All of us know that when it comes to living a comfortable life, water is essential. RV owners, though, are doubly aware of the importance of this fact. Always on the road with no dedicated utilities most of the time, they require a dependable and consistent water-supply system to remain adequately hydrated (and bathed).
Having the best RV water pump will ensure your water pressure is high and your plumbing stays in good shape. Apart from delivering water to your camper’s faucets, showers and anything else which runs on water, the best RV water pumps are easy to set up and use. Also, since they operate quietly, you can count on them to not wake you up when your deep asleep.
During our research we’ve covered a ton of different brands and models of RV water pump. Time and time again we’ve found the best one on the market is the Remco Variable Speed RV Pump.
Best RV Water Pump – Remco Variable Speed RV Pump
The Remco Variable Speed RV Pump is an ultra-quiet model which lets you adjust its operating speed to complement your fresh water requirements. Since you can alter its operating speed, this pump delivers water based on your requirements and consumes less electricity when it run at lower settings.
Unlike your average constant speed RV pump, this model reduces the constant cycling on/off experience common for most RV water pumps. It also eliminates the common problem of pulsating water pressure which most users experience with freshwater systems.
To make full use of every feature mentioned above, the Remco RV water pump provides a consistent water output of 5.3 gallons per minute. And to make sure that it meets today’s advanced filtration systems and plumbing systems, its maximum pressure of 80 PSI goes a long way.
Top 10 Best RV Water Pumps Comparison Table
Best RV Water Pumps Buyers Guide
While you might be aware of the working of the average RV water pump, the best ones come loaded with different features. As such, it’s worth your time that you spend some of it looking at features which separate the best RV water pumps from the also-rans.
Decide on the type
As is the case, the RV water pumps are divided into two types. You might want to know how both these types work before making your decision.
12-Volt RV Water Pump
Water pumps which come equipped with a 12-volt motor are specifically designed for RV use. They operate quietly, occupy less space and draw less energy from your batteries versus the high voltage ones.
On the flip side, 12-volt pumps produce lower pressure than, say, their 24V counterparts. That means that their GPM – or water output – tends to be on the lower side.
24-Volt RV Water Pump
Generally made for buses and trucks, the 24V water pumps provide greater water pressure. They offer reliable performance for longer periods and are used for heavy-duty jobs.
Not everything is hunky-dory about these units, though. They need regular maintenance to perform at their optimal level and also consume huge amounts of electricity, thereby putting load on your batteries.
GPM and Pressure rating
Since both these features directly impact the water output of the RV water pump, we have decided to group them in the same heading.
GPM
Also known as gallons per minute, your pump’s GPM determines how much water it will churn out in a given period of time. At the very least, you should look for models with 1GPM rating.
Conversely, if your water needs are extremely high, you might be well-served with a pump which has the ability to provide 3 gallons of water per minute.
Pressure rating
As experts tell us, the pressure rating of a pump indicates how much resistance it can overcome. You might find it either in bar or psi (pounds-per-square-inch) units.
When viewed alongside GPM, pressure rating plays an important role in determining your pump’s performance. Most RVs require pumps with a pressure rating between 60 and 75 psi.
Installation and Size
Regardless of how brilliant the performance of your pump might be, it would still leave a bad impression if it isn’t easy to install. Similar can be said about its size – as a pump which won’t fit in the given space in your RV will be as good as useless.
Installation
Although the best RV water pumps have many other things in common as well, one thing you’d find in all of them is that they are easy to install without any external help.
If your water requirements are low, go for 12V pumps as they have fewer parts and are therefore easy to install. You can also easily transport them to the place where you intend to install them because of their lightweight.
Size
As an owner of a camper, you’d already been aware of the importance of space. The RVs never have enough space so the best thing you can do is making the most of every inch of it.
That’s why we recommend that you get a pump which you can easily tuck away in the designated space. However, if your present installation is tight, the absence of space might stop you from upgrading to a bigger capacity pump.
