Automatic bilge question - 2014 Scarab 195

[Delawarejim]

New (used) boat owner. My boat had season start up service completed, I was told the bilge pumps works on manual, but the automatic setting has issues and needed repair. Is this an issue and should I have this fixed. I ask because I DID read the FAQ and saw the automatic bilge pump should be in working condition. What potential issues do I face without addressing the automatic setting?
Thanks in advance,
Jim

 

[Julian]

Without an auto bilge functioning your boat will/can take on water and won't pump it out automatically. You'll only notice if:

1. You open the engine hatch to look for water
2. You feel the boat is driving sluggish - then open the hatch and discover a significant amount of water
3. You are sitting outside the boat and notice it is low in the water
4. You are sitting outside the boat and notice it is below the water

I wouldn't stop boating with this problem, but it would be on a very short list to repair. First thing I'd do would be to test it. Most bilge pumps have clips on the sides to hold them to the bottom of the boat. Undo the clips. Fill a small tupperware container with water, put the pump in the water and turn the pump onto auto and see what happens. Repeat since they say its intermittent.

Replacing the pump is easy.