How to Install a Water Pump in a Camper

By A.C. Bauer

RV camping is a great way to travel the country and enjoy the great outdoors without giving up many creature comforts of home. Whether you own or rent a camper, most come equipped with an internal water system run by a water pump. These pumps can last for many years, however, occasionally one may fail. This often occurs if the camper has not been properly winterized and water is left in the pump in cold temperatures. Water inside the pump freezes and ruins the pump. After shopping for a replacement water pump that fits the camper, installing it will be simple.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Preparations

Things You'll Need:

RV water pump
Flathead screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Screws
Clamps

Step 1

Find the water pump. It is usually located on the outside of the camper near the freshwater tank, or inside under a dinette table seat or cabinet. An easy way to locate the pump, if you have trouble finding it, is by turning the water on and listening for the noise, which will lead you to the general area.

Step 2

Shut off power to the water pump. The circuit breaker will be located in the circuit breaker panel that will be near the camper's inverter.

Step 3

If the old pump is still in place, remove it. Using a screwdriver, detach the red and black wires at the pump connection. Remove the clamps and detach both hoses. Screws often hold the pump in place. Use the screwdriver to remove them, and move the pump out of the way.

Install a new pump

Step 1

Put the new pump in the same location as the old one. Using a screwdriver, and new screws provided with the pump, screw the new pump into place.

Step 2

Attach the outflow and supply hoses. Using the screwdriver and clamps, adjust and tighten the hoses in place.

Step 3

Attach the red and black wires to the pump using the screwdriver. The positive and negative locations are identified on the pump. Be sure the red wire is attached to the positive and black wire to the negative.

Step 4

Turn the water pump circuit breaker on. Turn on the faucet and inspect the pump and hoses for proper operation, looking for any leaks. Re-tighten any loose connections or screws if needed.

About The Author

A.C. Bauer is a seasoned adventurist with explorations spanning four continents, including hiking Machu Picchu, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, running the Ice Age Trail and road biking out of her front door. She has written marketing materials for eight years and worked for Red Bull, Disney and Dick's Sporting Goods, and received a master's in recreation and sport science from Ohio University.

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