Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump Review

Let’s Talk About Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump

The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump isn’t the sexiest piece of gear you’ll ever buy, but it’s one of those unsung heroes that quietly keeps your adventures flowing smoothly. This 12V diaphragm pump, manufactured by Jabsco, is designed to efficiently remove shower water and handle other general-purpose pumping needs in marine and RV environments. Its self-priming capability and ability to run dry without damage make it a versatile solution for situations where water management is critical.

I’ve always been a stickler for redundancy in my setups, especially when it comes to water. My old bilge pump, while reliable, wasn’t really designed for the smaller, more frequent tasks like clearing the shower drain in my sailboat. I was looking for a dedicated, robust pump that could handle grey water efficiently and reliably, without constantly worrying about impeller damage from dry running.

The Jabsco Par-Max immediately stood out due to its advertised ability to self-prime up to 10 feet and its diaphragm design, which is more tolerant of dry running than typical centrifugal pumps. When I first unboxed it, I was impressed with its solid, no-nonsense construction. The pump felt substantial, and the included strainer (Pumpgard) was a welcome addition.

I considered a couple of other options before settling on the Jabsco Par-Max. A similar pump from Whale seemed decent, but lacked the same level of ignition protection and didn’t feel quite as robust. Also, a cheaper, no-name diaphragm pump was tempting, but I was wary of sacrificing reliability for cost, especially given the potential for water damage if the pump failed. I ultimately chose the Jabsco for its reputation for quality and its specific features tailored for marine environments.

My first impression was positive – this felt like a well-engineered piece of equipment that would get the job done without fuss. It wasn’t flashy, but it exuded a sense of durable competence.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Jabsco Par-Max in my sailboat, primarily to handle shower drain duties, but also with the intention of using it as a backup for draining the bilge in a pinch. I tested it both at the dock and while underway in moderate seas off the coast of Maine. The conditions were generally damp, but I also intentionally let the pump run dry for extended periods to test its dry-running capabilities.

The pump performed admirably in all conditions. Its self-priming ability was particularly impressive; it quickly drew water even after sitting idle for days. The pump handled both freshwater and slightly soapy water without any issues. One thing I noticed immediately was how much quieter it was than my old centrifugal bilge pump. There was no need to spend time getting used to it. The installation was straightforward with basic plumbing and wiring skills.

Initially, I was a little concerned about the relatively high amp draw (10 amps), but that was quickly resolved when I realized that the pump only runs intermittently, and my boat’s electrical system handled the load without any problems.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Jabsco Par-Max has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear, even with frequent use and occasional dry running. The pump body still looks new, and the connections remain tight and leak-free.

Maintenance has been minimal. The included Pumpgard strainer is easy to remove and clean, preventing debris from clogging the pump. The pump has continued to outperform my expectations. My previous bilge pump required frequent impeller replacements due to dry running, but the Jabsco Par-Max’s diaphragm design has eliminated that headache.

Breaking Down the Features of Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump

Specifications

• The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump operates on 12 volts DC and requires a 10 amp fuse. This ensures compatibility with standard marine and RV electrical systems.
• It has a flow rate of 3.5 gallons per minute (13.2 liters per minute) at a 3-foot (1 meter) head. This provides adequate flow for quickly draining shower water and other liquids.
• The pump is self-priming up to 10 feet (3 meters), allowing for flexible mounting locations. This is especially useful in boats or RVs where space is limited.
• Its diaphragm design allows for extended dry running without damage. This feature prevents costly repairs and ensures reliability even when the water source is depleted.
• The pump is constructed with a continuous-rated heavy-duty motor sealed for harsh bilge environments. This protects the motor from moisture and corrosion, ensuring long-term durability.
• The pump includes thermal overload protection with auto-restart. This safeguards the motor from overheating due to overloading.
• It complies with USCG 183.410 and ISO 8846 MARINE (Ignition Protection) and ISO 8849 MARINE (Bilge Pump Standard). This ensures it is safe for use in marine environments where flammable vapors may be present.
• The pump comes complete with a Pumpgard strainer. This prevents debris from entering the pump and causing damage.
• It features oil-resistant elastomers. This ensures compatibility with various liquids and prevents deterioration of the pump components.
• The pump has connections for 3/4″ (19mm) ID hose. This is a standard hose size for marine and RV plumbing.
• Its dimensions are 7.7″ long x 4.2″ wide x 4.1″ high (19.6cm x 10.6cm x 10cm). These compact dimensions allow for easy installation in tight spaces.
• The pump weighs 5.0lb (2.1kg). This lightweight design minimizes the added weight to your boat or RV.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the Jabsco Par-Max’s performance and suitability for various applications. The self-priming and dry-running capabilities are crucial for convenience and reliability, while the sealed motor and compliance with marine standards ensure safety and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump excels at its primary function: efficiently removing water. The flow rate is sufficient for quickly draining showers and other small-volume liquid transfers. Its reliability is outstanding; it starts quickly and runs smoothly every time.

Its main strength is its ability to run dry without damage. Its relatively high amp draw for a small pump could be a downside for some, especially those with limited battery capacity. It more than meets my expectations, as it has simplified water management on my sailboat.

Design & Ergonomics

The Jabsco Par-Max boasts a simple, functional design. The materials used are high-quality and feel robust. While it’s not exactly ergonomic, it’s designed for utility rather than hand-held comfort.

There is virtually no learning curve. The installation is straightforward, and the pump is easy to operate.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust construction and sealed motor suggest that the Jabsco Par-Max will last for many years. The diaphragm design is inherently durable, and the oil-resistant elastomers should prevent deterioration from exposure to various liquids.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the Pumpgard strainer. This simple maintenance routine ensures long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump comes with the Pumpgard strainer. There aren’t many customization options, as it’s a fairly specialized piece of equipment.

It is compatible with standard 3/4″ ID hoses and fittings, making it easy to integrate into existing plumbing systems.

Pros and Cons of Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump

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Who Should Buy Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump?

The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump is perfect for boat owners, RV enthusiasts, and anyone needing a reliable and durable pump for draining showers, sinks, or other small-volume liquid transfer applications. It’s also ideal for situations where the pump might run dry frequently.

Those with very limited electrical capacity or who need a pump for high-volume applications might want to consider other options. A fuse and possibly a higher gauge wire if the pump is far from the power source are must-have accessories.

Conclusion on Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump

The Jabsco Par-Max Shower Drain/General Purpose Pump is a reliable, durable, and efficient solution for water management in marine and RV environments. Its self-priming and dry-running capabilities, combined with its robust construction and compliance with marine safety standards, make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable pump.

At $219.49, the price is justified by the pump’s quality, reliability, and long-term durability. I would definitely recommend it to anyone needing a hassle-free solution for shower draining or general-purpose pumping.

If you’re tired of unreliable pumps and want a product that will get the job done without fail, the Jabsco Par-Max is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your water management system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a dependable pump on board!