of airlock are pipe leakages that bring air in and cause blockage and repeated water heating. The evaporated water cannot escape, causing the air blockage.
Turn on hot and cold water for a minute to fix the issue. Another way of fixing the airlock is to bleed out the affected pipes. Turn on a faucet close to the airlock and allow the water to continue running until the flow returns to normal.
If the airlock issue persists for days, drain all the water from the tank. The trapped air will drain alongside the trapped air.
5. Pump Cavitation
Pump cavitation happens when the water in the pump turns to water vapor under low pressure. Usually, it happens when there is not enough pressure in the suction part of the pump.
During cavitation, air bubbles form at low pressure. When the water passes from the suction side of the impeller to the delivery side, the air bubbles implode. The implosion causes a shockwave to hit the impeller, resulting in pump vibration and mechanical damage. Sometimes, the cavitation can cause total failure of the pump. Additionally, cavitation can lead to the damage of O-rings, seals, and bearings.
Proper maintenance and regular monitoring of the water levels can reduce risks of pump cavitation. Other solutions include using a flexible water pipe that does not collapse, using a short inlet pipe as possible, and general proper installation of the hoses.
Tips for Regular Maintenance to Prevent Water Pump Issues
Routine maintenance of your RV water pump keeps it working optimally. A water pump not working in an RV will ruin your camping experience. Therefore, you should regularly maintain the water pump to avoid such moments. The following tips will guide you in properly maintaining the water pump.
1. Don’t Let the Water Run Dry
Ensure there is water before running the water pump. Suppose there is no water and the pump is running. In that case, it will cause the pump to get damaged due to overheating and other mechanical issues. Always keep the freshwater tank filled with water.
Also, maintain the quality of the water in the RV water tank. The water quality can impact the longevity of the pump. Turn on a faucet to drain away the old water and replace your RV water. Ensure the freshwater tank is refilled with clean, fresh water often.
2. Regular Inspection of the Water Pump
Whether on the road or have parked your RV, ensure you regularly inspect the RV water pump and tank. When inspecting the RV, pay attention to the water pump filter, water lines, and the water system in general. During the inspection, sanitize the water system.
3. Pump Water Regularly
Whether you use the RV or not, remember to pump the water regularly. This will allow you to check for loose connections and ensure that no RV water pump leaking. Also, remember to check the wiring and the electrical components of the water pumps.
4. Keep the RV Water Pump Parts Clean
Regularly clean the water pump parts to reduce wearing out. Lubricate the parts to prevent rust. Also, keep the RV water pump in a well-ventilated area for easy cooling.
5. Sanitization
Routine maintenance sanitizes the RV fresh water tank and the entire water system. Scale build-up and algae on the valves and diaphragm can cause blockages, leak-back issues, and low flow.
The RV water pump keeps running optimally when the water system is clean and maintained regularly. Sanitizing the fresh water tank, the water lines, and the entire RV water system will keep the pump performing well for a long time.
6. Monitor the Water Pressure and Flow Regularly
Optimum water pressure and flow are crucial for the water pump’s longevity and efficiency. If there are fluctuations, investigate the issue and immediately fix it. Use gadgets such as pressure gauges and flow meters to monitor these parameters regularly.
7. Importance of Winterizing to Prevent Freezing-Related Damage
Winterizing your RV means removing the liquid from the water system and water lines and then adding an anti-freeze liquid to prevent water from freezing. Winterizing your RV is crucial as it prevents water from freezing in the pipes and causing the water pump not working in RV.
Top 3 Quiet RV Water Pumps for Long-Term Use
Are you tired of your RV water Pump not working and endless RV repairs due to the water pump leaking and having to replace parts now then? We understand your pain. That’s why we are introducing the top three durable RV water pumps from VEVOR.
1. VEVOR RV Water Pump 5.3 GPM
Features
1. High Performance– The VEVOR Water Pump, 5.3 GPM, is a self-priming RV water pump with an automatic pressure switch control. It automatically shuts and opens when you open or close the nozzle.
The 5.5 GPM water pump features a 20 liter per minute capacity flow with 70 PSI high pressure. Also, it is equipped with an in-built thermal overload protection.
