Rating of the best bilge pumps and pumps for 2022

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

The need for pumping water

In addition to outboard water, there are times when a part of the awning is wrapped in a boat located on the shore and, during heavy rain, it is filled with rainwater. Leaks also occur with holes, as well as depressurization of part of the body. Water gets into the cockpit from people who swim overboard, and then return to the yacht to continue the exciting journey.

The presence of water has a negative impact on the seaworthiness of ships: speed decreases, stability decreases, the weight of the vessel increases, roll can become more frequent and the center of gravity shifts. Personal belongings may get wet or the floor will become slippery enough that it 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. Minor flooding can be handled by a self-draining cockpit called a scupper. What it is? Special holes made in the hull of the ship above the waterline. They are constantly open. The main disadvantage is that when the alloy is overloaded, they are useless and even harmful, because through such “holes” water will enter the device and there will be a need for its prompt pumping.

For small models, a scoop and a foam rubber sponge can become assistants in the fight against water. They will not master a large volume of liquid, and the procedure is too time-consuming, long. In addition, 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 out of the vessel overboard.

What are

All boat fixtures can be divided into 3 types:

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

Let's look at each option in more detail:

Type of	Characteristics
Manual	Energy free option. In this case, the working element is not an impeller, but a rubber diaphragm, which is driven by a lever. Human participation is required. The maximum productivity is 50 liters per minute. The principle of operation is as follows: • the lever is raised - the diaphragm is stretched; • through the outlet valve, the liquid is directed into the product; • when the lever is lowered, the volume of the chamber decreases; • through the open outlet valve, water enters the hose and is removed overboard.
Electrical	The main feature is the presence of an electric motor. It operates according to the following principle: • thanks to the electric motor, the impeller rotates; • the impeller directs the flow of water into the nozzle; • By means of a hose, she rushes overboard. To prevent clogging of the pump with dirt and solid components, there is a removable type grate at the bottom, which must be washed periodically. It is attached with lugs 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 with a maximum volume will not cope. A voltage of 12 V is sufficient for operation.
Automatic	These are the same electric models, only with mechanical or electronic water level sensors installed. Their main advantage is independent functioning, practically without human intervention. The water level in the vessel is controlled by a sensor - a moisture meter. You can also install a float mechanism, by analogy with a toilet tank.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;
• discharge hose that connects the pump and the liquid discharge point (has a smooth base);
• hull above the waterline.

Installation nuances

If it is decided to install an automatic structure on the vessel, then it is necessary to provide for power supply, including through a separate fuse. Installation is carried out in the place where the accumulation of water occurs in the greatest amount. If this option is not possible due to the design features of the craft, then the placement is carried out in any other place, and a water intake hose is connected 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 raising part of the drain hose a small distance from the drain inlet.

According to buyers, it is necessary to pay special attention to the configuration of the product. It all depends on the availability of 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 for 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)	Capacity (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

The recommendations of bilge pump installers are as follows:

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

Even the best models that top the rating of quality products can malfunction. The most common breakdowns are:

• Siphoning. Occurs when the hose is located above the starting point, while the discharge is well above the waterline. Back siphonization can be prevented by using a ventilation loop.
• Flow restriction. Diaphragm pumps constantly move the same volume of fluid. When the flow is restricted, there are difficulties in functioning, which leads to a breakdown.
• Air intake pollution. A stretch box or strainer installed at the outlet end of the hose will help to avoid clogging of the hose or pump.
• Damaged wiring or battery problems. Wiring condition can be affected by engine oil and cleaning chemicals, fuel contaminants, and corrosive salt water. The battery, in turn, may be completely or partially discharged, which will make the period for pumping water longer.

How to choose the best option

Any person who prefers outdoor activities to sitting within four walls, who loves water and coastal landscapes, who is able to cope with a small watercraft, knows how important it is to remove water that has fallen into the hold in a timely manner. It can enter both through the cardan shaft seal, and seep through the seams of a wooden boat, and also get through the side.

An excessive amount of liquid can cause destabilization, pick up spilled fuel and spread it throughout the hold. It is even possible to face catastrophic consequences, such as a collision 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 can save the situation and enable sea travelers to land safely on the shore. It is desirable to have even several pumps, one of which is a high efficiency manual diaphragm pump.

Criteria for choosing a product each for himself determines for himself. Which company is better depends on many factors and, above 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 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 produced that have design features that do not allow you to independently bring the device into working condition.

If the design has ceased to function, then you should not immediately change it to a new one. You must first figure out how to replace the elements that have become unusable and how to fix the breakdowns with your own hands.If you can’t 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 where to buy your favorite products. You can visit specialized outlets, find out how much a similar product costs, ask a 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, decide on the price, and then order the product online. It is advisable to avoid little-known manufacturers so as not to become the owner of a low-quality fake.

Rating of the best bilge pumps and pumps for 2022

The most inexpensive

Attwood Tsunami T500 4606-1, 12v

American manufacturer's products. Submersible electric with 20 mm hose. There is a CE certificate. Peculiarities:

• electrical wiring has hermetic insulation;
• pumped water cools the motor;
• fuse rating - 3 A;
• the base has a double filter.

