Rule automatic bilge pump

[EASLOOP]

Hello,

I have a Rule automatic bilge pump and I am looking for anyone who has experience of these pumps. I cannot remember the model I have but it is the type that does not require a float switch. Every 2.5 minutes the pump tests the presence of water. If none it switches off, but if water is present it runs and empties the bilge, then goes back to sensing mode. I had one of these pumps fail on me. Rule replaced it at no cost which i consider to be good service. But do theses type of pumps fail regularly? Or am i being hyper cautious.
I wpould appreciate some views.
Thankin you in advance.
John

 

[claudio]

I had one of these pumps. I removed it because it detects water by an increase in motor current when it is doing its 'sampling'
Its a good idea in principle, but say that you have a partial blockage of the strainer. The pump switches on, detects the water within the motor housing and immediately switches off, even if there is water in the bilges. No warnings unless you have an operational bilge alarm. A normal pump would probably self clear given enough run time. If the pump has a manual override it will be OK but if it relies solely on the auto function it is a liability.

 

[lw395]

I know people who have had them in RIBs on moorings.
They seem to work OK, but don't last forever.
I would be happy with one in a situation where the water is a nuisance rather than a disaster.
If the water is going to be a disaster, no one system is 100% anyway.

 

[EASLOOP]

Rule

Thanks for your input. Most appreciated.
rgds
John