Priming Camper Water Pumps: A Necessary Step?

do you have to prime camper water pumps

Yes, you have to prime camper water pumps. Priming is the process of getting water into the pump so that it can carry out the rest of the pumping process on its own. This is done by filling the freshwater tank, turning on the cold-water tap, turning on the water pump, and allowing the pump to prime by transferring water from the tank, through the pump, and out of the faucet. This process may need to be repeated for each tap.

Characteristics Values
When to prime a camper water pump After maintenance, before first use, after winter storage, whenever the freshwater tank is drained, or when the pump loses its prime.
Purpose of priming To create sufficient pressure by flushing water back into the pump and forcing it through the machine.
Tools and materials needed Flathead screwdriver, funnel, clean hose, bucket or container that can hold over 12 ounces of water
Steps Disconnect the pump's water outlet, disconnect the outlet line from the hose collar, fill the freshwater tank, open the cold-water faucet, turn on the water pump, start the pump, purge air from all water taps, reconnect the pump to the water supply
Troubleshooting Check for blockages and leaks, check connections and electricity, check for leaks and verify winterization

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When to prime your camper water pump

Water is essential for life, and when you're camping in your RV, you'll need access to a reliable water supply. An RV water pump ensures that you have fresh water when you're out in the woods or in a remote location without access to safe drinking water.

However, there may be times when your water pump loses its prime, causing the water to stop flowing. This is when you need to know how and when to prime your camper water pump.

When to Prime:

  • Before first use: If you've just installed a new water pump, you'll need to prime it before using it for the first time.
  • After winter storage: It is essential to drain the freshwater tank and remove all water from the system before winterizing your RV or putting it into storage. When it's time to use the RV again, the water pump should be primed before turning it on.
  • After draining the freshwater tank: Anytime you drain the freshwater tank, you will need to prime the water pump before using it again.
  • After maintenance: If you've performed any maintenance or repairs on your water pump, you'll need to prime it before it starts working again.
  • During troubleshooting: If your water pump is not working properly, priming it can help eliminate trapped air and restore water pressure.

How to Prime:

Priming your camper water pump is a straightforward task that can be done in a few simple steps:

  • Locate your water pump: The water pump is typically located near the freshwater tank, sometimes underneath a bed, inside a kitchen cabinet, or under one of the sofa seats. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact location.
  • Disconnect the water pump: Before priming, disconnect the water pump from any water sources and remove the hose collar from the water outlet line.
  • Pour water into the hose: Fill the rubber hose with water to allow water to flow into the pump during the priming process.
  • Turn on a cold water faucet: Open one cold water faucet to allow air to escape from the water lines and water to flow through the pump.
  • Let the pump run: Keep the pump running until water flows out of the faucet, indicating that the pump is primed and ready for use.
  • Repeat with other taps: To ensure the pump is primed throughout your RV, repeat the priming process with all other taps and faucets.
  • Reconnect the water pump: Once the pump is primed, reconnect it to the water supply to allow water to flow into your RV's plumbing system.

By following these steps, you can easily prime your camper water pump and ensure a consistent and reliable water supply during your camping trips.

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How to prime your camper water pump

If you've recently replaced your camper water pump or taken it out of storage, you'll need to prime the pump to get the system working again. This is a two-person job, so grab a friend or family member to help you.

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin, you'll need to find your water pump and prepare the necessary materials. You'll need a supply of water, a screwdriver, a funnel, and a clean hose. Your water pump may be located under one of the beds, in a kitchen cabinet, or under one of the vehicle's sofa seats. The owner's manual should include a diagram showing its exact location.

Step 2: Fill the Freshwater Tank

Start by filling your freshwater tank with water and checking the gauge to ensure it's full. Make sure all the valves are in the proper position, including the winterization valve and the fill tank valve.

Step 3: Turn on the Cold Water Valve

Turn on one cold water tap, such as the kitchen faucet, and ensure all other taps in the camper are turned off.

Step 4: Turn on the Water Pump

Locate the on/off switch on the monitor panel and turn on the water pump. The pump will prime itself by pulling water from the freshwater tank and pushing it out of the tap.

Step 5: Let the Pump Run

If the pump is working correctly, you should notice air spitting out of the faucet tap. Let the water make its way through the water lines, and once it starts coming out of the tap, let it flow until all the air is out of the line, then shut it off.

Step 6: Repeat With All Water Taps

Open every faucet one at a time to purge the air out of each water line. Your pump should now be primed and the water system pressurized. The pump should only turn on when a faucet is open.

