Bilge pump question

[wingmastr23]

Ok....so I bought a used boat.....I flip the switch on the bilge and hear it running - However, when I put some water in there to make sure it pumps.....it doesn't....

So, My question is: How MUCH water has to be in there before the bilge pump will pump the water out? I am thinking I need to put more water in to make sure it works properly...Thoughts??...Thanks!

 

[Boatist]

Re: Bilge pump question

It depends on where you have the pump mounted and the size and type pump.
My first pump is mounted all the way at stern and in the deepest part of the V Hull.
It will pump water at about 1/2 inch and over.
It is only a 800 GPH.
When it starts to suck air I turn it off and end up with about 1/2 inch in the deepest part of the deep V.

 

[seabob4]

Re: Bilge pump question

You need to put enough water in the bilge to activate the float switch, which will turn the pump on. There's an easier way to do it though. Your float will have a "test" switch on it. Some you rotate, some you push down. Test the float with this lever/knob and see it it turns on the pump.

It is a good idea though to put enough water in the bilge to activate the float. After all, that's going to be the real world scenario...

 

[mikphilips]

Re: Bilge pump question

If you end up needing to replace your float switch, and your bilge pump has some age on it, consider a new bilge pump with a built-in float switch. One less piece of stuff to clutter your bilge.