Why RV Water Pressure Starts Strong and Then Drops? -7 Reasons
According to experts, the safest water pressure in your RV should be 40- 50 psi. But oftentimes, users face issues like water pressure dropping after starting strong.
So, does your RV water pressure starts strong then drops? It can be due to a faulty water pump, or bent hoses when they can’t keep the water pressure consistent right after starting the appliances. We also found when your freshwater tank is low on water, the pressure starts right and then drops.
Let’s figure out some other causes and fixes that worked out for us when we went through the same problem!
What Happens If Your RV’s Water Pressure Is Low?
The most common sign that your RV’s water pressure is low is when you find it struggling to use the water sources to do regular chores.
Low water pressure means that you will struggle to get the water that will take longer to come out from your faucets, shower, and other fixtures.
With low water pressure on your RV, the water flow will be minimal which makes it difficult to wash dishes or do other chores like washing your clothes.
Due to the low water flow, you have to wait for a long time to complete a task, which can be frustrating.
RV appliances like your water heater, washing machines, and showers require a minimal water pressure to keep the right flow of water. But with low water pressure, those appliances can’t work efficiently.
We figured that our RV could have potential water pressure issues when my husband went to take a hot shower and spent 3 long hours in there due to the low water pressure. It’s like the water struggled to come out of the shower head.
Likewise, you can’t do even the simplest task using water due to the low pressure. It takes too much time to fill a water bottle, which becomes frustrating pretty soon.
RV Water Pressure Starts Strong, Then Drops: What Causes It?
The pressure fluctuation in your RV can occur due to many reasons. But the problem is more complicated when the pressure starts strong but drops soon after. Here are a few possible reasons behind this:
- Low water pressure on the onboard filter due to faulty campground/RV park’s water supply
- Water filter clogs
- Water line leakage or clogs
- Water hose leakage or clogs
- The freshwater tank has insufficient water
- Faulty water pump
- Faulty water pressure regulator
How to Fix When RV Water Pressure Starts Strong and Then Drops?
As we have mentioned the common issues, we have also figured out some solutions that work for handling them. Let’s have a quick glimpse at it first, and then we will move forward with the detailed solutions.
| Core Issue | Solution |
| Campground’s Water Pressure | Use a booster pump, look for possible dysfunctions in the water pressure regulator. |
| Water pump | Use a booster pump, check for leakage, or replace it if there are any other significant issues. |
| Hoses | Check for build-ups, leakages, or bent-down places. |
| Water filter | Check for clogs. |
| Water tank | Check the water level and fill it properly. |
| Pressure regulator | Check for malfunctions and replace them as needed. |
01: Monitor the Campground’s Water Pressure
Low water pressure from the campground water supply can cause a disruption in your RV’s water flow.
Due to this, even if your water flow starts strong when you start the appliances due to the stored water in there, soon, it will decrease to a minimal flow.
If you suspect that your RV’s campground water pressure is low, it’s better to find out first by using a water pressure regulator.
If you notice low water pressure, you might need to use a booster pump to boost the pressure in your RV.
Also, ensure regular maintenance of the water filter so no debris build-up occurs there. Therefore, you will get a consistent water supply through this.
02: Check for Water Filter Clogs
The filters in your recreational vehicle’s water filtration system may become clogged after extended use. Filters that are dirty or blocked can reduce water flow, even if it starts strong initially.
In this case, you need to look for clogs in the water filter and clean it thoroughly. Besides, if you think that it’s not worth the time, then the best thing to do is to replace the filter for the optimal operations.
03: Check for Water Line Leakage
Even a tiny leak in the water line can drop the pressure to an extent that will surprise you. If you are dealing with a problem where the water pressure starts strong and then decreases, there’s a possibility of leakage in your water line system.
Due to the leakage, the water flow won’t be consistent. As a result, you might get a strong flow at first, but it will decrease soon after. Also, in the meantime, the pressure may again increase and decrease like fluctuating.
However, due to the complicated structure, it can be tricky to figure out the exact area sometimes. One symptom we advise watching for is whether your water pump is on or off when you are not using it. If it’s running, then it’s possible that your water line has a leak.
In this case, you need to inspect the hoses, fittings, and connections. It’s better if you seek expert intervention in this case, as it can be quite difficult to find it on your own if you don’t understand the water lining system.
04: Check for Hose Leakage or Clogs
One common issue that we found behind the sudden water pressure drop issue is leakage or clogs in the freshwater hose from the water supply to your RV.
