Bilge pumps - Who makes the best ones?

[IRGuy]

With the heavy rains we have had, and more coming later this week, my main Rule bilge pump has crapped out. Years ago the best were supposedly Rule, but my understanding is that their reputation around here has dropped big time (I believe they are now made in China, but not 100% sure of this). So.. I need a new pump.

Who makes the best bilge pumps these days?

[CaptPatrick]

Frank,

Stacked with the others, Rule pumps are still a good brand. Their switches tend to be on the crappy side, but the pumps are the best... Ultra Safety Systems make the best switches.

[Navatech]

I believe they are now made in China

Made in China doesn't necessarily mean made badly... It ALL depends on the quality control... Whether Rule manufacturers them themselves (in China or elsewhere) or subcontract the manufacturing... I would expect a brand like Rule to have very good quality control...

[Stephan]

Is there value to the Gold Series of Rule pumps or is just a premium price for the warranty?

[CaptPatrick]

Stephan,

The Gold series 2000 and the standard 2000 are rated at 8.4 amps. All of the other details are the same also... One online retailer only shows a $7.00 difference in price between the two.

The warranty on the standard model is 3 yrs, so the price difference would be the warranty period. I'd probably be inclined to pay $3.50 per year for 2 more years of warranty...

[Pete Fallon]

IRGuy,
I like the Johnson 2200 pumps over the Rules, use the Ultma( Ultra) brand auto switches although the Johnson brand switches are not that bad, get the ones with the cage built around to keep debris from hanging up the auto safety switches. I had used the Rules for years, however the last 2 Rules I put in only lasted 3 years, The 2200 Johnson's have been in for over 10 years. When I sold the boat I had 2- 2200 Johnsons and 1-2000 Rule that was over 20 years old. I also had a 3000 Rule live well pump that could be used as a bilge pump.

[ranjr13]

Lovett 1200 - pricey, but top quality for years.

[Navatech]

Lovett 1200 - pricey, but top quality for years.

I believe Lovett went out of business...

[IRGuy]

Thanks all for your input. I finally decided on the Rule 2000 gph pumps, with their standard 3 year warranty. Easier to replace since new and old pumps have identical mountings and wiring, in stock at local West Marine, and followed comments from people I have learned to trust.