Enjoying your vlogs immensely. Thanks for posting regularly. Enjoy the analytical way you approach problems and repairs before rolling up the sleeves or calling someone. For your international viewers, we would love to see highlights and scenery of wherever you may be. Thanks again!.
Perfect music for your VLOGs. The water can cycle on the pump, when the one-way valve starts to go, inside the pump. They can be repaired, with some work. The other option is to install an external one-way valve before the pump from the tank.
So glad to see you getting these mechanical bits sorted out. You are really living the life, at least as seen from my still working lifestyle. I appreciate the professionalism you bring to your videos. They are a joy to watch. Salutations from here in Texas.
We had a somewhat similar issue two years ago on a hire boat on which the water pump was below the master berth and made sleeping very difficult. Since it was a hire boat we phoned in and they motored out and replaced the pump which solved the problem. They new one was a much mightier pump that the failed one and it made the shower ever so much better. Good luck from America!
Off topic but been wracking my brains as to who your voice and style of presentation reminds me of until the penny just dropped - Fred Dineage is the answer and I hope you read this as the compliment intended - Keep up the good work Sir. I love your channel and will stick with you like algae on a lock gate! :o)
+000hahh I'll take that. I've worked with Fred for several years though my broadcast voice and style was honed many years before I ever met him so it must be coincidence. Thanks :-)
I am up to #27 in 3 days or so - the videos are so interesting and varied, the waterfowl interlude was lovely. Overall, reminds me of Wind in The Willows... [p.s. so excited for route-planning next video, I have my glass of champagne all ready!]
I spent years on a sailboat with a 12-volt pump. Once every 4 hours is, to me, a normal cycle. Tiny bits of air leak out maybe through the bladder and the system builds up its normal pressure. No worries.
Another great video! Hope the pump is sorted now. Really liked the middle/end of the video where you were soaking up the rays and watching the ducks. That's the life!
+Helen Aird It certainly is. Another glorious day today, so quiet. I'd have gone out for a chug but I'm expecting the new covers for my cratch cover today.
Love the videos. The pressure cylinder has a rubber bag inside that is filled with air to create the water pressure. the water is on the other side of this rubber. if said rubber has a tiny leak to the 'air side' you will experience the pump coming on off like you have AND the pressure on the air side will increase as you have experienced until one day there is no air left. test by removing your pressure cylinder, shake it like a giant charity tin and if there is any water at all inside then it must be replaced. that's it! thanks.
+narrowboat view Thank you. I'll have a go at that (and try not to flood the boat at the same time). So I first turn off the stopcock, then open the taps to drain the pipes, then unscrew the accumulator, let any water drain out, then shake it (with any "erroneous" water on the wrong side of the diaphragm presumably staying in there)?
Sounds like your pump check valve was leaking by. Makes sense if the chirps stopped when the system pressure was lowered. Interesting video. Had my share of pump issues in our RVs. Love the vlog. :)
I've dealt with these pumps in different applications and they like getting debris stuck under the little rubber valves inside the pump. Servicing the pump itself is easy, all you should need is a No2 Phillips screwdriver and to pay attention when you pull the pump apart.
OK, gotta tell ya that I'm glad I only recently discovered your channel (in the channel! haha) because there are now many episodes to while away the locked down hours! In Oregon we are not yet on mandatory rules but schools are closed and you are only supposed to venture out for critical needs. I hope you are well in the face of the epidemic. P.S. Glad you seem to have calmed down from the cushion rant!
HI, another idea for the locker cover would be to hing it, that way you wouldn't have to take it out at all, except for larger items, and the strength should stay there... you can always put a support rail between the joint if your not sure it would hold without...enjoying your vids as Im just starting to fit out my sail away....
+GraphiteGray1 Unfortunately it won't hinge because the gunwales stick out over the back so it can't flip up, also the curve of the boat at that point would get in the way.
+CruisingTheCut A piano hinge after cutting in half should allow you strength (it is still a step) and the ability to fold before removal or just lift up the piece in the way. Don't need to worry about the gunwales. Otherwise you just know that at some point, you will kick the step apart and step into the storage locker vs. the step. Least that has happened a couple of times on a couple of my boats, generally followed by a stream of expletives.
+John Caron I must be being rather stupid as I can't see where you'd put a hinge that would make removal any easier. It can't fold upwards as the gunwales protrude in, so they are relevant to this
+John Caron It wouldn't work, the sides wouldn't lift up more than 10 degrees before they clanged into another bit of the boat. The edges of the plank will be supported front and back and sides though so it should be fine.
I know it's years late, but for anybody who's wondering about their own accumulator you want to test the pressure with no water pressure in the system. No wonder it was over pressured. It was compressed with the water pressure in the system probably.
The water accumulator has a bladder inside to hold the air. Without a bladder the air would mix with the water and come out of the taps. If there is too much air pressure in the bladder, it will essentially inflate until it completely fills the accumulator and no water will get in to the accumulator. With the accumulator filled by a bladder then you completely loose the functionality of the accumulator. There will always be a tiny leak in the taps, but not enough to notice, in fact it can even evaporate before you see the liquid. Also the water pump relies on internal non return valves that will leak water backwards. That water loss will be what the water pump was coming on to replace. Hope this helps.
Going by experience of our boat when in the UK and abroad the Eisenglass windows do benefit from protection from the sun and elements to prevent deterioration. We have found that in certain areas due to pollution from cars etc they can last a very short time so we would suggest fitting the covers on the outside with snap fasteners.
I'm sure your helper knows this, but when re-pressurising the accumulator there should be zero pressure on the water side i.e. the pump should be turned off and a tap run to drop the pressure to zero. Then charge the vessel with air to about 1.5 to 2 bar, then turn the pump back on. This gives a large volume of compressible air within the vessel which water can them occupy. And if water ever comes out of the foot pump fitting on the accumulator it means the vessel is shot and should be replaced. Love the videos by the way!
