Ranking of the best bilge pumps and pumps for 2020

When the boat moves, waves appear, the spray from which often gets inside the structure, causing certain problems. This applies mainly to inflatable models. To protect the craft from seawater, they resort to using special bilge pumps and pumps.

The need to pump out water

In addition to the outboard water, there are times when a part of the awning is wrapped in a boat on the shore and during a heavy downpour it is filled with rainwater. There are leaks in case of holes, as well as depressurization of a part of the body. Water enters the cockpit from people who swim overboard, and after returning to the yacht to continue the exciting journey.

The presence of water has a negative effect on the seaworthiness of ships: the speed decreases, stability decreases, the weight of the ship increases, the list may become more frequent and the center of gravity may shift. Personal belongings may get wet or the floor will become slippery enough, which is unsafe for the people there, and excessive flooding of the structure may even lead to its complete flooding.

There are several options for how to fix the situation. A self-draining cockpit called a scupper can cope with minor flooding. What it is? Special holes made in the hull above the waterline. They are constantly open. The main disadvantage is that when the alloy is overloaded, they are useless and even harmful, since through such "holes" water will get inside the device and there will be a need for its prompt pumping.

For small models, a scoop and a foam sponge can become assistants in the fight against water. They will not master a large volume of liquid, and the procedure is too laborious and long. Besides, working with such tools is inconvenient, and sometimes useless.

The best manufacturers have found a way out and popular models are equipped with bilge pumps. They are special pumps that are designed to pump water from a vessel overboard.

What are

All boat accessories can be roughly divided into 3 types:

1. Manual.
2. Electrical.
3. Automatic.

Let's dwell on each option in more detail:

A type	Specifications
Manual	Non-volatile option. In this case, the working element is not the impeller, but a rubber diaphragm, which is set in motion by a lever. Human participation is required. The maximum productivity is 50 liters per minute. The principle of operation is as follows: • the lever rises - the diaphragm is stretched; • through the outlet valve, the liquid is directed into the product; • when lowering the lever, the chamber volume decreases; • through an open outlet valve, water enters the hose and is discharged overboard.
Electrical	The main feature is the presence of an electric motor.It functions according to the following principle: • thanks to the electric motor, the impeller rotates; • the impeller directs the water flow into the branch pipe; • through the hose it rushes overboard. In order to avoid clogging of the pump with dirt and solid components, there is a removable grid in the lower part, which must be periodically flushed. It is attached with ears or holes. In one minute, you can pump out from 20 to 180 liters of water, depending on the power and functionality of the device. Budget models will not cope with the maximum volume. For operation, a voltage of 12V is sufficient.
Automatic	These are the same electrical models, only with mechanical or electronic type water level control sensors installed. Their main advantage is independent functioning, practically without human participation. The water level in the vessel is monitored by a moisture meter. You can also install a float mechanism, by analogy with a toilet cistern. As a negative point, you can indicate the need for a constant power supply.

The bilge pump system has the following components:

• pump;
• battery connection device;
• switch (many models are equipped with a manual option, but there are also float ones);
• suction hose;
• a discharge hose that connects the pump and the liquid discharge point (smooth base);
• the hull is above the waterline.

Installation nuances

If it is decided to install an automatic structure on the ship, then it is necessary to provide for the supply of power, including through a separate fuse. Installation is carried out in the place where water accumulates in the greatest amount. If this option is not possible due to the design features of the watercraft, then placement is carried out in any other place, and a water intake hose is supplied to the desired area with the accumulated liquid.

In the absence of a check valve, a water seal is installed on the drain hose. This involves lifting part of the drain hose a short distance from the drain inlet.

According to buyers, special attention should be paid to the configuration of the product. It all depends on the availability of free space in the boat. With a significant accumulation of sand and silt, the product should be chosen with a high-quality filter.

What should you pay attention to in order to avoid mistakes when choosing a device? Definitely on functionality. It is measured in liters or gallons per hour. A special empirical table has been developed for boats depending on their length:

Length (ft)	Productivity (gallons)	Number of pumps
60	10000 and above	4
50 – 59	9000 - 10000	4
43 - 49	8000	3
36 - 42	6000	3
27 - 35	3500 – 4500	3
21 – 26	3000 - 3500	2
16 - 20	2500	2

Bilge pump installers recommend the following:

• Use short hoses. The smaller they are, the higher the performance.
• Prefer a smooth hose. The presence of a corrugated surface reduces the throughput, which affects the performance indicator.
• Don't forget the ventilated hinge.
• To avoid voltage drops, especially on products with a power consumption of 10 amperes or more, the correct wire sizes must be selected. If you have any difficulties with this issue, you should seek advice from specialists.
• To connect wiring in the hold area, use waterproof type connectors.

