Calculating bilge pump capacity, pumps, leaks and water ingress
When calculating capacity against leaks,
the rule of thumb is around five hundred litres per hour for every metre of boat length,
spread across at least two pumps.
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A single pump is no safeguard. Two smaller ones are better than one large pump, because any one of them can fail, and a hand bilge pump that works without electrical power is compulsory anyway on boats of six metres and over. It also matters that the suction strainer stays within reach: most pumps do not fail, they clog.
To put that in perspective: a hole ten centimetres across, one metre below the waterline, lets in more water than any pump aboard can shift. Pumps buy time, they do not save a leaking boat.
Water ingress is usually covered by full hull cover, provided something actually caused it, grounding, collision, a burst hose on a seacock. What is not covered is water that works its way in slowly through a spot that has been leaking for years; that is wear and tear.
Frequently asked questions
How much bilge pump capacity does my boat need?
Around five hundred litres per hour for every metre of boat length, spread across several pumps.
Is water ingress covered?
Usually yes under full hull cover, provided an event was the cause.
Gradual leaking counts as wear and tear.
Worked out for your type of boat
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