How To Pump Out Water By Using An Electric Bilge Pump

A few months ago, I had a scary experience in rough swells that caused my Hobie Revolution kayak to take on water in the hull. After careful study on the web to find a solution, I decided to install an electric bilge pump using the model of installation taken from YakAss.Net website written by Holger. I have provided a link to the source and want to say thanks to Holger for making it simple for me.

The installation took less than 30 minutes and looks to be very sound. The reason for choosing an electric bilge pump installation was quite simple. There is absolutely no time to pump out water with an open hatch when out at seas with large swells coming overboard. In calm water situations, taking on water by a small leak, a regular bilge pump would work fine. But since I already had the 12 volt battery installed for my fish finder, I decided that an electric bilge pump would be more practical. Let me tell you why!

Let's say that you experienced 8-10 foot swells that were crashing overboard. Do you think it's possible to hand or foot pump a regular bilge pump inside the hull without taking on more water with your 8 inch hatch open? You probably would sink faster. And if you are 2 miles out, you are going to have a serious safety problem as it might not be possible to make it back to shore. Would you rather be paddling back to shore without being in a stationary position pumping water out of the hull? I know for a fact that the hatch covers on a Hobie Revolution are not 100% seal proof under rough conditions. In Hawaii, the weather can change in a 15 minute time frame from smooth conditions to rough and you must be prepared. And for myself, I do not want to repeat the same experience I had 2 months ago in Hilo, thus the reason for my installation. Here's a link to the story.

This installation is an easy solution and I was lucky enough to purchase every part needed at a marine supply shop in Honokohau Harbor.  And since I had the battery installed in my rear hatch, the component purchase was minimal at about $70. I have included the part list if you decide to do the installation yourself. Remember... safety is priceless!

Parts Needed 

• Rule 500 GPH Marine Bilge Pump
• Battery 12V
• 2.5 Amp Sealed Fuse
• 2 Feet 3/4” Hose 
• 2 Hose Clamps 3/4”
• 3/4" Thru Hull Connector (Straight)
• 3/4” Plug
• Sealed SPST Toggle Switch
• 9 Feet Stranded 18 Gauge Wire
• Heat Shrink Tubing
• Wire Connectors
• Marine Grade Sealant
• Dielectric Silicone Compound{mos_fb_discuss:5}