5.5.1 Maintenance of bilge automatic suction system

Component	Maintenance	Notes and precautions
Bilge pumps	Operation check	Check for the correct operation of the bilge pumps before each navigation. At least every month, check the status and the function of all installed bilge pumps as well as of the related overboard discharge. Pay special attention to not leave any rags or other residue in the bilge, as these may plug the pump intakes, damaging them.
Bilge	Inspection and cleaning	When using detergents or solvents, remember to adequately ventilate the spaces. Protect breathing and the eyes by using a suitable mask, and protect your hands with gloves, when using detergents.
Autoclave pump	Autoclave pump	Check the cleanliness of the pump suction protection grids.

Bilge pump operation check:
This kind of electric pump does not usually need ordinary maintenance, as long as some precautions are taken to extend their good operation.

Where a freezing danger exists, it is necessary to completely drain the bilge.
Although the immersion pumps are designed to also work dry, it is advisable to run them under this condition as little as possible.
Regularly check the efficiency and cleanliness of the different protection strainers.
If the yacht is to be inoperative for a long period, it is advisable to drain the pump body and clean it.
Check if the impeller is jammed, this should never occur because it could cause heavy damage to the electric engine; if necessary carry out impeller and pump body descaling by means of proper detergents.

DANGER

Before carrying out any maintenance work, switch off the relevant thermal switches to prevent any accidental tripping.

CAUTION

Once the checks on the bilge pumps have been completed, check that the relevant magneto-thermal switches are active again.

The operations to check the functionality of the bilge pumps are as follows:

Check the operation of each bilge pump at least once a month, filling the bilge with clean water up to the activation of each pump and checking proper overboard pumping;
Check the operation of each bilge pump: in manual mode, by means of the relevant push-buttons located in the helm position, or from the secondary electrical panel in the engine room; In automatic mode, by manually lifting the float switches.

CAUTION

Pump and component replacement must be carried out by specialized personnel, using only original spare parts.

ENVIRONMENT

The float switches activating the bilge pumps and the alarm siren for “High water level in the bilge” contain mercury, a substance which may cause pollution. Dispose of pursuant to the laws in force.

CAUTION

Replacement of the pump and its components must be carried out by specialised personnel using only original spare parts.

NOTE

For further information on use and maintenance, please refer to the manufacturer’s manual.