Discover the Attwood Sahara S1100 Bilge Pump: a compact, powerful solution for boat safety with 1100 GPH flow, durable design, and easy installation.
Boating offers unparalleled freedom, but water intrusion can turn adventure into disaster. A reliable bilge pump is your first line of defense, and the Attwood Sahara S1100 stands out as a compact, powerful, and durable solution. With a flow rate of 1100 gallons per hour (GPH), advanced technology, and a design built for harsh marine environments, this pump ensures your vessel stays safe and dry. In this comprehensive review, we explore the Sahara S1100’s features, performance, installation, user experiences, and why it’s a top choice for boaters. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, this guide will help you decide if the Sahara S1100 is the right bilge pump for your vessel.
Why a Bilge Pump Matters
Bilge pumps are essential for removing water that accumulates in a boat’s bilge, whether from waves, rain, or leaks. Without a dependable pump, even small amounts of water can lead to serious issues like hull damage, electrical failures, or sinking. The Attwood Sahara S1100, with its automatic operation and robust design, is engineered to handle these challenges, making it a critical component for any vessel, especially those over 20 feet that accommodate overnight passengers.
Overview of the Attwood Sahara S1100
The Attwood Sahara S1100 is an automatic bilge pump designed for efficiency and reliability. Its compact size (150 x 83 x 105 mm) makes it ideal for tight bilge spaces, while its 1100 GPH flow rate ensures rapid water removal. Featuring a built-in float switch, corrosion-resistant materials, and a user-friendly test knob, the Sahara S1100 combines innovation with practicality. It’s part of the Sahara series, which includes the S500 (500 GPH) and S750 (750 GPH) models, but the S1100 is the most powerful, catering to larger vessels or those requiring high-capacity pumping.
Key Features
- Automatic Float Switch: Activates the pump when water levels rise, eliminating the need for manual operation.
- High Flow Rate: Delivers 1100 GPH at open flow and 973 GPH at 3.3 feet head, ensuring efficient water removal.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Features a 316 stainless steel motor shaft and high-impact, glass-filled polyester impeller for durability in saltwater environments.
- Test Knob: Allows easy operational checks without disassembling the pump.
- Compact Design: Fits in tight bilge spaces with dimensions of 150 x 83 x 105 mm and a 29 mm hose diameter.
- Mercury-Free Switch: Environmentally friendly and safe for marine use.
- Three-Year Warranty: Backed by Attwood’s standard warranty for peace of mind.
- Easy Maintenance: One-handed base removal for quick cleaning and debris removal.
Technical Specifications
| Model | Part Number | Flow Rate (GPH) | Flow Rate at 3.3 ft Head (GPH) | Hose Size (I.D.) | Voltage | Amperage | Fuse Amps | Max Head (ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S500 | AMRA-4505-7 | 500 | 350 | 3/4″ | 12V | 1.5A | 3A | 9 |
| S750 | AMRA-4507-7 | 750 | 625 | 3/4″ | 12V | 2.5A | 5A | 16 |
| S1100 | AMRA-4511-7 | 1100 | 973 | 1-1/8″ | 12V | 4A | 6A | 11.7 |
| Additional Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel, High-Impact Polyester |
| Residual Water Height | Approx. 20 mm |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3.75 ft |
| Wire Length | 36″ of 16-gauge caulked, tinned copper wire |
| Tilt Tolerance | Up to 35° |
Pricing
The Attwood Sahara S1100 typically retails between $80 and $120 USD, depending on the retailer and any additional accessories (e.g., hoses or thru-hull fittings). For the most current pricing, check reputable marine retailers like West Marine, Amazon, or Attwood’s official website. Always compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal, as discounts are common during boating season.
Performance: Power and Reliability
The Sahara S1100’s 1100 GPH flow rate makes it a powerhouse for medium to large vessels. At open flow, it moves 1100 gallons per hour, dropping to 973 GPH at a 3.3-foot head, which is still impressive for its size. The pump’s ability to operate at up to a 35° tilt ensures it functions effectively even in rough seas or when the boat is heeled. Its automatic float switch activates instantly when water levels rise, and the non-restrictive float movement minimizes the risk of sticking, a common issue with other pumps.
The pump’s design prioritizes cooling, with water flowing freely around the housing to prevent motor overheating. This is critical for prolonged operation, especially in emergencies. The 316 stainless steel motor shaft resists corrosion, making the S1100 suitable for both freshwater and saltwater environments. The high-impact, glass-filled polyester impeller further enhances durability, resisting wear even when pumping debris-laden water.
