Having a boat is a pretty good way to relax and spend your free time in the water. But the boat as every other object needs some supplies. One of the most serious points about the ship is the bilge pump. Having the best bilge pump is just a thing that helps you with the best experience you can have. Having it is essential as it is not only a matter of excellent performance but is often a matter of safety as well.
What types of bilge pump can you find? What are the benefits of using one? What else should you know about the pumps and their use? Our team has done some research, collect new facts, valuable information and made some bilge pump reviews. All this can help the readers to choose the right one for their boat.
Best Bilge Pumps Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
 | Seasense Hand Bilge Pump Hose |
| View On Amazon |
 | Rule Non-Automatic Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
 | Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
 | Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
 | Johnson Pumps of America Marine Pro-Line Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
 | Amarine-Made Marine Electric Bilge Pump |
| View On Amazon |
Best Bilge Pump Reviews (New List 2021)
We have compiled a review section specially to make your life easier. The top 10 products that we have selected are not arranged in any order so that we don’t taint your objectivity.
1. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump
Shoreline marine bilge pump is compact yet practical with a flow rate capacity of 600 gallons per hour (GPH). This is beneficial for a small boat as it will not take up much space. Further, they are easy to install as it has universal mounting. It serves as proper maintenance as well as a safety accessory that boat owners should have.
The unit includes a mounting bracket and stainless steel hardware which makes it a good purchase for such a competitive price. Moreover, it comes with more than enough marine grade wire to reach where you need it to go. It has ¾ inches diameter hose which is the standard size.
Another advantage of this bilge pump is that it is quieter than most pumps while in operation. The pump is submersible in the water and needs to be manually operated. However, if you prefer it to work automatically, you can always install a float switch. You would need 12 Volt DC current to power the motor.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Able to move water quickly
- Marine-grade wiring
Cons
- Lacks durability
2. Seasense Hand Bilge Pump Hose
The Seasense hand pump will be a convenient device while on a small boat such as a kayak or a canoe in case you tip over or encounter a hard rain to get rid of the water onboard. It has a capacity of 6 strokes per gallon. The hand pump can also be of good use for bigger boats to get rid of water in the areas that are hard to reach.
With a removable hose for secure storage, the hand bilge pump is extremely lightweight weighing only a pound. It resists corrosion and will be durable.
It has a large ergonomic high impact handle with an easy-grip that is convenient to use. The diameter of the pump housing is 2 inches, and the inside diameter of the hose is 1 1/8 inches. The pump is 24 inches long, and the hose is 36 inches long which is an average length for good suction. While using a longer tube is more liable to blockage, there is room to extend it to meet your needs.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic high impact handle
Cons
- Poor hose connection that tends to leak water
- While the pump is durable, the hose is not of good quality
3. Rule Non-Automatic Bilge Pump
As far as budget options go, this Ruler Bilge Pump is not a bad idea. You got 3 choices when it comes to voltage. That’s 12V, 24V and 32V. As you may guess, the price goes up proportionally to the voltage. Now, this pump is not the biggest one so in case your boat is longer than 28ft we would recommend that you look for a larger bilge pump from the same manufacturer. However, the strength in this one is not to be underestimated.
With this non-automatic pump, you will be able to pump water up to 10ft vertically and 20ft vertically + horizontally. This particular model does not feature a drain back valve. Will have to make sure your vacuum brake system is fine before embarking. The discharge hose outlet is of decent dimensions given the overall size of the pump. You get a 3-year warranty with that product.
Pros:
- Budget option
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Powerful for its size
Cons:
- Can’t service larger boats
- No drain back valve
4. Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump
If you are looking for a backup bilge pump, Attwood Tsunami will be a good choice. The simple reason is that the pump is reasonably priced and compact which will not take up much space. Also, it is straightforward to install as the pump can be snapped out of its base.
The pump is operated manually and rated a gallon per hour. It might not be the most durable pump, but it performs efficiently. It requires 12 Volt DC unit and draws 3 amps.
