How to Install a Bilge Pump

A bilge pump removes excess water from a boat. They are designed not to spark when you turn them on and off, since fuel often gets in the bilge. Float switches turn on a bilge pump when water fills to a certain level. The bilge pump should be set at the lowest level on the boat with a back-up pump at a higher location.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wire
• Heat gun
• Bilge pump
• Boat
• Mounting bracket

1. Subdue the pump with restraint brackets. If a bilge pump falls over, it will suck air and burn out. Also make sure to fasten the float switch securely.

2. Add smooth interior hoses to the pump to increase output. Make the hose run straight and short.

3. Construct the bilge pump housing so that the discharge fitting is never below the waterline. You do not want the battery to become depleted due to a continuous siphon flow of water.

4. Get the maximum effort out of the bilge pump. Use a through-hull fitting with the largest opening.

5. Run the wires from the pump up the interior of the housing and secure them so that they do not sag in the bilge water.

6. Tuck the wires into heat shrink tubing to make them water tight. Shrink the tubing with a heat gun.

7. Assemble the battery connection so that when the boat motor is turned off, the bilge pump remains turned on.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a back-up pump just in case.
• Don't skimp on wire size.