Rain water, leaky pumps and accidental spills tend to accumulate on the hull, in the bilge specifically. Accumulation of water in the bilge can result in serious problems like instability and corrosion. And this is where the best bilge pump comes in as it helps address such issues.
Bilge pumps use pressure or vacuum suction to remove the water accumulation. The pump usually helps prevent the boat from sinking by pumping the excess water. Otherwise, the water accumulation can increase weight to a point that the boat cannot support. You are at the right place if you are looking for the best bilge pump on the market. Let’s dive right in!
Best Bilge Pumps
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Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump was made by one of the most popular brands. You can effortlessly position it in the hull and is equally user-friendly as it features a secure clip. What’s more, the clip is detachable for ease of inspection and cleaning. It has a universal base with flexible mounting options. You can position it on the side or at the bottom. You can screw it on a mounting pad, stringer or transom.
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump additionally features a rugged construction design that’s quite commendable. It comes with a sturdy plastic housing that can withstand even the harshest of marine environments. The impeller shaft, on the other hand, is made of stainless steel. Save for the submersible pump’s longevity, its construction is equally impressive owing to its safety.
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump also has an ignition protection that helps prevent any electrical problems. The low amperage operating current is a bonus along with the tinned lead and marine grade wires. The only drawback is that this submersible pump has a weaker pressure. This typically means that it doesn’t throw the water further away from the accumulation point even with optimal pressure capacity. It’s the best bilge pump on the market thanks to its durable construction, secure clip and flexible mounting positions.
Pros
- It comes with a secure clip which makes installation easy
- The clip is detachable for ease of cleaning and inspection
- It features a universal with flexible mounting options
- The rugged construction design guarantees long-lasting durability and endurance
Cons
- This submersible pump doesn’t throw water further away from the accumulation point
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Maxzone Automatic Bilge Water Pump has a compact design which makes it ideal for use in smaller boats. It’s also an excellent backup pump since it doesn’t take up too much space on the hull and comes with a built-in float switch. Although is spots a space-efficient design, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it compromises on performance. This automatic bilge pump is equally energy efficient since it doesn’t use power when idle. It only works when the fixed float switch is activated, which means when the water accumulation is at a critical level.
Maxzone Automatic Bilge Water Pump is made with sturdy, high-quality materials for increased durability. Plus, the robust plastic casing can withstand high impact and is equally corrosion and rust resistant. It additionally features tight seals to prevent water from seeping through the motor. The shaft is made of stainless steel to help extend the functional life of the pump along with the water-cooled motors.
Maxzone Automatic Bilge Water Pump has a reed sensor with intelligent electronic control to allow smart operations. What’s more, the feature is quite impressive as it makes the operation seamless for the user. The only drawback is that the fixed float switch is less sensitive even though it’s an automatic pump. You might need to turn it on manually before it starts to remove water from the boat.
Maxzone Automatic Bilge Water Pump offers a lot of benefits thanks to its durable construction and automatic energy efficient operation.
Pros
- It’s an excellent choice for smaller boats
- It’s energy efficient since it doesn’t use power when idle
- It features a sturdy plastic casing that can withstand high impact
- It has a reed sensor with intelligent electronic control
Cons
- The fixed float switch is not sensitive enough
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Johnson Pump 28552 Marine Pump Cartridge is the best bilge pump on the market as it features a plug and play design and is also user-friendly. It’s an excellent choice for those who already own an electric pump that requires new cartridge. Plus, it’s easy to install! You only need to remove the impeller and old pump and replace it with this pump cartridge.
Save for easy replacement, Johnson Pump 28552 Marine Pump Cartridge also comes in multi-tone colors. This makes connecting the wires easy as they effortlessly snap onto the pump’s existing frame. Sometimes, getting a new pump is costly and the option of replacing the cartridge will save you a few bucks. It’s quite economical and that’s why its an excellent choice for those working on a budget.
