Fresh water pressure pump question -

[PlumBob]

It appears that my (factory-original?) fresh-water pump is dying. It's a diaphragm pump, driven by a belt and separate motor. Within the last couple of weeks it has developed the habit of self-cycling, generally about every 20 minutes, for 20 seconds or so. There are no leaks in the system, so it seems logical that the pump itself is leaking internally back into the tank.

The boat is an Island Packet 32 - sailed 4-5 days a week by two people. The demands on the pump are only moderate at best. The choices available in new pumps seem to be rated in Gallons/minute - generally 2, 3, 4 or 5. I also want a pump that is as Quiet as possible.

Question:
Do any of you have experience changing fresh water pressure pumps? What brands are the most reliable (and quietest?) What would you recommend is an appropraite flow rating for a boat of this size and usage?

Thanks in advance for all comments!

PB

[S/V_Surya]

If it is a jabsco pump with diaphragm inserts they are a wear item easily replaced and cheap. No need for a new pump. Let me know if it is jabsco and model number if you need more help. New pumps of that type are about $400.00

[Blue Stocking]

Those are good pumps. Could be something as simple as a piece of dirt in the output barb non-return valve. Its built into the barb. Or the same thing in the 2 reversed diaphrams in the pump chamber. Worth fixing before replacing.

[scoobert]

they have new demand pumps. they only run as fast as you use the water. very quiet compared to the old ones. make sure you add an accumulator.