As a camper, you’d already been aware of the importance of space. The RVs never have enough space so the best thing you can do is making the most of every inch of it.
That’s why we recommend that you get a pump which you can easily tuck away in the designated space. However, if your present installation is tight, the absence of space might stop you from upgrading to a bigger capacity pump.
Auto switch and pump cycle
In case you’re wondering, both these features don’t have much impact on the performance of your pump. Instead, having both of them in your unit makes the whole operation as safe as it possibly can be. That’s why some users choose both these features – even though they cost extra.
Auto switch
Pumps which come with a built-in auto switch are more immune from getting overheated. The reason for this lies in the way the auto switch operates.
As soon as your pump reaches the preset water pressure, the auto switch will automatically turn it off. It not only protects your unit but also keeps the energy bills low.
Pump cycle
As you just saw with the auto switch, it shuts down the unit whenever the preset value is reached. But what happens if the pump continues to provide a flow rate below the preset value?
That’s where the pump cycle comes to your rescue. It reactivates the pump the moment its reading goes down the preset value, thereby making sure that you’re getting optimal flowrate at all times.
Vertical Suction Lift and Noise Level
First things first, there is nothing common between the vertical suction lift of your pump and the noise coming out of it. Both these features are totally different and there’s no reason why you should doubt this statement.
Vertical Suction Lift
At the cost of sounding technical, vertical suction lift describes the amount of water your pump need when operating to operate efficiently. It varies with your water needs
For instance, if you’re going to need a small amount of water and your pump doesn’t have to apply much power-sucking it up, you’d do well with a pump with little suction lift.
Noise level
When looking for a pump which would operate quietly, make sure it comes with a 5-chamber design. The compartmentalization afforded in such a design allows the manufacturer to use sound dampening systems which keep noise level low.
If that’s not possible, then turn your attention to the type of mounting required by your unit. You might want the type of mounting which uses a noise-absorbing system, as it helps the pump operate quietly.
Best Top 10 Best RV Water Pumps Detailed Reviews
Keeping the above-mentioned buying guide as our reference point, we tested over 25 RV water pumps currently available on the market. Afterward, we narrowed down our list to the top 10 products which come handy in a wide range of situations. The below mentioned products, therefore, won’t leave you with many complaints.
#1 Shurflo 4088-101 A65 Water Pump
Considering the fact that it comes across as the replacement for your existing pump, the Shurflo Revolution Water pump ticks all the boxes to meet your requirements. It is pricey, mind you, but this unit justifies its price tag with a plethora of highly useful features.
Features
Most people think that when it comes to pumps, they cannot expect high-end technology. The Shurflo Revolution busts this myth with its Flow Reaction Technology which empowers this unit to operate with minimal noise. It also prevents the build-up of excessive pump vibration and cycling.
Furthermore, thanks to its single-piece internal bypass, you can install this unit on most plumbing systems and in multiple mounting positions. It has an impressive power draw of 7.5 Amps to keep your energy bills low and provides 3.0GPM to satiate all your water-operating appliances.
Pros
- Multiple mounting options
- Operates with minimal noise
- Impressive flow rate of 3 GPM
Cons
- Doesn’t come with hook-up equipment
Safety is yet another area where this model makes its mark. It comes with a built-in thermal protection device which averts dangerous overheating to prevent motor failure. Also provided is a check valve which protects its inner equipment by stopping the reverse flow of water.
On top of everything else, the fact that this model comes with a self-priming characteristic means you would have no problem getting it up and running every time you need water. And to further sweeten the deal, it offers a 2-year-limited warranty in its package.
What we don’t like
As stated at the start of its review, the Shurflo Revolution pump is designed to be a replacement of your existing one. This thinking behind its construction means that you won’t get hook-up equipment in the package of this model – though it goes without saying that you can purchase it on your own.
