switchless bilge pumps

[tbnolin]

I'm looking to replace a couple of bilge pumps and I was wondering if anyone out there is familiar with or has the "switchless" type of pump. Seems easier with less wiring to go wrong. Pros? Cons? Thanks

Tom

[jcollins]

Hi Tom,
I'm assuming you mean the ones with the float built in? They cycle every few minutes to see if there is any water. Additionally they have a sensor that will detect water and turn itself on. They do work and are easy to install. The downside is if the boat is left unattended with no shore power they will kill the battery. I had one in my last boat. I think it would last a couple weeks before the battery died.
When we were sleeping aboard, we could hear it running when it "checked" for water. It was only a few seconds and I got used to it.
I should also add, that was early 2000. Technology is probably better now.

[tbnolin]

Yep, those are the ones. I just wasn't too sure about the quality of them. I have asked around our small marina and no one has installed one. Like I said before, it just seems as though it would be a simpler thing to have on board...less wires...less problems. Thanks so much for responding. I'm putting you under the "pros" category:)!

[jleonard]

I have a self contained one for my shower sump that does not cycle every few minutes as John described. It has a "float" (probably has a small magnet in it) and only cycles when the float gets to the top of the chamber (maybe 2 inches never measured it). It works pretty good, except it when it gets scum coated. Then after cleaning it works good again.

[tbnolin]

Thanks Jay. I believe that would be considered a "pro".

[RobS]

Thanks Jay. I believe that would be considered a "pro".

Nice! (Took me a second)