Thank you. I expect he knows it too but we did it the unscientific way by just letting some pressure out. It works again now anyway so I'm going to leave it as it is until next time... Cheers
Sucks that you're probably going to have a bad nights sleep tonight! I hope you find the leak promptly and it's easy to fix. Another great video, I must say. Know a lot more about water pumps then I did 7 minutes ago haha :)
+Gina Beans Thank you. It went off at 3am and 5am (!) but weirdly didn't go off after that until after I got up and used the taps. I might have to just bury my head in the sand (pillow) and hope the problem goes away ;-)
Does not mean any symptoms that you described. Being a diaphragm pump, the problem is that the diaphragm is NOT seating in the pump. This causes the pressure to leak BACKWARDS past the diaphragm until your pressure switch kicks back in. A small piece of debris. i.e. sediment, may get past the inlet strainer & cause this. P.S. Good choice on the Gulper, excellent pumps & nearly bullet proof!
Your arrangement is "more or less" the same system used in American households with a well. In America the "tank" would be divided by a rubber diaphragm which keeps the water from contact with the air used to maintain water pressure then the pump isn't running. After some years, the rubber diaphragm develops a leak. The solution is to replace the tank. It often is temporarily "fixed" by, in effect, converting the system to an "air over water" system. But such systems need "stuff" to regulate the amount of air.
I'm only up to this video in your catalog, so forgive the question if you cover it, but can you cover how to moor your boat? How the hook ups work and the anchoring/chains hooks.
I don't think I've ever done a mooring video, maybe I should. You either use pins banged into the ground, or chains / hooks around the metal Armco (barrier). Front and back of boat.
If the newly divided lids show signs of allowing water or trash migrating down the gap, a strip of 'T' joint seal can be fitted to them. If they become unruly and won't stay put, a few screws into one panel will sort things out, just make the permanent connection to the segment that is most often lifted And Robert is your Aunt's husband...
True, I hadn't thought of that. Everybody is so security conscious now. I kind of wish for the old days, you left your doors unlocked and no one bothered you..
....seeing you relax and enjoy the quiet on...( hay what's the name of your boat anyhow?)....the water. I'm left with a mental image of a Boy in a fancy toy boat in an endless narrow bathtub location limited only by his imagination...But I am a dreamer...Q: What's the name of the canal that will take you through Neverland?...I haven't seen our friend Peter for a very long time...A.C.Feuerhelm
I am going through your excellent videos in numerical order. I would be interested in how you get your post, do banks accept marinas as a proper address etc? In other words how do you get around not having a static address. Maybe its in a future video ive yet to come across.
Ah bugger, that's a shame =/ Time to get the magneto-torch out and go poking and prodding I think! I think Pippi had some advice about water pipes when she was swapping out her toilet but I might have that wrong. Also, I'd look into why the tank is over-pressuring, not to sound all mystic Meg or whatever but it sounds like the system is trying to tell you something. Good luck sir, hope you get it sorted soon and all the best on your upcoming trip! (I know it's a while off yet, but I can still show some support! ;) )
+KnuxVeeone That's the thing, I don't think it's over-pressurising, it's leaking pressure which then prompts the pump to kick in again. So something's letting pressure out when it shouldn't.
Well hopefully it's an easy fix, although I can't help but think in a few months when everything is ship shape and Bristol fashion you're going to miss all this ;) Keep up the great vids, always a pleasure to watch.
Eyup. Not sure if you have figured this oot yet but I noticed again your ash pan and thought to point out a better way to use them is to open it, lay it horizontal, slide in the whole tray with ashes horizontal, close the lid, horizontal and then tip it to carry it out. That way the ashes do all their swirling and dusting inside the closed box. Once you are outside you can open it upright, withdraw the ash pan, leaving just ashes to cool and dispose of as per. I have just had a right nightmare trying to fix a hot water system on a narrow boat and had to walk away in the end. My thought would be that having had the sparky in a while back he might have disturbed a fitting? What you might be able to do is unplumb the cold water side, just before the hot tank, and blank that off, depending on how you are plumbed you should still get cold water through that circuit and if the pump still triggers you can back track from there, blanking sectors as you go. Best of luck with it, it's a bugger!
+Godshole Excellent idea about the ash pan, I have no idea why that didn't occur to me already! Duh. I'm pretty sure Simon didn't kick anything while he was in there but you're right, it is an absolute bugger!
The main thing is your taking a proper approach to the problems. Seeking information instead of jumping in eyes wide shut. When you get the narrow boating all figured out, the next step is a nice little 35 foot catamaran and go sailing.
My best guess is the pressure release valve on the hot water tank....it could have been activated by the excessive pressure in the system, made worse of course when the tank was full of hot water, was the cycling of the pump triggered by heating up the water ? I think they can be adjusted and they sometimes vent overboard or more than likely into the engine bilge. Something to check ? Nev NB Percy
+Nev Wells Excellent suggestions except for two things. Firstly I haven't put any hot water in the tank for ages as I've been using the marina's showers etc. Second, I don't have a PRV! (Yes, I realise this is weird but there really isn't one). So, I'm thinking probably a slight leak back through the pump to the tank.
