Best RV Water Pumps: Improve Your RV’s Water Flow System

Improve the flow of water throughout your RV system with our top choices for the best RV water pumps

byLinsay Thomas, Norah Tarichia|
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BYLinsay Thomas, Norah Tarichia/ LAST UPDATED ON December 14, 2020

Water is an essential part of an RVing adventure; you need to bathe and stay hydrated while on the road. That’s the main function of an RV water pump, as it supplies water for the shower, sink, toilet, and other amenities. If your water pump is clogged or broken, then it may be time to replace it with a new RV fresh water pump. Let’s have a look at some of the best RV water pump replacements you might want to consider the next time you are shopping for one.

Best Overall

SHURFLO Revolution Water Pump

Summary
A self-priming pump that’s constructed with durable materials and can run dry without being damaged. The unit pumps high volumes of water with minimal maintenance. Operates quietly.
Pros
Pumps 3 gallons per minute. Operates on 115 volts. The unit is thermally protected and has a built-in check valve. Quiet operation for those who cannot handle motor noise. Also suitable for tiny homes and cabins.
Cons
Few reports of issues with leaks and shutdowns after a few months of use.
Best Value

Seaflo 21 Series Water Pressure Pump

Summary
An inexpensive 12-volt pump designed for different applications such as circulation, spraying, dispensing, and filtration of water. The unit comes with a pressure switch for an automatic start or stop.
Pros

Affordable. Comes with a built-in thermal protector. Easy to install and use. High efficiency with low current draw. Comes with soft rubber mounts for noise reduction.

Cons

Not recommended for heavy-duty use. Might start leaking after a few months of use.

Honorable Mention

Flojet 03526-144A Water System

Summary
A high-quality, self-priming unit with up to 9 feet of suction lift. It’s a piece of easy-to-use equipment with a quadruple piston system that maintains constant pressure even when one of the pistons fails.
Pros

Quiet RV water pump. Durable product made with corrosion-resistant properties. Top performance and reliability.

Cons

Comes with subpar packaging. Lower water output compared to other models in the same category.

Benefits of an RV Water Pump

  • Constant water supply. Have you ever traveled in an RV without a reliable water supply? It makes you feel uncomfortable. That’s why you need a reliable water pump so you won’t have to worry about stepping out to get water. Keep your tanks filled with enough water and the pump will ensure your taps will never run dry.
  • Save on space. Compared to other larger water pumps, RV pumps are smaller and lighter. It’s possible to get a high-pressure RV water pump that doesn’t take up a lot of space in your recreational vehicle.
  • Energy efficiency. With an RV water pump, you will not have to worry about electricity or water bills. Some of these gadgets can efficiently run on the RV’s battery. Other pumps draw their power from an electrical outlet, but most are either 24 volts or lower and won’t spike your electricity bills. 
  • Simple installation. Unlike the more complex pumping units that might require complicated steps to install, RV water pumps are easy to install. A simple look at the manual will give you what you need to connect the pump to start pumping water to your faucet, tap, shower, and toilet.

Types of RV Water Pumps

12-Volt RV Water Pumps

A 12-volt water pump for a camper trailer comes with standard motors that are engineered for home and RV use. A low voltage typically means that the pump will not consume a lot of electrical power. However, it also means that the unit won’t have high water pressure.

24-Volt RV Water Pumps

24-volt RV pumps have higher water pressure and take a toll on your RV’s power. They are typically installed in trailers, buses, and trucks. The main benefit of a high-voltage water pump is that it can be used for heavy-duty tasks. If well maintained, the pump can have a long lifespan. 

Top Brands

SHURFLO

SHURFLO is an international company that manufactures water pumps and equipment for recreational vehicles. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Costa Mesa, Calif. It produces some of the best RV water pumps, including the SHURFLO Revolution Water Pump.

Seaflo

Seaflo is a company that specializes in the research, design, and manufacturing of micro-pumps, pressure systems, and blowers, among many other products. The company was established in 2014 and has a legion of loyal consumers all over the world. Seaflo manufactures some of the most affordable RV water pumps, such as the Seaflo 21 Series Water Pressure Pump 12V.

FLOJET

FLOJET Corporation is a company that manufactures water pumps and their accessories. This company was founded back in 1975 and is currently headquartered in Foothill Ranch, Calif. The company offers a range of pumps like the Flojet 03526-144A.

Flow Max

Flow Max manufactures and distributes fluid handling equipment such as RV pumps, spares, and service tools among other power tools. The company was established in 1993 and sells its products all over the world. It’s headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa and offers high-quality pumps such as the Flow Max (PGIXD) DS-01230-D2.

