Simplicity, durability, and verve are the three things you want in your freshwater pump. And yet without a thorough understanding of the topic, you can end up with the dullest of the lot, or worse- a pump that doesn’t suit your application in any event.
With the right pump, you can enjoy a consistent delivery of fresh water to your home, shower, lawn, boat, RV, and whatnot.
Our Top Pick Item
We have listed down six of the best marine fresh water pumps with detailed reviews of each. Additionally, you'll find a water pump installation guide, its benefits, and an in-depth buying guide to help you find a suitable match.
Water is an essential part of travel. Boaters and recreational vehicle owners require a reliable and steady water supply for staying hydrated and other water needs.
Top 5 Marine Fresh Water Pump - Comparison
Name | Image | Editors Reviews | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
1. Shurflo 2088-554-144 |   | ||
2. bayite 12V DC Fresh Water Pump |   | ||
3. Seaflo 12V DC 1.2 GPM |   | ||
4. Amarine Made 12v |   | ||
5. Lippert Components 689052 |   |
What is a Marine Fresh Water Pump?
A marine, the freshwater pump is a device used to deliver water to fixtures onboard a recreational vehicle or boat from a tank. They are used to provide water “on tap” for showers, dishwashing, and other applications.
List Of 6 Best Marine Fresh Water Pump Reviews
1. Shurflo 2088-554-144 Fresh Water Pump
This marine, freshwater pump is a suitable option for recreational vehicles, boats, or any other water delivery application.
It ensures flushing and more exceptional flow while being used. The pump has a positive displacement designed to pump 3 ½ gallons of water per minute.
It activates itself automatically since the pressure is minimal and deactivates when a pre-set pressure is obtained.
It self-primes by up to nine feet and pumps on demand. It has a tremendous pressure of 45 PSI and superior flow mechanics. The pump features thermal protection, which hinders damage through overheating.
It is made with polypropylene materials, making it safe for use, especially if the water is for consumption.
Pros
Cons
2. bayite 12V DC Fresh Water Pump
This RV pump is considered extraordinarily versatile and flexible. It has many applications, including; showers, lawns, water taps, caravans, boats, campers, and recreational vehicles.
The pump has precision ball bearings integrated into the motor, which extends its life span. It features thermal breakers on the inside, which prevents overheating of the pump.
The Bayite RV pump has sealed switches that feature an electrocoating finish, preventing rust and corrosion. It has soft rubber feet that provide an adequate cushion from possible vibrations and noise.
Therefore, it runs quietly in whatever mode of operation. The pump has a 2, vertical suction lift and adjustable cut-off pressure. Its default pressure is 80-85PSI.
Its body is sealed to prevent incidental dust and moisture from entering. The pump can function in a wet environment and cannot run for more than six hours. It has a self-priming feature that allows it to be mounted above water tanks.
Pros
Cons
3. Seaflo 12V DC 1.2 GPM 35 PSI 21-Series
The Seaflo 12V DC 21 Series Diaphragm pump in one of the most budget-friendly RV water pumps that deliver accordingly.
Its low price does not in any way compromise its specifications and benefits. It is compact and capable of performing a broad range of tasks, including spray, filtration, liquid transfer, and circulation.
The pump weighs only 1.5lbs, which is amazingly lightweight. It is self-priming, allowing you to mount the pump over the tank.
It also has thermal protection, which reduces the chances of damage by overheating. The 35 PSI pressure switch feature provides an automatic activating and deactivating function.
Pros
Cons
4. Amarine Made 12v Water Pressure Diaphragm Pump
The Amarine pump is considered one of the most practical marine water pumps since it reduces costly expenses.
It is a great pump that works for a variety of applications. The pump can pump up to 1.2 gallons of water per minute. It is self-priming, which means you can mount it on your tanks.
The pump features a 35 PSI pressure switch that activates and deactivates automatically. It also has ignition and integral thermal protection that ensures it does not overheat and damage.
Moreover, it is suitable for different applications such as spraying, transferring, dispensing, filtering, and circulating liquids. It features a soft rubber mounting, which reduces vibrations and noise. Beyond that, it does not require considerable power draw and is easy to connect.
Pros
Cons
5. Lippert Components 689052 12V Flow Max Water Pump
The unit features a super-strong motor that corrosion-resistant ball bearings, ensuring durability, especially if the pump is for outdoor applications.
The pump is electro-coated, meaning it can maintain a well-polished look even if exposed to various elements.
The Lippert Components pump has a maximum of 50 PSI and ensures a 3-gallon-per-minute water flow rate. Surprisingly, it can run dry, meaning it could stay in absolute condition even if your tank runs out of water.
It has a thermal breaker feature, ensuring protection against overheating. The package comes with a screen filter and a couple of connectors. It also has a sturdy internal check valve that hinders the backflow of water.
Pros
Cons
6. SEAFLO 42-Series Water Pressure Diaphragm Pump
If you are looking for an efficient and reliable marine water pump, the Seaflo 42-series pump is your best option.
It effectively maintains raw power and adapts to conditions where a significant flow of water is not mandatory. The pump is compact in design, making it suitable for tight and narrow spaces.
It features different types of inlets, each with unique fittings that can work in any application.
The pump has an interior bypass that reduces pump cycling, eliminating the need for an accumulator tank. It has an integral check valve that reduces water backflow.
The automatic on and off feature ensures you have pressurized water at your disposal. It also comes with the necessary fittings to screw on the pump and install the flex line to the spigot and water tank.
Pros
Cons
How to Install a Marine Fresh Water Pump
When it comes to installing and using freshwater pumps, the number of outlets you require, the size and shape of your boat or recreational vehicle will determine the pump's size and other essential components of the system. It will also determine the level of pipework you will need.
