A bilge pump must be properly wired to function properly. A shoddy job can cause your pump to fail prematurely. Investing the time and effort to properly wire your bilge pump is worth it. Be sure to avoid "quick crimps" and unsealed wiring joins, as these are prime areas for corrosion. Use Tef-Gel corrosion eliminator on any unsealed connection points to prevent corrosion.
Diaphragm boat bilge pumps
When water starts accumulating in the boat, it is imperative to install a bilge pump to pump out the water. Fortunately, today's bilge pumps have a wide range of features that make them an indispensable tool for boaters. These include a fully submersible design and automatic operation. They can even be swiveled 180 degrees, making them highly versatile. This pump also has a filtered nozzle to prevent debris from clogging the pump.
Diaphragm pumps are self-priming and use the positive displacement principle to pump out bilge water. The pump works by pulling water into the pump through the intake hose, and pushing it out of the hull through an output valve. This type of pump is capable of passing a small amount of debris, but is not recommended for small boats.
One-way check valves
Often used in the plumbing system of bilge pumps, one-way check valves are designed to prevent backflow. This design helps prevent water from returning to the bilge, which can cause flooding. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when installing a one-way check valve.
First, the check valve should be installed in the discharge hose of the bilge pump. Otherwise, it can block the bilge pump. It's important to secure the hoses so that the pump is not bounced around by water. In addition, make sure that the discharge thru-hull is above water level. If it is too low, bilge water can backflow into the hull, causing a staining backsplash on the boat.
Another important factor is to ensure that the one-way check valve is not clogged. If a one-way check valve is clogged, the water in the discharge hose will return to the bilge. Moreover, it may fail to work properly.
Ventilated loops
Ventilated loops for bilge pumps are an important safety consideration, particularly for marine engines and generators that are mounted low on a boat. Many installers install these units with the factory plumbing, which usually consists of a short, pre-molded hose. This type of connection is insufficient to prevent pump cycling, and is not safe for engines mounted below the waterline.
Ventilated loops for bilge pumps are essential to prevent back syphoning and ensure that water is not able to back flow through the pump. The venting loop should be high enough to allow water to drain out and prevent it from back-syphoning. The vented loop should also be installed high above the water line to prevent backflow from the pump.
Durable construction
The housing of a bilge pump should be durable and impact-resistant. This type of housing protects the motor and other components from damage and premature wear. It also should be rust-resistant. The pump should also have a stainless steel shaft and glass filling. Lastly, it should be quiet and not cause excessive noise while in use.
A quality bilge pump will have a tough plastic housing to withstand high impact and corrosion. It should also have tight seals to prevent water from getting into the motor. A water-cooled motor and stainless steel shaft are also important features of a durable pump. The pump should also have a reliable and efficient electronic control to ensure smooth operation.
Maintenance
Bilge pumps require regular maintenance. The impeller of a bilge pump should be free from damage, spin freely, and be replaced at least once a year. The diaphragm of the bilge pump should also be checked for tears or damage. The impeller should be replaced if it is not turning freely or has a damaged seal.
Wiring a bilge pump correctly is essential to ensure its efficient operation. Wiring the pump after the shut-off switch or main circuit breaker is a common mistake. In this case, the bilge pump is powered but not working, and the boat could end up sinking. To avoid such mishaps, you should check your pump's wiring before every trip. Check connections and cable housing for breaks, and repair or replace faulty wiring. Also, never run a bilge pump with exposed wires.