Chart: Bilge Pump Flow Rate Comparison
This chart illustrates how the Sahara S1100 is suited for larger vessels compared to its S500 and S750 counterparts, making it ideal for boats requiring high water displacement.
Installation: Simple and Efficient
Installing the Sahara S1100 is straightforward, even in challenging bilge spaces. Its compact size and included mounting basket make it adaptable to various configurations. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on Attwood’s instructions:
- Select Location: Place the pump in the lowest part of the bilge on a flat surface, ensuring the outlet points toward the transom. If the hull is less than 1/2 inch thick, glue a 1/2-inch marine plywood block to the hull using waterproof adhesive.
- Mounting: Use the basket as a template to drill three 5/64-inch pilot holes. Secure the pump with #6 x 1/2-inch stainless steel screws. Ensure the float end is level or above the outlet to prevent airlocks.
- Hose Connection: Attach a 1-1/8-inch I.D. hose to the pump’s outlet using a hose clamp. Run the hose upward to a thru-hull fitting at least 12 inches above the waterline to prevent backflow.
- Wiring: Connect the pump to a 12V DC power source using the provided 36-inch, 16-gauge wires. Install a 6A fuse in the positive (brown) wire and a three-way switch for automatic/manual modes. Use waterproof butt connectors and coat joints with liquid electrical tape for added protection.
- Testing: Turn on the pump and twist the test knob clockwise to verify operation. Feed water into the pump to ensure proper flow.
Required Materials
- Two 1-1/8-inch hose clamps
- Three-way AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch
- Inline fuse holder (6A)
- Three #6 x 1/2-inch stainless steel screws
- Four 16-gauge wire butt connectors
- Two 16-gauge insulated spade terminals
- 1-1/8-inch I.D. hose and thru-hull fitting
- Waterproof sealant (e.g., liquid electrical tape)
- Cordless drill and screwdriver
Warnings
- Use only 12V DC power to avoid pump damage.
- Never remove the fuse, as it prevents wiring fires (7-12A draw during motor lock-up).
- Avoid sealants with acetic acid (e.g., silicone rubber), as they can damage the pump’s plastic housing.
- Do not use the pump for flammable liquids like gasoline or oil.
Durability and Maintenance
The Sahara S1100 is built to withstand harsh marine conditions. Its 316 stainless steel motor shaft resists saltwater corrosion, while the glass-filled polyester impeller handles debris without breaking. The pump’s larger filter area reduces clogging, and its one-handed base removal simplifies cleaning. To maintain optimal performance:
- Regular Checks: Use the test knob to ensure the float switch moves freely and the pump activates.
- Debris Removal: Remove the pump housing by pressing the side tabs and clear debris from the impeller and strainer slots.
- Electrical Inspection: Verify that wire connections remain waterproof and are mounted above water levels.
- Impeller Inspection: Ensure the impeller is securely attached and free of cracks.
The pump’s three-year warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, providing confidence in its longevity. However, the warranty excludes damage from improper installation, misuse, or lack of maintenance.
User Reviews and Experiences
Boater feedback highlights the Sahara S1100’s reliability and ease of use, though some concerns exist. Here’s a summary of user experiences:
Positive Reviews
- pbsheff703: “Boat needed an emergency bilge pump replacement at the marina and this pump did the trick. Float switch is internal, so no guessing around. Quick, easy, and back out on the water.”
- roberharpe47: “Easy to install, works like it’s supposed to.”
- wrb_wil: “Good replacement pump, works great.”
- sarcrew85: “It does the job it’s made for! Excellent.”
- palamino_kid: “Works great, would buy from again.”
These reviews emphasize the pump’s reliability, ease of installation, and effectiveness in real-world scenarios, particularly for emergency replacements.
Critical Feedback
- ccc13 (Forum User): Faced with replacing a 13-year-old Rule pump, this user found the Sahara S1100 appealing due to concerns about Rule’s newer designs sticking in the “on” position. The difficult bilge access on their boat made the Sahara’s compact design and internal float switch a practical choice.
- Brutus272: Experienced a Rule pump shorting out, replaced it with the Sahara S1100, and noted the marina’s preference for Attwood over Rule due to reliability issues.
- nelbur: Reported a 10-year-old Attwood pump with a built-in float switch performing flawlessly, leading them to install another Sahara in a different boat.
