Ok to upgrade pump pressure?

[LiamG]

It’s time to replace our water pump. We have a 35psi unit installed but RV dealers around Kelowna, BC seem to only carry 55psi units.

Has anyone done this upgrade without issue?

I’m hesitant to test the plumbing in our 1993 Excella with the extra pressure, although nearly all the pipes have been replaced with pex now anyway.

[tjdonahoe]

It is fine

[GCinSC2]

Are you a bit handy?

Do an air pressure test. Rig regulated compressed air to city only connection. Close all faucets and test away

I made a combo winterizing / pressure test fitting for my rig.

Air fitting, ball valve, pipe T fitting, pressure gage, water hose connection.

Install assy, pressurize to regulated value, close valve, monitor pressure gage.

Air leaks are easy to cleanup from and you’ve got a jam up blow out fitting. This is real close to how new home construction rough plumbing is tested.

Got a feeling you’re ok but I’m a long way from hands on inspection.

Blame hurricane Sally.

[LiamG]

Originally Posted by GCinSC2

Are you a bit handy?

Do an air pressure test. Rig regulated compressed air to city only connection. Close all faucets and test away

I made a combo winterizing / pressure test fitting for my rig.

Air fitting, ball valve, pipe T fitting, pressure gage, water hose connection.

Install assy, pressurize to regulated value, close valve, monitor pressure gage.

Air leaks are easy to cleanup from and you’ve got a jam up blow out fitting. This is real close to how new home construction rough plumbing is tested.

Got a feeling you’re ok but I’m a long way from hands on inspection.

Blame hurricane Sally.

I’m a bit handy but we’re on the road and I don’t have access to the tools required for a pressure test.

Would the purpose be to see if pressure is escaping somewhere, as a result of there being too much pressure from the pump?

[GCinSC2]

No the purpose would be to test existing plumbing as your concern was holding higher pressure.

Tools, pipe tape, couple of large channel locks or pipe wrench and open end wrench for gage.

I could send you e-m or text pic of mine if you’d like.

[LiamG]

Makes sense, I’ll post the results after I test in case anyone else comes along searching for the same answer down the road.

[bibbs]

PEX systems are far more capable than 55lbs

[OTRA15]

Originally Posted by bibbs

PEX systems are far more capable than 55lbs

Does the OP's 1993 Excella have PEX plumbing in all the lines?

Originally Posted by LiamG

. . .
I’m hesitant to test the plumbing in our 1993 Excella with the extra pressure, although nearly all the pipes have been replaced with pex now anyway.

Would not the remaining old copper plumbing be a weak link in the chain? [and presumably buried where access is the most difficult?]

[Wazbro]

Originally Posted by OTRA15

Does the OP's 1993 Excella have PEX plumbing in all the lines?





Would not the remaining old copper plumbing be a weak link in the chain? [and presumably buried where access is the most difficult?]

Not copper PB tubing.

[LiamG]

There is still a bit of copper kicking around, and yes it’s only in the hard to reach places.

I think the main problem with the pump was a clogged pre-pump filter that I didn’t even know existed so I hadn’t cleaned it in the two years we’ve owned the trailer.

It’s running much more quietly and efficiently now... so I’ll save the new pump for when we really need it.

[bibbs]

If the remaining piping is copper then there is even less chance of failure.

[OTRA15]

Originally Posted by LiamG

There is still a bit of copper kicking around, and yes it’s only in the hard to reach places.

I think the main problem with the pump was a clogged pre-pump filter that I didn’t even know existed so I hadn’t cleaned it in the two years we’ve owned the trailer.

It’s running much more quietly and efficiently now... so I’ll save the new pump for when we really need it.

Thanks OP for the feedback, that this situation is resolved for now. Good that you found the filter, as it should be part of the winterization process.

Happy trails,