Only way to turn sump pump/bilge off is to disconnect batteries?

[ejbpesca]

Even with a battery switch to off is there a separate circuit that keeps the float switch activated sump and bilge pumps hot?

Must I disconnect the batteries to prevent current from getting to these for repair/replacement?

I see that the circuit breakers to these pumps on my boat are pop out buttons that cannot be switched off so must I disconnect batteries to stop current from getting to these pumps?

 

[fwebster]

Just turn your battery switch(es) off. That should kill the 12vdc to everything except the bilge pumps.....unless your previous owner has done some home brew wiring.

 

[ejbpesca]

Just turn your battery switch(es) off. That should kill the 12vdc to everything except the bilge pumps.....unless your previous owner has done some home brew wiring.

Okay..so yes..turning battery switch to off will not kill the bilge pumps. That is what I'm trying to do to replace them..kill the pumps current.

 

[trflgrl]

Yes, disconnecting at the batteries should mean you can work safely to repair/replace bilge pumps.

Ideally, there should be as few failure/break points as possible in the bilge pump power supply. If your battery switches DO affect your bilge pumps, plan to redo that wiring as part of your restoration.