I have a boat that is seven years old and is new to me. It always has about an inch of water in the bilge. Is this normal. I can not figure out what the source of the water is. I have checked all the water sources that I can identify. Has anyone already chased this topic down.

Encore

Depending on the type of bilge pump and float switch you have, you'll probably never get 100% of the water out. I have a Rule. Most want to maintain a certain amount of water level to prevent air getting into the pump which may cause it to lose prime. Once a year I give the bilge a complete cleaning (dry), but add sufficient water to it when I'm finished to verify the pump float switch is working and that water is actually being pumped out of the boat (no loss of prime).

If you are using your air conditioner or refer they will both generate condensation which will run to the bilge. How about your fresh water tanks?
Check all through hulls and valves. What about your dripless? Have a generator? The list goes on and on.

Best of luck,

Midnightsun171

I always have a couple of inches of water in the bilge. I wouldn't be at all concerned about it unless the bilge pump is running frequently which may indicate a leak somewhere.

I always have a couple of inches of water in the bilge. I wouldn't be at all concerned about it unless the bilge pump is running frequently which may indicate a leak somewhere.