Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

[ciscokidd]

Hello Guys,

Looking for some feedback. I would like to add a second bilge pump. Is it best to run a separate lone for this 2nd pump or T into the existing line which I am assuming is simpler. I would like the redundancy since my boat will be at a marina slip 24/7. I am not too familiar with installing one but is it fine to T into the existing bilge line or smarter to run a dedicated line, if so can it be added to the motor compartment. I will also be installing a Boatsafe 300 watter bilge heater, do I have adequate room , motor is Volvo Penta 5.7 GS

Appreciate the feedback

 

[BSAFlash]

Re: Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

I have a manual secondary pump in my bilge, mainly to deal with the water build up under the engines (I have no oil leaks Mr. EPA) where the deck drains deposit rain and wash down water
As long as you check the pump and float switch regularly I don't see a pressing need for a second auto pump. My float switch lasted 6 years before a wire corroded to a point where I thought it prudent to replace, the pump is still fine.

 

[ciscokidd]

Re: Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

I know that the bilge pump on my boat has been replaced once already approximately 2 years ago. I would still prefer the redundancy for the minimal cost, just looking for feedback on the best way to go about setting it up. T in or run a dedicated and separate line for the second pump?

 

[MolsonCanadian]

Re: Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

If you "T" in, put a check valve in also, to prevent the pump from pumping the water back to the existing pump.

 

[Georgesalmon]

Re: Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

If your doing this for safety, and sounds like you are you should have a dedicated outlet for both pumps. Hull fittings and hoses and clamps have been known to fail. I wouldnt want to add three more connections into a line that is expected to pump water overboard in an emergency situation. Not often of course but Murphy seems to be everywhere. I have done this for the same reasons you want to. I mounted the second "just in case" pump a couple of inches above the original so they wouldn't both run in a normal situation. Thankfully my second pump only ran when I tested it.

 

[ciscokidd]

Re: Doral 250 SE adding second bilge pump

Thanks for the feedback guys, I will go the route of a second pump slightly above the original and set it dedicated