#2 Flojet Triplex Diaphragm Pump
- A genuine Flojet product, don't settle for anything less
- Self-priming up to 9 feet suction lift , dry running, three chambers
For those of you who came here looking for an automatic option, the Flojet Triplex Diaphragm Pump might be just what you need. Most details concerning this model have been automated, though it would still require you to do a little work every now and then.
Features
In case you were wondering, the reason why this model can (mostly) operate on its own lies in its automatic triplex diaphragm. This part allows the Flojet to do away with the need of an accumulator tank, thereby making the entire operation seamless.
You can expect to get this benefit from the Flojet because it comes with a pulsation eliminator, which removes as much vibration as possible to keep the unit working smooth. You also get a sound-absorbing mount which keeps the operating noise level to a bare minimum.
What makes this unit a must-have for most prospective buyers is its self-priming operation. It allows the Flojet to provide a suction lift of up to nine feet. In layman terms, that means that you can count on this model to provide the necessary suction to lift water from several feet down below the ground.
If you still want more features to make up your mind, this water pump offers a 2.9GPM rating which is the 2nd best of any model in this review. It has built-in corrosion-resistant materials to increase its shelf life and its half-inch fittings mean you can practically install it with one hand.
What we don’t like
Despite all the noise-absorbing features that the Flojet Triplex Diaphragm Pump claims to have – and it does have plenty of those, to be fair – it’s not the quietest RV water pump on the market. You might need to consider this fact if you’re a light sleeper.
Pros
- Pulsation eliminator ensures smooth operation
- Soft-mount absorbs vibration
- Easy to install
Cons
- Loud
#3 Bayite 12V DC Fresh Water Pump
- The patented design delivers smooth & consistent flow at all ranges of operation, while drawing low current
- Inlet and Outlet: 3/8-inch hose barb ports. Vertical Suction Lift: 6.6ft (2m). Adjustable CUT-OFF Pressure: Default 80-85PSI, MAX 100 PSI(5.5Bar). It doesn't mean 4.5L/min jet at 100PSI. Comes with 2...
The Bayite 12V DC Fresh Water pump is for those of you who are after a model that won’t blow a hole in your pocket. It’s a budget-friendly option but still has all the features that prevent its lower asking price from adversely impacting this unit’s quality.
Features
Starting with a glance at its construction, this unit has a sleek-looking design which is compatible with most plumbing systems that you might find on the RVs. Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, the patented-design poses little restriction in the flow of water to ensure smooth operation.
To make sure that this model remains with you for years to come, Bayite has provided it with four highly sophisticated life-enhancing features. First, it comes with precision ball bearings which complement the motor’s design to extend its working life.
Second, the pump has a built-in heat protection technology which relies on an internal thermal breaker to save the motor from failure. Third, to shield it from anything which environment might throw at it, the sealed switches of this model play their part pretty well.
Other than that, while it is not a waterproof pump, the presence of electro-coating means you can expect it to resist corrosion build-up for quite some time. Its soft-rubber mounting feet, meanwhile, not only dampen its operating noise but also buffet the unit against excessive vibration.
What we don’t like
Keen-eyed readers among you might have noticed that we haven’t discussed the flow rate of this model yet. That’s because that’s one of the few things that we didn’t like about this model. After all, its meager output of 1.0 GPM won’t win this unit many fans.
Pros
• Elegant and useful design
• Long shelf life
• Safe to use
Cons
• Low water output
#4 Shurflo 2088-554-144 Fresh Water Pump
- Positive Displacement 3 Chamber Diaphragm Pump
- Check Valve: (1-Way Operation) Prevents Reverse Flow
Whether you want consistent water flow at all times or looking for a pump that could practically flood your sinks, toilets, and showers, the Shurflo 2088 Fresh Water Pump is a top contender to fulfill all your water-related needs.
Features
What is it that separates the Shurflo 2088 from other RV water pumps in this review? For starters, it offers a mammoth water output of 3.5 GPM, the most offered by any model in this review. Add to the equation its 45 PSI water pressure, and this unit will never let you complain.
