![\"water](\"https:\/\/lifeinrv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/water-pump.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nTools Required for RV Water Pump Troubleshooting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As long as you own an RV, running into RV problems is a must! Unfortunately, these problems do not consult whether you are a rookie RV owner or a certified professional. In this sense, it is wise to arm yourself with RV troubleshooting skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before fixing your RV pump, you must know what the problem is, right? Additionally, the bills that come with hiring an RV mechanic can be relatively high compared to the minor procedures they perform. In this regard, DIY RV water pump troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair are excellent ways of saving your hard-earned cash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, most RV water pump issues are easily fixable, even if you are not a certified professional! So, what tools do you need to fix your RV water system?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, it depends on what is causing your RV water pump to keep running. Nonetheless, here are the tools and supplies you must have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Screwdriver<\/li>
- Wrench<\/li>
- Pipe primer and adhesive<\/li>
- Replacement water pipe or line<\/li>
- Saw<\/li>
- Allen key<\/li>
- Pliers<\/li>
- Replacement pressure switch<\/li>
- Bucket or towels<\/li>
- Replacement water pump<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Fixing an RV Water Pump That Keeps Running<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Nothing can be more annoying for a camper than hearing your RV water pump running while trying to relax. But, despite the frustration that the noise brings, you will also notice that the constant cycling could result in premature wear. This could mean you buy a new pump sooner than necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, troubleshooting and fixing your RV pump that keeps running is not a tough job. In many instances, you can fix the pump within an hour, using a few handy tools. In this section, you will learn the steps you can follow to discover the problem and fix it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Fix an RV Water Pump that Keeps Running<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If your camper water pump keeps running, it indicates an issue with the water pressure somewhere in the system. Whenever the pump senses that the RV water pump pressure has reduced, it kicks in to ensure a steady water flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, the first thing you ought to do is ensure water is in your freshwater tank. This may seem obvious, but you can easily forget. Check the tank’s gauge, and if it is empty or low, the RV water pump will not work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When your RV pump keeps cycling even when no one is using water, you need to inspect every line, valve, and connection in the system to determine what is causing the pressure to fall. But, before attempting any repairs to your pump or water lines, ensure you shut off the electricity and water supply to the pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are There any Water Leaks?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A leak anywhere within the water line would be the obvious issue. If there is a leak, you will see dripping or puddle water. Carefully trace the water line from the pump to every fixture, including places not visible. For example, check the toilet or freezer’s ice maker, leaks in such areas might not be very obvious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suppose you discover a leak somewhere make the necessary repairs. It could be fixing or replacing the parts causing problems. For example, fixing a leaky faucet may simply require you to replace a corroded washer. On the flip side, if it is a cracked pipe or broken water line, you may have to remove the broken section and install a new one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Water](\"https:\/\/lifeinrv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Water-leak.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAre The Screens and Filters Clean?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Dirt and sediment build-up can cause a drop in pressure causing your water pump to run constantly. This is likely to happen if you usually use sandy or unfiltered water hookups in camps and other locations. To fix this issue, clean the screens and filters within your pump and other places in your system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do You Need to Adjust The Pressure Switch?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The pressure switch is the component that allows you to shut off the water pump once it reads that a particular reading has been reached. Most water pumps come with an adjustment screw that lets you determine the pressure requirements before the RV water pump cycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adjusting the screw in one way makes the pump more sensitive, reducing pressure. On the other hand, moving it the other way decreases its sensitivity. The tools required to adjust the water pump’s sensitivity depend on the model of your pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here is how to adjust the pressure switch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- First, find the adjustment screw and acquaint yourself with its settings.<\/li>
- Next, have another person turn on the shower for about 30 seconds before turning it off.<\/li>
- Once the shower is turned off, adjust the screw until the pump turns off.<\/li>
- Have the shower turned on again for another 30 seconds to confirm the adjustment. The pump should run for a short while after turning off the shower. Suppose it runs for too long; keep adjusting and testing until you get the correct setting.<\/li>
- If the RV water pump keeps running despite the adjustments, you may have to replace the pressure switch. However, before replacing it, check for leaking valves and pump seals. You will learn how to troubleshoot the two in the following sections.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Are there any Leaking Valves<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Some plumbing systems come with non-return valves that allow water to flow in one direction. For example, when water is pumped to a showerhead mixer, the non-return valve gets fitted into the hot and cold inlet pipes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the non-return valve fails, the water flows back through the system, which leads to a pressure drop. When the pump senses this pressure drop, it keeps pumping. So, if there are no visible water leaks, check for failed non-return valves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will need the diagram for your water system to discover where the non-return valves are located. Once you locate them, you will need to examine the valves one by one to confirm they are working correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This means you may have to depressurize your water system by switching off the pump. Once the pump is off, you can drain the water from the pipe where the non-return valve is fitted. This allows you to remove the valve without flooding your RV and causing further damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once you remove the valve, examine whether it is clean and anything is hampering its operation. Check whether its flap is moving freely in one direction only. Clean it and look for any damages. If any part seems damaged, you will have to replace it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are there any Leaking Pump Seals?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Water pumps have rotating blades known as impellers which must be sealed to ensure the proper water pressure is maintained during operation. However, wear and tear leads to the seals failing. Their failure results in pressure loss through the RV pump’s suction lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, most RV pumps come as sealed units meaning you cannot easily replace parts. So if they fail, you buy a new one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suppose the valves and seals seem to be working just fine; this shows that the pressure switch could be the problem. A faulty switch causes the RV water pump to run continuously because it cannot gauge the pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To replace the switch, you just need a screwdriver and then follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Find the pressure switch on your RV water pump.<\/li>
- Remove the screws on the pressure switch.<\/li>
- Remove the old button and put it aside.<\/li>
- If you got a new diaphragm, replace the old one.<\/li>
- Place the new pressure switch in its position.<\/li>
- Replace the screws to attach the new pressure.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If You Need to Purchase a New Pump<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Suppose your pump is old or replacing the pressure switch does not sort the problem and your RV water pump keeps running; you may need to replace it. However, replacing an RV water pump by yourself requires more effort than repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you can still do it. Here is the simple process to follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- First, ensure you turn off your water supply.<\/li>
- Power the water pump off and cut the electricity supply to the pump. You can do this by removing the pump’s fuse from the breaker box. Alternatively, you can disconnect all the power in the RV.<\/li>
- Turn on the water to drain water from the system; turn off the faucet once the water stops flowing.<\/li>
- Use pliers or screwdrivers to disconnect the water pump from the power source and latching controller.<\/li>
- Use a bucket or towels beneath the pump to catch any leaking water. You can remove the RV water pump’s inlet and outlet water lines with the bucket in place.<\/li>
- Remove the screws holding the water pump in place to remove it from its mount.<\/li>
- Remove the inlet filter from the old pump and clean it painstakingly to remove dirt and debris and connect it to the new pump.<\/li>
- Mount the new pump and fasten it in place using the existing screws.<\/li>
- Restore the inlet and outlet water lines to the new water pump.<\/li>
- Reconnect the new pump to the latching controller and power supply. Ensure you follow the instructions provided with the unit.<\/li>
- Reconnect power to the new pump and turn it on.<\/li>
- Turn on the faucet to test the new pump. The water pump should turn on, and water should begin flowing. Allow some time for the air in the system to clear and water pressure to be restored, then turn off the faucet. The pump should shut off after a short while.<\/li>
- Examine the inlet and outlet hoses closely to ensure they are not leaking.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Troubleshooting and Fixing Other Rv Water Pump Issues<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Pressure](\"https:\/\/lifeinrv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Pressure-switch-for-water-pump.jpg\")
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