2. A Complete Wash Pump Kit– The wash kit comes with a trigger Nozzle with Quick Connect, two NPT Connectors with 1/2″ Straight Barb, a Quick Connect Adaptor, a UV-protected 25′ Coiled Hose, and a universal Saltwater Filter.
3. Versatile– The VEVOR 12V water pump RV is designed for 30-minute duty pump cycles to pump fresh and salty water. It can be used on boats, RVs, fish tanks, anchor chains, and ships.
4. High Quality Build-The 12V water pump is made with high-quality materials and a robust build level. The 5-chamber diaphragm, which is the main body of the pump, is made with durable and tightly sealed ABS engineering plastic. Also, the pump’s high-powered motor is sheltered with a waterproof cover. The sealed pressure switch enables the machine to work in harsh environments.
5. Easy to Connect– The water pump connects to any outlet. The externally threaded port pump head is made with quality brass and comes in various sizes.
2. VEVOR Fresh Water Pump, 12 V Self Priming Sprayer Pump, 4 GPM
Features
1. High Performance– The VEVOR 12V Self-priming 4GM water pump is a diaphragm water pump that performs excellently. With a 4GM-rated flow, it delivers smooth and consistent flow. Also, it utilizes a low current with superpower saving.
2. Safety Features- The water pump has a built-in check valve to prevent backflow. The built-in thermal protector offers automatic pressure protection.
3. Durability- The VEVOR RV water pump is constructed with superior waterproof polypropylene material. The high-strength materials are wear-resistant and extremely durable.
4. Versatile– The water pump is lightweight, portable, and versatile, making it suitable for RV, travel trailers, gardening, and boats.
5. Removable Filters– The diaphragm pump comes with detachable filters, which are also easy to assemble. The filters keep the debris from blocking the water lines. Also, it is transparent, making it easy to see when it needs cleaning.
3. VEVOR Fresh Water Pump, 12 V Self Priming Sprayer Pump, 3 GPM
Features
1. Excellent Performance- With a 3 GPM rated flow, the diaphragm water pump delivers an excellent, smooth, consistent water flow. This 12V water pump utilizes a low current, and it is power-saving.
2. High-Quality Durable Material- The pump is made with super strength and waterproof polypropylene material. It is wear and tear resistant and extremely durable.
3. Safety Features- The water pump has an inbuilt check valve for preventing backflow. Additionally, it has a built-in thermal protector for automatic pressure protection.
4. Removable Filters– This VEVOR water pump has detachable water filters that are easy to assemble. The filter traps the debris to prevent blockage of water lines.
5. Versatility- The pump can be used in scenarios such as RV, sprayers, gardening watering, boats, caravans, and washing.
Conclusion
One of the attractive features of an RV is an onboard plumbing system. The RV water pump is a crucial component for efficient water supply in the RV. If the RV water pump keeps running without supplying water, or if the RV water pump won’t shut off, then there’s a problem. Other ways you know there is an issue with the RV water pump is if the RV water pump leaks pumps work, but there is no water, and the pump runs continuously without stopping. Some possible reasons for such issues include electric and wiring issues, loose connections, cavitation, blockages, worn-out or broken components, and airlocks.
A damaged RV water pump can cause unprecedented losses and shorten your camping experience. Regular maintenance and servicing of the pump will save you from such scenarios.
FAQs: RV Water Pumps
1. Why is my RV water pump not working?
Common problems that may cause a water pump to stop working are blown fuses, low water pressure, loose connections, broken pump components, frozen water, or clogged water lines.
2. Why is my RV water pump leaking?
In the event the RV water pump leaking, check the valve. If the valve is broken, it causes the pump to leak. Another reason is loose connections or broken seals and gaskets. Regular inspection and maintenance will help you fix the situation.
3. What are common RV water pump troubleshooting?
Look out for leakages and fix broken seals and valves. Also, fasten loose connections. Adjust or replace the pressure switches and fuses in case of electrical issues. For clogged lines, clean or replace the filters.
4. Why is my RV water pump humming and not pumping?
The humming sound without pumping is a common indicator of the water pump not working in RV. The humming sound is not a major issue. It means there is no water in the water tank. Therefore, add or replace your RV water. Also, some pumps will hum as they pump water.
