One essential component for any boat is a Manual Bilge Pump mounted in a position where it can be worked comfortably for long periods of time. Yacht racing rules state that at least one pump must be capable of being pumped from the cockpit with all hatches shut, and the best way to accomplish this is with a through deck kit which allows the pump to be installed safely below decks whilst the operator pumps from above. A well designed manual pump is very hard to block due to its large bore hose and valves and one piece diaphragm.

There are a variety of electric powered pumps available, each type has its own advantages and it’s wise to know what a pump can and can’t do to simplify selection of the correct model and size for your boat. Remember, electric pumps can be installed with an automatic bilge switch for unattended operation.

Submersible Pumps are specifically designed to be fitted in the lowest part of the bilge. These electric Centrifugal Pumps are extremely economical to buy and have huge flow rates. However, flow rates decrease more rapidly than other pump types as the discharge head increases, so do check our recommended maximum discharge heads and if in doubt always go up a size. There are 2 types of self priming electrical pumps available - Diaphragm and Flexible Impeller. All self priming pumps can be mounted well away from damp or wet areas where they can be kept dry and easily maintained.

Diaphragm Pumps can be run dry for extended periods and so be used to hoover up the last drops of water - especially useful on more modern hull types with shallower bilges.

The rugged simplicity of Flexible Impeller Pumps means they can handle bilge debris and are very easy to service, many yachtsmen are still using twenty five year old Water Puppies! But remember Flexible Impeller pumps cannot be run dry or you will damage the Impeller.

Chosen by professional mariners the world over Jabsco Clutch Pumps will last you a lifetime. They’re not the cheapest to buy or install but they pump huge volumes, pass bilge debris and double as firefighting or deckwash pumps. As with all Flexible Impeller pumps they’re easy to service but must not be run dry. Belt driven from your engine they are available with either manual or electromagnetic clutch for remote control.

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