Electric Bilge Pumps

Our Electric Bilge Pumps range covers automatic and electric bilge pumps that clear water from the bilge without manual effort – typically paired with a float switch so the pump activates automatically as water rises, whether or not you’re aboard.

Pump capacity is rated in gallons or litres per hour, and sizing should account for realistic water ingress, not just bilge volume – a boat that takes on water from spray, condensation or a slow leak needs a pump capable of clearing it faster than it accumulates, with margin for a worse-than-expected scenario. Automatic pumps paired with a float switch are the standard setup, since they activate without anyone aboard to notice rising water – genuinely valuable if the boat sits on a mooring unattended between visits. Position matters as much as pump size: mount it at the lowest point of the bilge where water actually collects, since a pump mounted too high leaves water it can’t reach.

However capable your electric pump, always keep a manual bilge pump aboard too as backup – electric pumps depend on a working battery and wiring, both of which can fail exactly when you need the pump most.

Frequently asked questions

What size electric bilge pump do I need?

Size to realistic water ingress with a safety margin, not just bilge volume – check the pump’s rated gallons/litres per hour against how quickly water could realistically accumulate.

Do I need a float switch with my bilge pump?

Yes, for most setups – it lets the pump activate automatically as water rises, which matters especially if the boat sits unattended on a mooring between visits.

Do I still need a manual bilge pump if I have an electric one?

Yes – electric pumps depend on battery and wiring that can fail, so a manual pump is the essential backup regardless of your electric pump’s capacity.