Ah the way of boatlife. The gremlins, pixies, ghoulies, ghosties and the odd leprechaun in your works just when you think all is working as it should! Maybe time to leave an offering of sweets under your cratch ;) Best of luck
+The Bike and Barge I know! I was just thinking how I'd got everything nearly exactly ready for my travels and then this happens :-( I think the neighbour's cat would be pleased if I took up the sweets in the cratch idea ;-)
I was pondering this myself and I think it's so that they're easier to step into when the sides are unzipped (a vertical side would mean having to bend down rather than step in as you can if it's on a slant)
Sounds to me like it might be the one way check valve is seeping past OR, the pressure switch might be starting to fail either one will be a light fix before you start your Cruise/Route
mine does it every so often , i had it going every few minutes for a few weeks but it seems to have cured itself, your lucky though, my pump is fitted under the bed directly below and in between the two pillows
Hi, to stop the pump waking you up through the night and until you find the leak.. Which IS your problem. Turn off the 12v switch for the pump while you have a tap fully open, this will release any pressure in the system, and for now you will sleep better and not have any water leaking into your bilges. I hope its not the hot water tank leaking, very hard to find as it leaks through the insulation and very difficult to pin point.. Anyway, good luck.. Jon
Do not most motor caravans etc use a flow switch to turn on the water pump? That is a valve with a float which contains a magnet inside. When you open a tap or turn the shower on the water begins to flow and the flowing water lifts the float with magnet which closes a magnetically operated switch/relay to energise the pump. When the demand for water stops the float sinks turning the pump off.
I've no idea about caravans, sorry. The boat has a system which turns it on when the pressure drops due to opening a tap, the pressure being maintained initially by a small accumulator (pressurised vessel)
Did you open a tab to let the water out while pumpmg air? The idea is that you pump the bladder to its maximum volume but keping the pressure way below the set point of the water pump. The leak is most likely air in the bladder. There are also setups without any bladder where you put air on top of water. Then you always loose air together with the water. When there is only water in the system the pump will come on and pressurize the system in half a second and with a few ml to leak back past the pump / one way valve it goes on for half a second again.
+Nerd3927 No, we were letting air out. I get the gist of how it works but have no idea what the set point of the pump is, nor does it say on the label on the pump. Weirdly, despite running twice during the following night, it seems to have stopped doing any random running now.
+CruisingTheCut Hmm, ok. But what it comes down to is that the pump can not make any volume. It will kick in at about 1.5 bar and shut off at 3 bar. That means that there is no place in the system to put any water. It needs compressible air. If there was a water leak it would run the normal run time that it always does. I would switch of the pump, open a tab, pump the air-tank bladder to exchange water for air, close the tab, and switch on the pump. On the Ex-pilot vessel were I volunteer in the engine room this is a regular job every 6 weeks or so.
+Nerd3927 I don't want to put any more air in it, it was too high a pressure already. It's now working OK though and doesn't seem to be running randomly so I'm going to leave it as it is..
The thing is, if the tank was over pressured then the pump should never trip in. It's the drop in pressure that activates the pump. Maybe the over pressure has knackered the pressure switch. Just a thought.
And another possibility is that the air valve itself is the culprit and you're leaking air, not water. You may have re-seated it a bit when you let out the air. I say this because the frequency of the pump running dropped dramatically after you disturbed the air valve.
+kmanison Before this, the pump would always come on as soon as the cold tap was opened. Instantly. But it wouldn't come on for 10 seconds or so when the hot tap was used. Then, if the hot was turned off without making the pump run, half an hour later it would run of its own accord, for about 10 seconds. Now, after reducing the pressure, both hot and cold will run without the pump for a good 30 seconds (as I'm now told they should have been doing anyway), then the pump kicks in (and runs for at least 30 seconds to re-pressurise). But additionally now it runs of its own accord every few hours.
Hope you find your problem. I'm no help, I'm the hit it with a hammer type of girl lol. we're playing around with flood water here in LA at the moment so could do with a boat.
Nice video 👍 can I ask on a different note do you have a wood burning stove that runs your radiators? If so can you tell me what circulating pump you have please?
I have several Q: that I will post over time... Was it advantageous to be in winter mooring right after the purchase of your boat, even if to get all of the small "Gremlins" sorted before you left on your first journey?
+Miguel Nieves Possibly but that would only confirm that there is a drop. Without moving and reinstalling the gauge all over the place, I wouldn't locate the leak and I don't want to do that as it could cause more issues through loosening things.
Another good vlog, hope your water problem solved by now, by the way, how do you get hot water for showers etc ?., looking forward to your next video :0)
+John Henry Thank you. Oddly, the pump has quietened down now of its own accord! Hot water can come from several sources on a boat: engine coolant usually runs through a hot water cylinder so you got hot when on the move; there are also diesel-fired water heaters. Some people has gas-fired instant water heaters. And if you're plugged into a shoreline, many have electric immersion heaters.
Sorry to hear it's not been sorted :( Since you're now looking for a leak somewhere in the piping, I presume you've ruled out the possibility of the pump throwing in the towel? Anyways, hope you get it sorted out soon before setting off and before it causes too many sleepless nights!
I'm just wondering, is there a non return valve before or after the pump? if it's worn or a small piece of debris the pressure would leak back causing the pressure switch to cycle the pump in that way.
Sometimes there are, sometimes there aren't. As I recall, mine didn't have a visible NRV but as you say in the video, changing the pressure in the accumulator tank sorted it and everything worked much better. In a later video, the pump gets swapped out for a new one anyway.
Just thinking here.Does all the narrowboats with well decks use these soft covers? Wouldn't be possible to just stretch the cabin, and use some sliding rigid panels instead? This would allow light, air if open, would protect from elements if closed and be easier to just open and close? I don't know. Maybe I'm missing something, maybe I'm being heretic, just thinking about it. But... ?
David, I'd love to do what you do but a] I'm too old and b] I rather think I would have to have company! I like my own company but, only for so long, then I need some communication with another human being! I don't think a dog would be companion enough, love them though I do!! I so enjoy your Vlogs. Please keep them coming!!
There's plenty of communication with other humans if you want it - other boaters, walkers on the towpath, people in the towns and villages you pass. You're not a hermit once you buy a boat....!
Be careful about cutting that plank, you might think about putting more support under the two halves- you may step on it one day and fall through and break an ankle. Just sayin'. Maybe your right, but get a second opinion! Somebody somewhere has run into this problem and found a solution.
You are aware that you will allow a great deal more dirty and moisture to enter inside of the steps if you cut the planks. Not really the best idea, mate.
