Pumped water system problem

[pessimist]

.Managed to run the water tank dry yesterday, in the middle of my shower of course Have now refilled the tank but can get only intermittent spurts and a lot of air from the taps. If all the taps are closed the pump keeps running until switched off but the system appears to be pressurised and will stay that way for an hour or two. I'm guessing that there is an airlock somewhere between the tank and the pump, any better ideas? Current plan is to break into the feed from the tank and pump water through. Should mention that the pump is hiding in some secret compartment somewhere known only to the builders, locating it would appear to require a major disassembly exercise.
Any suggestions gratefully accepted.

 

[vyv_cox]

Assuming a diaphragm pump, positive displacement, it should self prime up to a metre or so above the water level. Just open a cold tap and turn on. It should be impossible to airlock it. If a centrifugal pump it should be below the tank but if not will need to be primed by back filling.

 

[pessimist]

Problem solved. Cut the exit pipe from the tank and water flowed so thought the inlet side of the pump must be the problem. 25 litre water carrier on deck with siphon tube to pipe leading to pump. Purged each tap in turn and re-connected. Everything works! Pump switches off and on o.k. and the system retains pressure. Fingers crossed. BTW, thanks you vyv_cox for the info.