Cleaning and maintaining will be quick and straightforward as the pump inlet screen is easy to remove and you can get rid of any debris it sucks up. On top of that, the motor core is interchangeable and replaceable.
The pump has 1 1/8 inches outlet hose which is a bit larger than the standard tube. While it might be harder to find such a size hose the good part is the high volume output will result in pumping out water faster.
Pros
- Interchangeable and replaceable motor core
- Cartridges can be replaced
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Harder to find a hose that will fit the more significant discharge port
- Low flow rate
5. Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Pump
The Seaflo Automatic bilge pump is fully submersible and has a flow rate of 750 GPH, powerful enough to get you out of any emergency situation. The compact pump has a high-impact durable plastic housing. Moreover, it is rustproof and resistant to corrosion that further increased its durability. It has a stainless steel shaft.
The outlet diameter of the pump is a standard 3/4 inches. It is equipped with an integrated float switch test button. Since it has a built-in switch, no power is used until the water reaches the internal float switch. The pump has ignition protection against a high current.
Another favorable feature is the built-in electronic controlled reed sensor system which makes the automatic operation more reliable and comfortable. The pump can also be used with a switch panel for manual override.
Maintainance of the pump is effortless as it has a quick-release strainer. It also has a watertight seal and anti-airlock protection.
Pros
- Water-cooled long-life motor
- Silent and vibrationless operation
- Highly durable
Cons
- Reverse wiring which can be confusing while installing
- Not able to fully empty the boat as the pump will switch off when the water drops at a certain level.
6. Johnson Pumps of America Marine Pro-Line Bilge Pump
For those looking for a fully submersible bilge pump, Johnson pumps of America is offering a sound option at a fair price. The pump can move water efficiently with a flow rate of 750 GHP. Another added bonus is the 3-year warranty.
The bilge pump has an ignition protection feature so that it is protected against a high current. This will ultimately result in higher durability. The pump is tough enough to handle saltwater and includes anti-airlock protection.
It is manually operated unless you install a float switch to make it automatic. The pump is an average size and has a 3/4 inches outlet diameter which is a standard size. It is beneficial because finding a matching hose will be a piece of cake.
The pump claimed to be 100% factory tested, and thus every unit sent out should be in good working condition. Maintenance of the pump is easy due to the base strainer.
Pros
- 3-year warranty
- Anti-airlock protection
- High flow output
Cons
- Motor lacks durability
- No built-in switch
7. Amarine-Made Marine Electric Bilge Pump
The Amarine-made submersible bilge pump comes with all existing safety standards. It has impact-resistant ABS housing and strong thermoplastic bodies to ensure durability. The pump has a heavy-duty motor with a cooling water system to enjoy a long life. Furthermore, it has anti-airlock and moisture-tight seal.
The bilge pump has a high flow rate-1100 GPH and powered by 12 Volt plug that draws 3 amps only. Depending on your preference you can make the pump operate manually or automatically, either way, the switch needs to be bought additionally as in most cases.
It comes with proper lead wiring that is about 5 feet long. Not only will the installation be easy with the snap-lock strainer base but it will also make maintenance effortless. It also leads to a quiet and vibration-free operation.
The discharge port diameter is specified as 29mm which is equivalent to 1-1/8 inches. It can be a little harder to get such a size hose.
Pros
- Ignition protected
- High flow output
- Long lasting motor
Cons
- The diameter hose seems to be smaller than the specified size.
8. Rule 24 Submersible Bilge Pump
Rule 24 is specially designed for small boats and weighs 11.2 ounces only. The product dimension is 7-inch by 5.5-inch by 2-inches. It is fair to say that the pump is economically priced.
The pump is powered by 12 Volt plug and rated to have 350 GPH. It might not stand out when it comes to output capacity, but it is very reliable. It doesn’t come with a built-in switch because they are meant to be manually operated. This will involve an additional purchase of the switch, but on the bright side, the pump will be able to get rid of every last drop of water on board.
