I second the idea of redundant bilge pumps and I have installed both a 300 gph diaphragm with a water witch mounted as low as I could get it to suck water reliably in addition to the a 1500 centrifuge pump with a mechanical float switch that came with the boat. The centrifugal pump float switch is higher so it rarely runs except when I test it a few times a season so it should last a while I hope.
I agree with Josh that I am not sure if the centrifugal pump will really pump much faster then the diaphragm under real world conditions. Having the manual pump in the cockpit and making sure that is in good condition (test and rebuild or replace if it is old because the rubber parts will fail - I found mine which was luckily original failed after a few strokes when I tested it last year) and I see it as is critical if you are on the boat and taking on water. I also have a counter on the water witch / diaphragm so I can check how many times it has come on since last time I was on the boat. A few times depending on how much it rained (coming down the mast) is normal. More than that is a sign of a problem. Thinking I should add a warning light And/or buzzer as others have mentioned in the past so I will notice if it is running while motoring or sailing. - - Nathan Post S/V Wisper _______________________________________________ Thanks everyone for supporting this list with your contributions. Each and every one is greatly appreciated. If you want to support the list - use PayPal to send contribution -- https://www.paypal.me/stumurray