Even the nicest models that top the quality product rankings can malfunction. The most common breakdowns are as follows:

• Siphoning. Occurs when the hose is located above the starting point and the discharge is carried out well above the waterline level. Reverse siphoning can be prevented with a ventilation loop.
• Limiting the flow. Diaphragm pumps constantly move the same volume of liquid. If the flow is restricted, it becomes difficult to operate, resulting in breakdown.
• Dirty air intakes. A stretch box or strainer installed at the outlet end of the hose will help prevent the hose or pump from clogging.
• Damaged wiring or battery problems. Wiring can be affected by oil and cleaning chemicals from the engine, fuel contaminants, and corrosive salt water. The battery, in turn, can be completely or partially discharged, which will make the pumping period longer.

How to choose the best option

Anyone who prefers active rest to sitting within four walls, loves water and coastal landscapes, who can cope with a small floating craft, knows how important it is to timely remove water that has entered the hold. It can enter both through the propeller shaft oil seal and seep through the seams of a wooden boat, as well as fall through the side.

Excessive fluid volume can cause distabilization, pick up spilled fuel and spread it throughout the hold. You can even face catastrophic consequences, such as colliding with another vessel or taking on board a high shaft during a storm, when it is a significant flow of water that causes the yacht to sink. Only large and powerful pumps are able to save the situation and enable sea travelers to safely land ashore. It is desirable to have even several pumps, one of which is a high efficiency manual diaphragm pump.

Everyone determines the criteria for choosing a product for himself. Which company is better depends on many factors and, first of all, on the material used and the parameters of the craft. At the same time, design, color and average price do not play a big role. Before making a final decision, you should look at the reviews of new products, read the description, study the ratings, decide on the function and understand the possibility of its maintainability at home. Variants are available with design features that do not allow you to independently bring the device into working condition.

If the structure has ceased to function, then you should not immediately change it to a new one. You first need to figure out how to replace worn-out elements and how to fix the breakdown with your own hands. If you cannot find the answer to the question: "how to make the device work," then turn to the Internet for help, where there are step-by-step instructions for all occasions.

There are several options for where to buy your favorite products. You can visit specialized outlets, find out how much a similar product costs, ask the sales manager, what is the difference between a pump for a boat and a yacht, and which one is better to buy in your case. If you decide to purchase products in an online store, you should first study the proposed photos, view reviews, determine the price, and then order the product online. It is advisable to avoid little-known manufacturers in order not to become the owner of a low-quality fake.

Ranking of the best bilge pumps and pumps for 2020

Most inexpensive

Attwood Tsunami T500 4606-1, 12 v

Products of an American manufacturer. Submersible electric with 20 mm hose. CE certified. Features:

• the wiring is sealed;
• the pumped-out water cools the motor;
• the rating of the used fuse - 3 A;
• the base has a double filter.

The average output depends on the lift height and is 20.2 liters per minute.

The average cost is 2222 rubles.

• modern appearance;
• the device is easy to inspect and clean thanks to the screwless connection of the pump, base and motor;
• brushes in the electric motor are made of composite material;
• permanently lubricated bearings;
• affordable price;
• high quality of the materials used;
• safety;
• high assembly reliability;
• the kit includes installation instructions;
• available in white and red shades.

• not identified.

Whale Orca 500 BE 0500, 12 v

The Irish company has launched the production of new generation submersible bilge structures, the distinctive feature of which is low current consumption and high productivity.Basic parameters: 102 x 78.5 x 83 cm. Weight - 310 grams, productivity - 32 liters per minute.

You can buy the product at a price of 2265 rubles in specialized stores.

• easy installation;
• no need to service;
• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• a good combination of price and quality;
• long service life;
• significant performance;
• available in black and blue shades;
• quality assurance;
• can be ordered online from the online store.

• not detected.

Johnson Pump Cartridge Bilge L 450 32-1450 -01, 12 v

The desiccant boat pump is made by a Swiss manufacturer. 4 models enter the market. They can be combined with an electronic or mechanical switch. A distinctive feature is the presence of an updated design of the Dura-Port fittings, which are particularly durable and wear-resistant. The kit includes both angled (90 degrees) and straight fittings. Available in red. Manufacturing material - stainless steel and thermoplastic.

