How the Drainman Bilge Pump Keeps Your Boat Dry Automatically

At True North Sailing, we understand that reliable, hands-free bilge water removal is essential for boat owners who value performance, peace of mind, and a drier vessel. 

That’s why we proudly offer the Drainman bilge pump: a simple, mechanical solution powered entirely by the natural movement of your moored boat. No electricity. No batteries. Just ingenious Swedish engineering.

In this article, we’ll explore what the Drainman is, how it works, how to set it up, and why it’s a game-changer for any boat with a bilge to keep dry.

What is the Drainman Bilge Pump?

The Drainman is an innovative, automatic bilge pump that uses kinetic energy; specifically the tugging and rocking motion created by your mooring line; to pump out water. Developed and manufactured in Sweden, it’s built for simplicity and durability, removing the need for traditional electric bilge systems.

At True North Sailing, we stock the Drainman bilge pump alongside compatible accessories like the 3-metre and 6-metre hoses, allowing you to tailor the setup to your vessel’s size and mooring conditions.

How Does It Work?

The genius behind the Drainman lies in its ability to convert boat movement into pumping action. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:

• Mooring Line Connection – The Drainman is installed inline with your boat’s mooring rope. It’s fitted between the dock and the cleat on your boat.
  
• Movement-Driven Pumping – Every time your boat rocks or shifts slightly due to wind or water movement, the mooring rope pulls and releases. The Drainman uses this action to pull on an internal diaphragm that pumps water from the bilge.
  
• Pumping Efficiency – Despite being mechanically powered, the Drainman can pump an impressive 2,500 litres of water every 24 hours; that’s over 100 litres an hour under optimal conditions.
  
• Self-Priming and Submersible – The Drainman is self-priming, and its robust design means it can handle dirty water, leaves, and debris; making it ideal for long-term unattended mooring.
  

How to Use the Drainman Bilge Pump

Setting up the Drainman is straightforward, and it’s fully adjustable to different vessel types and mooring conditions.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Attach to Mooring Line – Position the Drainman between your dock and boat using your mooring rope. It works best when placed at the bow or stern, where the boat’s motion is most pronounced.
  
• Connect the Hose – Choose the appropriate hose length from our accessories; either 3m or 6m; and attach it to the pump’s outlet. The other end of the hose is placed inside the bilge or sump area where water accumulates.
  
• Secure the Intake Filter – The hose includes a filter attachment to prevent debris from clogging the pump. Make sure this is fully submerged in the lowest point of the bilge.
  
• Let Nature Do the Work – Once installed, the Drainman requires no electricity or manual pumping. Every sway and movement will draw water up through the hose and out through the outlet.
  

Why Choose the Drainman from True North Sailing?

At True North Sailing, we’re committed to sourcing practical, dependable products that make life on the water easier and more enjoyable. The Drainman bilge pump embodies this philosophy perfectly. 

Our customers love it due to its: 

• Maintenance-Free Operation – There’s no need to worry about battery failure or electrical faults. The Drainman simply works tirelessly, in all weather, using natural motion.

• Eco-Friendly – Because the Drainman is powered entirely by mechanical energy, it uses no fuel or electricity, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious sailors.

• Ideal for Long-Term Mooring – If you leave your boat on the water for long periods, the Drainman ensures the bilge stays dry without you needing to be there. It’s an excellent solution for weekend sailors or holiday homes on the coast.

• Rugged, Marine-Grade Design – Manufactured in Sweden to the highest marine standards, the Drainman is UV-resistant and frost-proof. It’s also submersible and built to withstand the harshest marine environments.

Compatible Accessories

To help you get the most out of your Drainman bilge pump, we also offer a Drainman bilge pump extension hose which comes complete with a built-in strainer and fittings for a quick and secure connection.

Bilge water can pose serious problems if not managed correctly; from increased weight and instability to long-term damage and odour. The Drainman bilge pump offers a revolutionary, electricity-free solution that’s not only effective but also brilliantly simple.

At True North Sailing, we trust the Drainman to keep our customers’ boats dry, safe, and ready to sail. It’s perfect for anyone looking for peace of mind and low-maintenance operation.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a new boat owner, the Drainman is one of those essential tools you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need help with installation.