Fresh water pump while disconnected from shore

[jecaperton]

I have a 1999 450 Pilothouse and have a water question. When we are at dock, we use the shore water which pressurizes all o four fixtures. With the cold weather we recently had, they shut down the water to save the pipes which meant we did not have water.

I guess I do not yet know how to turn on the pump to pull from the fresh water tank. The main panel was in the on position and I looked in the engine room for another switch but did not find one. I must be missing something, any thoughts as to where to turn on the pump?

Thank you

[buster53]

First make sure you have water in the tank.
There should only be one switch...the circuit breaker on the 12 volt panel. When not connected to shore water and assuming you have water in the tank, with the switch on, the pump should automatically turn on the moment you turn on a faucet. It is pressure activated, or rather low pressure. If your switch has been on for some period of time, there is the possibility the pump ran to the point of the motor burning up. Happened to me last year...motor didn’t burn up, but the pump itself stopped working. Had to replace it which was quite an ordeal. Had to replace the pump on my 3807 some years ago as well. Again, not an easy task.
Do you know where your pump is located?

[jecaperton]

Not yet, but this sounds like I have another project this weekend. I do have water in the tank as we recently added some. I may have to check the pump and see if (1) we are getting power to it and (2) if it is working.

Thanks much Buster53.

[buster53]

Ok, turn off anything on the boat that makes sound, open hatches, turn on the pump and listen for it. Follow the sound. No sound...good chance the pump is dead and you will need to follow your water lines to find it.

Even if working, the sound will be fairly quiet, like a low hum.

[km1125]

There may also be an inline fuse right near the pump. My first Carver was configured that way.

[g36]

Never know what a previous owner may have done either

[buster53]

There may also be an inline fuse right near the pump. My first Carver was configured that way.

I don’t think my boat has one, but certainly a possibility.