4.8.2 Bilge pump system

The bilge pump system consists of an electric and a manual bilge pump.

The electric bilge pump is equipped with a float for detecting water in the bilge space. The pump is activated and pumps out the water as required. There is an alarm when the pumping starts. You can also control the pump from the steering console.

The manual bilge pump serves as additional safety equipment in case the electric bilge pump is broken or there is no electricity. 

Using the pumps

The combined capacity of the bilge pumps is not designed to pump out the boat in the event of hull damage. See section 9.2 Technical specification for details about pump output capacity.

In case of rapid water accumulation, call rescue service. 

Risk of material damage.

The boat's two-stepped hull structure allows water to build up over a long period of time and can cause damage to the components, if not removed. 

  • Check the bilge area always before using the boat.

  • Do not leave the boat unattended in the water for more than two weeks at a time. 

  • Activate the electric pump from the steering console if necessary. 

The pumps can break if run dry for a long time.

  • Make sure you stop the pumps when the bilge is empty.

Maintenance

Normally there is no need to use the bilge pumps as the system is fully automatic. However, to ensure that there is no water build-up in the bilge, regularly check the aft storage space, fuel tank space and under the front cabin floor.

As as safety precaution:

  • Check the functionality of the bilge pumps regularly.

  • Remove any debris from the suction points.

You can access the electric bilge pump and the suction points from the inspection hatch in the aft storage space. See 4.8 Draining system.

If you are leaving the boat docked for a long time without connecting it to shore power, the boat's bilge pump battery may run empty. As a result, water can build up in the bilge and cause damage to components. 

Do not leave the boat unattended in the water for a long time. It is recommended that you check, approximately every two weeks, that:

  • There is no water in the bilge.

  • The bilge pump is working.

  • The boat's floating position is level.

Environmental hazard! Contaminants may end up in the bilge and waterways.

  • Check the bilge water regularly for contaminants, such as oil, diesel, and glycol.

  • Do not pump water into the sea if it is not clear. Use a separate container and discard as contaminated waste.