Johnson Pump 28552 Marine Pump Cartridge is relatively cheap without compromising on performance and quality. The best thing about this pump cartridge is that it has an ignition protection feature. It helps prevent water from seeping through the components resulting in electrical problems. What’s more, the pump can’t ignite a flame near any ignition sources and this plays a significant role when it comes to safety.
The only downside is that Johnson Pump 28552 Marine Pump Cartridge isn’t a complete pump system. It instead comes with the motor and the impeller only since it’s a replacement cartridge. If you are looking for a plug and play replacement at an affordable price, then this pump cartridge is your best bet.
Pros
- It features an ignition protected frame
- It’s an excellent choice for those working on a budget
- It comes with color-coded wires for ease of installation
- It features a plug and play design and is equally user-friendly
Cons
- It’s not a fully packaged pump system as it only comes with the motor and impeller
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Rule pumps set the pace on the market when it comes to premium quality marine products and Rule 02 Bilge Pump is no exception. If you are looking for a smaller alternative, then this particular unit is your best bet. It’s small enough to fit smaller boats since its only 6.3 inches long. The best thing about this marine bilge pump is the long-lasting motor. It features a submersible design to prevent water from damaging the components.
Rule 02 Marine Bilge Pump offers long-lasting durability even in the harshest of marine environments. The shafts are made of stainless steel with incredible corrosion resistance. If you are conversant with automatic bilge pumps, then you know that noise is quite annoying. Some units usually generate a lot of noise when getting rid of the water accumulation and throwing it overboard. However, that is not the case with this model since it works silently.
In addition, Rule 02 Marine Bilge Pump doesn’t vibrate. This means that all the components and motor are well protected against damage. You can easily remove the debris and dirt that tend to accumulate on the bilge pump over time since this model features a snap-lock strainer. Push the tabs on the side of the motor to remove the strainer when you want to clean it.
However, Rule 02 Marine Bilge Pump isn’t as durable as its counterparts. It’s the best bilge pump on the market since it operates quietly and is easy to clean thanks to the snap-lock strainer.
Pros
- It comes with a snap-lock strainer which makes cleaning easy
- It works silently without any vibrations
- It small enough and fits perfectly well in smaller boats
- The long-life motor can stand the test of time
Cons
- It’s not quite durable
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Attwood Sahara Automatic Bilge Pump is made by a renown brand that’s known to make high-quality marine products. This unit is one of the best automatic bilge pumps for smaller boats. It’s compact enough and features a sturdy frame that offers long-lasting durability. You can install it in tight creeks since it doesn’t take up too much space in the bilge.
Attwood 4505-7 Sahara Automatic Bilge Pump has an impressive motor. It features a magnet that helps keep in place and lubricates the bearings to make the operation smooth. Reducing unnecessary friction allows the motor to operate smoothly and prevents wear. It additionally comes with premium quality components that provide long-lasting durability and endurance.
Attwood 4505-7 Automatic Bilge Pump features corrosion resistant stainless steel shafts which makes it ideal for use in both fresh and saltwater. The high impact impeller has reinforcement since it comes with a glass filling. What’s more, this bilge pump has plenty of user-friendly features. You can do operational checks using the test knob to ensure the bilge pump works perfectly well.
Attwood 4505-7 Sahara Automatic Bilge Pump also comes with an intuitively designed tray for ease of cleaning and one-hand operation. However, you might have to explore other options if you are looking for an energy efficient unit. The battery tends to drain quickly since the fixed float switch gets stuck to the on position thereby activating the pump even when there’s no water accumulation. It features a user-friendly design, comes with a large filter and is compact.
Pros
- The components guarantee long-lasting durability and endurance
- It’s compact enough and fits remarkably well in tighter spaces
- It comes with a permanent magnet motor for lubricating the ball bearings
- It comes with a large filter that is clog resistant
Cons
- The battery tends to drain quickly
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If you are looking for the best bilge pump on a budget, then Maxzone Non-Automatic Bilge Water Pump is your best bet. It’s relatively cheap without compromising on its functionality and performance. This unit has an incredible flow rate up to about 1100GPH, estimated at 5000litres per hour. The head stands at 13 feet which means it throws the water further away from the accumulation point with ease. This reduces the chances of water returning and accumulating in the hull.
