Question: How does a bilge pump work?

(Posted by: fuccillo111 on 2009-03-07 12:58:53)

Mine needs replacement and im docking it this summer so it needs to kick on automatically if water happens to enter. thank you

Posted by: Terry O on 2009-03-07, 13:40:20

A bilge pump works with a little impeller in the bottom which pushes the water up the tube and over the side of the boat, typically they run off of the 12 volt battery in the boat. There are both manual and powered versions available. but who uses manual anymore except sailboat guys. Automatic bilge pumps are pretty normal right now, you can add an automatic turn on to a regular bilge pump, or you can buy one with built in automatic turn on. The first site will give you instructions on installing one with a 3 way switch to allow you to control both manual and automatic operation. The second site shows you a unit you can buy off the shelf and install directly with or without a power switch. When I installed mine, I installed a power switch in line with it and a fuse. I do want to turn it off when the boat is not in the water. The fuse I included so if it did short out, it would not catch my wiring harness on fire. The last site is Wal Mart, that is where I bought my stuff. I got the inline fuse holder and switch from automotive, the bilge pump was from sporting goods fishing area. Hope this helps. It is basically how I did mine and it has been in 3 years with no problems.

Posted by: boogie_4wheel on 2009-03-07, 13:40:37

You would need to make sure that the pump is wired to a constant-powered source like directly to the battery (with an in-line fuse). The pump would have an internal float switch, and when the water got high enough it would turn on and pump out till the float shuts it off. Make sure your bow and stern lines are tight. If for some reason you have a problem, the lines will keep the boat from going down.