The average cost is 2862 rubles.

• compactness;
• long service life;
• maintenance is carried out without special tools;
• the motor is cooled by running water;
• the service interval is significant;
• functionality;
• high quality;
• safety;
• excellent performance;
• the company provides a guarantee.

• absent.

Bilge pump GPH 900

High quality product and acceptable performance. Produced in Taiwan. It operates from a voltage of 12 V. The centrifugal circulation pump quickly copes with excess water that has got into the hold and interdeck space, which is pumped overboard through a branch pipe with a diameter of 29.5 mm. Device dimensions: 130 x 135 x 100 mm. Both automatic and manual switching on of the pump is provided, and for the first option it is necessary to additionally install a float switch.

Dealers sell the structure at a price of 1,776 rubles per unit.

• a removable coarse filter is placed in the lower part of the housing to prevent damage to the pump impeller;
• high quality;
• performance;
• affordable price;
• easy to use;
• durability;
• maintainability;
• no special installation tools are required.

• not identified.

Drainage pump GPH 450

The manufacturer has established the production of goods of decent quality at an affordable cost. For a unit of production, retailers ask for only 1,300 rubles. The circulating pump operates on a voltage of 12 V. A capacity of 28 l / min is enough for a small vessel. Parameters: 105 x 90 x 95 mm, a branch pipe with a diameter of 1805 mm. With additional installation of a float switch, it is possible to work in automatic mode, without it - only in manual mode. The Taiwanese company constantly monitors the quality and reliability of the product range.

• inexpensive;
• quality;
• durable;
• reliable;
• easy to use;
• just being renovated;
• thanks to its compactness, it can be installed anywhere.

• poor performance.

Products of the middle price segment

Attwood Tsunami T1200 4313 - 1, 24 v

The powerful pump is sold with a 28 mm hose. The motor of the device is cooled by the pumped-out water stream. The manufacturer provides a screwless connection between the motor and the body and the pump with the base, which facilitates the inspection and cleaning process. The electric motor is made on permanent magnets, has brushes made of composite material, as well as a permanently lubricated bearing.

With a lifting height of 1 m, the productivity is 47.9 liters per minute, when lifting at 0 meters - 69.4 liters per minute, over two meters - 30.3 l / min. Fuse rating - 2 A. Dimensions: 110 x 79 x 83 mm.

Average price - 6,651 rubles.

• great quality;
• high assembly reliability;
• durability;
• good performance;
• tight insulation of wires;
• the presence of a double filter at the base;
• available in black and white.

• not identified.

Drainage pump 1500 GPH

The circulation pump is manufactured by a Taiwanese company, although the brand is French. Powered by 12V voltage. It is used for pumping water. Productivity - 95 l / min. Parameters: 190 x 135 x 125 mm. There is a tube with a diameter of 28.5 mm. The principle of operation is centrifugal. Quickly and efficiently removes water from the hold and interdeck space. As a rule, it is activated manually, but if the model is released with a float switch, then it can be turned on in automatic mode. At the bottom of the pump there is a removable coarse filter that protects the pump impeller from mechanical damage.

The average cost is 3398 rubles.

• great quality;
• long service life;
• high assembly reliability;
• safety;
• high performance;
• excellent value for money.

• not detected.

Bilge pump GPH 1400

The products of the French brand are manufactured in Taiwan by TMC. The pump is of the circulation type. Its capacity is 88 liters per minute. The presence of a voltage of 12 V is mandatory. The diameter of the tube is 29.5 mm, the length, width and height of the device are 185 x 140 x 125 mm, respectively. Quickly and efficiently frees the interdeck space and hold from outside water that has got there. It starts in both mode and automatic mode with an additionally installed float switch.

The product can be purchased at a price of 3345 rubles.

• the presence of a removable coarse filter;
• high quality of the materials used;
• safety;
• durability;
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• high performance;
• affordable cost;
• functionality.

• absent.

Automatic pump GPH 600

The products of the Taiwanese manufacturer have a capacity of 38 liters per minute and are equipped with a built-in circuit breaker. The pump is able to efficiently pump out bilge and bilge water. It begins to function after the water reaches a critical point. This action takes place automatically.

Almost all bilge and bilge waters contain residues of fuel and engine oils. When pumped out, they fall overboard, thereby polluting the environment. To avoid negative consequences, it is worth constantly keeping the hold clean, using absorbents of fuels and lubricants and regularly washing them using special shampoos.

