What You Need to Know About Marine Plumbing Hoses

Unless you have a small fishing boat, chances are your boat has some plumbing on board. These plumbing fixtures need regular maintenance to prevent leaks and health hazards on board. You don’t have to have a million-dollar yacht to benefit from understanding your marine plumbing.

Potable Water

If you plan to be on your boat for a substantial length of time, potable water is important. Properly functioning marine plumbing systems Newport Beach CA let you safely drink while on board. Potable water supplies the ship’s galley and the bathroom where you wash your hands and shower off. Not all boats have a complicated system, some may only have a sink. Either way, you need to make sure the potable water is safely delivered. Copper and hard plastic pipe help prevent algae growth but are more expensive than standard clear PVC pipe.

Bilge Pumps

Keep the hoses straight, short and the same diameter as the bilge pump’s output. This helps avoid diminishing output and issues with the hose and pump. Choose a hose with reinforced construction made of heavy-duty materials to handle the unwanted fluids such as hot water and engine coolant. These fluids can be nasty over time and you need a hose that can withstand what moves through it.

Sanitation Systems

Having a toilet onboard is handy when you are out on the water all day or for several days. However, a leak in the system can leave you smelling raw sewage instead of the lapping waves. You want to choose hoses made from impermeable materials to avoid having liquids and gas pass through them. A downhill run for your sanitation hose that is unhindered keeps sewage from building up in the system. Check the fittings around both ends of the hose before setting sail. Also, double-check the vent so unwanted odors head outside the watercraft rather than inside.