Troubleshooting

If your water pump is still not pumping water, there are a few things you can check:

  • Ensure the freshwater tank is full.
  • Inspect the water lines for loose connections, damage, or signs of leakage.
  • Check that all valves are in the correct position, including winterization valves and intake valves.
  • Check the 12V water pump fuse. If the pump isn't making any noise, it could be a blown fuse.
  • Check the inlet strainer and lines for kinks.
  • Manually prime the pump if it has been sitting in storage for an extended period.
  • Check that the pump is receiving the correct voltage.

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Troubleshooting common issues

If your RV water pump is not working, there are several common issues you can troubleshoot.

Pump Runs, No Water Flow

First, check if there is water in your freshwater tank. If your tank is empty or low, your RV water pump will not work. If there is water in the tank, check if there is water flowing to the pump. To do this, carefully loosen the water line to the pump and check if water is travelling towards the pump. If the water line seems dry, there may be a blockage or tube damage. Check for any signs of damage and refill the water line with water.

If there is still no water, it may be time to examine the pump. Grab an assistant and ask them to turn the water pump on and off while you disconnect the water line from the pressure side of the pump. If water comes out of the pump, but only slowly, you may need a new water pump. If the water is pressurised, the issue is between the pump and the faucets. Shut off all the water valves and check the water lines to the faucets for any signs of damage or loose connections.

Pump Won't Turn On After Winterization

If your pump won't turn on after winterization, check the following:

  • Did you leave the drain open when filling up the fresh water tank?
  • Did you reconnect everything correctly after pumping RV antifreeze through the water lines?
  • Are all the shut-off valves open?
  • Is your pump silent? If so, check the fuse panel and use a voltmeter to check if the pump is receiving electricity.

Pump Cycling On and Off

If your pump is cycling on and off, you may have a leak somewhere in the system. This could be due to a loose connection, a crack in one of the lines, or a defective RV water pump pressure switch. Inspect the entire system to try to find the cause of the leak.

If you can't identify the cause of the issue, it may be time to call in a professional.

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Finding the location of your camper water pump

The location of your camper water pump will vary depending on the make and model of your camper. However, there are some common places where camper water pumps are typically located.

The water pump in your camper is usually located near the fresh water tank, which is often found in the RV basement storage area. It may be behind the docking station or underneath one of the beds, sofa seats, or in a kitchen cabinet.

To access the water pump, you may need to unscrew and remove panels or coverings. For example, to reach the water pump in a 2020 Sabre Cobalt 270RL, the panels directly behind the docking station need to be removed.

If you are unsure about the location of your water pump, you can refer to your owner's manual, which should include a diagram or schematic showing its exact position. Alternatively, you can contact the manufacturer or visit their website for more information.

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Tips for priming your camper water pump

Priming your camper water pump is essential to ensure your pump is working correctly and to avoid damage and low water pressure. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

  • Consult your owner's manual: Before you begin, refer to your recreational vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions on priming your water pump. The manual will also tell you the exact location of your water pump.
  • Gather the right tools: You will need a screwdriver, a funnel, and a clean hose. The hose should be specifically designed to handle drinking water to avoid introducing bacteria or impurities into your water supply.
  • Prepare your valves: Ensure all valves are set correctly before priming. This includes making sure the winterization valve is closed and the fill tank valve is in the normal position.
  • Locate your water pump: The water pump is typically located near the freshwater tank, sometimes underneath a bed, in a kitchen cabinet, or under a sofa seat.
  • Disconnect the water pump: Before priming, disconnect the water pump from any water sources, including the freshwater tank or city line.
  • Remove the hose collar: Take off the hose collar from the water outlet line. This will allow water to flow into the pump during the priming process.
  • Pour water into the hose: Fill the rubber hose with water until it reaches the top. This ensures water can flow into the pump.
  • Turn on a cold water faucet: Open one cold water faucet, such as the kitchen faucet, while keeping all other faucets turned off. This allows air to escape from the water lines and water to flow through the pump and out of the faucet.
  • Let the pump run: Keep the pump running until water flows out of the faucet. This indicates that the pump is primed and ready for use.
  • Repeat with all other faucets: To ensure the pump is primed throughout your RV, repeat the priming process with all other faucets one at a time.
  • Reconnect the water pump: Once primed, reconnect the water pump to the water supply so that water can flow into your RV's plumbing system.
  • Remove antifreeze: If you have used antifreeze in your water lines during winter storage, leave the faucet open and let the pump run until the water runs clear. Antifreeze can be harmful if consumed, so ensure it is completely cleared from the system.
  • Check for leaks: If your pump is not priming properly, check for leaks and blockages in the water lines. Leaks can occur anywhere in the supply line, including hard-to-reach areas, so be thorough in your inspection.
  • Check water levels: Before priming, check the water levels in your tank and take note of the amount of water in your RV's holding tank.
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