Installing the pump will be simple as it has a standard size output diameter which is 3/4. Another advantage of choosing this pump is that it has a 3-year warranty. So in case of any malfunction, you are covered. Nothing is surprising when it comes to maintenance as it has a removable base like most pumps.
Pros
- 3-year warranty
- Compact and lightweight
- Economically priced
Cons
- Low flow rate capacity
- Less durable
9. Rule 1100 GPH Non-Automatic Bilge Pump
One real advantage of the Rule 1100 bilge pump is that it comes with a 3-year warranty. As the title suggests, the flow rate is 1100 GPH which indicates high pumping capacity. Moreover, the hose diameter is 1 1/8 inches, and with such a wide discharge port, a vessel will be drained in no time.
The bilge pump has to be switched on manually and needless to say, the switch will be an additional purchase. Depending on its intended use and of course, your preference, you can always add an automatic switch. This will make the pump more reliable and will not fail you in times of need.
As the pump is designed for the bilge, it is fully submersible and has a long-life motor. The height of the pump is 4-1/4 inches and 2-3/8 inches wide and could be categorized as a small pump. It weighs under 3 pounds. Mounting will be reasonably straightforward as it has a detachable base.
Pros
- 3-year warranty
- High pumping capacity
- Durable
Cons
- No built-in switch
- More effort required in finding the right size hose as the discharge port is more substantial than standard size
10. Attwood Sahara Automatic Bilge Pump
Attwood Sahara automatic pump made from state of the art materials is durable and performs efficiently. It is rated at 500 GPH and draws 3 amps which are powerful enough to get rid of the water quickly. The pump includes 36 inches of 16-gauge tinned copper wire. The wire is sealed well to protect from water leakage.
The bilge pump is turned on automatically. It has an internal air-filled float piece that triggers the pump once the water level rises to a certain point and will continue pumping until the water level drops down to the shut-off level. You can test the operation to ensure that the switch is working well by merely turning the test knob which makes the air-filled piece float.
The weight of the automatic pump is 1.1 pounds which is considered to be lightweight for a bilge pump. The hose connection is 3/4 inches wide. It is a standard size and will fit all types of hose. There are two mounting holes in the detachable base so that you can mount the pump with ease.
Pros
- Durable
- 16-Gauge tinned copper wiring
- Float switch testing knob
Cons
- The float level is set low
- No option for adjustment on the float level
What is the Bilge Pump?
Water pumps are one of the main marine elements of your boat preparation. The bilge pump is a kind of water pump, which is used to remove the water from the bottom of the ship. There are some kinds of these pumps, but it is essential to use a primary and secondary pump. Often bilge pumps are made to be used in the underwater craft and do not cause flicker since bilgewater is a blend of fuel and other liquids. So the bilge pump is an eternal part of the vessel – the right choice of it can be the lifesaver.
Types Of Bilge Pumps
As every other bilge pump for small boats, you can find different types of bilge pumps. The main thing is to know what exactly do you need for your ship – the size, the capacity and where you will put the pump. It is good to know all the bilge pump basics when you choose your type of pump.
Centrifugal Electrical Pump
Using kinetic energy by rotating, the centrifugal electrical pump move the water just as the turbine. This kind of pump is cheap and runs a lot of water. The maintenance is easy, you can store it for a long time when you are not using it.
Diaphragm Electrical Pump
Here, the pump use vacuum and ‘suck’ the bilge water out. The diaphragm pump is self-priming, and it pushes the water better uphill. It is harder to maintaining and cannot move so much water, but can run dry without any damage.
Benefits Of Bilge Pumps
The benefits of using a Bilge Pump depend on selecting the right kind of pump. Here we are going to introduce you to some of the main benefits.
Free Space
Both kinds of pumps are designed for underwater use. But safety first! The pump is small just and can be placed almost anywhere at the bottom of the vessel similar to any boat anchor.
Cost
Most of the pumps are not expensive. You can find some good pumps at a meager price. It will do the same job, Just make sure you choose the right kind of pump for the size of the boat and the engine.
