The best cheap automatic bilge pumps.
On many sailing or motorized pleasure boats, bilge pump flow originally installed is not sufficient in the event of a major water leak. As a precaution, it is therefore recommended to add one or more automatic bilge pumps. In addition, maritime regulations require many boats to install one or more electric bilge pumps (you can refer to our article on bilge pump legislation to know more). Once you know the legal requirements, you need to equip yourself. There are different categories of automatic bilge pump depending on the use: automatic bilge pumps for confined spaces, automatic high flow bilge pumps, etc. This guide will help you select the right type of automatic bilge pump for your boat and the minimum bit rate you need to choose. Then we listed the best cheap automatic bilge pumps availables.
What is an automatic bilge pump?
Installation of an electric bilge pump self-priming, also called automatic bilge pump, maximizes boat safety. Indeed, a float integrated in the structure of the pump triggers the motor automatically when the water in the bilge reaches a certain level. Regarding bilge pump maintenance, the components of the automatic release must be checked regularly so that the equipment is always ready in the event of a water leak.
Why choose a cheap automatic bilge pump?
It should be noted that the regulations on the bilge pump do not require the fitting of an automatic bilge pump. However, we recommend choosing an automatic electric bilge pump rather than a manual submersible electric bilge pump. Certainly, manual submersible electric bilge pumps are less expensive than automatic ones. But in our eyes, the price difference is justified when we know the statistics of a boat sunk at their anchorage ...
The higher price of self-priming pumps therefore justifies trying to find a cheap but quality automatic bilge pump.
However, for automatic triggering to be effective, it is imperative to pair your system with an alarm so that you have time to intervene before the battery is flat.
Also, be aware that if you already have a submerged bilge pump, you don't have to look for a cheap automatic bilge pump to complete your installation! Indeed, you can easily convert manual trigger to automatic pump. This is possible thanks to an inexpensive automatic switch (also called a trip float or water level sensor). Choose a contactor suitable for your bilge pump. The three automatic contactors below are all non-toxic and mercury-free:
Finally, we strongly advise motor boat and sailboat owners to equip themselves with two systems: an automatic bilge pump and a fixed manual bilge pump. Indeed, if the electric bilge pump no longer works (battery failure, pump motor failure, etc.), you must always have a plan B.
See The Best Fixed Diaphragm Manual Bilge Pumps:
-OSCULATI diaphragm bilge pump
Finally, we recommend replacing your scoop by purchasing a portable manual bilge pump. They're small, inexpensive, and make your life a lot easier every time you clean the bilge.
See an efficient siphon bilge pump.
Which flow rate to choose for your affordable automatic bilge pump?
Flow is an important factor in determining what kind of cheap automatic bilge pump to choose :
- For a boat from 3,5 to 5 m in length, the connection of an automatic bilge pump with a flow rate of around 1900 l / hour is required.
- Beyond 5 m to 7 m, you need a minimum flow rate of 3 l / hour.
- For a boat ranging from 7 m to 9 m, the installation of an automatic bilge pump with a flow rate exceeding 4 l / hour is recommended.
- For boats over 9m, you will need to choose a 12 v high flow (or 24 v) bilge pump. In addition, it is recommended to install several autonomous bilge pumps distributed in different places of your vessel. We recommend having at least two heavy duty pumps. The most powerful bilge pump will need to be positioned under the engine or in the sump.
Obviously, it is also necessary to take into account the necessary delivery height and the space available in the hold for determine the most suitable pump for your boat.
It is best to always oversize your pumps if you have enough space in your bilge and your electrical installation can support them. To give you an idea, a waterway created by a 12cm hole below the waterline generates a water inlet of 7200l / h, or 1900 GPH.
Which brand of automatic bilge pump to choose?
The bilge pump market is dominated by only a few brands. We highly recommend not to cut corners on this equipment which is crucial for your safety. It is better to buy a low cost sun awning than to choose a cheap automatic bilge pump. That's why we recommend the three most trusted brands: Attwood, Seaflo, and Rule.