Initially, you might think that it’s simple, but it’s not. There can be collapses or bends in places that are hard to find. As a result, when the pressure is high, you will get a high flow but then it will reduce again.
In such cases, you need to disconnect the hose first and check for buildup. If you notice any, clean them thoroughly.
Also, if you notice any bent hoses, you need to straighten the hose- this will fix the water pressure issue. However, replacing the hose is the only solution if you notice any leaks.
05: Look for the Water Level in Your Freshwater Tank
Sudden water pressure drop after starting strong can also be due to insufficient water in your freshwater tank. But this is not that serious, as you can easily handle it.
This mainly occurs when your RV’s fresh water tank is low on water. As a result, your water pump doesn’t get a full water supply soon after starting the appliances.
So, although you get the right start, it drops quickly and you don’t get the right pressure and flow either.
In this case, you need to ensure that the source supplies enough water to your RV’s water tank and that it is filled properly. Once it is filled, the issue will automatically be resolved.
06: Faulty Water Pump
Usually, your water pump can fill the tank within 5 minutes of turning it on. If it takes longer than usual, you will face a sudden drop in the water pressure.
In such a case, it’s better to look for signs of leakages first. If there is any leakage in the supply line, this can occur. But if you don’t find any, there might be a problem with the water pump.
You can also use a booster pump that helps to increase the water flow. If you use that, the water pressure will increase and resolve the low water pressure issue.
For Forest River RV owners seeking to locate their water pump, refer to this article.
07: Faulty Water Pressure Regulator
Maybe, the main issue is not anything else, but the regulator. We have often seen people going crazy over other stuff where they forget to address the problem in their regulator.
A faulty water pressure regulator can cause water pressure drops in between the usage of appliances. So, when your water pressure is right when you start the appliances but decreases after that, this can be due to the regulator issues.
In case you have gone through everything and haven’t found anything to cause the problem, you should try replacing the water regulator.
Some Other Water Pressure-Related Problems That You Might Face
Alongside low water pressure, some users also complain about some other water pressure-related problems in their RV. If you face any of these, the above-mentioned solutions will most likely work for you. Some of them are:
- High water pressure
- Fluctuating water pressure
- Wear, leaks, or air in the lines on the onboard water pump due to high water pressure
- The water heater pressure relief valve malfunctions
Tips to Maintain RV’s Water System Components
Regular maintenance of your RV’s water system components can reduce the risks of facing water pressure-related issues. Here are some tips that have worked the best for us:
- Regular cleaning of the hose, and maintenance
- Using a water pressure regulator
- Keeping the water tank adequately filled
- Regularly checking and cleaning the plumbing lines
- Filling the water tank with city water
- Using a proper filtration system
- Fixing leaks right away so they don’t give birth to any further issues
FAQs
Now that we have covered almost everything that you need to know about your RV’s water pressure, it’s time to share some extra knowledge for your help. Let’s dive into it!
Do I need a water pressure regulator for my RV?
A water pressure regulator is a must-have accessory for any recreational vehicle. Your RV’s plumbing system will be safer from the damage and leaks that high-pressure spikes can cause.
What should my RV water pressure regulator be set at?
Most recreational vehicles have their water pressure regulators set between 40 and 50 PSI (pounds per square inch). Most RV appliances and plumbing systems can handle this level of water.
What is maximum water pressure for RV?
Depending on the RV’s design and components, the maximum water pressure might be anywhere from 60 to 75 PSI. Avoid exceeding this pressure to keep your RV’s pipes and equipment in good shape.
Final Words
Regulating the RV’s water pressure is essential to enjoying your vacation in the best possible way. However, our given solutions for RV water pressure start strong then drops will work the best if you follow them wisely.
It’s wise to discuss this with any professionals before you try to replace the pipes or water pump as you might not be able to ensure the proper setup.
Read Also: 10 Top Bathroom Storage Ideas For RV You’ll Absolutely Love
Zayan is an accomplished author and a go-to expert for all things RV and camper-related. With a passion for adventure and a knack for problem-solving, he has spent years exploring the open road and fine-tuning his knowledge of recreational vehicles.
Zayan’s writing is a testament to his expertise, offering readers practical solutions to common RV dilemmas. Whether it’s troubleshooting mechanical issues, optimizing space, or planning the perfect road trip, Zayan’s insightful advice and engaging storytelling make him an invaluable resource for both seasoned travelers and newcomers to the world of RVing.