No it won't (and hasn't). The well deck lockers were never waterproof to start with and have drain holes either side. Also, the entire well deck area has a fabric cratch cover over it. The benefits of MUCH easier access to the lockers having cut the planks far outweighs any slight rain getting in through the minute gap between them.
CruisingTheCut Sounds like a plan then, Will cutting them effect the stability of the step? Would hate to see it collapse while you are standing on it.
Is it possible that you tried repressurizing the system yourself using the bicycle pump without a gauge and made it worse. You then called out an expert who released the pressure which fixed the issue. Just saying because there was a dribble of water by your foot pump which suggests you tried to fix it yourself. Great vids though
Hello there, Manic Miner! I'm in America and just started following this wonderful channel. I believe the bird in question is the English (or Eurasian) Coot. From The Free Dictionary: Any of several waterbirds of the widely distributed genus Fulica, having dark-gray plumage, a black head and neck, and often a white bill.
(1:22) - I'm sorry but that is no "water tank". It's mainly air inside that tank. Air you can pressurise. Water, er, not so much. It's a science thing. >
@@CruisingTheCut Yes David, do I know this. I am talking about the "accumulator", not the insulated tank. If you click on the time code that precedes my comment, it takes you to the precise point in the video to which I am referring. Cheers. >
I'm in the blessed (and cursed) position that there are now so many comments I don't have time to click on timecodes to wait and watch what people refer to, unfortunately.
CruisingTheCut the time code Bodragon is referring to takes you to a point in the video that shows a view of the blue tank that you refer to as the accumulator....if that helps.
Two issues floated, unbidden, into my head as you described cutting the unwieldy board: Will it destabilize the step, despite the center support? The weight of the board and its contoured fit may be factors in its stability Will the kerf pinch a seated individual's bum? And then a third, which I owe to a wily office manager I used to work with: How big of a problem is it? It was a question that often saved us time, if not money. If, as you say, it's a seldom opened locker, then perhaps meditation is a better resolution.
+Gene Rybarczyk I'll take the third first: yes, it must be done, it's a right royal pain. I will get cushions for the boards. It shouldn't destabilise but if it does, I'll brace it. Cheers.
Man... your Kitchen sink & Tap are Gross!... its a wonder you haven't died of something. Are you planning to replace them? suggest you check out a caravan breaker for a nice hygienic Stainless steel one if its not a house domestic size.got to be a good cheap second-hand one out there. plus a nice hot cold tap unit in shiny something.... Matts on 'Sail life' who recommends your channel will give you some pointers.
Bob Mullins Sorry. We missed your point from the appalling grammar and punctuation in what you were trying to say. All I got was you’re angry and are taking it out on some poor guy you don’t know to try and make yourself feel better.
Enjoying your vlogs immensely. Thanks for posting regularly. Enjoy the analytical way you approach problems and repairs before rolling up the sleeves or calling someone. For your international viewers, we would love to see highlights and scenery of wherever you may be. Thanks again!.
+Lance Muller Thank you, I'll do my best! Cheers.
Perfect music for your VLOGs. The water can cycle on the pump, when the one-way valve starts to go, inside the pump. They can be repaired, with some work. The other option is to install an external one-way valve before the pump from the tank.
So glad to see you getting these mechanical bits sorted out.
You are really living the life, at least as seen from my still working lifestyle.
I appreciate the professionalism you bring to your videos. They are a joy to watch.
Salutations from here in Texas.
:-)
Simple answer David to your water pump problem - Gremlins!
We had a somewhat similar issue two years ago on a hire boat on which the water pump was below the master berth and made sleeping very difficult. Since it was a hire boat we phoned in and they motored out and replaced the pump which solved the problem. They new one was a much mightier pump that the failed one and it made the shower ever so much better. Good luck from America!
+Franklin Levin Thank you!
Off topic but been wracking my brains as to who your voice and style of presentation reminds me of until the penny just dropped - Fred Dineage is the answer and I hope you read this as the compliment intended - Keep up the good work Sir. I love your channel and will stick with you like algae on a lock gate! :o)
+000hahh I'll take that. I've worked with Fred for several years though my broadcast voice and style was honed many years before I ever met him so it must be coincidence. Thanks :-)
Expert Gary to the rescue 😤👏🏾
I am up to #27 in 3 days or so - the videos are so interesting and varied, the waterfowl interlude was lovely. Overall, reminds me of Wind in The Willows... [p.s. so excited for route-planning next video, I have my glass of champagne all ready!]
I spent years on a sailboat with a 12-volt pump. Once every 4 hours is, to me, a normal cycle. Tiny bits of air leak out maybe through the bladder and the system builds up its normal pressure. No worries.
Another great video! Hope the pump is sorted now. Really liked the middle/end of the video where you were soaking up the rays and watching the ducks. That's the life!
+Helen Aird It certainly is. Another glorious day today, so quiet. I'd have gone out for a chug but I'm expecting the new covers for my cratch cover today.
Love the videos. The pressure cylinder has a rubber bag inside that is filled with air to create the water pressure. the water is on the other side of this rubber. if said rubber has a tiny leak to the 'air side' you will experience the pump coming on off like you have AND the pressure on the air side will increase as you have experienced until one day there is no air left. test by removing your pressure cylinder, shake it like a giant charity tin and if there is any water at all inside then it must be replaced. that's it! thanks.
+narrowboat view Thank you. I'll have a go at that (and try not to flood the boat at the same time). So I first turn off the stopcock, then open the taps to drain the pipes, then unscrew the accumulator, let any water drain out, then shake it (with any "erroneous" water on the wrong side of the diaphragm presumably staying in there)?
Correct! I hope it goes well.
+narrowboat view Thank you :-)
Sounds like your pump check valve was leaking by. Makes sense if the chirps stopped when the system pressure was lowered. Interesting video. Had my share of pump issues in our RVs. Love the vlog. :)
It would be lovely to see a little bit more of the scenery and life around your narrowboat :-)
Great to see someone enjoying the better weather -- hopefully there's more to come.
