Best RV Water Pump: A Quick Guide Before Buying
Packing cases of water bottles is extremely expensive, especially when you are going on a road trip in your RV. This is the reason why you need an RV water pump for your water supply. If you are looking for the best RV water pump, then you are in luck. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know before making a purchase. We also have here the top five picks for the best ones available in the market right now.
What is an RV Water Pump?
To define, an RV water pump takes the water from your RV’s tank up the pipe system of the rig. Its task is to boost the flow of the water, as well as pressure stability. By now, you should realize it’s a very important part of your RV, especially when you are traveling. An average RV tank can store from 50 gallons up to 200 gallons of fresh water. To sum, the RV water pump gives you the ability to consume the fresh water from the tank.
An RV water pump has two jobs: to provide pressured water and provide a specific amount of water per minute. RVs have built-in tanks that are usually found in the base of the trailer. The pump will allow its users to acquire water from the bathroom faucets and kitchen. They also keep the water from the RV toilet and shower continuously. Additionally, most RV water pumps are small in size, and they run off the RV’s battery.
Most of the trailers use water pumps that can produce 3.5 gallons of water in a minute. Larger ones, however, use water pumps that allow them to produce 5.3 or more gallons of water in a minute. It should be noted that gallons of water generated in a minute are equal to the pressure per square inch. In addition, if the rig is connected to city water, it most likely won’t use the RV water pump.
Top Five Picks for the Best RV Water Pump
In this section, we are going to discuss the top five choices for the best RV water pump. We will also provide you with some of its key features, pros, and cons to make decision-making a lot easier.
1. Flojet 18555-000A Portable RV Waste Pump
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The Flojet Portable RV Waste Pump is one of the best ones out there. This model can connect straight to the outlet of your recreational vehicle and comes with a 3” sewer hose. It has the ability to drain tanks and dump longer distances through the use of a sewer receiver. To add, it is capable of fresh water rinse, which is made possible by the discharge port.
Another great feature of this water pump is the remote handheld on and off switch. The device comes with a 6’ wire harness that allows run dry protection up to 30 seconds. It is also very easy to clean up and store, a rugged portable storage case is included in the package. Its motor is 12 VDC permanent magnet type, is fully enclosed and shaft is made of stainless steel.
Pros:
- Easy to clean and store
- Comes with a 3” sewer hose
- Discharge port allows rinsing of fresh water
- Capable of run dry protection
Cons:
- Might be difficult to follow the instruction manual
- Might not last long according to some users
2. Remco Aquajet RV Series Water Pump
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The Remco Aquajet Water Pump features state-of-the-art technology that automatically controls water speed. It has the ability to adjust the speed whenever you open or close the water fixtures. It offers rapid cycling elimination and has 5-valve design that delivers twice the flow and pressure compared to other models. In addition, it has the ability to overcome pressure drops that result from multiple fixtures operating at the same time.
What makes the Remco great is that it features a patented 5-chamber design that displaces more water per motor revolution. This is guaranteed better than the normal 3 or 4 chamber models that you usually find in RVs. This would make Remco one of the highest-flow diaphragm water pumps in the market. Lastly, the water pump will automatically shut down at 75 to 85 pressure per square inch.
Pros:
- Can automatically control water speed
- Features patented 5-chamber design
- Can endure pressure drops
- Can shut off at 85 pressure psi
Cons:
- May create a lot of noise
- Some users commented about how it does not work during low flow situations
3. Ultra Quiet Shurflo Motorhome Water Pump
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The Shurflo Water Pump features a one of a kind one-piece diaphragm that ensures long life and outstanding performance. It is designed and crafted for high flow, noiselessness, no sudden rapid cycling and reliability. This fresh water pump operates without noise and can run dry without acquiring any damage. To add, it can be mounted in any position and has the capability of noiseless and reduced cycling.
An interesting feature of the Shurflo water pump is the patent-pending reaction flow technology. Another thing is that it is designed for hazardous waste reduction. Power consumption is set at 3 GPM and it offers high performance rating of 55 psi. The Shurflo comes with a powerful 7.5 AMP motor that has automatic thermal overload protection. Lastly, it features a built-in valve that prevents water from flowing back.
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Noiseless
- Pressure rating is set at 55 psi
- Features reaction flow technology
Cons:
- Short warranty offered by the manufacturer
- Some users commented about the product not being quiet
4. Wfco Artis Pds1 130 1240E Camper Potable
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The Artis RV Water Pump is another contender for the best water pump. It provides steady and very reliable water pressure for your recreational vehicle. It features a patented 4-chamber design that enhances efficiency. All that can be done while maintaining water pressure stability. It is also capable of self-priming and dry running. To add, power consumption is set at 3 GPM.
