[gekko]

So, what does bilge mean on a boat? The bilge on a boat is the lowest point on the inside of the boat. Typically it is the inside of the hull and might be between the bottom hull and the deck (where you stand).

[ZeroPoint]

There are also bilge pumps that require a separate float switch or pumps that can be switched on manually from the helm with a bilge pump switch.

[nisilva9h2]

When water gets in a boat, it will typically run to the lowest point in the boat and that is the bilge. Boaters needed a way to get water out of the bilge and that is why the bilge pump was created.

[joshg56]

Indeed, in reality, most installations will be using battery voltage of around 12.5V, involve a piping run full of bends, elbows and joints, and deliver the bilge water to an outlet well above the pump itself. All this chips away at the pump’s performance. more

[jack8logan]

Then there’s the final piece in this puzzle, the pipe run. Because every bend or kink adds friction to the system and reduces output, you want as simple a run as possible between the pump and the outlet, using smooth hose, not the corrugated stuff often sold as bilge pump hose. Some experts also advise against using non-return valves. Instead, put a vented loop in the line that will always be above the waterline, even when the boat is heeling hard. The vent prevents water siphoning back into the bilge, eliminating the need for a valve.

[Ewald]

If however, a through-hull fails or a seacock shears off, you may suddenly be dealing with tons of water entering the boat in a matter of minutes. Fig. 1 shows what to expect according to the size of the hole and how far below the waterline it is. (In short, you’re better off with a smaller hole farther down than a larger hole closer to the surface.)

[harrison801]

Let’s take out the Rule 2000 pump as an example. According to Rule’s technical documents, the pump will put out 1,620gph against a 1m (3ft 4in) head or 1,300gph against 2m (6ft 8in). In other words, you lose around 20 percent of your pump’s output when it has to lift the bilge water more than 3ft and 30 percent at 6ft 8in. (If you have a smaller unit, chances are it’s producing less than half its stated output at 6ft of head, while the bigger units are more powerful.) [links]

[corwin78]

Bilge pumps are the unloved cousins of boats. No one gives them much thought until they fail to operate, and then you could be, literally, sunk! There are only a few things that can go wrong with an electric bilge pump, as there are limited components. This flow chart will help you check each component, find the problem, fix it, and get on your way again as swiftly as possible. more

[cb]

Most pumps have an automatic float switch that detects when water is in the bilge, and automatically turns on the pump. There should also be a switch at the helm to override the automatic float switch, enabling you to turn on the pump manually. (There are other types of pumps not covered here that may present different issues, but this example should cover most contingencies.)

[Anaxagoras]

TIP: Wiring to bilge pumps and float switches should be tidy and well organized. Ensure that any cable connections are well made, using proper butt connections covered with adhesive-lined heat shrink, to keep water and corrosion at bay.

[Ramapithecus]

CAUTION: Wiring to bilge pumps and float switches should be tidy and well organized. Ensure that any cable connections are well made, using proper butt connections covered with adhesive-lined heat shrink, to keep water and corrosion at bay. [links]

[muftimoh]

Some (including yours) also has a float switch. Once the water level reaches a certain level, it will automatically run and pump the water from your bilge.

[paulineh175]

1. Some people do it as a regular process as water won't hurt anything, but has weight to it. So if your boat is out at its slip and it rained all week, the float switch will pump it out, but will allow some water to collect. Manually removes more. Water is heavy and while insignificant, why take it for a ride?

[altsa]

Once removed, manually turn the wheel on the bottom of the pump a few turns. [links]

[saullysaul78]

I was going to post this question, but since you brought it up. When are you suppossed to use the bilge pump anyway? When the dealer walked me through my 2012 SS 188 OB at the time of delivery, I asked about it and he basically said, "you don't need to turn it on" but never told me exactly when you do use it.