If you plan to install an automatic bilge pump kit from another brand such as Johnson Pump, Whale, Nuova Rade, Plastimo, Jabsco and others, take care to consult the opinions on e-commerce sites to know the effectiveness of certain models.
If your budget is tight, we recommend some models from the Osculati brand. They have a good reputation and prove to be as efficient as much more expensive models.
Once you have made your choice, you can consult our article: How to install a bilge pump on a boat?
The best cheap (and more expensive) automatic bilge pumps available
We have listed all models of cheap automatic bilge pump (and more expensive) that we recommend in the table below according to their flow:
| Model | Maximum delivery height | Debit | Recommended fuse | Outlet diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAHARA 12V ATTWOOD S500 | 2,4m | 500 GPH or 1 to 500 L / h | A 3 | 19 mm (3/4 ") |
| SEAFLO 12V AUTO BILGE PUMP | 2,5m | 750 GPH or 2 to 500 L / h | A 6 | 19 mm (3/4 ") |
| SAHARA 12V ATTWOOD S1100 | 2,7m | 1100 GPH or 3 to 500 L / h | A 6 | 29 mm (1 1/8 ″) |
| RULE LoPro 900S (for tight spaces) | - | 56 L / min | - | - |
NB: In certain cases, the space available will be more determining than the price in the choice of the automatic bilge pump. For example, if your bilge is very narrow, opt for the automatic bilge pump RULE LoPro 900S. It is only 60mm high and is triggered from 3,25cm or 5cm of water. It can be mounted horizontally or vertically to adapt to the hold of any boat.
Finally, you will find in the table below high flow bilge pumps which we recommend according to their flow. Their delivery height is between 5 and 6m (and up to 8m for the Osculati Maxi). However, these pumps are all electric submersible bilge pumps (manually operated). We therefore recommend that they convert to automatic pump thanks to an affordable automatic contactor (see previous paragraph).
| Model | Debit |
|---|---|
| Rule Heavy Duty | 1500GPH |
| Attwood Heavy Duty | 1700GPH |
| Rule Heavy Duty | 2000GPH |
| SeaFlo Heavy Duty | 3000GPH |
| Maxi osculati | 3500GPH |
| Rule Heavy Duty | 3700GPH |
| Maxi osculati | 4700GPH |
NB: these pumps must be installed with a fuse of up to 25A or more! For more details, read our article 'Which fuse to use on a boat bilge pump?'.
What are the essential accessories for a budget automatic bilge pump?
- All automatic bilge pumps (expensive or not) must be connected to a switch on the dashboard. This switch is never included regardless of the price of the pump ... We recommend SeaFlo 3-position switch (auto / manual / off) which is fine.
- Likewise, all automatic bilge pumps (expensive or not) are delivered without their fuses. Preferably avoid "glass" fuses and "soapstone" fuses as they oxidize too quickly. The best fuses for bilge pumps are the jumper type fuses. Finally, don't forget to buy the corresponding fuse holder.
- There is no point ininstall two bilge pumps automatic on the same delivery line. They won't work any better than one. What you need to do is install a through-hull for each pump. Choose the through-hull with a diameter suitable for your delivery pipe (see shell passes of different diameters here).
- Opt for small size discharge pipes, to reduce their resistance and optimize the flow of the automatic bilge pump. Prefer 25 mm pipes for small and medium-sized pumps, and 38 mm for more powerful models.
See an efficient 25mm discharge pipe.
See a good 38mm discharge hose.
- Finally, your automatic bilge pump motor breaks down at the least opportune moment ... We therefore recommend that you bring spare parts. You will find many spare parts on Amazon, Ebay et Ticketmaster.
Find out more about inexpensive automatic bilge pumps for boats:
How to test a bilge pump on a boat?
