[C320-list] Bilge Pumps and Check Valves

[Warren Updike]

I've heard that a check valve in the bilge pump line is not recommended. The concern is that if it failed, it could interfere with the pump function. That said, I did use a check valve for a long time until I started having problems with the pump which I replaced. In the process I removed the flapper in the check valve and have not replaced it. 
As for your question, I suggest you raise the float switch temporarily or get a similar replacement for your original pump. 

Warren & Pattie Updike
C320 1994 #62 “Warr de Mar”
Middle River, MD (Chesapeake Bay)



-----Original Message-----
From: Charles Martin <chiprmartin at gmail.com> 
Sent: Wednesday, September 2, 2020 3:54 PM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Bilge Pumps and Check Valves

Dear Shipmates:

My bilge pump recently failed, and I have done a quick and dirty fix while I am waiting for a new pump from Catalina Direct (cheaper but less powerful than the closest model from West Marine or Defender).

My question is:  the small rule pump I have installed as a temp fix doesn't sit as low as the intake hose did for the factory installed pump; and as a result, after it pumps out any water in the bilge and stops, a lot of water comes back into the bilge from the hose leading up to the above-water through-hull.  When that happens, the float switch rises, the pump turns on again, and tries once more to drop the level of the water.  This happens over and over--an infinite do loop.  I could just raise the float switch, but I'm wondering if a check-valve in the line might be a more elegant solution?  Did the diaphram pump installed originally have a built-in check valve?  Any thoughts?

Best,
Chip Martin
*Bonaventure* -- Sail #767
(410) 231-0199
chiprmartin at gmail.com