You pull into an RV park, get leveled, settle in—and then comes the classic question:
Do you hook up to city water, or do you rely on your freshwater tank and water pump?
It sounds like a simple choice, but each option has its own advantages, quirks, and potential frustrations. Today’s Tech Tip Tuesday from the National RV Training Academy—the largest hands-on RV training academy in America—breaks it down so you can make the best call for your setup.
Using Your Freshwater Tank & Water Pump
Most RV water pumps run between 45–55 PSI, which means they provide consistent, steady pressure to your faucets and fixtures. That alone is a huge benefit.
If you’ve ever taken a shower in a busy RV park, you’ve probably had that moment when your water pressure suddenly drops. Maybe the neighbor starts doing dishes or filling a dog bowl—whatever the reason, shared demand always affects flow.
But when you use your onboard pump?
Your pressure stays the same. Every time.
How Your Pump Works
Inside almost every RV, the water pump is tucked behind a false wall—a panel held by screws that pops off. On one side you’ll see the incoming water from your tank; on the other is the line feeding your faucets.
The pump is demand-based, meaning:
- It pushes water through your lines
- Pressure builds once everything is closed
- Back pressure tells the pump to shut off
If you’re not using water, the pump should be quiet.
When You Hear the Pump Cycle Unexpectedly
If you’re sitting in your RV and hear a quick brrp from the pump—even though nobody is running water—that’s your cue to start looking for a leak. PEX lines themselves are tough, but fittings can crack, pop, or loosen.
Low Pressure While Using the Pump?
That almost always means your freshwater tank is low.
Fill it before you start troubleshooting anything else.
When I Prefer the Pump
Many RVers rely on their pump more in the winter. Park water lines freeze, break, and shift. Using your freshwater tank means you always have water—whether the campground system is cooperating or not.
Just remember: pumps aren’t designed to run nonstop. If they do, they’ll burn up quickly—sometimes in as little as 5–10 minutes.
Pros of Using Your Water Pump
- Steady, reliable pressure
- Not affected by other campers’ usage
- Works even if park plumbing freezes or breaks
- No water hammer when you return to your RV
- Cleaner water when using a good filtration system
Cons of Using Your Water Pump
- If it fails, it must be found and replaced
- It can burn out if run dry
- You must keep your freshwater tank filled
Using City Water
City water is convenient: hook up, turn the faucet, and you’re done. No filling tanks, no monitoring water levels.
But the biggest rule when using city water:
Always use a pressure regulator.
Nothing above 65 PSI.
Too much pressure can damage fittings or blow connections apart.
Simple and Easy… Most of the Time
City water bypasses your fresh tank completely, providing unlimited water as long as the park system keeps up.
But that’s the catch.
In large parks, everyone showers, washes dishes, and fills dog bowls at the same time. Just like electricity, the more people pulling from the same source, the lower the flow becomes.
That means low-pressure showers at peak times—and nobody wants that.
Always Use a Filter
Park water quality varies wildly. A basic filter helps protect your faucets, water heater, toilet valve, and every fitting downstream.
Pros of Using City Water
- Unlimited supply—no tank to refill
- Simpler and more convenient
- No stress on your water pump
Cons of Using City Water
- Pressure can drop depending on park demand
- Risky without a regulator
- Campground plumbing issues can affect you
- Water hammer is common when first turning it on
So… Which Is Better?
Both options work. Both have advantages. But if you want steady pressure, cleaner water, and reliability regardless of the campground’s plumbing, the freshwater tank and pump often come out ahead.
Personally?
The pump is my favorite way to run water through an RV.
And if you ever hear that pump kick on unexpectedly, you’ve just been handed your first clue to a potential leak—long before it becomes a problem.
Want to Learn More About Your RV’s Systems?
If you’re enjoying these Tech Tip Tuesday lessons and want to dive deeper, the National RV Training Academy can help. Talk with a student advisor and learn how you can:
- Troubleshoot and repair your own rig
- Start a business while traveling
- Earn certifications and help fellow RVers