Let’s Talk About Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump
Every boater knows the dread of discovering water where it shouldn’t be. It’s a situation that can quickly escalate from minor inconvenience to a full-blown emergency. Enter the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump, a compact yet powerful solution from Rule designed to keep your vessel afloat and your mind at ease.
I’ve spent countless hours on the water, from guiding fishing trips in the Florida Keys to navigating the choppy waters of the Pacific Northwest. During that time, I’ve used a number of bilge pumps that have left me wanting more. Specifically, I was seeking a reliable, efficient pump for my smaller skiff, something that wouldn’t break the bank but could still handle a significant influx of water should the unexpected happen.
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump arrived neatly packaged, the square design immediately striking me as a space-saver. The solid construction and feel of the materials inspired confidence; this wasn’t a flimsy piece of equipment. I compared it to a previous Attwood pump (which had a lower GPH and a round profile) and a Shurflo diaphragm pump (more suited for potable water but sometimes used for bilge in smaller applications), and the Rule seemed to strike a better balance of size, power, and intended purpose.
My initial impression was positive; I was eager to install the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump and see it in action. This pump looked like it would offer an increase in reliability, especially considering Rule’s reputation and the pump’s anti-airlock protection feature.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to really test the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump came during a late-season salmon fishing trip in Puget Sound. A particularly nasty squall rolled in unexpectedly, and my skiff started taking on water faster than I anticipated. I quickly activated the Rule pump, and it efficiently began removing the water.
The pump operated flawlessly, even with a mix of rainwater, sea spray, and the usual debris found in a bilge. I noticed that it was surprisingly quiet, a welcome change from some of the louder pumps I’ve used in the past.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I haven’t experienced any clogs or failures, even when dealing with slightly murky water. The snap-lock strainer base makes cleaning quick and easy.
There’s no significant wear and tear, and the pump continues to operate as effectively as it did on day one. The Rule 800 G.P.H. outperformed my previous Attwood pump in terms of both pumping power and resistance to clogging, proving itself to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump
Specifications
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump boasts a flow rate of 800 gallons per hour, providing substantial pumping capacity for its size. This is critical for quickly removing water in emergency situations.
It features a 3/4″ hose port type, a common and easily adaptable size for bilge hose connections. This standard size ensures compatibility with most existing plumbing systems.
Operating at 12V DC, it’s compatible with the standard electrical systems found on most boats. This voltage compatibility makes installation straightforward.
The pump also features an easy-clean, snap-lock strainer base, which allows for quick and simple maintenance. This is a practical feature, especially when dealing with the often-grimy conditions in a bilge.
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump includes marine-grade blocked wiring, protecting the electrical connections from corrosion. This is an essential feature for durability in a marine environment.
Rule constructed the pump with a stainless steel shaft, offering superior corrosion resistance in harsh saltwater conditions. Corrosion resistance is a key factor in the longevity of any marine equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump performs admirably, efficiently removing water and debris from the bilge. Its anti-airlock protection is a standout feature, preventing the pump from becoming ineffective if air is trapped inside.
The pump excels at quickly removing water, even when the boat is heeled over or experiencing significant wave action. While it’s not designed to handle large solids, the strainer does a good job of preventing smaller debris from clogging the impeller. It meets my expectations and provides a solid level of assurance on the water.
Design & Ergonomics
Rule’s decision to go with a square design is a smart one, maximizing space utilization in tight bilge compartments. The pump is lightweight and easy to handle, making installation relatively simple.
Its fully submersible design offers peace of mind, and the silent, vibrationless operation is a welcome change from some of the louder pumps on the market. There is no noticeable learning curve; it is simple to set-up and simple to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump feels robust and well-constructed, built to withstand the rigors of a marine environment. The rust and corrosion protection measures, combined with the stainless steel shaft, inspire confidence in its longevity.
Maintaining the pump is straightforward; the easy-clean, snap-lock strainer allows for quick removal of debris. Routine inspection and cleaning should keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket float switches, allowing for automatic operation.
It’s also compatible with standard 3/4″ bilge hose and fittings, making integration into existing plumbing systems seamless. Adding an in-line fuse or circuit breaker is highly recommended for electrical protection.
Pros and Cons of Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump
Pros
- Compact square design maximizes space in tight bilges.
- High 800 G.P.H. flow rate provides efficient water removal.
- Easy-clean, snap-lock strainer simplifies maintenance.
- Anti-airlock protection ensures reliable operation.
- Fully submersible design offers peace of mind.
Cons
- 3/4″ outlet may require adapters for some existing systems.
- May struggle with larger solid debris despite the strainer.
Who Should Buy Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump?
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump is perfect for boat owners who need a reliable and efficient pump for smaller vessels. This includes anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone who wants peace of mind knowing their bilge is protected.
This pump isn’t ideal for large yachts requiring high-volume pumping or for applications where heavy solids are present. Consider a larger pump with a more robust strainer system in those instances. A must-have accessory is an automatic float switch for unattended operation.
Conclusion on Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump
The Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump is a solid performer, offering a compelling combination of power, reliability, and ease of use. The pump provides impressive pumping power for its compact size, ensuring your bilge is effectively managed.
Priced at $73.20, the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump offers excellent value for its performance and features. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone seeking a dependable bilge pump for a small to mid-sized boat. Invest in your peace of mind and keep your boat afloat with the Rule 800 G.P.H. Square Bilge Pump.