Of the many things which you don’t expect to see in a water pump, NSF certification ranks somewhere close to the top of the list. As this certification is mostly reserved for high-end water filters. Still, the fact that the Shurflo 2088 has it means you can use its water for food preparation and drinking purposes.
Apart from being solid and compact – which means it can easily fit into tight spaces inside your RV – you can also use this model in on-demand and transfer applications. That is, because, it has a lightweight design and lets you mount it in both horizontal as well as vertical positions.
Lastly, this model makes full use of the extra space afforded to it by its 3-chamber diaphragm design. It has included a check valve in there to prevent water from flowing in reverse and damaging the equipment. You can also find a thermal protector in there which protects the motor from heat damage.
What we don’t like
While trying to install this unit, we found out that its threads can be susceptible to misalignment. So you might have to pay extra attention to them. Also, since it has a mild magnetic steel construction, this unit won’t last long in marine environments.
Pros
• 3.5 GPM flow rate
• NSF-certified materials
• Safe for potable water
Cons
• Threads are susceptible to misalignment
#5 Happybuy RV Water Pump
- ⚓[MAIN PARAMETER] ~ Voltage: 12V DC ; Flow Capacity: 5.5 Gallons Per Minute ; Water Pressure: 70 PSI (4.8 bar) ; Nozzle Open Pressure: 55 PSI (3.8 bar) ; Hose Outlets: Suits 1/2" Diam Hose ; Twin...
- ⚓[HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL] ~ The main body of the 5-chamber positive displacement diaphragm pump is made of ABS engineering plastic, which is one-piece, tightly sealed and durable. A high-powered...
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t weigh heavily on your pocket – but still has the output to flood your devices with water – the Happybuy RV Water pump weighs might be worthy of your attention.
Features
Of all the RV water pumps that we have reviewed thus far, the Happybuy RV water pump comes out on top when it comes to flowrate. This unit pumps your devices with 5.5GPM of flow rate, which is enough to meet the water requirements of a small-sized house, let alone an RV.
High-quality materials have been used in this unit’s construction. Its main body is made of one-piece plastic which won’t give way anytime soon. The highly-powered motor which is responsible for the huge output that this model provides is rewarded with a waterproof cover to increase its shelf life.
Then there is the sealed pressure switch which empowers this model to operate in harsh environments. Also provided are rubber mounting feet which not only reduce noise but are equally adept at preventing corrosion from rising up from below.
Lastly, to further sweeten the deal, Happybuy has equipped this model with an automatic pressure switch. As you open and close the nozzle, the switch would automatically open and close as well. You also get an auto-shutoff feature which turns off this device the moment the motor overheats.
What we don’t like
Some users of this pump have complained about the quality of the plastic nozzle that comes in its package. They are of the opinion that it blew apart very easy on a couple of occasions, so they had no choice but to purchase a nozzle separately.
Pros
• 5.5 GPM flow rate
• Auto-shutoff feature
• Internal thermal protection
Cons
- Questionable quality of plastic nozzle
#6 Remco Variable Speed RV Pump
In case you aren’t sure, variable speed RV pumps provide a lot of benefits over their constant-speed colleagues. The Remco 55AQUAJET-ARV isn’t any different and might prove to be a valuable addition to your RV’s accessories.
Features
First things first, the Remco Variable Speed is ultra-quiet when compared with its single-speed counterparts. Since you can maneuver its operating speed, this pump delivers water based on your requirements and consumes less electricity when it’s run at lower settings.
You get two more benefits from this model’s variable speed motor. Unlike your average constant speed RV pump, this model keeps at bay the cycling on/off experience. It also eliminates the common problem of a pulsating water pressure which most users experience with freshwater systems.
Other than that, its variable-speed motor allows this RV water pump to do away with the need for a pressure switch. Instead, as soon as you open any of the water fixtures, it would detect the resulting drop in water pressure with its pressure sensor, before adjusting the motor speed to meet your demands.
