Bilge pump not automatically turning on...

[Nick70]

I was just hosing down the bilge and noticed the pump did not turn on, like it usually does automatically.
It works from the helm switch.
I know there’s a mercury switch inside it..could I have inadvertently switched it off when I was scrubbing around it?

 

[The Bill Collector]

The switch needs to be cleaned or replaced if cleaning doesn’t work.

 

[Golfman25]

switch is a float switch and is activated by high water levels. You need to lift it to test it.

 

[JVM225]

What they said!
But if it’s one of those pumps with the built in switches you’ll have to replace the whole thing.

 

[KevinC]

Probably clogged the float. Spray it down with some simple green and hose it off. Clean it with some spray-9 and hose it off. If it still does not float and turn on the pump then it's time to replace. Do it right away. Also note the older mercury switches lasted a while. I don't expect the same from the newer floats.

-Kevin

 

[Nick70]

Cleaned it again and got it operating.
Thanks