Bilge Pump Effeciency

[Gwen s/v Luna Sea]

Has anyone researched the issue of bilge pump effeciency? What I mean is current drain (amperes) vs. gallons per minute, hour, or whatever. My boat is a 21 foot Venture which lives on a trailer, so automatic operation is not currently an issue. I'm wondering about installing pump(s) for emergency situations while single-handing. Whatever I install would have to run off the internal batteries. Charging while under way isn't an option. Any thoughts, advice, or experience is appreciated!

 

[Gord May]

B.P. Efficiency

Electric Bilge Pumps, suitable for small boats, do not have the capacity (GPH) to keep up with anything other than the smallest incursions - you will not be able to install & operate an Electric B.P. for true emergency use.You might consider installing a Manual Pump.On the other hand, small Electric B.P.'s can provide convenient bilge drying; but where would your water ingess come from (assuming you have no engine/shaft) while sailing?I would not bother with an electric bilge pump, on a 21' trailor-sailor.OMOGord May

 

[Bob]

Emergency Plan

Hi Gwen,Have plugs made for seacocks.If you are going more than 25 miles off shore then equip with life raft and survival suit.Adding positive floation another option along with many others - what ever you select, keep it simple.Bilge pump not feasible for hull failure or swamp. Capsize requires positive floation to save the boat if it swamps.

 

[Gwen s/v Luna Sea]

Thanks guys

Gord & Bob -- Thanks to both of you. Luna does have positive flotation installed (not tested!) and is self-righting with the swing keel locked. I'll look into manual pumps as a possible option. All the best,

 

[Bob]

Au contraire

Charging under way might indeed be an option, though I agree that a small elecric pump won't do you much good in an emergency situation. I have a small solar charger from Radio Shack wired into my electrics and hung off the stern using two plastic coat hanger clips from Walmart (normally intended to be hung on the top of a door). Keeps the battery up between and during sails. If yours is like the 21 Mac I crewed on, I'll bet you take some water aboard through the centerboard pin hole, and a small electric pump might be perfect for dealing with that.

 

[Gwen s/v Luna Sea]

Yes, indeed

Thanks, Bob. I'm not sure what to call that thing. Scupper? Cable pass-through? Anyway, it's the same setup, I bet, and a little water does get in that way. I haven't considered it a problem, but I haven't sailed LS in bad weather, either, and don't know if that would make a difference. Glad to hear you had good luck with your solar charger scheme. If you had significant experience on this boat, I'd like to chat with you. You can email me direct at: gwenb@stringerbusiness.com. Be well.