To make full use of every feature mentioned above, the Remco RV water pump provides a consistent water output of 5.3 gallons per minute. And to make sure that it meets today’s advanced filtration systems and plumbing systems, its maximum pressure of 80 PSI goes a long way.
What we don’t like
What do you expect from a model which provides such a huge flowrate for longer periods of times? That’s right; sometimes this unit can get clogged. However, to quote a phrase, you won’t encounter this problem more than once in a blue moon.
Pros
• Variable speed
• Ultra-quiet
• Automatic speed adjustment of the motor
Cons
• Might get clogged sometimes
#7 Seaflo 12V DC Pump
- The 21-Series Pumps are compact and designed for a wide range of applications including liquid transfer, spraying, circulation, filtration and dispensing
- The 21-series of diaphragm pumps are self-priming and can be run dry without harm. It provides up to 1.2 gallons per minute
The Seaflo 12V DC pump is for those of you who don’t have abnormal water requirements. It doesn’t have a huge water output and is useful for those RVs with 2-3 water fixtures.
Features
Options are unlimited if you think you can live with the 1.2 GPM output of the Seaflo. Apart from sucking water from underneath the ground and transferring it to your faucets, this unit can be used for the transfer of liquids, filtration of water and even spraying.
Even if you want to mount it above the tank, you should have no problem given the fact that this product is self-priming. Equally useful is its built-in thermal protector which protects the motor against any sort of heat damage, and it can also run dry without any harm.
Moreover, this unit has an upper-pressure limit of 35 PSI. Once the water pressure crosses the limit, the pump would automatically shut down courtesy of its pressure switch – which would automatically restart it the moment the water pressure comes down to normal levels.
While the moderate water output of this pump means that it is quiet on its own, its manufacturer still took no chances and supplemented this unit with soft rubber mounts which prevent the vibrations from troubling your ears.
What we don’t like
As you might have expected, we have no doubts about the quality of this pump. The feature which we think might dissuade some campers from purchasing it is its water output. After all, its 1.2GPM output is not enough by any stretch of the imagination to power more than 1 shower at a time.
Pros
• Ideal for multiple applications
• Has self-priming characteristic
• Lightweight and compact
Cons
• Low water output
#8 Amarine 12V RV Water Pump
- On-demand, automatic water pump for small boats, campers, and vans
- Built-in 35 PSI pressure switch for automatic stop/start
Just like the Seaflo 12V water pump that we saw above, the Amarine 12V pump intends to target users with low daily water requirements. Therefore, if you think you fall in that category, you now have two options to choose from.
Features
The Amarine 12V RV Water pump has paid special attention to make itself safe. It has a built-in thermal protector which does what the name implies and also contains a built-in ignition protector which prevents it from completing the fire triangle of a nearby air-fuel mixture.
Like most systems whose water output is below 1.5GPM, the Amarine 12V pump is also super-quiet. You can let it run at night and sleep peacefully without requiring any earplugs. Also, since it comes with rubber mounts, you won’t feel any vibration stinging your bed, either.
Apart from that, this unit comes with a 35 PSI pressure switch which automatically stops/starts its operation based on your usage. For instance, if the unit switch senses that your water demands have gone above 35PSI, it will shut down the system, before restarting it when the things get back to normal.
Lastly, while the abovementioned features set this model apart from the competition, those mentioned in this paragraph are run of the mill stuff. For instance, like most models out there, it can run dry without any damage, with its self-priming ability letting you mount this pump above your tank.
What we don’t like
When you’re installing this system, you might notice the absence of any arrows indicating flow direction. That isn’t a huge problem, agreed, but it does force you to undertake hit-and-trial to get the tubing right. (Tip: If you have installed it and still seeing bubbles, reverse the tubing!)
