Camper Water Pumps
The water pump is the component that transforms your tank into a functional system with a faucet and pressure. There are two main types: submersible (inside the tank) and diaphragm (outside the tank). The choice depends on your budget, the flow rate you need, and whether you want constant pressure or just on-demand flow. Here we compare the most popular options for van conversions.
Comparison
| Option | Type | Price | Weight | Performance | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12V Submersible Pump (Comet Elegant style) | Submersible | $18 - $45 | 0.3 kg | Basic sink-only setups or minimal budget builds | |
| 12V Diaphragm Pump 1.0 GPM (Shurflo Trail King 7 style) | Diaphragm | $45 - $90 | 1 kg | Standard sink setups with automatic on/off operation | |
| 12V Diaphragm Pump 2.0 GPM (Shurflo Revolution 4008 style) | Diaphragm | $80 - $150 | 1.5 kg | Complete setups with interior pressurized shower and kitchen sink | |
| Diaphragm Pump with Accumulator Tank (complete system) | Diaphragm + Accumulator | $130 - $240 | 3 kg | Premium builds aiming for a home-bathroom-like experience |
12V Submersible Pump (Comet Elegant style)
Submersible
- The most affordable option: starting from $18
- Extremely simple installation: drop it in the tank and you're done
- Quiet: barely makes noise being submerged in water
- Minimal power draw: 1-2A at 12V
- No constant pressure: needs a microswitch at the faucet to activate
- Low flow rate: 2.5-3 GPM, not suitable for pressurized showers
- Not self-priming: loses prime if air enters the tubing
- Shorter lifespan than diaphragm pumps, especially with hard water
12V Diaphragm Pump 1.0 GPM (Shurflo Trail King 7 style)
Diaphragm
- Self-priming: works even with air in the lines
- Built-in pressure switch: turns on and off automatically based on demand
- Adequate pressure for a kitchen faucet: 20 PSI (1.4 bar)
- Reliable and durable: Shurflo is the go-to brand in marine and camper sectors
- Louder than submersible: audible vibration when running
- Requires external mounting outside the tank with inlet and outlet plumbing
- Insufficient pressure for showerheads that need medium-high flow
- Can create pulsations in the water flow
12V Diaphragm Pump 2.0 GPM (Shurflo Revolution 4008 style)
Diaphragm
- High pressure: 50 PSI (3.4 bar), ideal for a shower with good water pressure
- Flow rate of 2.0 GPM, enough for shower and sink running simultaneously
- Self-priming with automatic pressure shut-off
- Smooth operation with minimal pulsation thanks to 3-chamber design
- More expensive: $80-$150 depending on retailer
- Higher power consumption: 4-7A at 12V when running
- Louder than lower-flow models
- Larger size: needs mounting space and vibration dampeners
Diaphragm Pump with Accumulator Tank (complete system)
Diaphragm + Accumulator
- Smooth, constant water flow without pulsation
- Pump cycles less frequently, significantly extending its lifespan
- Stable pressure even when multiple faucets are open
- Reduces overall system noise by smoothing pump start-up surges
- Higher price due to the additional accumulator tank ($20-$50 extra)
- Takes up more space: pump + 0.5-1 liter accumulator tank
- More complex installation with additional T-fittings
- Accumulator needs periodic air pressure checks
Best for...
Best value
12V Submersible Pump
Best overall
12V Diaphragm Pump 2.0 GPM (Shurflo Revolution)
Best for small vans
12V Diaphragm Pump 1.0 GPM (Shurflo Trail King)
Related calculator
Water Tank Calculator