Whale Aquasmart Water System
Official technical documentation and workshop diagnostics for Aquasmart.
Technical Specifications
Master Troubleshooting & Diagnostics Matrix
| Error Code / Indicator | Symptom / Meaning | Possible Cause | Step-by-Step DIY Fix | Suggested Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A | Pump doesn't run | No power to pump | Check power supply, attach leads or clean connections, and check that the tap microswitch is present. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump doesn't run | Fuse has blown | Fit a new fuse, taking care not to use one rated higher than the recommended size. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump doesn't run | Blockage in pipework | Check pipework for kinks. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump is running but no water is coming through | No water getting to pump | Confirm the water tank has water in it, the filter isn't blocked, and the filter is sitting fully submerged. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Water fails to come through even though the pump is running | Air leaks in suction line | Make sure every connection between the tank and the pump inlet is secure, since any leak will stop the pump from priming. To check for an air leak, submerge the showerhead in water and run the pump - bubbles rising from the showerhead confirm their is a leak. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump keeps running and won't shut off | A leak downstream of the pump outlet | Look over the pipes and fittings for leaks, repairing any you find, and confirm the drain plugs are fully closed. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump continues running instead of switching off | No water | Check the level of the water supply, and replace the filter if it's clogged. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump switches on and off repeatedly while a tap is running | Excessive back pressure | Check pipework for kinks and ensure filters are clear. Check shower rose and taps for blockages and repair. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Pump keeps cutting in and out with a tap open | Pump drawing air | Check connections and water level to stop air ingress as outlined in the no water getting to pump troubleshooting steps. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Noisy operation | Noise created by vibration | Make sure the pump is mounted firmly to a solid surface, kept clear of hard surfaces and other interference, and that the pipework is properly supported throughout. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Low flow | Bore of pipework or connections too small | Ensure 8.5mm minimum bore is used for pipework. Check for kinks in pipework and check pipework is not blocked. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Low flow | Inadequate power supply voltage | Confirm the pump's power supply uses the correct 2.5mm² wire so it receives full voltage, and check the battery isn't flat. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Low flow | Pipework or connections crushed due to over-tightened jubilee clips | Replace damaged connections. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Low flow | The pump is positioned too far from the water tank | Ensure pump is situated beside inlet or water tank. | DIY Safe |
N/A | Low flow | Valves or internal filters clogged | Remove the manual or electric valve and check the internal filters. If needed, take off the fitting nearest the filter, clean it, then refit the filter and plumbing. | DIY Safe |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the Whale Superfil pump kit do?
If you have a Whale Easi-Slide socket with a 12V connection, the Superfil kit lets you pump water into your onboard tank from an external container such as an Aquaroll or jerry can - so running out of water doesn't mean packing up to drive to the nearest tap.
Q: Which is better - a submersible pump or a pressure pump?
It depends what you need. Whale's submersible pumps are simple, compact, quiet and inexpensive, and come in three flow rates: standard (10.3 litres/min), premium (13.2 litres/min) and high (15.8 litres/min). The Watermaster Onboard pressure pump (8 litres/min) is fitted inside the vehicle and gives a smooth, steady flow; it has its own built-in pressure switch, can run dry without damage, and is built to last.
Q: Is a submersible pump quieter than a pressure pump?
Yes. A submersible pump is a centrifugal design with an impeller as its only moving part, so it runs very quietly. A pressure pump is simple to fit and very dependable, but it's noisier.
Q: When would I need a pressure switch or a surge damper?
A Whale pressure switch is for vehicles fitted with a submersible pump: it senses the drop in water pressure when a tap is opened and turns the pump on. Because it works with any tap, you aren't restricted to taps with built-in microswitches.