The boat is equipped with both manual and electric bilge pumps. The signs on the boat display the draining area of each pump.
The manual bilge pump is controlled with its handle.
The submersible electric bilge pumps are equipped with a float which triggers them automatically if there is water in the bilge space. The electric bilge pumps can also be controlled manually from the switches on the steering console.
The bilge system is not designed for damage control.
The combined capacity of the bilge system is not designed to pump out the boat in the event of hull damage.
Keep the bilge area clean by washing it ever so often using bilge cleaner or biodegradable soap and water. Clean bilge significantly helps noticing signs of leaks or other problems that may occur.
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Check the functionality of the bilge pumps regularly by manually activating them.
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Remove any waste from the intakes.
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Clear the pump outlets from debris.
If seacocks are fitted in the fore and aft peak bulkheads, keep them closed, and only open to let water drain into the main bilges.
Do not run the pumps dry for a long time. The pumps will be damaged.
Avoid pollution.
Since the bilge system comprises of several automatic and manual pumps that cover all areas of the boat, the risk of accidental discharge of contaminated water by automatic pumps needs to be minimized.
Mitigate the risk by checking the bilge water regularly for contaminants such as oil, diesel, and glycol.
Make sure that:
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The bilge pumps can operate freely, and there are no objects blocking operation.
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Water can flow through the strainer, and there is no muck or material restricting the water flow.
Clean the strainer by pushing the lock tabs in the pump motor and lifting the motor unit off.