Forum Discussion

taylorga's avatar
taylorga
Explorer
Aug 04, 2013

Water pump losing its prime

Just looking for some help diagnosing the water pump in my fifth wheel. When it has not been used for a short period of time it seams to take a while (3 to 5 minutes) to build up water pressure to flow water. It will make a considerable noise during this time then after pressure is flowing water it will still make a noise.

Any suggestions
  • Look for a loose or cracked fitting, or line on the input side of the pump. It could be sucking air into the line allowing the water to flow back to the tank.
  • It might be worthwhile to confirm the pump itself is working properly. Either remove it and test it or disconnect the input hose from the tank and connect a temporary hose that you know is good. If you are not sure how to do this, many RV supply places carry a winterization pump kit with an inline selection valve that allows you to switch from drawing from the main tank to drawing from a hose that you stick in a jug instead. Its main use is to draw specialized RV plumbing antifreeze (non-poisonous unlike vehicle antifreeze) for preparing the RV for winter. You could use it it instead to draw regular water from a jug to help confirm the pump itself is working properly.

    As stated by rrupert, there may be a crack in a hose or connection between the tank and the pump that is allowing air to enter and the prime to be lost. There could also be a crack in the pump housing itself, especially if it was not properly winterized and was exposed to freezing temperatures.


    I hope this helps.


    - RVs-R-Fun! :)

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,188 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 17, 2025