If you're thinking about building out a van for off-grid living or road trips, you're going to need a reliable source of water. And to get that water flowing, you'll need a good water pump. In this article, we'll take a closer look at three main types of water pumps that are commonly used in van builds: diaphragm pumps, manual pumps, and submersible pumps.
Diaphragm pumps are some of the most commonly used water pumps in van builds
First up, we have diaphragm pumps. These pumps, also known as demand pumps, are a really popular choice for van builds. They work by using a rubber diaphragm to pump water through the system, and they can operate at different speeds depending on the demand for water. Diaphragm pumps are efficient, reliable, and provide consistent water pressure, which makes them suitable for various water system setups. They're often available in different flow rates and pressure levels to meet the specific needs of a van build. When considering pumps for purchase, pay attention to the gallons per minute and pressure specifications to make sure it fits your needs (ex. if you have a shower). Some diaphragm pumps even come with a built-in pressure switch that turns the pump on and off automatically as the water pressure fluctuates, helping to save energy and extend the life of the pump. An example of a commonly used diaphragm pump is the Shurflo Revolution Standard 12V Automatic Demand Pump.
Diaphragm pumps can be air-operated or motor driven. Air operated water pumps, also known as pneumatic pumps, use compressed air to create a vacuum that draws water into the pump and then forces it out. These pumps are most often used in more industrial settings, and are less often used in vans although there are some cases. On the other hand, motor driven water pumps use an electric motor to drive a rotating impeller or other type of mechanism that creates a flow of water. These pumps are often used in residential or commercial settings, such as in homes, apartment buildings, or office complexes - and for our purposes, are the more common functional approach in mobile applications like DIY vans.
Pros of using a diaphragm pump in a custom van:
Consistent water pressure: Diaphragm pumps provide a consistent flow of water at a constant pressure, which can make them more reliable and efficient than other types of pumps.
Adjustable speed: Many diaphragm pumps can be adjusted to operate at different speeds depending on the demand for water, which can help conserve energy and extend the life of the pump.
Easy to install: Diaphragm pumps are relatively easy to install and can be installed in a variety of locations, making them a popular choice for van builds.
Low maintenance: Diaphragm pumps require minimal maintenance and can often be self-priming, meaning they can start up on their own after being turned off for an extended period.
Cons of diaphragm pumps in DIY campers:
Noise: Diaphragm pumps can be quite loud when operating, especially if they're located near the living area of the van. This can be a drawback for people who value quiet living spaces.
Power requirements: Diaphragm pumps require electricity to operate, which means they need to be connected to a power source in the van or run off a battery bank. This can be a drawback for people who are looking for a completely off-grid setup.
Price: Diaphragm pumps can be more expensive than other types of pumps, especially if they come with additional features like a built-in pressure switch.
Size: Diaphragm pumps can take up more space than other types of pumps, which can be a drawback for people with limited space in their van.
Manual pumps are common choices for simple and affordable water retrieval
Next, we have manual pumps. Manual pumps are a great alternative to a diaphragm pump or in some cases used as a backup option. These pumps are manually operated as you might expect, usually by a hand or foot lever, and require physical effort to pump water. They're often smaller and lighter than diaphragm pumps, making them a good choice for smaller van builds or off-grid setups where electricity is not easily available. However, manual pumps can sometimes be less efficient and provide less water pressure than diaphragm pumps.
There are several different types of manual pumps to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types of manual pumps used in van builds:
Hand-operated pumps: Hand-operated pumps are the most basic type of manual pump. They work by manually pumping a lever or handle to draw water from the tank and into the system. Hand-operated pumps are usually small, lightweight, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for small van builds or setups where space is limited. However, they can be less efficient and provide less water pressure than other types of pumps, and they require physical effort to operate - this means in most cases, it’s not going to be as easy to maintain a constant stream of pressure. An example of this type of pump is the Valterra Rocket Hand Pump.
Foot-operated pumps: Foot-operated pumps are similar to hand-operated pumps, but instead of using a hand lever, they're operated by pressing a foot pedal. Foot-operated pumps are a good choice for people who want a hands-free option or have limited hand mobility. Depending on the model, they can be slightly more difficult to install than hand-operated pumps, but they're still relatively easy to install compared to other types of pumps. A popular example of foot-operated pumps for van builds include the Whale Gusher foot pump.