+Stephen Mundane Definitely. Another lovely day again today for a start!
Cant wait to see your trip! As usual the next video cant come soon enough!
+Mr Bigfoot Counting down the days... :-)
Garry is the man!!!!
I've dealt with these pumps in different applications and they like getting debris stuck under the little rubber valves inside the pump. Servicing the pump itself is easy, all you should need is a No2 Phillips screwdriver and to pay attention when you pull the pump apart.
OK, gotta tell ya that I'm glad I only recently discovered your channel (in the channel! haha) because there are now many episodes to while away the locked down hours! In Oregon we are not yet on mandatory rules but schools are closed and you are only supposed to venture out for critical needs. I hope you are well in the face of the epidemic. P.S. Glad you seem to have calmed down from the cushion rant!
HI, another idea for the locker cover would be to hing it, that way you wouldn't have to take it out at all, except for larger items, and the strength should stay there... you can always put a support rail between the joint if your not sure it would hold without...enjoying your vids as Im just starting to fit out my sail away....
+GraphiteGray1 Unfortunately it won't hinge because the gunwales stick out over the back so it can't flip up, also the curve of the boat at that point would get in the way.
+CruisingTheCut A piano hinge after cutting in half should allow you strength (it is still a step) and the ability to fold before removal or just lift up the piece in the way. Don't need to worry about the gunwales. Otherwise you just know that at some point, you will kick the step apart and step into the storage locker vs. the step. Least that has happened a couple of times on a couple of my boats, generally followed by a stream of expletives.
+John Caron I must be being rather stupid as I can't see where you'd put a hinge that would make removal any easier. It can't fold upwards as the gunwales protrude in, so they are relevant to this
+John Caron It wouldn't work, the sides wouldn't lift up more than 10 degrees before they clanged into another bit of the boat. The edges of the plank will be supported front and back and sides though so it should be fine.
No wonder you channel is taking off so fast, a wonderful video!
+rdd594 Thank you!
Lets hope you find that leak and get it fixed. Enjoy your weekend.
+Joanna Pocock Thanks Joanna. You too.
I know it's years late, but for anybody who's wondering about their own accumulator you want to test the pressure with no water pressure in the system. No wonder it was over pressured. It was compressed with the water pressure in the system probably.
The water accumulator has a bladder inside to hold the air. Without a bladder the air would mix with the water and come out of the taps. If there is too much air pressure in the bladder, it will essentially inflate until it completely fills the accumulator and no water will get in to the accumulator. With the accumulator filled by a bladder then you completely loose the functionality of the accumulator.
There will always be a tiny leak in the taps, but not enough to notice, in fact it can even evaporate before you see the liquid. Also the water pump relies on internal non return valves that will leak water backwards. That water loss will be what the water pump was coming on to replace.
Hope this helps.
Going by experience of our boat when in the UK and abroad the Eisenglass windows do benefit from protection from the sun and elements to prevent deterioration. We have found that in certain areas due to pollution from cars etc they can last a very short time so we would suggest fitting the covers on the outside with snap fasteners.
I'm sure your helper knows this, but when re-pressurising the accumulator there should be zero pressure on the water side i.e. the pump should be turned off and a tap run to drop the pressure to zero. Then charge the vessel with air to about 1.5 to 2 bar, then turn the pump back on. This gives a large volume of compressible air within the vessel which water can them occupy. And if water ever comes out of the foot pump fitting on the accumulator it means the vessel is shot and should be replaced.
Love the videos by the way!
Thank you. I expect he knows it too but we did it the unscientific way by just letting some pressure out. It works again now anyway so I'm going to leave it as it is until next time... Cheers
cup of tea and the legendry cheese and tomato snack.
OMG, our hire boat did the same all night long!
The trick on a hire boat is to turn the water pump off at night, on the fuse switch panel.
Sucks that you're probably going to have a bad nights sleep tonight! I hope you find the leak promptly and it's easy to fix.
Another great video, I must say. Know a lot more about water pumps then I did 7 minutes ago haha :)
+Gina Beans Thank you. It went off at 3am and 5am (!) but weirdly didn't go off after that until after I got up and used the taps. I might have to just bury my head in the sand (pillow) and hope the problem goes away ;-)
Does not mean any symptoms that you described. Being a diaphragm pump, the problem is that the diaphragm is NOT seating in the pump. This causes the pressure to leak BACKWARDS past the diaphragm until your pressure switch kicks back in. A small piece of debris. i.e. sediment, may get past the inlet strainer & cause this. P.S. Good choice on the Gulper, excellent pumps & nearly bullet proof!
a seasoned campaigner
You may have air in t he lines somewhere. Had a similar problem on my FRP.
Yes i just saw this one and wondered if you found the leak...but you at least had a great day to relax...take care and good luck.
Your arrangement is "more or less" the same system used in American households with a well. In America the "tank" would be divided by a rubber diaphragm which keeps the water from contact with the air used to maintain water pressure then the pump isn't running. After some years, the rubber diaphragm develops a leak. The solution is to replace the tank. It often is temporarily "fixed" by, in effect, converting the system to an "air over water" system. But such systems need "stuff" to regulate the amount of air.
I'm only up to this video in your catalog, so forgive the question if you cover it, but can you cover how to moor your boat? How the hook ups work and the anchoring/chains hooks.
I don't think I've ever done a mooring video, maybe I should. You either use pins banged into the ground, or chains / hooks around the metal Armco (barrier). Front and back of boat.
If the newly divided lids show signs of allowing water or trash migrating down the gap, a strip of 'T' joint seal can be fitted to them. If they become unruly and won't stay put, a few screws into one panel will sort things out, just make the permanent connection to the segment that is most often lifted And Robert is your Aunt's husband...
True, I hadn't thought of that. Everybody is so security conscious now. I kind of wish for the old days, you left your doors unlocked and no one bothered you..
