12V Bilge Pump – 500 GPH / 750 GPH Models

This 12-volt bilge pump is designed to tackle the challenge of dewatering boats and yachts, keeping your bilge dry and preventing water accumulation that could cause damage or instability. The pump comes in two versions: 500 GPH (gallons per hour) and 750 GPH, allowing you to choose the appropriate capacity based on your vessel’s size and operating conditions.

• 500 GPH model (1890 L/h): Suited for smaller vessels (up to ~15-18 feet), personal watercraft, inflatable boats, or as an auxiliary pump on larger craft. This model provides sufficient flow for typical conditions – rain, splashes, minor leaks. Its low power draw (~2.2A at 12V) means it can run for extended periods without heavily draining the battery. Recommended for use on: fishing skiffs, small center console boats, RIB inflatables, where space is limited and large volumes of water ingress are not expected.
• 750 GPH model (2835 L/h): Ideal for medium-sized boats (up to ~21-25 feet) or when faster pumping is needed (for example, in heavier seas, sudden downpours, or more significant leaks). The current draw is about 2.5A at 12V – slightly higher, yet still efficient and easy on the electrical system. Recommended for use on: mid-size sailboats and powerboats, cuddy cabins or small cruisers, or as a primary pump on a smaller boat when extra dewatering capacity is desired.

Both models share the same design and features, differing mainly in motor power and flow rate. The pump boasts a compact cylindrical form with a low profile, allowing installation even in shallow bilge compartments. At the base, it has a removable strainer/filter that prevents debris (leaves, dirt, small parts) from being sucked into the pump. This strainer is easily cleaned by snapping it off – no tools required – making maintenance straightforward.

Installation is simple: mount the pump securely to the bilge floor (usually with screws or an adhesive pad), connect the two wires to your 12V electrical system (red to positive, black to negative), and attach the discharge hose. The outlet nozzle is a standard 19mm (3/4”) fitting, and an adapter for 29mm (1-1/8”) hose is included – these are the two most common bilge hose sizes. This gives flexibility to interface with your boat’s existing thru-hull outlet.

The pump is fully submersible and sealed. The electric motor is encased, and gaskets prevent water from entering the motor housing. The motor shaft is made of stainless steel, resistant to corrosion even with continuous saltwater contact. The pump’s housing is built from high-impact ABS plastic, which can withstand shocks and vibration during boat operation.

Operation & Control: These pumps can be activated manually via a switch on your dash panel or automatically via a float switch, which monitors water level. In their basic form, the pumps have no built-in sensor, making them “manual” – i.e., they run when power is applied. For automatic operation, you can add any standard 12V float switch; the pump is compatible with all common float switches. There is an internal thermal cut-off to prevent the motor from overheating – if run dry or if the discharge is blocked, the pump will temporarily shut down to protect the motor.

Maintenance: It’s advisable to periodically (e.g., monthly) inspect and clean the strainer to remove any accumulated debris, ensuring maximum flow rate. Also check the electrical connections for corrosion and that they are properly sealed (using heat-shrink tubing or marine-grade connectors). When winterizing your boat, the pump can be detached and rinsed with fresh water to remove salt and grime, helping to prolong its life.

With these bilge pumps installed, your boat is safeguarded against unwanted water ingress. Whether you encounter a storm, a leaky fitting, or simply rainwater collection, the pump will swiftly expel water overboard, keeping your vessel dry and stable. This is a reliable and cost-effective solution for peace of mind while boating, trusted by thousands of boat owners worldwide.