I am installing a second bilge pump, which will be independent of the boat's main power cut off switch. I don't want the float auto sensor to drain power when the boat isn't in use or docked overnight. Other than removing the online fuse each time, is there a way to cut power to it, as in adding a resettable circuit breaker before the fuse holder? I really don't want to add an actual switch to keep installation neat.
If it's controlled by a float switch it won't draw any power unless it's submerged. I'm not sure about the electronic switched ones but I'd bet they don't draw any power either. Use your voltmeter on the Milliamp setting to check.
Many boats have power to the float switch at all times with no negative results.
It will only drain if the float is stuck running the pump which you should hear. Otherwise set it up and rock on. If you want you could additionally wire a tiny flush red light somewhere to alert you that the float is running the bilge. You would notice the light and know that it is draining.
The float acts like the on off switch has no vampire drain.
Auto sensing bilge pumps (no float switch) use very little electricity.
IMHO, any boat that is moored in the water is the perfect candidate for an auto sensing bilge pump. Having one can save you money snd headaches should water accumulate in the bilge (rain, leak, malfeasance).
However, if you want the ability to ‘cut power to it’……you should wire it to the switched side of the cutoff switch.
Lightning 6
2007 TR-196DC
They draw nothing unless turned on. I have never had a issue with one and that is one of the first things that gets installed in a boat when I get one. Put a 20 amp breaker with a disconnect built in if you want to shut it off but that is the reason for the auto feature to eliminate human error. Cj
2002 X19 200HP OX66 HO Vmax,HPDI lower, it lives, thanks Hydro Tec.
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