Another great feature of the Artis water pump is that it features a sealed motor. Motor is made of corrosion resistant materials that ensure extremely quiet operation. Some user reviews revealed that this, by far, is the superior product among the rest. One downside though is the difficulty of installation experienced by some of the buyers. According to them, some of the installation instructions were difficult to comprehend.
Pros:
- Reliable and steady
- Features 4-chamber design
- Power consumption of 3 GPM
- Offers sealed motor for quiet operation
Cons:
- Might be difficult to install according to some users
- User manual and installation instructions were difficult to follow
5. Arterra PDSI-130-1240E RV Fresh Water Pump
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The Arterra Water Pump features Power Drive Technology that allows bypass flow control. It is capable of self-priming for up to 6 feet and is also the lowest amp draw among its class. Water pressure rating is set at 40 psi and is equipped with a 12-volt design. These features permit steady flow from 0.5 GPM to 3 GPM. To add, the design is built for outstanding performance and is proven to be long lasting.
One other great feature of the Arterra water pump is the thermal and over pressure protection it can provide. Like the other models, it has the ability to run dry without acquiring any damage. It is also interesting to know that the brand patented the 4-chamber design that allows efficient chamber flow. Lastly, it has the same footprint of most RV water pumps that makes replacement very easy.
Pros:
- Capable of self-priming
- Pressure rating is measured at 40 psi
- Can run dry without damage
- Long lasting
Cons:
- Slightly lower psi rating than other models
- Does not come with a strainer
Types of RV Water Pumps
In this section, we are going to discuss some of the types of RV water pumps. This might be of advantage for you if you want to know more about the common types and its uses.
- 12 Volt Water Pump: This is the most common type of water pump found in recreational vehicles. The 12V water pumps are standard operating motors designed specifically for RV use. Pressure is significantly lower than larger ones, such as the next one on this list. You just have to make sure they are in good working condition in order to get the job done.
- 24 Volt Water Pump: Unlike the 12V water pump, this type of water pump has greater water pressure. They can usually be found on buses and trucks. 24V water pumps guarantee a reliable and high flow performance and are mostly used for heavy jobs. Like the 12V water pump, regular maintenance is required to ensure outstanding performance and longer lifespan.
It is important to consider that using a 12V water pump is ideal if you are going to use it in your recreational vehicle. It will not cause spikes in your water and electricity bills, as it will be used appropriately. The 24V water pump, however, might significantly increase your electricity and water bills if used on light jobs. This is because they require more power and energy.
Essential Factors to Consider in Choosing an RV Water Pump
Before we conclude this discussion, let’s discuss first the factors you should look out for in an RV water pump. This should be reviewed extensively as it may help you narrow down your choices for the best RV water pump.
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- Pressure and Power: The best way for you to understand RV water pumps is to check its specifications. You also have to look for the amount of water it can pump in a minute. An ideal RV water pump can pump about three gallons of water every minute.
- Wiring, Fuses, Voltage: The majority of water pumps come with 12 volts, unlike the ones found in buses and trucks. It should be noted that a fuse must be placed in the wiring before the device. To add, it is recommended that a twin wire-up be run instead of using a chassis.
- Noise: The noise is somehow correlated to the type and power the water pump can provide. It is advisable to seal off the pump with a cover if you want to lessen the noise. The cover can also protect the pump from muffle and other elements. One thing to note is that the pump must be covered enough to let air in and not cause overheating.
- Pressure Rating and Auto Switch: Some models presented above feature auto switch, which can be very convenient to the user. The rating of pressure should also be considered to know how many gallons of water the pump could accommodate.
- Energy Usage: It is very important to remember that pumps require energy when the tap is on. This would mean that the more power the water pump has, the more energy it has. It also means that buying a pump that exceeds your requirements can add to your water and electricity bills.
- Pump Cycle: The cycle occurs whenever the pump is tapped off and on few times while being used in the bathroom. This is normally caused by the rate of the pump exceeding your water usage. One thing to remember is that the pump should automatically stop when there is a pressure drop. In the event it goes below the preset value, the pump should automatically be reactivated.
- Price – Once you review all the factors presented above, you should also take into consideration your budget. Make sure the quality and features align with its price so you can prevent making an expensive mistake.
Conclusion
We have now discussed all there is to know about RV water pumps. Finding the best RV water pump might be a difficult task, especially if you don’t know what to look for. With this guide’s help, decision-making should be a lot easier. You just have to review each product’s key features, pros, and cons to ensure proper evaluation. Be sure to check the essential factors as well so you can relate them to your budget.
Are you also looking for other products to purchase for your RV? Click here to find out about more products available in the market right now.
