Bilge is on every two minutes

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Aug 17, 2011
3
Catalina 320 Toronto
My bilge pump activates every two minutes. I feel that the line never empties completely. I feel that there is enough water that trickles back to engage the bilge pump. Am I missing something here. Bilge pump works. I have every now and then filled and cleaned the bilge area and the pump does it's part but gives some back
 
Jun 8, 2004
2,958
Catalina 320 Dana Point
The pump will remove all but an inch or so, I'd suspect the float switch or a leak, turn the pump off and see if the water gets deeper.
 
Feb 26, 2004
23,056
Catalina 34 224 Maple Bay, BC, Canada
Putting a check valve in will stop the issue, although it's not a good idea, 'cuz stuff can get trapped in the check valve, making it more of a problem than a help.

Your real issue is that your float level, regardless of whether it's a traditional flapper float or internal to the pump, is in the wrong place - it's either too low or too high, and when water returns it starts the cycle all over again.

Either raise or lower your pump's "trigger" to avoid recycling of the pump. Most likely raise it some so it doesn't keep coming on.
 
Jun 2, 2004
1,077
Several Catalinas C25/C320 USA
Have you determined that you don't have a leak and the bilge pump is working as it should? When I have that problem it's usually either a fresh water plumbing leak or the stuffing box packing nut needs adjusting.
 
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