Bilge pump won't run

[OrangeTJ]

For some unknown reason, my bilge pump all of a sudden won't come on. Flipped the switch, it lit up for 10 seconds or so and then the breaker popped. Reset the breaker, does the same thing. Then, breaker won't reset and switch doesn't light up when turned on. No movement at the pump. Bilge is dry. Pulled the pump to check the screen - clean. Any thoughts?

 

[Bruce]

Sounds like the pump is seized or the breaker has failed.

Bilge pumps are relatively inexpensive and very important. I would replace it then test again.

 

[Andy S]

I would remove the pump housing from the bottom holder/screen to see if that area has filled with debris and is binding the pump cause it to draw excessive current.

Push in the blue tabs and lift the red & white section off. Once removed, check the blue screen area for debris, and turn on switch for bilge pump to see if it runs and does or doesn't trip the breaker.

 

[Julian]

Does the impeller spin at all or is it siezed?

 

[OrangeTJ]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to have to work on it tomorrow. How would I check whether the breaker has failed?

 

[Bruce]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to have to work on it tomorrow. How would I check whether the breaker has failed?

Swapping it with another would be a quick way to test it.

I think it is more likely that the pump has seized.

 

[Andy S]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to have to work on it tomorrow. How would I check whether the breaker has failed?

Once you have disconnected the pump (red & white) from the screen (blue) try spinning the pump impeller by hand and if it turn freely, then turn on the pump and if the breaker trips then you probably have a bad breaker. If the pump doesn't spin then like @Bruce mentioned you have a seize pump.

 

[tdonoughue]

@OrangeTJ , did you get it fixed?

Just a small note: breakers on my year boat (only one year off yours) are known to be bad at times. So, while I agree that the pump is a little more likely at fault, it very well may be the breaker. I have had 2 of my 4 replaced already...

 

[OrangeTJ]

Yep! Turned out to just be a grain of decomposed granite in the impeller. Plucked it out with some tweezers and she's good as new. Thanks, all, for the help!

 

[Matt Phillips]

Good to know...thanks for sharing