Do all Bilge Pumps leak?

[Canopy Locked]

I've got a Rule 1100 electric bilge pump in the engine compartment - it always seems to have a back flow after it has pumped water - I've put an 1 way valve about 2" up the outlet pipe, but I still seem to accumulate water (yes the 1 way valve is the correct way round!)

Is this normal or should I consider replacing?

 

[vyv_cox]

I've got a Rule 1100 electric bilge pump in the engine compartment - it always seems to have a back flow after it has pumped water - I've put an 1 way valve about 2" up the outlet pipe, but I still seem to accumulate water (yes the 1 way valve is the correct way round!)

Is this normal or should I consider replacing?

Both of mine do, electric and manual. Check valves are never very reliable, which is why the advice is never to rely on them as a primary hull seal.

 

[mitiempo]

Check valves will restrict the flow and will jam eventually as few bilges are spotless. When this happens the pump will turn on but not off and the battery will die.

 

[Deleted member 36384]

Yes its normal and has always happened where I have checked. Check valves which require gravity or form sealing (flapper and macerator) can require additional back pressure to achieve complete sealing.

 

[Bilgediver]

I've got a Rule 1100 electric bilge pump in the engine compartment - it always seems to have a back flow after it has pumped water - I've put an 1 way valve about 2" up the outlet pipe, but I still seem to accumulate water (yes the 1 way valve is the correct way round!)

Is this normal or should I consider replacing?

Just accept that plastic one way valves do no more than give a feel good factor and help line the chandlers pockets. They will usually leak to the extent that all the water that rushes back when not fitted still leaks buck but just takes longer and also as others say gives a possible source of blockage.

 

[Dipper]

The Rule 1100 is a centrifugal pump and throws the water to the outlet pipe so when it stops whatever is left will inevitably leak back as there isn't a physical barrier to stop it.

I believe that they do not recommend fitting a non-return valve as this reduces the effectiveness of the pump.