In any RV, one of the more vital components that you need to ensure is in working order at all times is the water pump. The RV water pump is the heart of a camper and allows RV enthusiasts to go off the grid and experience the great outdoors. So it's essential that you ensure your water pump is working properly before you get off the beaten path without hook-ups as someone in the family might not enjoy being without water. This can make testing your water pump before each trip a high priority on the checklist. Yet, many RV owners wonder how they will know if their water pump needs replacing. Luckily, your water pump will many times exhibit signs that it is failing, which is what makes the pre-trip test so important. Here are just a few of the many signs that can indicate that your RVs water pump may be going out.

Water Pump Makes Excessive Noise

As most RV owners know, water pumps can be noisy in general. This is due to the fact that most RV manufacturers do a horrible job of isolating the plumping from hard surfaces so as the water pulses through the pipes they pound and create quite a racket. Besides this general noise, one of the most obvious signs that a water pump is going out is if it makes excessive or unusual noise unlike the standard noise you normally hear. Motor failure is the least common cause of pump failure, but the pump section itself can be a real cause for concern. Most of the RV pumps have a multi-chamber diaphragm design which over time can become corroded or calcified rendering them inoperable. In-proper winterization can also damage the diaphrams creating increased noise and very low water pressure. Furthermore, if your water pump continuously runs when not in use and you have confirmed that water is available to the pump you most likely have a pressure switch issue.

Water Pump Leaks

Another Indicator that your water pump may need to be replaced is if it begins to leak. However, you will want to first determine where any leaking water is actually coming from as you may have an issue other than the water pump. Check the fittings and connections as well as the pump housing to isolate the issue and determine if a new pump is required.

Water Pump Won’t Turn On

While your first reaction when your water pump won’t turn on is to replace it, the pump may not always be the issue. Be sure to check your 12 volt fuse panel first, then move to the pump and look for the possible use of an inline fuse. Next, check the electrical connections on the pump and then move to the pump switch verifying it is still operational. In multiple switch applications a pump switch relay is used and it should be checked to ensure it is still functional. A multimeter or 12v trouble light will help identify if power is making its way to the pump through the various electrical connections. If all of these areas check out, then it's time to replace the water pump.

Your RVs water pump is an essential component in the functionality of your RV. If you suspect that there may be something wrong with your water pump, don't hesitate to contact us to find out more about problems that can arise with RV water pumps as well as to find out whether or not your water pump may require repair or replacement.