+Bill Peacock :-)
....seeing you relax and enjoy the quiet on...( hay what's the name of your boat anyhow?)....the water. I'm left with a mental image of a Boy in a fancy toy boat in an endless narrow bathtub location limited only by his imagination...But I am a dreamer...Q: What's the name of the canal that will take you through Neverland?...I haven't seen our friend Peter for a very long time...A.C.Feuerhelm
It's named Wreyland but he calls it boat when clearly he should be calling it No. 1
I am going through your excellent videos in numerical order. I would be interested in how you get your post, do banks accept marinas as a proper address etc? In other words how do you get around not having a static address. Maybe its in a future video ive yet to come across.
Please see www.CruisingTheCut.co.uk/f-a-q/
Chirp? That's more like a BELCH!
Ah bugger, that's a shame =/ Time to get the magneto-torch out and go poking and prodding I think! I think Pippi had some advice about water pipes when she was swapping out her toilet but I might have that wrong. Also, I'd look into why the tank is over-pressuring, not to sound all mystic Meg or whatever but it sounds like the system is trying to tell you something. Good luck sir, hope you get it sorted soon and all the best on your upcoming trip! (I know it's a while off yet, but I can still show some support! ;) )
+KnuxVeeone That's the thing, I don't think it's over-pressurising, it's leaking pressure which then prompts the pump to kick in again. So something's letting pressure out when it shouldn't.
Well hopefully it's an easy fix, although I can't help but think in a few months when everything is ship shape and Bristol fashion you're going to miss all this ;) Keep up the great vids, always a pleasure to watch.
+KnuxVeeone I am so not going to miss and problems! I suspect there will always be something to fix though, sadly.
Eyup. Not sure if you have figured this oot yet but I noticed again your ash pan and thought to point out a better way to use them is to open it, lay it horizontal, slide in the whole tray with ashes horizontal, close the lid, horizontal and then tip it to carry it out. That way the ashes do all their swirling and dusting inside the closed box. Once you are outside you can open it upright, withdraw the ash pan, leaving just ashes to cool and dispose of as per.
I have just had a right nightmare trying to fix a hot water system on a narrow boat and had to walk away in the end. My thought would be that having had the sparky in a while back he might have disturbed a fitting? What you might be able to do is unplumb the cold water side, just before the hot tank, and blank that off, depending on how you are plumbed you should still get cold water through that circuit and if the pump still triggers you can back track from there, blanking sectors as you go.
Best of luck with it, it's a bugger!
+Godshole Excellent idea about the ash pan, I have no idea why that didn't occur to me already! Duh. I'm pretty sure Simon didn't kick anything while he was in there but you're right, it is an absolute bugger!
+CruisingTheCut Good stuff.. re ash pan, not so much with the pump. Hope you can get that sorted.
The main thing is your taking a proper approach to the problems. Seeking information instead of jumping in eyes wide shut. When you get the narrow boating all figured out, the next step is a nice little 35 foot catamaran and go sailing.
+Mazda rx7 Sailing's not for me. I get queasy in even a slight wobble and I don't like boats that tilt over to one side. That's why I'm on a canal!
👍
My best guess is the pressure release valve on the hot water tank....it could have been activated by the excessive pressure in the system, made worse of course when the tank was full of hot water, was the cycling of the pump triggered by heating up the water ? I think they can be adjusted and they sometimes vent overboard or more than likely into the engine bilge. Something to check ? Nev NB Percy
+Nev Wells Excellent suggestions except for two things. Firstly I haven't put any hot water in the tank for ages as I've been using the marina's showers etc. Second, I don't have a PRV! (Yes, I realise this is weird but there really isn't one). So, I'm thinking probably a slight leak back through the pump to the tank.
Ah the way of boatlife. The gremlins, pixies, ghoulies, ghosties and the odd leprechaun in your works just when you think all is working as it should! Maybe time to leave an offering of sweets under your cratch ;) Best of luck
+The Bike and Barge I know! I was just thinking how I'd got everything nearly exactly ready for my travels and then this happens :-(
I think the neighbour's cat would be pleased if I took up the sweets in the cratch idea ;-)
Why are cratch (sp ?) covers a triangular profile and not match the rectangular boat profile ? Would be more spacious I’d think...
I was pondering this myself and I think it's so that they're easier to step into when the sides are unzipped (a vertical side would mean having to bend down rather than step in as you can if it's on a slant)
Sounds to me like it might be the one way check valve is seeping past OR, the pressure switch might be starting to fail either one will be a light fix before you start your Cruise/Route
+Mr. C I'm not even sure there is a non-return valve in the system - perhaps there should be! Good idea about the switch.
mine does it every so often , i had it going every few minutes for a few weeks but it seems to have cured itself,
your lucky though, my pump is fitted under the bed directly below and in between the two pillows
+paul stokeuk I shouldn't laugh but ... mind you, I'm not sure I'd trust anything involving a potential leak that just "cures itself"!
Hi, to stop the pump waking you up through the night and until you find the leak.. Which IS your problem. Turn off the 12v switch for the pump while you have a tap fully open, this will release any pressure in the system, and for now you will sleep better and not have any water leaking into your bilges. I hope its not the hot water tank leaking, very hard to find as it leaks through the insulation and very difficult to pin point.. Anyway, good luck.. Jon
+Jon Warmsley Good tip and I'll do that tonight. Interesting point about if the tank's leaking but I couldn't see any damp under it. Cheers.
What’s the total miles you can actually go? How long are the canals?
About 2,000 miles (ish) plus some rivers
CruisingTheCut wow! Very cool
Do not most motor caravans etc use a flow switch to turn on the water pump?
That is a valve with a float which contains a magnet inside. When you open a tap or turn the shower on the water begins to flow and the flowing water lifts the float with magnet which closes a magnetically operated switch/relay to energise the pump. When the demand for water stops the float sinks turning the pump off.