Now that you have purchased the best marine freshwater pump follow this step-by-step guide on how to install a marine freshwater pump
Step : 1
If you are replacing the existing RV water pump, the first logical step would be to locate it. The easiest way of locating the pump is by listening to hear the sound the pump produces when running. In recreational vehicles, the pump is mostly found outside the vehicle and closer to the water tank.
Step : 2
Once you locate the pump, drain it thoroughly to remove all the residue present.
Step : 3
Switch off the power supply to the existing pump. Use a screwdriver to remove all wirings connected to the pump. Also, disconnect all the hoses, screws, and bolts attached to the pump.
Step : 4
Remove the old pump. Take out your new replacement and place it where the old one was. Secure it tightly using a screwdriver. Use some Teflon tapes to wrap the pipe threads. Then connect the outlet and inlet hoses, then secure them using the clamps.
Step : 5
Reconnect the marine fresh water pump to the pump link and the wires. Then reconnect the power supply to the pump. Finally, test the pump to ensure it is working.
The Benefits of a Fresh Water Pump (why do you need a marine water pump?)
Marine freshwater pumps are suitable investments since they guarantee different perks on your adventures. Some of the benefits of owning the marine freshwater pump include;
What to Consider When Purchasing a Marine Fresh Water Pump
1. The type of Fresh Water Pump
It is essential to know that there a couple of options for a freshwater pump. There are 12V and 24V pumps. The 12V options are known to run silently.
They take up less space and consume less electricity from the batteries compared to those with high voltages. Unfortunately, they generate low pressure, which means they produce low gallon-per-minute rates.
Alternatively, 24V pumps can offer higher water pressure. They can provide more reliable performance for a longer time. Ultimately, they are the best option for heavy-duty applications.
You should know that they require scheduled regular maintenance to be able to function optimally. The 24V options use high energy amounts, placing a massive load on your batteries.
2. Size and Installation
Even if you choose a reliable and robust pump, it will be utterly worthless if you cannot install it.
Unless you hire a professional to help with installations every time, you should consider a pump that is easy to install. The same applies to the size of the pump and the space for fitting.
If the freshwater pump can't fit in the designated space, it will not help. You should pick options that offer easy installation and application without needing external aid every time.
The options should be easy to transport to the designated location. The amount of space you will be installing the pump in is also essential.
3. Suction power and noise level
It would be best if you considered options that can operate with minimal noise. For this, you should consider five-chamber pump designs.
The five-chamber designs have sound dampening capabilities, making them suitable for reducing noise levels. You can also check to see it; they have rubber feet, which is vital in reducing vibration levels.
If you consider this noise-reduction feature impossible, you should pay immense attention to the mounting type your pump needs. The mounting type should use a noise-absorbing system since it allows the pump to work quietly.
A vertical suction lift shows the water amounts your pump requires when functioning to run more efficiently. You should note that this differs from your water requirements.
For instance, if you require minimal water amounts and your pump does not need to apply excess suction power, then you are better off with a pump that has little suction lift.
4. Pressure Ratings and GPH
Both these factors have a significant impact on your pump's water output. The water pump's pressure ratings inform you of the resistance levels it can withstand. This can be determined either via PSI or bar units.
On the other hand, gallons per minute depict the water amount the water pump can churn out at a given time. It would be best to consider a freshwater pump with at least 1 gallon of water per minute flow rate.
If your water application requirements are high, you can choose options that offer two or three gallons per minute flow rates.
5. Auto Switch and Pump Cycle
These features ensure the protection of your pump system. The majority of buyers consider these options even though they add costs.
Whenever the pre-set value is achieved, the pump cycle shuts down the pump. Sometimes the pump continues to provide a flow rate that is lower than the pre-set value.
At that moment, the pump cycle becomes more critical. The pump cycle reactivates the pump once the readings go lower than the pre-set value. The pump cycle ensures you achieve the optimum flow rate at all times.
Pumps that feature integral automatic switches help to provide more protection against overheating. Once the water pump achieves the pre-set value, the automatic switch deactivates the pump automatically.
It ensures the durability and protection of the device as well as keeping your energy bills low.
Who Needs a Marine Fresh Water Pump?
A marine freshwater pump is for the ideal traveler. Whether you own a boat or a recreational vehicle, it is your best friend when it comes to water needs.
It has many applications, the most important one being the delivery and pumping of water. The majority of the pumps are versatile and can be used for marine and agricultural purposes.
FAQs About the Marine Fresh Water Pump
Q: How does a marine freshwater pump work?
A: The most modern models come with a pressure switch that allows the unit to build up pressure in the freshwater line.
Whenever water is in demand, the spigot is opened, and a current of pressurized water is availed. It is responsible for activating to sustain the required pressure.
Q: How do I prime a marine freshwater pump on an RV or boat?
A: Priming can be done by filling the suction pipe and the pump chamber with water. This can be done by pouring water via the hand pump's exit spout while stroking the handle in a downward and upward approach.
Bottom Line
Getting freshwater from tanks to sinks, showers, and faucets is critical for any boat, campers, or recreational vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to invest in a quality, durable, and pocket-friendly marine fresh water pump.
As we're about to conclude our article, we sincerely hope that our freshwater pump reviews and pointers were of help to you.
An up and running freshwater pump is like a luxury when you’re stuck in your RV without a backup water source. It's one of the things that make camping, boating, and other adventures worthwhile.
Whether you decide to get a Shurflo, a Seaflo, or an astounding Amarine, you are sure to find the best marine fresh water pump from these impeccable brands that we covered.