Trying out the fresh water tank and pump for the first time

[GregandTeresa]

As we have done all of our camping so far in sites with water and electric, we have not yet used our fresh water tank and pump. Since we are still under warranty, and I know that some folks with our model Escape have had issues with their water pump, I'm planning on filling it up and trying out the water pump this weekend.

What exactly should I be hearing and/or seeing (or not hearing) if we do have a faulty pump?

And are there any other known issues that I should be checking for this first time?

[Jim Bennett]

I really doubt there will be any issue. Just turn on the pump and open a tap, that's all it takes. When all taps are closed, the pump will run for a short bit, and will kick off when the desired water pressure is reached.

Only if it runs on, or even runs intermittently, would there be a problem. If you do find an issue you could post here for help, or just give Escape a call.

The tank and pump is by far most of our use, rarely do we have city water connections.

[Mike Lewis]

Here is a related comment that is a bit off-topic: when using water hookups be sure to use a water pressure restricter. I neglected to do so a couple of years ago and blew out the plumbing in my bathoom lavatory. It hasn't been the same since and I probably need to replace the faucet.

Also, if you haven't been using the fresh water tank be sure to disinfect it first, using the instructions in your trailer owners manual.

[Loren & Cathy]

All good advice here and since I use the pump a lot, there is an exact replacement pump plus the correct tools under the dinette. Loren

[rbryan4]

Originally Posted by Mike Lewis

Here is a related comment that is a bit off-topic: when using water hookups be sure to use a water pressure restricter.

A good point. Also, if it's ever been left with water running through and froze during a cold night because you forgot to unhook it (like I did once), the pressure regulator won't work properly afterward and should be replaced.

[GregandTeresa]

Thanks everyone for all the good feedback. I'll let you know how it goes.

Mike, I do always use the pressure regulator, so I should be good to go there. And will definitely take your advice to disinfect it at this time.

And Robert, nope, never done that (so far)

[BCnomad]

sometime when the OP has nothing better to do, peruse this related thread:
http://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f9...ems-10099.html



I expect you have the check valve installed, being a newer trailer.

[C&G in FL]

Originally Posted by GregandTeresa

As we have done all of our camping so far in sites with water and electric, we have not yet used our fresh water tank and pump. Since we are still under warranty, and I know that some folks with our model Escape have had issues with their water pump, I'm planning on filling it up and trying out the water pump this weekend.

What exactly should I be hearing and/or seeing (or not hearing) if we do have a faulty pump?

And are there any other known issues that I should be checking for this first time?

If you are going to test the pump, I find it beneficial to connect to city water first and fill the water heater tank. If this isn't done, it will take the pump a long time to fill it. I would also note that one doesn't have to be a rocket scientist to address problems with the 12v pump. If you can use a screwdriver, you can service/replace the check valve or replace the limit switch. These two are the most frequent cause of problems. Most RV dealerships and Camping World stock parts for these pumps.

[GregandTeresa]

Originally Posted by BCnomad

sometime when the OP has nothing better to do, peruse this related thread:
http://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f9...ems-10099.html



I expect you have the check valve installed, being a newer trailer.

Exactly the thread that prompted me to get off my lazy butt and check this off my to-do list

[Mucram]

I have a 2017 17b. When 1st trying water pump, it didn't work. Made noise but no pumping of water. After much troubleshooting with Reace, including sucking on lines (or more pc applying negative pressure on shower hose), cleaning out filter trap, resetting check valve & finally replacing pump...the issue was plastic debris collected at the winterizing t valve junction. Just a heads up that plastic debris from water tank install can impact the pump. (this thread describes the issue How do you Prime the Water Pump)
Julie

[GregandTeresa]

I'm happy to report that the water pump test was a success. Water lines pressurized as expected, and no un-expected cycling of the pump. Now off to disinfect it.