Bilge systems are ignored until the day they matter.
Operators treat bilge reliability as non-negotiable because it’s not “a pump.” It’s a chain: pump + switch + wiring + discharge + power.
Break any link and you lose the system.
The 3 Most Common Failures
- Float switch failure (stuck, dirty, worn)
- Wiring issues (corrosion, loose connections)
- Discharge problems (kinks, clogs, backflow)
Redundancy That Actually Works
True redundancy means a second way to move water when the first fails: manual override, reliable power path, clean discharge routing, and accessible service points.
Quick Operator Checklist
- manual pump test
- float switch test
- inspect discharge routing
- confirm fuse/connection condition
- look for backflow signs