Pump Running But No Water: Airlocks, Priming & Quick Fixes
If your water pump is running but no water is coming out of your taps, it’s usually caused by one of these: empty tank, airlock/air in the lines, a pump not primed, or a restriction/leak on the suction side.
This guide covers the simplest fixes first, written for Mars caravans. Layouts vary by model/year, but these checks are widely applicable.
Quick safety note
- Don’t let the pump run dry for long periods — it can overheat and shorten its life.
- If you suspect a leak, turn the pump off to prevent flooding.
The most common causes (in order)
- Tank is empty (or the pickup is not drawing water)
- Air in the lines after filling, storage, draining, or maintenance
- Pump not primed yet (needs time to draw water through)
- Suction-side issue (loose fitting letting air in)
- Blockage/restriction (filter, kinked line, debris)
Step-by-step fixes (start here)
Step 1) Confirm there’s actually water in the tank
- If you just filled it, great — but confirm it’s not a “false gauge” reading.
- If you’re unsure, add water and re-test.
Step 2) Prime the system (simple method)
- Turn the pump ON.
- Open the cold tap fully.
- Leave it open for 30–60 seconds to allow the pump to draw water through.
- Once water starts flowing, let it run until it’s steady (no spluttering).
- Repeat briefly at other taps and the shower to clear remaining air.
Step 3) Try a different outlet
Sometimes one tap/shower line has more air in it than another. If nothing happens at one tap, try the next one.
Step 4) Check 12V power and the pump fuse
- If the pump is running strongly, 12V is likely okay — but still check battery level.
- If the pump sound is weak/slow, battery voltage may be low under load.
- Check the pump fuse if the pump stops working or behaves inconsistently.
Step 5) Listen for “air sucking” or rapid pulsing
If the pump is pulling air instead of water, it may:
- Pulse rapidly
- Sound “hollow”
- Run continuously without building pressure
This often points to either no water supply or an air leak on the suction side.
If you get some water, then it stops
- Tank may be low and sloshing away from the pickup (especially on uneven ground).
- There may still be air working through the system.
- A restriction (filter/debris) may be limiting flow.
Try topping up the tank and re-priming. If it keeps happening, log a ticket.
When to stop and contact support
Log a ticket if:
- The tank is full but you cannot prime any tap after several minutes
- The pump runs continuously and never builds pressure
- You suspect a leak (wet cabinetry, dripping, water smell)
- The pump becomes hot or noisy
What to include in a support ticket (so we can help fast)
- Your model + year (and VIN/chassis number if available)
- Confirm tank level (full/half/empty)
- Does the pump run constantly or pulse?
- Photo of your battery monitor (voltage/% when testing)
- Short video: pump sound + tap open + flow/no flow
- Any signs of leaking (photos of the area)