The Rule Dry Bilge Pump in action
Xylem’s Rule Dry Bilge Pump is a self-priming, non-submersible, strainer-free diaphragm pump kit designed for marine vessels that removes all but 1/8 in. (3 mm) of standing bilge water. This video shows the pump operating on an actual boat in a real-world field test.
How the Rule Dry Bilge Pump works
Xylem’s Rule Dry Bilge Pump operates on a diaphragm mechanism rather than the centrifugal impeller design found in most standard bilge pumps. When the panel switch is activated, the motor flexes a diaphragm that creates suction, drawing water through the pickup hose connected to the lowest point of the bilge. Because the pump does not rely on being submerged to create suction, it continues pulling water even as the bilge level drops to near-dry conditions.
The built-in backflow prevention ensures that water cannot re-enter the bilge through the discharge port when the pump is off. The rotating pump head and ports allow the unit to be oriented in multiple configurations to fit tight or irregularly shaped bilge compartments. The included 90-degree thru-hull fitting provides a clean, angled discharge point through the hull.
Who should use the Rule Dry Bilge Pump?
The Rule Dry Bilge Pump is best suited for boat owners who want to maintain a genuinely dry, odor-free bilge rather than simply managing standing water. It is ideal for anyone who has experienced persistent bilge odors, slime buildup, or corrosion caused by residual moisture that conventional pumps leave behind.
Frequently asked questions
The Rule Dry Bilge Pump is a complete marine bilge drainage kit that uses a self-priming diaphragm pump to remove all but 1/8 in. (3 mm) of water from a boat's bilge. The kit includes the pump unit, a panel switch, and a 3/4 in. (19 mm) angled thru-hull fitting.
A standard submersible bilge pump relies on being submerged and typically leaves several inches of standing water behind. The Rule Dry Bilge Pump uses a diaphragm mechanism that self-primes from up to 9.5 feet (3 m) away and drains the bilge to 1/8 in. (3 mm) or less, eliminating the residual moisture that causes odors, slime, and corrosion.
No. The Dry Bilge Pump is designed with a filter-free, strainer-free system. There is no mesh screen to clean or replace, which reduces maintenance and eliminates the risk of pump failure due to a clogged strainer.
Yes. The diaphragm design allows the Dry Bilge Pump to run dry for extended periods without damaging the pump – an important safeguard during installation and normal operation as the bilge nears empty.
The Dry Bilge Pump operates on 12 VDC and draws 8 amps at 12 volts, with a 10-amp fuse. It is compatible with standard 12-volt marine electrical systems.
The Dry Bilge Pump includes the self-priming diaphragm pump unit, a 12 VDC panel switch, and a 3/4 in. (19 mm) plastic 90-degree thru-hull fitting.
The Dry Bilge Pump is certified to ISO 8846 Marine Ignition Protection, ISO 8849 Marine Bilge Pump Standard, ISO 15083, and ISO 10133.