Maxzone Non-Automatic Bilge Water Pump is quite powerful but has a low amperage draw. Low amp draw typically means it doesn’t consume a significant amount of power. Unlike some electrical bilge pumps, it doesn’t drain battery quickly. This unit can withstand even the harshest of marine environments and thrives even in saltwater.
Maxzone Non-Automatic Bilge Water Pump comes with a water-cooled engine that helps ensure the motor doesn’t heat up when running. This increases the lifespan of the pump. Plus, it’s a submersible pump which means it won’t break even when it comes in contact with water. It has sealed components and stainless steel frame that prevents water from seeping through to prevent damage.
The only drawback is that Maxzone Non-Automatic Bilge Water Pump is a bit loud. It generates an annoying noise when operating.
Pros
- It falls on the lower side of the pricing spectrum
- It comes with a water-cooled engine that helps keep the motor cool when running
- It has a great flow capacity rated at 1100 GPH
- It features a sturdy construction that can withstand even the harshest of marine environments
Cons
- It’s a bit noisy
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Onechoices Automatic Submersible Bilge Pump is best suited for small boats. It has an impressive 750 GPH flow rate and 3-amp, 12 V motor. This submersible bilge pump has a higher capacity output with a low current draw that makes it a great energy efficient option. It has an ignition protected body that guarantees maximum safety even when it comes in contact with a combustible material. This also helps protect the engine from wearing out prematurely.
Onechoices Automatic Submersible Bilge Pump is also rust and corrosion resistant which means it offers long-lasting durability even after using it for years. What’s more, it comes with a fixed float switch, saving you the hassle that comes with installing any third-party switch. When the water gets to a critical level that requires raining out, the switch automatically activates.
The best thing about Onechoices Automatic Submersible Bilge Pump is the anti-airlock protection feature. This means tat air will not be trapped in the pump. It’s an impressive feature since an airlock in the pump tends to get in the way of its functionality as it blocks the system. What’s more, cleaning this bilge pump is effortless because it comes with a strainer.
Onechoices Automatic Submersible Bilge Pump is easy to clean since it comes with a removable strainer that uses the quick-release mechanism. However, this pump only works well for smaller boats and has shorter battery wires. It’s the best bilge pump on the market thanks to the fixed float switch, ignition-protected body and quick-release strainer for ease of cleaning.
Pros
- It comes with a strainer that uses a quick-release mechanism which makes cleaning easy
- It features a built-in float switch saving you the hassle that comes with installing a third-party switch
- The anti-airlock feature helps prevent air from being trapped in the pump
- It has an ignition-protected frame
Cons
- It comes with short battery wires
BUY ON AMAZON
Seaflo Automatic Bilge Water Pump is fully automatic as it activates when the water gets to a critical level. After removing water from the bilge, the pump automatically shuts down. The automatic feature not only helps save battery but is equally convenient which makes it the best bilge pump. It’s also energy efficient thanks to its low amp draw.
Seaflo Automatic Bilge Water Pump is uniquely designed with high-quality materials to provide long-lasting durability and endurance. It has tight seals to prevent water from seeping through and lock out moisture too to extend the lifespan of the components and motor. The best thing about this unit is that it doesn’t vibrate and this protects the pump’s motor from damage resulting from excessive movements.
Seaflo Automatic Bilge Water Pump is easy to clean. It features a snap-lock base to allow the user to remove the strainer effortlessly. This in turn makes removing the accumulated debris at the bottom of the pump easier to help prevent clogging. What’s more, this bilge pump comes with a 4-year warranty. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have a manual knob on the side of the motor.
A manual knob usually comes in handy when you want to drain off excess water before it gets to the critical level where the switch can easily detect. This automatic and submersible water pump features a smart design to provide long-lasting durability.
