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Choosing the right bilge pump for your boat is important, and there are many factors that can determine which one will work best for you. Some of the factors include the size of your boat, the type of bilge, and the frequency of use. Some pumps are designed to be manual, while others are automatic. You should also consider the manufacturer's warranty and warranty terms.
Drying bilge pumps
Keeping your bilge dry is not an easy feat. Aside from the obvious reasons, water in the bilge is a perfect breeding ground for mold and rot. Not to mention it can damage the internal fiberglass of your boat. Thankfully, a dry bilge pump can do the job for you.
The dry bilge pump is designed to remove the water from the bilge, but not from the rest of the boat. The system features a low profile water pickup that rests flat in the bottom of the bilge and sucks moisture through small feeder tubing. It also has an automatic feature that cycles on for one minute and off for 12 hours.
Using a dry bilge pump also means you'll be able to see any small leaks that might have occurred. Keeping the water in the bilge dry will also mean less condensation on the inside of your boat.
Manual or automatic switch
Getting your bilge pump working correctly is vital for the safety and well-being of your boat and its occupants. You'll be happy to know that most bilge pumps have a manual or automatic switch, allowing you to turn on the pump when you need it. However, this isn't always an easy task to accomplish. It can be complicated to learn how to set up an automatic bilge pump.
For example, some automatic bilge pumps have a built-in sensor that detects water inside the bilge. Others have a tube that senses air pressure. If the sensor is blocked, or if the air pressure isn't high enough, the switch won't work.
Another type of automatic bilge pump switch uses an electronic float-switch that turns on the pump when the level of water rises. The sensor in this device is a pivoted float that floats up when the water level increases, returns to its resting position when the water level drops, and turns off when the water level falls.
Frictional losses
Often, bilge pump manufacturers don't consider frictional losses in their calculations. This can lead to a significant amount of flow loss. It can also impact the pump's efficiency.
Frictional loss is defined as the loss of flow caused by friction in the pipes. It can occur in any fluid. The amount of flow lost depends on the size of the pipes and fittings. In addition, the amount of pipe friction loss can be increased by the number of bends in the pipework.
If the pipe friction loss is not taken into consideration, the manufacturer's GPH rating could be lower than the actual flow rate. The actual flow rate depends on the size of the pipes and fittings, as well as the size of the hoses. It's important to understand these limitations before planning your hose system.
Incorrect gauge wiring
Having a bilge pump that is not properly wired is dangerous. It can cause your vessel to sink. Incorrect gauge wiring will also reduce the flow rate of the bilge pump. This can be as much as 5% to 10% of the flow rate.
A bilge pump requires a good ground. It can also be a good idea to use a galvanic isolator. This will prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of electrocution.
In a large vessel, a bilge pump circuit will likely include a float switch. When the water level reaches a predetermined level, the float switch activates the pump. This may also include a magnetic read switch or air chamber switch.
The best way to get your bilge pump working is to follow the manufacturer's instructions. This will give you a good start in troubleshooting any potential problems.
Cleaning the bilge
Keeping a bilge pump clean is a crucial part of boat maintenance. If left unattended, oily residue and fuel can build up and cause clogs in the pump.
Several types of bilge cleaners are available. Some use microbes and others claim to emulsify oil. Which one is right for you depends on the level of build-up and your boat's needs.
If you're a do-it-yourself kind of boat owner, you can use biodegradable cleaning products to rid your boat of nasty residue. You can add the cleaner to the standing water and stir it around with a hose or brush. Or, you can use a product like Oil Eater, which is a multipurpose cleaner that can be used on laundry, floors, and your engine.
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