Pros
• Has a silent operation
• Competitively priced
• Durable and compact
Cons
• Only 1.2GPM water output
#9 Pentair Shurflo 8000-543-236
- 12V - 60 PSI Max Demand Pump
- Corrosion-resistant Viton valves and Santoprene diaphragm
The Pentair Shurflo 8000 is an inexpensive 12V pump designed for various applications such as filtration, dispensing, spraying and of course circulation of water. Still, with its output of 1.8GPM, we can’t recommend it for heavy-duty use.
Features
One of the unique selling points of this model is the parts which provide it with a long shelf-life. It is equipped with built-in Viton valves which are corrosion resistant and prevent motor damage by stopping the backward flow of water.
Then there’s its propylene construction whose one-piece arrangement means there won’t be any chipped parts in the near future. Yet another way this pump demonstrates its utility is with the approval it has earned for usage with agricultural herbicide, meaning it can handle corrosive liquids as well.
Complementing its resistance against corrosive liquids is the temperature rating of this pump. You can operate the Pentair at as high as 170*F and all its working parts would show no signs of stress. Also, since it has a fully repairable body, you won’t be needing to replace this unit anytime soon.
Additionally, while its output of 1.8GPM is nothing to brag about, the max 60PSI rating of this pump sets it apart from the competition. You can mount it in any position of your liking and its 8 x 1/4 x 4’’ dimensions mean this unit won’t occupy much space in your camper, either.
What we don’t like
At least one user of this pump has complained about the pressure switch of this model. They are of the opinion that it turns off the unit without any rhyme or reason and leaves them with no choice but to manually turn it back on.
Pros
• Mounts in multiple positions
• Corrosion-resistant construction
• Approved for use with Agri herbicides
Cons
• Unreliable pressure switch
#10 WFCO Artis Series Water Pump
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The WFCO Artis Series Water Pump doesn’t come from as famous a brand as some other products in this review. It doesn’t have a low price tag either to lure budget-friendly people. Provided you can get over these two “shortcomings”, this RV water pump won’t give you a reason to complain.
Features
Even before we got the chance to assess the features of the Artis Series, its low power-draw greatly impressed us. After all, how many RV water pumps on the market provide an output of 3.0GPM but still draw less than 7amps in power? That’s right; not many.
Its efficient operation means that even when running at full capacity, this water pump won’t run your generator or battery down. It has the ability to run dry with no damage and provides a max pressure rating of 40 PSI to complement most plumbing systems.
Maintaining an RV water pump can be an expensive endeavor unless you end up with the Artis Series. It comes with a built-in thermal protector which shields the motor against high heat and also has high-pressure protection to protect the pump in exceptional circumstances.
What is more, the 4-chamber design of this pump ensures smooth flow of water and that too with minimal noise. You can also get this pump to provide a suction lift of up to 33 feet, which is enough in most settings that come to mind.
What we don’t like
Unfortunately, despite all the useful features that this model comes with – and it comes with plenty of them, the absence of quick disconnect is a glaring error. It becomes all the more inexplicable why it isn’t included in the package given the fact that the pump has space provided for it. As it turns out, those who need a quick disconnect will have to purchase it separately.
Pros
• Shuts off automatically
• Low power draw
• Considerable suction lift
Cons
• No quick disconnect
Summary
There you have it; ten of the best RV water pumps money can buy. Still, if you want the model which provides the best value for your money, we recommend the Remco RV Pump.
Apart from letting you adjust its speed, this model offers the market-high flowrate of 5.3GPM for an RV pump. Also, it comes with a built-in pressure sensor and operates ultra-quietly when compared with your average, constant-speed RV pumps. What more can you ask for?
Now that you’ve got a great water supply in you RV, you might want to look into upgrading your RV bathtub or your RV toilet to complete the overhaul!
I really your post because it has clear and full content about products. I have a plan to buy a new RV water pump and I think your post gives me a lot of useful information, Thanks so much!!
I bought a Shurflo 2088-554-144 Fresh Water Pump a half month ago. I am really satisfied with it. Thanks for sharing, I will follow more of your post.