How to Prime a Shurflo RV Water Pump: My Simple Guideline
Picture this – you’re parked by a serene lake, surrounded by nature’s beauty, and all set for a refreshing shower in your RV. But there’s one hiccup – the water pump isn’t cooperating. No need to panic; it’s a common issue. Most likely, your Shurflo RV water pump simply needs a good old-fashioned prime.
Priming your Shurflo RV water pump ensures it’s ready to draw and deliver water from your freshwater tank. It’s a straightforward process that’s well within your DIY abilities.
Ready to get your hands a little wet and ensure your RV’s water runs smooth? Let’s get started.
How Do I Prime a Shurflo RV Water Pump
Step 1: Turn Off the Pump
Before starting any maintenance or adjustment procedure, it’s vital to ensure safety. Turning off the water pump ensures that you won’t accidentally turn it on or have it kick in while you’re working. The switch for the pump is usually located on the main control panel inside the RV.
Step 2: Find the Water Inlet
The water inlet is where the pump draws water from the freshwater tank. This might be a visible hose, pipe, or connection point. Knowing its location helps you ensure you’re working on the correct part of the system.
Step 3: Prepare Your Water Source
In case you aren’t connected to a city water supply, having a backup water source is key. This external source acts as a manual way to introduce water into the system, helping the pump get primed. A regular water jug, bucket, or even a garden hose can be used for this.
Step 4: Disconnect the Inlet Hose
By detaching the hose from the water inlet, you’re opening the pathway for the pump to draw water directly from your external source. This process is quite straightforward, often requiring you to unscrew or release a clip.
Step 5: Insert the Hose in the Container
Once disconnected, placing the hose into your water container ensures the pump draws this water, aiding in the priming process. Make sure the hose end is well submerged to prevent air intake.
Step 6: Turn On the Pump
With everything set up, turning on the pump allows it to start its job. At this point, the pump will begin drawing water from your container through the hose, aiding in the priming process.
Step 7: Watch and Listen
Observing is key here. By watching the water level in your container and listening to the sound of the pump, you can get a good idea of when the pump starts drawing water efficiently.
Step 8: Wait for a Steady Stream
Initially, the water might sputter or come out in short bursts. This is the pump pushing out trapped air. Once you see a steady flow of water without air bubbles, the pump is successfully primed.
Step 9: Reconnect the Inlet Hose
With the pump primed, it’s time to reconnect the hose to the RV’s water system. Ensure a snug fit to prevent any leaks or air from entering.
Step 10: Bleed the Air
Even with a primed pump, there could still be pockets of air in the water lines. By opening faucets, starting with the one closest to the pump and then working your way out, you let trapped air escape, ensuring a smooth water flow.
Step 11: Test All Fixtures
Finally, to ensure the priming process was successful, test all water fixtures in the RV, from sinks to showers. This gives you peace of mind that water is flowing effectively throughout the entire system.
Tips for Smooth Priming
- Keep Your Tank Filled: It’s easier to prime the pump when your freshwater tank has sufficient water. Keep an eye on the tank level, and try not to run it too low.
- Regular Maintenance: Consider cleaning or replacing your water pump’s inlet strainer to prevent clogs that can disrupt the priming process.
- Check for Leaks: After priming, check for any leaks in the system, especially around hose connections.
- Avoid Over-Priming: Over-priming can lead to water wastage. It’s usually not necessary to pump more water than required to remove air from the lines.
Priming your Shurflo RV water pump is a simple but essential step to ensure you have a steady water supply on your adventures. It’s a bit like making sure the campfire is roaring before you start roasting marshmallows – a small effort for big rewards.
Got More Questions?
Why Does My Water Pump Lose Prime Frequently?
Frequent loss of prime can be due to air leaks in the system, a damaged pump diaphragm, or a worn-out check valve. Regular maintenance and inspections can help diagnose and prevent this issue.
Can I Use An External Pump To Prime The Rv Water Pump?
Yes, some RVers use an external pump or a gravity feed system to assist in priming the RV water pump.
What If I Still Can’t Get The Water Pump To Prime?
If you’ve followed the steps and can’t get the pump to prime, it’s best to consult your RV’s manual or seek professional help to diagnose and resolve the issue.