Lever-operated pumps: Lever-operated pumps are a type of manual pump that uses a lever to pump water through the system. They're often larger and more heavy-duty than hand or foot pumps, which makes them a good choice for larger van builds or setups where high water flow is necessary. However, they can be more difficult to install and require more effort to operate than hand or foot pumps. A popular example of lever-operated pumps for van builds include the Whale Gusher Urchin pump.
Handheld squeeze pumps: Handheld squeeze pumps are a type of manual pump that uses a rubber bulb to draw water from the tank and into the system. They're usually small, lightweight, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for small van builds or setups where space is limited. However, they can be less efficient and provide less water pressure than other types of pumps, and they require physical effort to operate..
Manual pumps are a popular choice for water systems in van builds due to their simplicity, reliability, and low cost. However, they do come with some pros and cons to consider before deciding if they're the right option for your build. Here's a rundown:
Pros of manual pumps in van builds:
No need for electricity: Unlike electric pumps, manual pumps don't require any electrical connections. This means you can still access water even if your battery dies or you don't have an extensive power source.
Simple operation: Manual pumps are typically easy to use and require minimal setup. Most models just require you to pump a lever or foot pedal to draw water from the tank.
Low cost: Manual pumps are generally more affordable than electric pumps, making them a budget-friendly option for van builders.
Space-saving: Manual pumps are often more compact than electric pumps, which is important in a van build where space is limited.
Cons of manual pumps in campers:
Limited water flow: Manual pumps aren't as powerful as electric pumps, which means they can't push as much water through the system at once. This can be tricky if you need a lot of water quickly.
More effort: Pumping by hand or foot can be tiring, especially if you're drawing water for an extended period of time. This may not be an issue for some people, but it's something to keep in mind.
Less control: Unlike electric pumps, manual pumps don't offer as much control over water flow or pressure. This may not be an issue for everyone, but it's something to keep in mind if you have specific needs for your water system.
When choosing a manual pump for your van build, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Hand-operated and foot-operated pumps are great for smaller setups or backup options, while lever-operated pumps are a good choice for larger setups that require more water flow. Handheld squeeze pumps are a convenient option for people who want a small, portable pump. Ultimately, the type of manual pump you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Overall, manual pumps are a solid choice for van builds that prioritize simplicity and affordability. They may not offer as much power or control as electric pumps, but they're a reliable backup option or primary choice for those who don't need a lot of water flow.
Submersible pumps are occasionally used in van builds, but not as common as diaphragm or manual pumps
Finally, we have submersible pumps. Submersible pumps are installed directly in the water tank or source and are ideal for providing a high flow of water. They're often used in larger van builds or setups where high water flow is necessary. Submersible pumps are great for people who need a lot of water quickly, but they also tend to be a bit more expensive.
Submersible pumps are a popular option for water systems in van builds because of their efficiency and ease of use. However, like any type of pump, they come with their own set of pros and cons. Here are some to consider:
Pros of submersible pumps in custom vans:
High water flow: Submersible pumps are typically more powerful than diaphragm or manual pumps, which means they can push more water through the system at once. This makes them a good choice for van builds that require a lot of water flow, such as for showering or running a sink.
Quiet operation: Because submersible pumps are located inside the water tank, they're much quieter than other types of pumps. This is a big plus for those who value a peaceful van environment.
Energy-efficient: Submersible pumps are often more energy-efficient than other types of pumps, which can be a big advantage for those who want to conserve power.
Minimal space required: Since submersible pumps are located inside the water tank, they don't take up any additional space in the van.
Cons of submersible pumps in van builds:
More difficult to install: Submersible pumps require installation inside the water tank, which can be a more involved process than installing an external pump depending on your tank and water system setup. It may also require some modification to the tank, depending on the model you choose.
Higher cost: Submersible pumps are generally more expensive than other types of pumps, which may be a disadvantage for van builders on a tight budget.
Potential for clogs: If the water in the tank is not filtered properly, submersible pumps can be prone to clogging. This can be especially problematic if you're using the pump for a shower or sink, as the water flow may be impacted.
Overall, submersible pumps are a great choice for van builds that prioritize water flow and energy efficiency. They can be a bit more challenging to install and may require a higher upfront cost, but their quiet operation and minimal space requirements make them an attractive option for many van builders.
A good water pump is essential for any van build. Whether you're planning to live off-grid or just want to have water on hand for camping trips, there are plenty of options to choose from. So, do your research, consider your specific needs, and choose a water pump that will keep you hydrated and happy on the road.