How to Wire the Bilge Pump (with Pictures)

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2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 09:13

The bilge pump has been designed to remove the water right from the bilge and is an indispensable element in any motor boat, sailboat or yacht. However, its installation can be one of the most important additional costs; to save money and the inconvenience of contacting another person, read this article and learn how to wire this pump yourself safely.

Steps

Step 1. Install the bilge pump securely

If it is not fastened properly, it could fall, fill with air and be damaged

Step 2. Attach it with brackets or use epoxy to glue the bolts to the bottom of the bilge, which will then become the fixing pins

Step 3. Mount the float switch

Step 4. Connect the pump to the drain using an internally smooth pipe

Tubes that have knurled internal walls reduce the output flow by up to 30%

Step 5. Use the shortest hose possible to connect the pump to the drain so that it stays as straight as possible

A hose that is too long or that bends contributes to increasing bilge emptying times; therefore when you do the wiring you have to make sure that the drain line is as straight and short as possible

Step 6. Place or mount the sump above the waterline

A sump located below the waterline sucks the water from the outside towards the bilge, and then makes it expel again from the pump; this cycle is repeated until the pump battery is discharged

Step 7. Bring the pump harness up and out of the bilge properly

Step 8. Secure it so it doesn't hang down and doesn't come into contact with water

Step 9. Use proper electrical wiring for your pump model

Always check the manual that comes with the pump to know the gauge of the cables and the distance allowed. You should also try to contact the manufacturer for advice on this, in case you are unable to determine the wiring measurements yourself. Experts recommend that cables do not cause a voltage drop greater than 3%; You should therefore search online to find a calculator that will help you know the right diameter, based on the specific pump and vessel you own.
This link leads to a calculator and a cable chart (in English).

Step 10. Use crimped electrical connectors to join pump terminals to power cables

Make them airtight with heat shrink tubing

Step 11. Place the sleeves in the center, over the connector, and heat them adequately to reduce their diameter

Before heating them make sure that the bilge does not contain flammable vapors

Step 12. Connect the pump directly to the battery

When you wire this item, do not go beyond the distribution panel. Even if the boat's electrical system is turned off, the pump must always be powered

Step 13. Install a fuse on the positive wire near the battery

Step 14. If the three-way general panel is not fused, you need to attach it using another crimp connector

Step 15. Wrap the power cables under the wing nuts of the battery terminals

Do not strip these cables

Step 16. Install a crimp ring followed by a copper washer between the terminal and wing nut

Step 17. Connect the float switch to the three-way switch

This way you can choose to turn the pump on or off or select automatic mode

Advice

Consider installing a two-pump system. The first should have a range of 1.5m³/ h and the second should have a much higher capacity, equal to 13.5 m³/ h; it should also be at a greater height to handle the most severe floods.
Secure the cables approximately every 18 inches using zip ties or wire harness clamps.

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