I've no idea about caravans, sorry. The boat has a system which turns it on when the pressure drops due to opening a tap, the pressure being maintained initially by a small accumulator (pressurised vessel)
Did you open a tab to let the water out while pumpmg air? The idea is that you pump the bladder to its maximum volume but keping the pressure way below the set point of the water pump. The leak is most likely air in the bladder. There are also setups without any bladder where you put air on top of water. Then you always loose air together with the water. When there is only water in the system the pump will come on and pressurize the system in half a second and with a few ml to leak back past the pump / one way valve it goes on for half a second again.
+Nerd3927 No, we were letting air out. I get the gist of how it works but have no idea what the set point of the pump is, nor does it say on the label on the pump. Weirdly, despite running twice during the following night, it seems to have stopped doing any random running now.
+CruisingTheCut Hmm, ok. But what it comes down to is that the pump can not make any volume. It will kick in at about 1.5 bar and shut off at 3 bar. That means that there is no place in the system to put any water. It needs compressible air. If there was a water leak it would run the normal run time that it always does. I would switch of the pump, open a tab, pump the air-tank bladder to exchange water for air, close the tab, and switch on the pump. On the Ex-pilot vessel were I volunteer in the engine room this is a regular job every 6 weeks or so.
+Nerd3927 I don't want to put any more air in it, it was too high a pressure already. It's now working OK though and doesn't seem to be running randomly so I'm going to leave it as it is..
The thing is, if the tank was over pressured then the pump should never trip in. It's the drop in pressure that activates the pump. Maybe the over pressure has knackered the pressure switch. Just a thought.
And another possibility is that the air valve itself is the culprit and you're leaking air, not water. You may have re-seated it a bit when you let out the air. I say this because the frequency of the pump running dropped dramatically after you disturbed the air valve.
+kmanison Before this, the pump would always come on as soon as the cold tap was opened. Instantly. But it wouldn't come on for 10 seconds or so when the hot tap was used. Then, if the hot was turned off without making the pump run, half an hour later it would run of its own accord, for about 10 seconds.
Now, after reducing the pressure, both hot and cold will run without the pump for a good 30 seconds (as I'm now told they should have been doing anyway), then the pump kicks in (and runs for at least 30 seconds to re-pressurise). But additionally now it runs of its own accord every few hours.
+kmanison The air valve on the accumulator? Hmm, interesting. It did wobble around a bit, I thought. I'll have another look. Cheers
hi David are you at yelvertoft where Alan is too and missing your uploads mate are you going to start them again
take care stay safe .
Hi, I haven’t stopped making videos, I upload about one a fortnight at present and have done so since April! Cheers
Hope you find your problem. I'm no help, I'm the hit it with a hammer type of girl lol. we're playing around with flood water here in LA at the moment so could do with a boat.
+Dido K Haha, that's normally my approach too! But ... floods in LA??? I thought that was the land of perpetual sun and dryness?
LA as in Louisiana the land of the hot wet swamps that have flooded out this week, wish this was LA California. Lol.
+Dido K Ah, that makes more sense! Do you have those super hover-boat things (with the big fan on the back) in the swamps? They look like fun.
Nice video 👍 can I ask on a different note do you have a wood burning stove that runs your radiators? If so can you tell me what circulating pump you have please?
No, my radiators were driven by a separate diesel system
I have several Q: that I will post over time... Was it advantageous to be in winter mooring right after the purchase of your boat, even if to get all of the small "Gremlins" sorted before you left on your first journey?
+Mr. C I definitely think so. As a novice narrowboater, the backup and support from the people here was a huge plus.
can you install a fix gauge in line so that you can see a drop in pressure to help you locate the problem?
+Miguel Nieves Possibly but that would only confirm that there is a drop. Without moving and reinstalling the gauge all over the place, I wouldn't locate the leak and I don't want to do that as it could cause more issues through loosening things.
Another good vlog, hope your water problem solved by now, by the way, how do you get hot water for showers etc ?., looking forward to your next video :0)
+John Henry Thank you. Oddly, the pump has quietened down now of its own accord!
Hot water can come from several sources on a boat: engine coolant usually runs through a hot water cylinder so you got hot when on the move; there are also diesel-fired water heaters. Some people has gas-fired instant water heaters. And if you're plugged into a shoreline, many have electric immersion heaters.
+John Henry Oh, and not forgetting just putting a kettle of water on the wood burner during winter!
Sorry to hear it's not been sorted :( Since you're now looking for a leak somewhere in the piping, I presume you've ruled out the possibility of the pump throwing in the towel? Anyways, hope you get it sorted out soon before setting off and before it causes too many sleepless nights!
+wr8112 As far as I know the pump itself is fine. And yes, it woke me at 3am and 5am today :-(
Putting on a bit of weight Captain? Chubby Chops
no more ghost
I bought a narrowboat yesterday :)
+ChefEarthenware Congratulations! I hope you have a terrific time aboard. Good luck.
Definitely a bad accumulator. Diaphragm is probably worn
I'm just wondering, is there a non return valve before or after the pump? if it's worn or a small piece of debris the pressure would leak back causing the pressure switch to cycle the pump in that way.
Sometimes there are, sometimes there aren't. As I recall, mine didn't have a visible NRV but as you say in the video, changing the pressure in the accumulator tank sorted it and everything worked much better. In a later video, the pump gets swapped out for a new one anyway.
Just a note the air pressure needs to be checked/adjusted with no water pressure in the tank
Yep, cheers
Did you find it?
You'll have to remind me what I'd lost, that was a long time ago...
Ohh sorry the water leak. Sounds like a nightmare on a boat.
Ah, there wasn't a leak. I think a later video explains what happened.
There you go, making mud angles when it rains.
Chirpy chirpy cheep cheep cherp.
ever solve the source of the original overpressure?
Nope
3:47 Does that qualify as a water bed? :-)
Any bed on a boat is.
