how many amps is too much?...?

Question

back to the bilge pump, when i replace it i'm thinking about upgrading from 500 gph (draws 1.5 amps) to 750 gph (draws 2.8 amps). i don't want to overload my system. how do i know if this will not draw too much electricity? i have a 17' bayliner capri, with a 12 v battery in the aft area. thanks

Answer 1

Why do you need a bilge pump?
Is it just to remove accumulated rain water and spray? Any size pump will do.

If you're sinking, 750gph isn't enough!
The best bilge pump is a man with a bucket.........and fear in his eyes.

Answer 2

If you need a 750 gph (3+tons/hr) pump for a 17ft boat, you have major water problems. You need to add up all your power needs (radio, GPS, pumps, lights, etc) and divide it by the amp-hours provided by the battery while the engine is off. This will tell you how long the battery will work. I'm assuming the battery you mention is dedicated to accessories and not for engine starting. If it is the only battery you have, then you need to be careful not the run the battery down to below engine starting demand. While the engine is running, you will have constant electrical power and the battery is recharged. You should have an amp-meter to monitor power usage.

Answer 3

I look at it this way a larger put will pump more water less time>Less amps used>And if you get a sever leak a larger pump will keep you a float longer to get you to shore>A small pump cost a little less but runs longer>My 14 Jon boat has a 750 gph>Your wiring will take the larger pump>>Myself ! would have a 1500gph>My 47' has 3=2200gph just in-case>>

40+ boat 40 yrs cruising the Caribbean>
>

Answer 4

just get the 500 gph

Answer 5

you need find out how many amps your alternator puts out . but I think the amount of amp your thinking about is just fine.

Answer 6

how mush water do you get in a hour? use the one you need to keep it out.

Answer 7

try this site

http://iboats.com/