If you're a seafarer with a knack for DIY projects, installing a bilge pump in your boat can be an attractive task. A bilge pump is an essential piece of equipment that keeps unwanted water from flooding your engine room or other parts of your boat. It is the unsung hero of a boat's safety system. But how do we install it? This article aims to guide you step by step through the process.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of bilge pump installation, it is important to grasp some key terminology and concepts. Thebilgeis the lowest compartment in a ship, designed to collect water that has entered the boat. Abilge pump, then, is the mechanism that removes this water. They range in complexities from manual, hand-operated pumps to automated electronic systems. The one you choose depends on your boat size, your boating habits, and your budget.
If you want to make a considerate and educated decision, you need to take a few criteria into account. The pump capacity, measured in gallons per hour (GPH), depends on the size of your boat. A rule of thumb is that for every foot of boat length, you need roughly 750 GPH. Also, consider whether you prefer an automatic or a manual pump. Automatic pumps use float switches to turn on when the water level rises. Manual pumps require human intervention to operate.
Before you can dive headfirst into the installation process, you will need to gather a few necessary tools and materials. These include wire cutters/strippers, silicone marine sealant, a drill and drill bits, stainless steel screws, mount and switch for the pump, hose, and adequate marine-rated wiring, preferably tinned copper. A voltmeter to check battery voltage can also come in handy. Remember using the right, high-quality tools and materials is crucial. Saving a few bucks here might cost you dearly in the long run.
You have done your research, gathered your materials, and it is time for the fun part: the actual installation. Before starting, though, disconnect the boat's battery to avoid an accidental short. Install the pump as low and close to the keel as possible, but make sure it is readily accessible for maintenance. Lastly, keep the pump away from debris, dirt, and oil, as these can jam the pump and hinder its performance.
Now that your pump is secure, run the hose from the pump to a through-hull fitting located above the waterline when the boat is at rest. Make sure the hose rises above the waterline at some point to prevent back siphoning. Secure it with stainless steel hose clamps. I recommend double clamping for safety, peace of mind, and to adhere to many boating regulations.
All that is left is the wiring. Use appropriately sized wire, typically color-coded with red for positive and black for negative. Connect the wires to the pump and a suitable power source – usually the boat's battery. Pay special attention to the connection points. These should be well insulated and waterproofed to avoid corrosion, shorts, and wire overheating. Using heat-shrinkable connectors with built-in sealant is a good method to ensure this. It is also recommended to use a fuse inline with the positive wire to protect the motor from electrical overload.
Reconnect the battery and test your pump. Fill the bilge with water and check if the pump activates and effectively expels the water. While testing, inspect all parts for leaks and address any issues.
Installing a bilge pump in your boat is a task that requires time, some technical knowledge, and a bit of elbow grease. But with a bit of patience and the right tools, it can easily be accomplished. You'll not only save some money but also gain satisfaction from enhancing your boat's safety and your own self-reliance.