Pressure sensor? By now you have found out whatever the problem was
Just thinking here.Does all the narrowboats with well decks use these soft covers? Wouldn't be possible to just stretch the cabin, and use some sliding rigid panels instead? This would allow light, air if open, would protect from elements if closed and be easier to just open and close?
I don't know. Maybe I'm missing something, maybe I'm being heretic, just thinking about it. But... ?
Yes, could do but you don't tend to see much variation in the way things are done on the canals!
Sometimes you just gotta chill
David, I'd love to do what you do but a] I'm too old and b] I rather think I would have to have company! I like my own company but, only for so long, then I need some communication with another human being! I don't think a dog would be companion enough, love them though I do!!
I so enjoy your Vlogs. Please keep them coming!!
There's plenty of communication with other humans if you want it - other boaters, walkers on the towpath, people in the towns and villages you pass. You're not a hermit once you buy a boat....!
3:26 let sleeping ducks lie.
how much coal do you use in a day"winter/early spring" pls
Depends how cold it is!
Changed the pump on my Brother-in-laws camper and here in the US that pump costs about 100 dollars .
+john hunt It's about £80 here I think. Not too bad but not sure it's actually the pump that's at fault.
Have you named the boat, or don't you do that over there?
+Bill Peacock Yes it has a name but I prefer to keep that off the videos. There are some aspects of my boating I choose to keep private, after all.
Water tank empty? The pump pumped air instead of water so the air pressure in the accumulator became to high.
Nah, it was full
Be careful about cutting that plank, you might think about putting more support under the two halves- you may step on it one day and fall through and break an ankle. Just sayin'. Maybe your right, but get a second opinion! Somebody somewhere has run into this problem and found a solution.
+lance gauthier If I break a leg I'll be sure to make a video about it ;-) You're right of course, I'll take car. Cheers.
You should get a cat... It would be great.
I love cats but I'm not getting one for various reasons too long to explain here!
Understandable although I have a sneaking suspicion any long-term viewer would be able to identify your boat on sight I'm afraid... :)
Maybe the Diaphragm in the pump leaking back to the water tank.............
+john hunt I did wonder about that. I might try ordering one if it's not too costly, and see if that sorts things. Thanks.
You are aware that you will allow a great deal more dirty and moisture to enter inside of the steps if you cut the planks. Not really the best idea, mate.
No it won't (and hasn't). The well deck lockers were never waterproof to start with and have drain holes either side. Also, the entire well deck area has a fabric cratch cover over it. The benefits of MUCH easier access to the lockers having cut the planks far outweighs any slight rain getting in through the minute gap between them.
CruisingTheCut Sounds like a plan then, Will cutting them effect the stability of the step? Would hate to see it collapse while you are standing on it.
No (the work was done some months ago and has been fine). There are little metal brackets which hold the two halves.
CruisingTheCut Outstanding!!
in the sailing world we rather facetiously call that area the garage :-) shed would be another good name for it too :-))
Is it possible that you tried repressurizing the system yourself using the bicycle pump without a gauge and made it worse. You then called out an expert who released the pressure which fixed the issue. Just saying because there was a dribble of water by your foot pump which suggests you tried to fix it yourself. Great vids though
No, that's not the case.
Does anyone know the species of bird that is seen at 3.34. I keep seeing these on the cut along with Mallards and Geese.
Hello there, Manic Miner! I'm in America and just started following this wonderful channel. I believe the bird in question is the English (or Eurasian) Coot. From The Free Dictionary: Any of several waterbirds of the widely distributed genus Fulica, having dark-gray plumage, a black head and neck, and often a white bill.
(1:22) - I'm sorry but that is no "water tank".
It's mainly air inside that tank.
Air you can pressurise.
Water, er, not so much.
It's a science thing.
>
The big insulated water tank is indeed a tank full of water, I assure you.
@@CruisingTheCut Yes David, do I know this.
I am talking about the "accumulator", not the insulated tank.
If you click on the time code that precedes my comment, it takes you to the precise point in the video to which I am referring.
Cheers.
>
I'm in the blessed (and cursed) position that there are now so many comments I don't have time to click on timecodes to wait and watch what people refer to, unfortunately.
CruisingTheCut the time code Bodragon is referring to takes you to a point in the video that shows a view of the blue tank that you refer to as the accumulator....if that helps.
Bugger.
3:08
Coffee would have been an abomination.
Lewis72 Why?
Two issues floated, unbidden, into my head as you described cutting the unwieldy board:
Will it destabilize the step, despite the center support? The weight of the board and its contoured fit may be factors in its stability
Will the kerf pinch a seated individual's bum?
And then a third, which I owe to a wily office manager I used to work with: How big of a problem is it? It was a question that often saved us time, if not money. If, as you say, it's a seldom opened locker, then perhaps meditation is a better resolution.
+Gene Rybarczyk I'll take the third first: yes, it must be done, it's a right royal pain. I will get cushions for the boards. It shouldn't destabilise but if it does, I'll brace it. Cheers.
It's fine, there's nothing in the lockers that's going to be bothered by any tiny spot of water that gets in anyway.
You English are always drinking tea, how bout a segment on tea.
Haha, no need for a special segment, we just drink it continuously as you say!
I do hope you don’t have to polish the horn on the front of your boat
It got polished against a small bridge:P RIP brass boat horn
Man... your Kitchen sink & Tap are Gross!... its a wonder you haven't died of something. Are you planning to replace them? suggest you check out a caravan breaker for a nice hygienic Stainless steel one if its not a house domestic size.got to be a good cheap second-hand one out there. plus a nice hot cold tap unit in shiny something.... Matts on 'Sail life' who recommends your channel will give you some pointers.
Bob Mullins Sorry. We missed your point from the appalling grammar and punctuation in what you were trying to say. All I got was you’re angry and are taking it out on some poor guy you don’t know to try and make yourself feel better.
Wow