Stupid question of the year - why doesn't my bilge pump, pump?

[Hadenough]

i have a jabsco diaphragm pump in the lazerette it has bee there 16 faultless years now connected to a waterwitch sensor/switch. 2 previous sensors died

It's probably the honey keeping it going :encouragement:

 

[jimbaerselman]

Here's a stupid answer Unless the water level is above the pump intake you will get no suction.

Errm. If this is an impeller pump (spinner using centripetal force to create pressure) then the impeller has to be under water. Impeller height is usually the same as the exit pipe . . .

"Self primers" usually say so, and are usually diaphragm, which can create suction with only air present.

 

[PhillM]

Ok so 15l of water later the pump sprang into a action. As I suspected this has to be my most stupid question of the year. Bear with me, I'm sure I'll exceed expectations in 2015.