Water Pump

Function

An RV water pump is a 12-volt device specifically designed to deliver pressurized fresh water throughout an RV’s plumbing system. It pulls water from the freshwater tank and distributes it to faucets, showers, toilets, and other appliances. Without a water pump, the RV would rely on gravity alone, resulting in inconsistent and weak water flow.

Key Considerations

  • Flow Rate: Measured in gallons per minute (GPM), flow rate determines how much water the pump can deliver at a given time. Larger RVs with multiple occupants will require a higher flow rate (typically 3-5 GPM) to ensure adequate pressure for all fixtures.
  • Pressure: Rated in pounds per square inch (PSI), pressure determines the force behind the water flow. It should be high enough to operate all the RV’s plumbing fixtures efficiently, but not so high that it damages the system (usually around 40-55 PSI).
  • Noise Level: Constant running can make noisy pumps bothersome. Look for pumps with multi-chamber designs or sound dampening features for quieter operation.
  • Self-priming: Self-priming pumps can automatically remove air from the line, simplifying operation and preventing issues.

Additional Points

  • RV water pumps come in various sizes to match the freshwater tank capacity and the size of the RV.
  • Most RV water pumps come with built-in check valves. These one-way valves prevent water from flowing back into the freshwater tank when the pump is not running, and also help the pump maintain pressure in the system so it doesn’t have to cycle on and off constantly. This translates to less noise and better battery efficiency.
  • Installation is generally straightforward, involving connecting the pump to the freshwater tank, plumbing system, and 12-volt power supply.
  • Several reputable RV water pump brands exist, including Shurflo, Flojet, Aquatec, Seaflo, and Aquajet.