Pros
- It’s fully automatic which makes its operation quite effortless
- It has a removable snap-lock base for ease of cleaning
- The battery doesn’t drain quickly since the pump has a low amp draw
- It has tight seals to prevent water from seeping through and also lock out moisture to prevent damage
Cons
- It doesn’t have a manual knob on the side
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Rule 25DA Bilge Pump has a 500GPH flow rate best suited for small boats. If you are looking for the best bilge pump on the market then you should have this unit on your radar although it’s not quite powerful. It has a low amp draw and requires 12Volts to run, which makes it an excellent energy efficient option. It comes with a check valve that helps prevent backflow. This typically means that it throws the water accumulation further away to prevent it from flowing back to the pump. It prevents the bilge pump from cycling on/off and keep the water flowing.
Rule 25DA Bilge Pump additionally features an unobtrusive air vent which is quite efficient when it comes to air locking. The pump may fail to work continuously when air is trapped inside. The electromagnetic suppression and built-in thermal cell prevent any damages resulting from excess heat. It not only protects the vessel but also the pump. The only drawback is that the fixed float switch only activates when the water gets to a certain level.
Rule 25DA Bilge Pump is ideal for small boats since it has a low amp draw. It also prevents backflow and air locking to allow the pump to operate smoothly.
Pros
- It has impressive built-in features to prevent damages resulting from excessive heat
- It comes with an unobtrusive air vent that helps prevent air locking
- It comes with a check valve to prevent backflow
- It has a low amp draw that makes it quite efficient
Cons
- It only works well when water gets to a certain level
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Attwood is a renown brand that’s known to make high-quality products and this manual bilge pump is no exception. It’s the best bilge pump on the market as it’s made with premium quality materials that guarantee long-lasting durability and endurance. It comes with great components ranging from brushes to ball bearings that contribute to the pump’s high performance and functionality.
Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump is easy to install since the wiring is uncomplicated. Installation takes a maximum of three minutes and has a perfect fit. The cartridge has it all since this is a self-contained model. Important components are protected from external damage as they are sealed in the motor housing. The cartridge is long enough for use in a range of boat installations.
Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump is equally efficient with a 500 GPH flow rate. This pump has a low amp draw but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it compromises on functionality. It’s one of the high performing bilge pumps on the market. However, this is just a cartridge that you can use to replace a damaged on any motor from this particular brand. It works remarkably well with Attwood Tsunami T500.
Generally, Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump is easy to install and is also energy efficient to help save power without getting in the way of its performance.
Pros
- It’s energy efficient without compromising on performance and functionality
- This pump has it all since it’s a self-contained unit
- It’s easy to install and doesn’t require any experience
- It’s made with high-quality materials that guarantee long-lasting durability
Cons
- It’s not a bilge pump on its own but a replacement cartridge
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Creatorele Bilge Pump falls on the lower side of the pricing spectrum. If you are looking for an economical option without compromising on performance and functionality, then this unit is your best bet. This 12V bilge pump delivers high efficiency with a low amp draw. It’s a great pump in terms of efficiency. It features stainless steel shafts that offer long-lasting durability.
Creatorele Bilge Pump is a relatively small pump but is huge when it comes to performance. It has a 1100 GPH flow rate which is quite impressive for its size. This pump is equally versatile since its use goes beyond the fishing boats. It’s ideal for large vessels such as yachts and cruise ships. Save for different marine applications, you can use this pump in fountains, aquariums, and solar water systems.
Creatorele Bilge Pump features a large pipe opening discharge port. This means that the pump can comfortably accommodate different sizes and types of joints according to your specifications. It comes in a sturdy plastic housing that is impact resistant. It doesn’t break easily even in the toughest of conditions to protect both the motor and components. However, the casing is not corrosion and rust resistant which means it’s not ideal for use in saltwater.
In addition, all the signs show that the external casing tends to wear out quickly. Creatorele Bilge Pump features a stainless steel shaft while the housing is made of ABS plastic. It’s equally versatile and works remarkably well without compromising on efficiency.