Portability
The bilge water pump is easy to move. You can store it somewhere else, not in the boat, when you are not using it. Some of the pumps can be stored for a long time without being damaged.
Security
Having a functional bilge pump will make you feel more secure while sailing. You already know, that having liquids on the bottom of your boat, can become dangerous real fast. One of the main pros of having and using the right type of pump for your watercraft is safety. Always check if the pump is working before leaving the wharf.
Drawbacks
All the items that we buy have some advantages, but also some disadvantages. Here we have summed some information about the pumps, that will help you to keep your boat safe.
Theft
As we already said, these pumps are comfortable to be lifted and stored. But this is a precondition for robbery. Be sure you always keep the portable bilge pump safe! Yes, they are cheap, but theft can cause some severe situations.
Attention
Always pay attention to the size and how the pump is working. If you had the wrong one – too small or too big – it would not work fine, so you may have some trouble.
Dangerous Situations
Having two water pumps is essential. One of them can always be damaged, and it is good to have one more so you can use it in case of a break-down.
Features
Here you can see the most essential elements of the bilge pumps. The choice of the right one just depends on these facts.
Size
Choose the right size of the pump so you will have enough space for it and for other supplies you need such as an anchor rope and others. The size matters – not only it is essential for the amount of water, but also for the free space in your boat.
Capacity
This one is significant! Always check the output of the pump before buying it. If it is too small for your vessel, it can cause some dangerous situations, because it is not pumping the water fast enough.
Types
Type of the pump is essential. You have already checked the kinds of the bilge pumps, and you know your type of boat. Be sure you choose a centrifugal pump for larger ships and diaphragm pump if you need to push the water uphill.
Maintenance
As you already saw, the support is not something complicated, but now we will introduce you to some crucial details about it. The maintenance of the pump is specific for different kinds of pumps.
- Remove dirt and waste from the place, where the pump is.
- Clean the screen of the pump. The intake screen is essential for the user.
- Always check the electrical connection.
- If you use a diaphragm one, clean it to prevent clogging.
- You can check the manual for some more specific details.
- Maintenance is essential for the life of the pump. Take proper care for it, and it will be reliable for a long time.
Installation
You have bought your pump, and now you need to install in on the boat. Reading the manual from the manufacturer, you will find information about the installation of a particular pump. Here are some more tips for installation.
It very important is to check the electrical connection. If you are not sure about it, always call a technician just to be sure.
It doesn’t matter what brand of pump you have, the installation is essential for efficient use. Do not forget to check the instructions.
Never use a crumpled hose. It can be very dangerous. Choose a smooth one – it will not kink.
If you find any troubles during the installation – call a technician. They will help you. Do not forget – safety is first! The correct installation is essential for proper use.
Safety Tips
Safety is essential for all of us. And protection while sailing is even more critical because, in the sea, we cannot do so many things. We need to be prepared for some situations before leaving the pier. Check some tips our team has collected to help you with the choice, with using of the bilge pump and with preventing dangerous situations.
- Pick the right type of pump!
- Check the pump before leaving the pier.
- Have a spare one in your boat in case of a break-down.
- Place the pump in the right place!
- Take proper care of the pump!
- If you are not sure, if the pump is working fine, call a technician – they will make sure that everything is perfect.
- Always have a secondary one – if you are at the water and the first one breaks down, you can change it. This is life-saver!
- Always enjoy your free time in the water, but never forget the safety. Check the electrical connection.
Wrap up
Well done, you guys, you have successfully finished our buying guide on finding the best small bilge pump. Having read our reviews on the best bilge pump and our additional information and tips, you now realize that finding a reliable product can be a bit hard. It is essential to own the right pump for your boat, do not forget the maintenance and always follow the manual and the safety tips, so you can enjoy your boat and your trip in the water.
If you find our guide useful, forward it to your sailing-loving friends. Also, do not hesitate to contact us – your opinion is important! Comment, sent us an email – tell us what you think!
We hope that you find this text interesting. Find some more free time and check our articles – you can find information about all the marine supplies you need. Thanks for reading and as always – stay put!