The pump reacts to the current drawn by the motor, thereby determining whether to pump out water or not. In the presence of water, the engine receives an additional load, so the pump turns on automatically and continues to function until the water is completely pumped out. After that, the pump is completely turned off.

Products can be purchased in a specialized store or ordered online on the manufacturer's website. Average cost: 4375 rubles.

• auto mode;
• long service life;
• high assembly reliability;
• excellent pumping quality;
• ease of use;
• safety;
• maintainability;
• optimal combination of price and quality.

• not detected.

Premium models

Bravo BTP 12 M

Electric compressor designed for installation on inflatable boats, the length of which does not exceed 6 meters. Powered by a 12V source. Equipped with a pressure regulator up to 1000 mbar. There is a built-in pressure gauge, 2 stages with a capacity of 450 and 160 liters per minute, connectors for the battery terminals. Able to function both for pumping out and pumping air.

Belongs to the category of two-stage. The first stage - centrifugal - promotes rapid volume pumping with a capacity (max) of 450 liters per minute.As soon as the pressure reaches the required value, the second piston stage is activated, the capacity of which is 160 liters per minute. It is she who makes it possible to bring the pressure to the value determined by the user using an adjustable pressure gauge. Both stages are connected in series with an automatic switch.

The indicator of the maximum pressure that this model can give is 1000 mbar. As soon as the pressure level reaches the set value, it will automatically shut off. This will make it possible to prevent damage to the inflatable boat. The compressor does not turn off automatically while the air is being pumped out. Once the air is completely evacuated, the device must be turned off to prevent overheating.

This design, with continuous operation for more than 20 minutes, may overheat and fail. This situation is not considered a warranty situation, so you need to take breaks from work. If the battery is discharged, then inflation takes a little longer than usual.

The average price is 9353 rubles.

• multifunctionality;
• long service life;
• compactness;
• light weight;
• complete with a set of adapters, power cable and hose;
• convenient bag for transportation;
• warranty period: 1 year;
• ease of use;
• high assembly reliability;
• safety.

• absent.

Marlin GP - 80

The high pressure electric pump is a two-stage type. Able to function from both portable and car batteries. Equipped with a mechanical pressure regulator ranging from 0.1 to 0.8 Bar in 0.05 Bar increments. The maximum productivity is 500 liters per minute. Used for both pumping water and inflating PVC boats. Main characteristics:

• weight - 3 kg;
• dimensions: 27 x 21 x 22 cm;
• current strength - 20 A;
• voltage - 12 V;
• hose diameter - 20.5 mm;
• wire 3 meters long;
• a battery clip is provided for connection to the power supply.

The product can be purchased at a price of 8610 rubles per item.

• durability;
• functionality;
• safety;
• performance;
• the set includes 9 adapters with different diameters;
• the presence of a mechanical fuse;
• automatic switching from the first to the second stage;
• made of high-strength plastic;
• not afraid of mechanical damage;
• warranty period - 1 year;
• convenient to transport.

• not detected.

Pump automatic GPH 1500, 12 v

The Taiwanese company has launched the production of high-capacity electric bilge pumps - up to 94 liters per minute. The model has an automatic float switch. It is widely used for pumping out bilge and bilge water. As soon as the liquid concentrates in the watercraft, the device is switched on automatically. It functions with a voltage of 12 V, the rated current is 9 A. The diameter of the outlet hose is 28.5 mm, the parameters are 16.5 x 9.6 x 13 cm.

Keep the hold clean to prevent engine oil and fuel residues from entering the water. For these purposes, a special shampoo is used.

The average cost is 9100 rubles.

• long service life;
• ease of use;
• the possibility of repair in case of failure;
• high assembly reliability;
• safety;
• functionality;
• built-in automatic float switch.

• not identified.

Conclusion

Every small boat owner knows how important it is to have a quality bilge pump. It can be built-in or sold separately from the boat. Its choice is large enough to find the most suitable option. The bilge pump is a guarantee of the safety of both the owner of the yacht and all passengers on boat trips.

Some people believe that water can be scooped out of small boats with improvised means, for example, a bucket or a scoop. This judgment is considered extremely incorrect and dangerous.An unforeseen situation can happen to everyone and the absence of a bilge pump will lead to irreparable consequences. Its cost is not so significant as to risk your life and the lives of those around you. Do not be reckless in this matter.