Pros
- It has a capacity and a low amp draw
- It comes with a nylon pipe discharge port that accommodates different types and sizes of joints
- It’s compact enough and has an impressive flow rate
- It comes in an impact resistant casing
Cons
- The metals parts are not rust and corrosion resistant
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Seaflo Bilge Pump is a traditional unit that comes with a separate switch. You can replace the switch when it’s damaged and not the entire pump which is a bonus since it saves you a few bucks. Even the best bilge pumps tend to accumulate dirt and debris overtime. Thankfully, this unit has a snap-lock strainer that makes cleaning effortless. This prevents dirt from blocking the system which can make the pump ineffective in removing water accumulation in the bilge compartment.
Seaflo Bilge Pump has a tight seal to prevent water from seeping through and locking out moisture too. Excess moisture usually strains the motor, which in turn makes it more susceptible to damage. The wires are equally impressive. The high-end construction can withstand even the harshest of marine conditions. The wires provide optimal safety and conductivity especially when used in water.
Seaflo Bilge Pump operates quietly without vibrations. You’ll not even notice any of its operations since its super quite running. The only drawback is the housing and outer shell weak connection which compromises its durability. It’s the best bilge pump on the market as it has a range of impressive features including tight seals, marine-grade wires and a removable strainer.
Pros
- It has a tight seal to prevent water and moisture from seeping through the motor and other components
- It’s a traditional pump with a standalone switch which allows you to repair the switch only when its damaged as opposed to the entire pump
- It comes with a removable strainer for ease of cleaning
- The marine-grade wires construction can withstand even the harshest of marine conditions
Cons
- It has a weak connection between the housing and the outer shell which compromises its durability
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Seachoice 19481 Aeration and Pump System is designed for different applications. It’s meant to keep the bait fresh in a cooler and ice bucket and also doubles up as a wash-down system. It works remarkably well in both fresh and saltwater.
Seachoice 19481 Aeration and Pump System is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option. It comes with a range of accessories, 12V battery clips and is equally multifunctional. It has a low amp draw without compromising performance and functionality. It consumes very little energy and delivers decent performance. Plus, it doesn’t drain the battery.
Seachoice 19481 Aeration and Pump System has a 360 GPH flow rate. It’s best suited for use in small boats owing to its capacity and an excellent choice for kayaks. However, you need to exercise patience when it comes to installation. Assembling is not straightforward especially for first timers. It’s versatile as it doubles up as an aerator to help keep the bait fresh.
Pros
- It works well in both fresh and saltwater
- It uses less power to operate to help save battery
- It comes with a range of accessories
- It features a versatile design for different marine applications
Cons
- It’s not easy to install
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Seasense 50010425 Automatic Bilge Pump features an ignition protection. This typically means that it doesn’t ignite hydrocarbon mixture especially when used closer to the ignition source. Depending on the function of the pump, it prevents internal explosion and also releases electrical energy.
Seasense 50010425 Automatic Bilge Pump comes with a number of impressive features that guarantee long-lasting durability and endurance. For instance, the sturdy casing is made with ABS plastic that resists high impact. It doesn’t break or crack easily even though it’s made of plastic. Save for the housing, it also features tinned wires uniquely designed to withstand the toughest of marine environments. Tinning is known to make the wire marine grade which in turn makes it corrosion resistant and flexible enough without compromising on current flow.
Seasense Automatic Bilge Pump is quite flexible. It has universal holes that allows the user to position it in different ways. However, the positioning usually depends on the set up of the boat. It’s always advisable to attach the pump at the lowest point so that it siphons the water accumulation with ease before it gets to a critical level.
Seasense Automatic Bilge Pump is quite high which makes it unsuitable for use in small boats with shallow bilge.
Pros
- It features universal holes that allows you to position it in different ways
- It’s safe to use as it features ignition protection
- It comes with an ABS plastic housing that guarantees long-lasting durability and endurance
- The plastic housing doesn’t crack or break easily and can withstand high impact
- The tinned wires are uniquely designed to withstand the toughest of marine conditions
Cons
- It’s not ideal for use on small boats with shallow bilge well since it’s quite high
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DontMiss Automatic Bilge Pump is a great alternative for those who don’t like using a manual pump to get rid of water accumulation. It’s fully automatic which makes it the best bilge pump available on the market. This also means that you don’t have to activate the button when you want to turn it on. It comes with a fixed float switch that automatically detects the level of water when it gets to a certain level. This automatic bilge pump has a long-life motor, intelligent automatic operation and a high flow rate.
