Installing bilge pump

[Edwardo]

At the moment I only have manual bilge pump but would like to install an electric pump as well. Do I connect the pipe from the new pump to the existing outlet pipe between the manual pump and the skin. Is all I need some kind of 't' joint?

Thanks

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Guest]

No. You would also need one way valves to prevent one bildge pump pumping out through the other and in effect circulating the water.
In addition, electric automatic bildge pumps are triggered by one of two methods. Some have a float switch, others start up every couple of minutes to test to see if there is any load. If you intend to leave the an automatic bildge pump switched on whilst you are away you should use the float switch kind.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[cpedw]

I asked a similar question a couple of months ago. I hoped to avoid drilling more holes in the hull but the consensus of replies was to keep the two entirely separate all the way to a new skin fitting.

Certainly, just T'ing into the existing manual bilge pump is not sufficient. The typical electric bilge pump has no valves so any time you use the manual pump. water will flow backwards through the electric pump into the bilge. A non return valve or a swan neck in the electric pump line would prevent that backflow but that means a higher head must be developed by the electric pump.

So I concluded the completely separate arrangement is simplest and safest.

Derek

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[johnsomerhausen]

In addition to what has been posted by the others, it should be mentioned that non-return valves can be jammed open by a bit of dirt so that they don't worl any more. It's much safer to have a separate outlet.
john

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[jfkal]

Not ideal, but I installed them in line. Both Manual and Electric are of the membrane type with integrated valves. So I can use each of them at my choice. Yes, this setup does restrict the water flow and therfor impacts the "emergency" throughput. But I have 2 more manual and one more electrical pump as well. If those cannot cope I head for the life-raft anyway (

<hr width=100% size=1>