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| Bilge and Sump Pumps |
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Bilge
pumps need to be inspected regularly. Often debris has worked itself into the float switch
or the bilge pump intake, which can jam and make the system inoperable. An incorrectly
installed float switch can move and become inoperable and/or restricted; i.e., it cannot
float up because of items restricting the function (hoses, cable, etc.) therefore the
float switch cannot engage, or it may engage and stay in the open position. This
could drain the battery(s) empty while docked or underway.
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| Electric
cable connectors must be appropriately joined; i.e., wire nut connection must be sealed
properly and waterproofed. Electric wiring should be installed high enough in the
bilge, that if a float switch fails, rising water will not short out the connections and
drain and/or damage batteries. |
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| Recommendation:
Before electric wiring has been joined together with a butt connector,
insert a proper-sized shrink tubing, surround the connected area with oil
and saltwater-proof silicone type application, slide the shrink tubing over
it, and shrink the tubing with heat application.Tubing will shrink and press excess
silicone to the sides. For longer lasting connections, you could solder the ends and clean
the cables chemically before applying silicone for better bonding and/or connection. |
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Matt Schulz, Marine Surveyor
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