Portable Pumps

Portable Pumps for RV & Marine Applications

Whether you're managing freshwater aboard a cruiser, transferring fluids on a job site, or keeping your RV systems running smoothly at a remote campsite, a reliable portable pump is one of the most essential pieces of equipment you can own. Unlike fixed plumbing systems, portable pumps give you the flexibility to move fluid where you need it, when you need it — without permanent installation or access to shore power.

What Are Portable Pumps and Why Do They Matter?

Portable pumps are self-contained fluid-transfer devices designed to move water, lubricants, chemicals, or other liquids from one location to another. In the RV and marine world, they serve a wide range of roles: pressurizing freshwater systems, draining bilges, emptying holding tanks, pumping out flooded compartments, or even transferring fuel and oil. Their compact, often battery-powered or 12V DC design makes them ideal for use on boats, motorhomes, travel trailers, and at remote work sites where a permanent pump installation isn't practical.

When shopping for a portable pump, key considerations include flow rate (measured in gallons per minute), maximum pressure (PSI), power source (12V DC, 24V DC, or 110/120V AC), port size, and the type of fluid being pumped. Self-priming capability is especially valuable in marine settings where a pump may need to draw water from below deck or from an unsteady source.

Top Brands in Portable Pumps

Jabsco is one of the most respected names in the marine pump industry. For over 80 years, Jabsco has been a trusted global brand in fluid transfer and marine equipment, offering a comprehensive lineup that includes centrifugal, diaphragm, and utility pump models built to handle everything from freshwater delivery to bilge and waste removal. Their pumps are engineered to be self-priming and corrosion-resistant — critical qualities for saltwater environments.

Shurflo has built a loyal following among RV owners and boaters alike, thanks to their reputation for consistent water pressure delivery and durable construction. Shurflo's 12V diaphragm pump technology is widely regarded as a benchmark in the RV freshwater pressure segment, delivering reliable flow even in demanding on-the-road or on-the-water conditions.

Lincoln Lube brings its industrial-grade engineering to the portable pump category, making it a go-to option when the job involves lubricants, oils, or other viscous fluids rather than water. Their pumps are built for the rigors of fleet maintenance, shop work, and commercial fluid transfer applications.

K-Tool International offers solid, no-nonsense portable pump solutions geared toward professionals and serious DIYers who need dependable fluid transfer without overcomplicating the setup. Their products represent a practical balance of performance and value.

Zoeller is a well-established name in pump manufacturing with a legacy in sump, sewage, and utility pumping. Their portable pump offerings benefit from the same engineering rigor that has made Zoeller a trusted brand in residential and light commercial water management for decades.

Choosing the Right Portable Pump

• Flow rate & pressure: Match GPM and PSI ratings to your system's demands — a low-pressure freshwater pump won't suit a washdown application.
• Power source: 12V DC pumps are ideal for marine and RV use; AC-powered pumps suit shore-power or generator setups.
• Self-priming ability: Essential for bilge and below-deck applications where the pump can't rely on gravity-fed water.
• Material compatibility: Ensure pump seals, impellers, and housing materials are compatible with the fluid being transferred (freshwater, saltwater, oil, fuel, etc.).
• Port sizing: Match inlet/outlet port sizes to your existing hose or plumbing for a leak-free connection.