23-2 Where to place the bilge pump hose?

Oct 24, 2023
8
O Day 23-2 Oneida Lake
Every week I sponge out about a liter/quart of water from under the cabin floor. However I can’t seem to pump it out with the bilge pump no matter where I shove the hose. Are there two different compartments that can collect water, or am I pushing the bilge pump into the wrong place?
Thanks in advance.
 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
24,589
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
There is a sound of frustration in your voice.
Only a couple of sources for your bilge water.

It is relevant to understand the bilge pumps do not dry your boat. They empty all the water that is below a certain level and keep working to maintain that level.

If you return to the boat, after emptying and drying the bilge, to water then I would be seeking the water source.
 
Sep 24, 2018
4,531
Catalina 30 MKIII Chicago
On the 25 the bilge goes down deeper in the front and rear. A small bilge pump will fit in the deeper, aft pit of the bilge. @Timm R Oday25 and I have exchanged a few ideas regarding this topic. We both had the idea of putting a small fan in the bilge to get every last drop. I've heard of a few members here that use a shop vac at the end of every sail to dry out the bilge
 
Oct 24, 2023
8
O Day 23-2 Oneida Lake
For the benefit of future views with similar questions, I wanted to share my conclusion. Which is that I was asking the wrong question. Instead of asking 'where should I put the hose to get the water out', I should have asked 'why isn't the pump getting the water out'? The reason was that there were a couple of holes in the intake hose, so the pump was sucking air instead of the water. The hose was in the right place the whole time.
I also now know that there is only one compartment for bilge water, there is no well in it, and the water you see under the floor hatch in the cabin is the same water you can see from the stern locker. The deepest part is about 18 inches back from the cabin hatch. I hope this helps someone.
 
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
24,589
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Great for you, @AndrewJillings. Discovering a boat's various functions and idiosyncrasies takes time and dedication.

You are on your way in a positive direction. I am looking forward to hearing about your sailing enjoyment with your boat.
:biggrin: