Bilge Pump

schrmit

Cadet
Joined
Jul 16, 2012
Messages
20
I don't think my boat has a bilge pump. Do I need one? What does it do?

My boat is 16' and has a 65hp on the back
 

Augoose

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Mar 21, 2010
Messages
1,245
Re: Bilge Pump

If you plan on going out on the water, I'd have one!
Its a pump which goes in the transom of you boat which pumps out water in the event you take some on. Normally you'll have a float switch attached which causes the pump to turn on when water collects. You can then also have a manual switch where you can turn it on at will. Recommend having 12v constant to the bilge pump at all times - not just 12v switched. Look around - maybe you already have one.
 

airshot

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 22, 2008
Messages
5,994
Re: Bilge Pump

If your boat is in the water for any length of time i would have two pumps, in case one fails. Should be in the lowest part of your bilge to suck out any water. If you have a floor in your boat, you may not notice any water until it comes over the floor and then it could be to late. Check t see if you have one, or get one and make sure it works........
 

bishopcherrycoke

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 11, 2011
Messages
42
Re: Bilge Pump

lol, a bilge pump on a pontoon boat???

I have automatic bilge pumps in my boats. It gets a constant source of 12v and I do not have any unessesary switches on the dash. It has a test switch and I do test it before I go out. I highly reccomend it. Boats take on water, splashing, swimmers getting back onboard and rain. If you install one (theyre cheap) I reccomend an automatic pump with a internal float switch. takes up less space and is easier to install. Just make sure you properly seal any holes drilled into the transom.
 

bonz_d

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 22, 2008
Messages
5,276
Re: Bilge Pump

Ahhh the joy of small boats. Never had one in my 14' Lund. The few times that we were caught in a heavy downpour and got a little water in it it was just a matter of getting up to half throttle and pulling the drain plug, easy access, couple minutes water all gone!

BTW boat was never left unattended on the water for very long.
 
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