Introduction to Water Pressure systems

Pressure controlled diaphragm pumps provide boat owners with a fresh water system that is as easy to use as their domestic water supply with the versatility to offer full flow or a trickle. The pump is controlled by a switch which senses the pressure drop when a faucet is opened and activates the pump; it turns off when the system pressure builds to a pre-set limit as the faucet is closed. This system allows any type of faucet or shower valve to be fitted, from 3/8" (10mm) bore for minimum water use to 1/2" (13mm) bore for maximum flow. Choosing the pump for your needs is simple just check your system size and the number of outlets you need to operate simultaneously and select the appropriate pump. Diaphragm pumps are self-priming, quiet in operation and can run dry for extended periods. It is always best to turn the pump off and then open a tap to de-pressurize the system when you are not using the boat, as this will prolong pump life.

Accumulator tanks hold a reservoir of air and water downstream from the pump. The air acts as a cushion, absorbing pump and pressure fluctuations, smoothing the flow and making the system quieter. Accumulators allow the pump to reach shut-off pressure more smoothly which reduces the on/off cycle and gives better control of hot water delivery. Our accumulator tanks all have a bladder that separates water from air. The bladder is pre-pressurized, but may need fine tuning when installed to give the most efficient performance. One of the advantages of an accumulator tank is that they can dispense up to half of their capacity of water even when the pump is switched off. So the bigger the reservoir, the more water you have available without having to switch the pump on, helping you wash your hands or clean your teeth without noise.

Washdown pumps are a development of our Water Pressure System Pumps. Higher shut-off pressure switches prevent on/off cycling while salt water compatible trigger nozzles let you blast off mud and dirt and then rinse down.

Inlet water regulators are designed to protect your boat water system plumbing and fixtures from the possible high pressure of municipal water systems. Regulation is controlled at all flow rates by a pre-set spring, and a removable strainer traps debris. Both in-line portable and permanent flush mount models are available in our line of diaphragm sealed regulators.

Inlet strainers are an essential part of any fresh water system using a diaphragm pump protecting the valves from small particles in the water. Our Pumpgards have been designed for easy installation and rapid filter screen cleaning, having a transparent bowl that screws off to allow simple, regular inspection.