Freshwater tips whilst touring

Cleaning water containers, pipes and related equipment

When the caravan has been left standing for several weeks, before bringing the water system back into use, flush the entire system out with steriliser such as Milton. Follow the instructions carefully and do not use domestic bleach. Clean out any connecting hoses and fresh water containers at the same time.

• Drain down the system (open all taps to allow air in, enabling the system to drain quickly).
• Remove any water filters fitted, and replace with a short length of hose or empty filter cartridge (this will ensure the filter is not affected by the disinfectant/sterilising solution).
• Fill the system by using the pump with a disinfectant/sterilising solution (check that the solution at full strength appears at all taps/showers). Allow to stand for the recommended period of time.
• Drain the system down completely.
• Thoroughly clean the outside of all taps/connectors with a cloth soaked in the disinfectant/sterilizing solution.
• Flush the system through with clean drinking water until no traces of disinfectant/sterilising solution can be detected at any tap.
• Replace the filter.

Filters should be replaced at the recommended intervals, irrespective of how often they have been used.

Water pumps: operation and maintenance

Most caravans are equipped with submersible pumps, whereas motorhomes are usually fitted with diaphragm pumps.

A good quality submersible pump should give unfailing service for 10 years or more, but many develop faults more frequently – so always carry a spare, especially if travelling abroad.

Troubleshooting

Motor not running

• Is the battery discharged? Try the lights to see if they work.
• Is the pump switched on at the distribution unit? Many caravans have a control switch.
• Has a fuse failed? Fuses are usually fitted at the distribution unit in the wardrobe or under the front seats.

Motor running but no water at the tap

With a submersible pump, air sometimes gets trapped in the casing. Disconnect the hose from the input coupling and swing the pipe so the pump gently strikes the side of the water container, under the surface. This usually dislodges air bubbles. With a diaphragm pump, if grit gets into the pump, its mechanism is soon damaged. Check the filter regularly and clean if necessary. If there is internal damage, the pump can be serviced or repaired by the supplier. One of the seals or O-rings inside the assembly sometimes fails and pump chambers cease to be airtight. Spares kits are available but repairs would normally be referred to a specialist.

Switch system faulty

In general, one of two systems is used: either a tiny switch is fitted in the tap itself – called a microswitch – or a switch activates the pump when it senses a drop of pressure in the supply system – for instance, when a tap is turned on. This is called a pressure-sensitive switch.

Damp can cause the downfall of a microswitch and in some instances the whole tap has to be replaced. In most cases, however, the switch can be easily changed by a qualified electrician.

If you've found our freshwater tips helpful then make sure you check out our guides to motorhoming and campervanning. We offer plenty of free advice for newbies as well as those familiar with the industry.