The average productivity depends on the lifting height and is 20.2 liters per minute.

The average cost is 2222 rubles.

• modern appearance;
• the device is easy to inspect and clean due to the screwless connection of the pump, base and motor;
• brushes in the electric motor are made of composite material;
• bearings on eternal lubrication;
• affordable price;
• high quality of the materials used;
• safety;
• high assembly reliability;
• Includes installation instructions;
• Available in white and red shades.

• not identified.

Whale Orca 500 BE 0500, 12v

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

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

• simple installation;
• does not need to be serviced;
• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• good combination of price and quality;
• long service life;
• significant performance;
• available in black and blue;
• quality assurance;
• can be ordered online from the online store.

• not detected.

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

The dehumidifier boat pump is made by a Swiss manufacturer. There are 4 models on the market. They can be combined with an electronic or mechanical switch. A distinctive feature is the presence of an updated design of Dura-Port fittings, which are particularly durable and wear resistant. The kit includes both angled (90 degrees) and straight fittings. Produced in red. Production 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;
• service interval is significant;
• functionality;
• high quality;
• safety;
• excellent performance;
• the company provides a guarantee.

• missing.

Drainage pump GPH 900

Product of high quality and acceptable performance. Produced in Taiwan. Operates from a voltage of 12 V. The centrifugal-type circulation pump quickly copes with excess water that has entered the hold and interdeck space, which is pumped overboard through a pipe with a diameter of 29.5 mm. Device dimensions: 130 x 135 x 100 mm. Both automatic and manual activation of the pump is provided, and for the first option it is necessary to additionally install a float switch.

Sellers sell the design at a price of 1,776 rubles per unit.

• in the lower part of the housing there is a removable coarse filter that prevents damage to the pump impeller;
• high quality;
• performance;
• affordable price;
• convenient to use;
• durability;
• maintainability;
• no special tools required for installation.

• 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, distributors ask for only 1,300 rubles. The circulation type 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, branch pipe with a diameter of 1805 mm. With the additional installation of a float switch, operation in automatic mode is possible, without it - only in manual mode. The Taiwanese company constantly monitors the quality and reliability of its range.

• inexpensive;
• qualitative;
• durable;
• reliable;
• easy to use;
• simply repaired;
• Thanks to its compactness, it can be installed anywhere.

• poor performance.

Products of the middle price segment

Attwood Tsunami T1200 4313 – 1, 24v

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

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.

The average price is 6651 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 shades.

• not identified.

Drainage pump 1500 GPH

The circulation pump is manufactured by a Taiwanese company, although the brand is French. Powered by 12 V. 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 frees the hold and inter-deck space from water. As a rule, it is activated manually, however, if the model is released with a float switch, then it can be turned on automatically.At the bottom of the pump 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.

Drainage pump GPH 1400

French brand products are manufactured in Taiwan by TMS. 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 the hold from outboard water that has got there. Runs 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.

• missing.

Pump automatic GPH 600

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

Almost all bilge and bilge waters contain fuel residues 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 for fuels and lubricants and washing regularly using special shampoos.

The pump reacts to the amount of current that the motor consumes, thereby determining whether water needs to be pumped out 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 at 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 12M

Electric type compressor designed for installation on inflatable boats, the length of which does not exceed 6 meters. It is 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 to the battery terminals. Able to function both for pumping out and for pumping air.

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

The indicator of the maximum pressure that this model can give out is 1000 mbar. As soon as the pressure level reaches the set value, it will automatically turn off. This will make it possible to prevent damage to the inflatable watercraft. In the process of pumping out air, the compressor does not automatically turn off. As soon as the air is completely pumped out, 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, so you need to take breaks in work. If the battery is discharged, 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 cord and hose;
• convenient bag for transportation;
• warranty period: 1 year;
• ease of use;
• high assembly reliability;
• safety.

• missing.

Marlin GP-80

The high pressure electric pump is of the two-stage type. Able to function both from a portable and car battery.Equipped with a mechanical pressure regulator with a range of 0.1 to 0.8 Bar in steps of 0.05 Bar. The maximum productivity is 500 liters per minute. It is used both for pumping water and for 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 clamp is provided for connection to the power supply.

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

• 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 step;
• 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-performance electric bilge pumps - up to 94 liters per minute. The model has an automatic float switch. It is widely used for the purpose of pumping out bilge and bilge water. As soon as liquid is concentrated in the watercraft, the device is turned on automatically. It functions in the presence of a voltage of 12 V, the rated current indicator is 9 A. The diameter of the outlet hose is 28.5 mm, the parameters are 16.5 x 9.6 x 13 cm.

To avoid getting engine oil and fuel residues into the water, it is worth keeping the hold clean. 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. Her choice is large enough to find the most suitable option. A bilge pump is a guarantee of safety for both the owner of the yacht and all passengers making boat trips.

Some people believe that you can scoop water out of small boats with improvised means, such as a bucket or scoop. This judgment is considered extremely incorrect and dangerous. An unforeseen situation can happen to anyone 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 careless in this matter.