5.5.2 Maintenance on the main bilge system

Bilge pumps functionality check:

DANGER

Before each intervention make sure that voltage is disconnected and that there is no possibility of accidental connection.

Check that the pump shaft turns freely (this is possible by inserting the screwdriver in the back end of the engine shaft).
Check the rotation direction, that the pump motor works within its output range and that the absorbed current is not higher than the one indicated in the tag.

These pumps, normally, do not need ordinary maintenance, provided that some measures are taken which extend their operation.

• Make sure that the pump never runs dry.
• The brushes, on DC motors, must be checked at regular intervals.
• If the yacht must remain inoperative for a long period, it is advisable to drain the pump body and to clean it.
• If a strainer and a foot valve are installed, check their efficiency and cleaning periodically.
• Check that the impeller is not jammed, this could cause serious damages to the electric motor; if this happens, descale the impeller and pump body.
• Have the operation of each bilge pump checked, having the bilge filled with clean water up to the activation of each pump and having the correct draining overboard checked.
• Have the operation of each bilge pump checked also manually.

CAUTION

Never run the electric pumps dry.

CAUTION

Check the operation of all bilge pumps at regular intervals. Clean debris from pump inlets.

Non-return valves

The on-board hydraulic system consists of check valves (or non-return valves) “EUROPE” type (1) and “CLAPET” type (2).
They require extraordinary maintenance only,due to their lack of operation, which can be caused by a foreign body inside the valve itself, or by a mechanical break; in both cases, check the failure, if it is not removable, carry out the replacement.