I have noticed that both of my bilge pumps and my shower sump pump does not get power when the batteries are switched off. Should they be wired to stay hot when the battery switch is off or do most folks leave one of the batteries on with shore power on? I was was wondering because I think they should pump out when we are not on the boat.
Most bilge pumps, at least on boats I've owned, by-pass the battery switch and are wired directly to the battery. If you turn the batteries off while away and you have a leak or excessive rainwater you could sink. That said, I'm assuming you have shore power and a battery charger so that if the pumps do kick on the charger can stay ahead of the battery drain. If no charger, then leave one battery on, just in case. I had my first boat sink when the bellows leaked and the pump was not automatic.
Battery Switch & Bilge Pumps
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