RV Water Pump Pricing

  • Below $50: Most pumps within this price range deliver a pressure that often falls below 3 gallons per minute. Some units can go as low as a gallon a minute. Though they are cheap, they can still meet the user's water needs. They are ideal for smaller recreational vehicles.
  • $50-$100: Pumps within this range can give you a steady flow of 3 gallons per minute. Some of these units can go as high as 4.5 gallons per minute as well. Most pumps here are suitable for standard RV units with moderate water use.
  • $100 and up: An RV pump that falls within this range is considered a high-end unit. Most pumps typically come with over 60 PSI and can deliver more than 5.5 gallons of water per minute. Due to the high pressure and steady water flow, the pumps are great for bigger recreational vehicles that might have more water needs.

Key Features

Voltage

There are 12-volt and 24-volt models. Your choice will depend on the amount of water you need pumped and the size of the RV. Keep in mind that a lower voltage is more manageable as it draws less power from the system. A higher voltage translates to high performance, but it could drain your RV’s battery or generator.

Pressure

The pump’s pressure (gallons per minute) should match your RV needs. Consult your RV’s owner’s manual to determine what GPM is ideal for your vehicle. If you are on a budget or operate a small to medium-sized RV, go for a pump with a pressure of at least 1 gallon per minute. For larger RVs with greater water needs, go for a water pump with a capacity of 5 gallons per minute.

Automated Pump Cycle

A good pump should stop pumping automatically once the preset values are achieved. It should also start pumping once the pressure goes below the preset value. This brings about a seamless operation that won’t need constant management. It also eliminates any plumbing problems that may arise from constantly running a pump.

Other Considerations

  • Noise Level: There are models that can be quite loud when running. That might not be something you want when you are taking a nap in the RV. Choosing an RV water pump that runs quiet is a good idea if you don’t want to suffer through the noise of a loud pump.
  • Self-Priming: Unlike traditional residential water pumps, RV pumps are tailored to handle receiving water from a limited water source. The self-priming feature allows your pump to lift water from the tube despite the supply of water running low. Also, the pump won’t get damaged even when it’s running dry.

Best RV Water Pump Reviews and Recommendations 2020

The SHURFLO Revolution water pump gets love from the RV community due to its reliability and the commitment of the company to deliver high-performance units. The pump performs at 115 volts of power usage. It features an internal bypass and a one-piece diaphragm that makes it suitable for almost all plumbing systems. In addition, the pump can be mounted in any position.


The pump features thermal protection for damage prevention and user safety. SHURFLO makes a somewhat quiet RV water pump; it produces minimal vibrations thanks to the manufacturer’s Flow Reaction technology that reduces noise but increases efficiency. The pump has a smooth-running pump cycle with zero rapid cycling and a system that stops automatically when a preset pressure has been reached.


The main drawback of this product is that it pumps fewer gallons per minute than other high-end products in its category. Also, it’s a replacement pump and doesn’t come with hook-up equipment, which you would have to purchase separately.

The Seaflo 21-series pump is a budget-friendly pump designed for quite a wide range of applications. This includes filtration, dispensing, spraying, and liquid transfer. It has an average capacity output of 1.2 gallons per minute and a 35 PSI pressure that makes the unit quite efficient for mid-size and small RVs.


The pump has a self-priming feature and can run dry and lift water from a limited water supply. Soft rubber mounts make this product easy to install, and the entire unit is protected from thermal overload. It also has an automatic switch that controls the pump by turning it off when the preset values for pressure are achieved. In addition, the product is backed by a four-year warranty.


One drawback is that it’s not recommended for heavy-duty use. The unit is also a cheap product and has a shorter lifespan in comparison to higher-priced options. However, with light use, the pump can last longer. You may also have a hard time getting in touch with Seaflo for warranty-related issues.

We couldn’t fail to mention the Flojet 03526-144A as it is one of the most energy-efficient water pumps for RVs. The pump delivers constant water flow to your RV’s taps, shower, and toilet. It has a maximum capacity of 50 PSI and has three chambers for optimal water flow. Moreover, it delivers a consistent water pressure of 2.9 gallons per minute.  


The self-priming feature offers up to 9 feet of suction lift. It has a 12-volt DC motor that saves energy as it doesn’t draw a high current. The product comes fitted with a noise-absorbing mount that helps minimize any noise or vibrations from the system. In addition, the pump produces a smooth water flow and has a pulsation eliminator that enables the pump to work independently without an accumulator tank.


A drawback of the pump is that the noise-absorbing mount doesn’t fully eliminate noise but just reduces it to somewhat tolerable levels. It also has low water output and comes in a subpar package. Despite the setback, this model is ideal for mid-sized and large recreational vehicles. 

Here’s another SHURFLO pump that offers excellent water flow. With the power of 12 volts and the ability to pump 3.5 gallons of water per minute, the device is very efficient and reliable. It offers extraordinary performance and proves to be quite durable.


This is a three-chamber diaphragm pump with a thermally protected motor and check valve. It prevents reverse flow and turns off automatically at a consistent pressure of about 45 pounds per square inch. The motor even restarts automatically when the pressure drops to 15 PSI. Additionally, the pump comes with the necessary mounting hardware and installs it in a breeze.


