Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

[Alumarine]

Hello. I'm adding a 2cnd automatic bilge pump to my boat that stays in the water from spring to fall.

Was wondering if I can use a Y adapter or T to plumb the 2cnd pump into the drain hose of the 1st pump

thanks

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

I tried that exact setup years ago and found that discharging water from 1 pump was also going back into the boat from the Y through the non operating pump.You will need a y with check valve if there is such a thing.Charlie

 

[cpubud]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

would work best with 2 sererate drains

 

[Maclin]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

It is best to drill/plumb another exit in. You do not want to have any kind of restriction in the hoses like a one way valve.

If both pumps run at the same time they can Y in together, but the main idea for 2 is for backup, and like Crazy C said, the running pump's output will tend to exit right back down to the pump that is not running.

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

Hey guys, thanks for the replies/ideas.

I'll add a separate drain line.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

Feedback is not the only issue. Should the need arise to use both pumps, they would not be able to dump any more water than one pump running alone due to the size of the outlet. Separate drains are essential.

 

[Philster]

Re: Adding 2cnd bilge pump y connector

^^exactly

note: if they absolutely could not run simultaneously, you could make a Y connection down at the beginning of the hose and it wouldn't bother a thing. They key is getting that "Y" in way down low. Just not best, because two outlets = more/faster draining with both pumps-a-pumpin'.