The fresh water system has to be sealed (air tight) for it to work effectively so if you have a leak (water draining out) then this is the reason why the pump runs but no water comes from the taps. As the water tank is showing half full on the gauge then it could be a defective tank float that registers the capacity or more likely that there may be a split in the tank which would cause loss of pressure. If you can remove the water tank from under the chassis then this would be the best option as you could test the tank and visually see if there is a split and how severe it is and possibly undertake a DIY repair (if that is the problem).
Have you, or can you, actually open the water tank to check whether there is water in it.
If your MH has not been used since the winter it could maybe be a frost protection device in your water heater has opened and therefore as you fill your tank it will just drain out through the hot water tank. On my Adria this tank is gravity fed from the fresh water tank. If this is the case you just need to reset the valve on the hot water tank.
Sealed water system???? how do you expect the water to get out if air can't get in?
1. water gauges are, in my expeience, very unreliable (especially the Zig ones).
2. you could well have an air lock and it can take ages for this to clear. Turn the pump on, open a tap and put your finger loosely over the outlet. You should hear the air hissing out.
3. If you have had a frost, the old carver cascade heaters had a non return valve that sometimes need reset.
------------- Two drifters off to see the world.
I'm tired of reality, so I'm off to look for a good fantasy.
Sealed water system???? how do you expect the water to get out if air can't get in?
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Water gets in by delivery of a pump of course but the system has to be pressurised which means no air intake or escape. That's why they call it a pressure switch as when a tap is opened the pressure drops causing the switch to activate and deliver the water.
Also if there is an air lock in the system why is there a leak under the van when the OP tries to fill the water tank?
The water tank and taps should have been drained before Winter, unless you use it regularly through the cold months, and it's certainly the drain tap that has automatically opened when the temp dropped below 4C.
Somewhere near the heater in the locker will be a small button on the pipe work that needs pushing back in to stop the problem.
Most people have been caught out when the temperature drops overnight but it doesn't take a minute or two to solve the problem.
Why don't you join a Bessacarr Owners club to get expert help for these little hiccups?
Yes Tango55, the system is only pressurised after the pump, but from what the OP states, But when we put a hosepipe in to fill water is pouring out underneath the vehicle. it sounds like the tank overflowing, not a leak on the pressurised side.
Could even be something like a hose connector come off.
------------- Two drifters off to see the world.
I'm tired of reality, so I'm off to look for a good fantasy.
Thanks very much everyone.
It's a leak I think.
Turns out our guitarist, whom crashed with me in the Bessy last night after a gig, owns a caravan and knew the score with the waterworks...showed me the ropes somewhat.
Took a look under and immediately said it was a leak. Probably a holed pipe. The pipes underneath don't seem so well protected from the presumed high volume of stones/foreign bodies which would flick up in transit.
Hopefully no major issue. I have to wait until end of July to get her into a local place to be checked/repaired. Still warrantied and bought from a dealer so hopeful I'll get it sorted easy enough.
Ultimately will need a proper water system...but for now it's still getting good usage.
Astonished at how much I'm enjoying owning a motorhome. It's opened up so many options and opportunities.
Glad you're enjoying it, and not surprised.
Friends of ours don't use their water tank anyway, they carry a big canister like tenting & use the site (or petrol station) water tap. A flannel 'strip wash' works fine until you're able to use your shower (thereby draining the tank much more quickly).
Got to give credit to the dealer (Junction 9 Caravans in Burnley). I emailed them on Sunday explaining. They asked me to bring it in Monday for them to take a look.
Turns out the clip holding the water in pipe to the chassis of the vehicle has come off. The pipe had dropped onto the exhaust and the exhaust heat has burnt a hole in the pipe.
They're having it mended in next day or two. I should have it back Friday.
I haven't been able to fault the customer service for this company. They're friendly, helpful, and most importantly have dealt with my only issue with the van without any nonsense.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Water....