What might bother you with this product, however, is the noise. The pump can be quite loud, so you'll most likely hear it working while in your RV. You might need to add foam pads or something else to muffle the sound. Another possible issue involves the mounting bracket. It sometimes needs modifications for a proper fit, although it mostly depends on the mounting area.

The Amarine Made water pump is a compact and reliable item that’s great for boats, campers, vans, and RVs. With a pressure of 35 pounds per square inch and a flow rate of 1.1 gallons per minute, it's rather convenient for small to medium applications. On top of that, it's energy-efficient and will save you some cash on electric bills.


One thing users like about this pump is the self-priming feature. The device shuts off automatically when the pressure is reached, and it’s able to run dry. It also has a built-in thermal protector and hose barb ports that measure 3/8 inches. There shouldn't be any overload or ignition issues, so you'll be able to use the pump for a while. Additionally, the pump works quietly and installs easily.


There are only a couple of drawbacks to keep in mind with this pump. First of all, it's quite small, and the volume of 1.1 gallons per minute might be unsuitable for those seeking a high water flow. Therefore, consider your application before making a purchase. Also, the pump doesn't have an on/off switch. You'll have to add it separately for more convenient use.

This impressive 12-volt water pump from Lippert Components offers 50 pounds per square inch and a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute. If you need a powerful performance and high flow rate, this might be a great option for you.


The pump is self-primed and very quiet. It doesn't vibrate and can even run dry without any issues. Another great thing about this pump is the heavy-duty motor. It's corrosion-resistant and proves to be very reliable and durable. All in all, the pump delivers a steady flow of water and is ideal for campers and RVs.


The pump might leak at the connections, however. It's not that noticeable and won't cause a huge issue, but it still might require some DIY work. Another part that might require some modifications is the mounting bracket. It may wear out rather quickly, so you'll probably need to reinforce it with some sturdy and durable materials.

The Flojet water pump is one of the first choices among RV enthusiasts. What makes it special and popular is its quality construction and reliable performance. The pump offers a 12-volt motor and a water flow of 3.2 gallons per minute. That makes it ideal for most applications, especially because of the low energy consumption.


The pump comes with a bypass valve that reduces water pulsation and makes it safer and more reliable. Overall, the pump performs without overheating and can run dry without getting damaged. It’s also easy to install. The package includes all the pieces necessary for installation, service, and maintenance.


One drawback with this pump is the noise. The device can be rather loud, and you might need to make some adjustments to reduce the annoying sounds. The other minor inconvenience might come from the included fittings. They are not of the best quality and might break easily.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly water pump for your RV, Camplux offers a great one. This particular model is suitable for a wide range of applications and is quite reliable. It gives you 35 pounds per square inch and a flow of 1.2 gallons per minute.


This is a self-priming pump that can be mounted above the tank. It can run dry without getting damaged and also turns on and off automatically, depending on the pressure. People use it for outdoor showers, sinks, water taps, and similar applications. You'll find the Camplux pump is well-built, reliable, and rather convenient for many purposes.


The main drawback of the pump is the low water flow. If you need a more powerful water pump for your RV, you might want to look for alternatives. Some find the Camplux pump too small and weak to deliver the necessary pressure. Therefore, consider your application before the purchase.

Tips

  • If you want to give your RV plumbing system a longer life, you may want to install a water pressure regulator. High pressure may damage your RV’s water pipes; a water pressure regulator will keep the pressure in check and protect your plumbing system from damage.
  • Consider pairing your RV water pump with a high-quality water filter. With a functional filter, you can be sure that your water is clean as long as you constantly check on the condition of the filter. It will keep you from drinking contaminated water.
  • Perform routine checks on your pump and the entire water system. Seal any leaks as the trickling water may trick the pump to perform a pump cycle when the faucets are shut off. Have a professional check your pump occasionally to ensure that it’s in great condition.

FAQs

Q: What causes a water pump motor failure?

A: The issue may be due to a blown out fuse, which is easily replaceable. It may also be due to a worn out battery. In that case, turn off the motor’s master switch and change the battery. In the worst-case scenario, the motor could have died due to wear from extended use. You may have to replace the motor then.

Q: What are on-demand pumps?

A: An RV on-demand water pump is a unit that pumps water when needed. The pump puts pressure on the water system according to the preset PSI. The pump will continue pumping as long as a tap is open and stop when the tap is shut off.

Final Thoughts

The SHURFLO Revolution Water Pump is our top pick because it combines durability, efficiency, and reliability. The pump comes with user-friendly features and offers quiet operation.

If you are on a tight budget, you might want to check out theSeaflo 21 Series Water Pressure Pump. It is an affordable pump from a reliable company that offers efficient, smooth operation.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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