Why Your Bilge Pump Will Fail When You Need It Most

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Most sailboat owners assume their bilge pump is a reliable last line of defense. It’s installed, it runs when tested, and it’s easy to believe it will work when water is coming in. Unfortunately, real-world bilge pump failures are far more common than most owners realize.

In this video, we take a close, practical look at why bilge pumps fail at the worst possible moment. From misleading pump capacity ratings and voltage drop to float switch failures, wiring corrosion, poor hose routing, and maintenance issues that quietly reduce performance, this is the information every boat owner should understand before an emergency happens.

We also explain why simply installing a bigger bilge pump doesn’t always make a boat safer, how discharge plumbing and check valves can dramatically reduce flow, and why redundancy and proper installation matter more than advertised gallons-per-hour ratings. Whether you sail coastal waters or offshore, understanding how your bilge pump system really works can buy you valuable time when it matters most.

If you own a sailboat, are refitting an older boat, or are planning upgrades to improve onboard safety, this video will help you make smarter decisions about bilge pumps, wiring, switches, and maintenance.

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