The bilge pump has a 1100 GPH flow rate which means its quite powerful allowing it to draw water accumulation in record time. What’s more, it uses very little power unlike its counterparts that run continuously, draining the battery quickly. This pump only starts running when the water level gets to a critical level. The best thing about this pump is that it offers long-lasting durability and endurance.
This automatic bilge pump comes with a plastic housing that can withstand high impact. Plus, it helps protect internal components from damage and wear. The motor stays securely in place even when subjected to vibrations. It additionally features tight seals that prevent moisture and water from seeping through the motor.
The anti-lock protection, on the other hand, helps ensure the pump functions perfectly well. It prevents air and bubbles from getting in the way of the suction power. This not only makes it the best bilge pump but also reliable in different conditions. The only drawback is that it’s not from a renown brand but if you can look past that then you are good to go.
Pros
- It has tight seals to prevent water and moisture penetration
- The motor won’t burn even when dry
- It has a higher pumping capacity and is equally efficient
- It’s fully automatic and comes with an electric sensor
Cons
- It’s not from a renowned brand
How a Bilge Pump Works
Bilge pumps help remove water accumulation from bilge spaces. A bilge pump typically sucks the water while redirecting it outside the boat. You’ll have to use your hands to activate a manual pump like you would when pumping a traditional bicycle. An automatic bilge pump, on the other hand, comes with a fixed float switch that detects the water when it gets to a certain level.
Different Types of Bilge Pumps
Save for the manual and electric bilge pumps, there are other variations on the market including:
Centrifugal Pumps – This type of bilge pump usually rotates the water using kinetic energy just like how the turbine works.
Diaphragm Pump – It sucks water from bilge spaces like a vacuum.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Bilge Pumps
Using a bilge pump is not only easy but also safe as it helps suck water from the boat to prevent sinking. It’s equally convenient to use. It also helps keep the internal components safe when water gets to a critical level. The only drawback when it comes to using bilge pumps is the cost.
Factors to Consider When Looking for the Best Bilge Pump
Here’s a round-up of some of the factors you need to put into consideration when looking for the best bilge pump:
Capacity – In this case, the flow rate will help you determine pump’s capacity to get one that’s best suited for your boat since you can match it to the size and length.
Durability – Always go for a bilge pump that’s rust and corrosion resistant especially if you plan on using it on saltwater. It should come with long-lasting shafts and durable housing.
Type – You need to decide the type of pump you want whether diaphragm or centrifugal, manual or automatic.
Compatibility – Go for a pump that’s compatible with your boat. For instance, centrifugal pumps are usually best suited for large boats. A diaphragm pump, on the other hand, throws water further ways from the accumulation point. A portable bilge pump is ideal for kayaks.
Maintenance and Care
Here are some important tips that will help you get the most from the bilge pump and also ensure long-lasting durability and peak performance.
- Remove trash from the strainer frequently. Debris and dirt tend to accumulate on the strainer and this can result in dismal performance, foul smell and bacterial growth. Remove the bilge pump strainer regularly to prevent it from clogging.
- Always test the fixed flat switch to ensure its working properly.
- Check the wires to ensure they properly connect to the source of power. Replace damaged wires before the problem gets out of hand.
- Check the discharge hose. It should be in a good working condition without splits or kinks that can prevent the flow of water out of the bilge spaces.
Conclusion
The best bilge pump is an important equipment to have at your disposal from cargo ships to recreational boats. It helps throw water accumulation overboard and free water from bilge spaces to prevent sinking. Draining off the water using a bilge pump also prevents the boat from suffering the burden that comes with unnecessary weight.
In addition, the best bilge pump maximizes the performance of the boat and also helps keep the internal components safe.