Common Concerns
Some users reported mixed experiences with Rule pumps, citing issues like float switches sticking or pumps failing to turn off, draining batteries. The Sahara S1100, while generally well-received, has 50/50 reviews in some forums, with concerns about long-term durability compared to older Rule models. However, its internal float switch and test knob address many of these issues, offering a more reliable alternative.
Comparison with Rule RM1100A
The Rule RM1100A is a direct competitor to the Sahara S1100, but user feedback suggests the Attwood model has advantages. The Rule RM1100A uses water level sensors instead of a float switch, which some users report as prone to sticking or failing to turn off, leading to battery drain. For example:
- TTaxi: Noted Rule-Mate pumps often fail to turn off, causing battery issues.
- Chris Elkins: Reported multiple Rule 1500 pump failures, with electrical signaling issues causing near-sinking incidents.
- watereddown: Experienced Rule-Mate float switches sticking in both on and off positions, leading to replacements.
In contrast, the Sahara S1100’s internal float switch and test knob allow easy verification of operation, reducing the risk of failure. Its compact design also suits boats with limited bilge access, a common issue highlighted by users like ccc13 and crazy8.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Attwood Sahara S1100 | Rule RM1100A |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate (GPH) | 1100 / 973 at 3.3 ft | 1100 / 900 at 3.3 ft |
| Switch Type | Internal Float Switch | Water Level Sensors |
| Test Mechanism | Test Knob | None |
| Dimensions (mm) | 150 x 83 x 105 | 152 x 83 x 108 |
| Hose Size | 1-1/8″ I.D. | 1-1/8″ I.D. |
| Amperage | 4A | 4.8A |
| Warranty | 3 Years | 3 Years |
| Price Range | $80–$120 | $90–$130 |
The Sahara S1100’s lower amperage and test knob give it an edge for reliability and ease of maintenance, especially in challenging bilge spaces.
Why Choose the Attwood Sahara S1100?
The Sahara S1100 excels in several areas:
- Compact Power: Its 1100 GPH capacity in a small footprint suits a wide range of vessels, from mid-size cruisers to larger boats.
- Reliability: The internal float switch and test knob minimize common issues like sticking or failure to activate.
- Durability: Corrosion-resistant materials ensure longevity in harsh marine environments.
- Ease of Installation: The included mounting basket and clear instructions simplify setup, even in tight spaces.
- Value for Money: Priced competitively, it offers high performance without breaking the bank.
The pump’s recognition as a 2020 IBEX Innovation Award winner (Sahara Mk2) underscores its advanced design and industry trust.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Sahara S1100 is highly regarded, some considerations include:
- Limited Backup Options: Users like ccc13 noted challenges adding a backup pump due to space constraints, a common issue in older boat designs.
- Mixed Long-Term Reviews: Some users report 50/50 experiences, suggesting that while the pump is reliable, it may not match the longevity of older Rule models (e.g., 13 years for ccc13’s original pump).
- Amperage Requirements: The 4A draw requires proper wiring and fusing to prevent electrical issues, as emphasized by Jughed and Island Marine Group.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Check Wiring: Ensure the wire gauge and fuse (6A) match the pump’s requirements to avoid overheating or fires.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean the impeller and strainer regularly to prevent clogs, especially in debris-heavy bilges.
- Test Frequently: Use the test knob before each trip to confirm functionality.
- Consider a Backup: If space allows, install a secondary pump or external float switch for redundancy, as suggested by crazy8.
- Mount Strategically: Use a flat stock aluminum mount for difficult bilge areas, as recommended by crazy8, to improve access.
Conclusion
The Attwood Sahara S1100 Bilge Pump is a reliable, powerful, and user-friendly solution for keeping your boat safe from water intrusion. Its 1100 GPH flow rate, compact design, and corrosion-resistant materials make it ideal for a variety of vessels, while the internal float switch and test knob ensure dependable operation. User reviews praise its ease of installation and performance, particularly in emergencies, though some caution about long-term durability compared to older models. Compared to competitors like the Rule RM1100A, the Sahara S1100 offers superior reliability and maintenance features, making it a top choice for boaters.
Investing in the Sahara S1100 means investing in peace of mind. Whether you’re navigating rough seas or docked overnight, this pump stands as your vessel’s guardian, ready to tackle water intrusion with unmatched efficiency. For boaters seeking a balance of power, durability, and value, the Attwood Sahara S1100 is a worthy addition to any marine setup.
Happy Boating!
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