Jabsco PAR-Max 3 Water System Pump, 3.5 GPM, 10 ft Self-Priming

Overview

The Jabsco PAR-Max 3 Series is an automatic freshwater pressure pump range for self-contained boats with multiple fixture water systems. These pumps are built around a multi-chamber diaphragm design and are used to move water from the tank to faucets, showers, galley outlets, and other onboard freshwater points when a tap is opened.

The range covers 12 VDC and 24 VDC installations, with pressure cut-off options of 40 psi (2.8 bar) or 25 psi (1.8 bar). Flow is rated at 13.2 litres per minute (3.5 gallons per minute), and the pump is self-priming from dry up to 10 ft (3 m), which gives installers more flexibility when the pump cannot be mounted directly beside the freshwater tank.

The PAR-Max 3 Series is a practical match for cruisers, fishing boats, and sailboats that need automatic freshwater delivery without adding unnecessary complexity. Snap-fit port fittings, vibration-reducing mounts, and dry running capability make it easier to install and live with in the tight, noisy spaces common on board.

Key features

• Automatic pressure-controlled operation starts the pump when a fixture opens and stops it when the fixture closes.
• 13.2 LPM (3.5 GPM) flow supports typical onboard freshwater use across multiple outlets.
• Available in 12 VDC and 24 VDC versions to match common marine electrical systems.
• Pressure cut-off choices of 40 psi (2.8 bar) and 25 psi (1.8 bar) help match the pump to the feel and pressure needs of the water system.
• Self-priming from dry up to 10 ft (3 m) gives flexibility for installations above or below the freshwater tank in a dry location.
• 1/2 inch (13 mm) hose barb and 1/2 inch-14 MSPT port compatibility suits common marine freshwater plumbing layouts.
• Glass-filled polypropylene pump body, Santoprene diaphragm, and EPDM valves support use in freshwater systems on board.
• Soft noise-absorbing mounts help reduce vibration transfer into bulkheads, lockers, and other mounting surfaces.
• Meets USCG Regulation 183.410 and ISO 8846 Marine ignition protection requirements.
• Meets EN 50081-1 electromagnetic compatibility requirements.

Variants

The PAR-Max 3 Series is offered in four configurations that vary by system voltage and pressure cut-off setting.

The pump family shares the same core freshwater pressure pump purpose, flow rating, self-priming capability, and port style. The main buying decision is whether the boat uses a 12 VDC or 24 VDC supply, and whether the water system should shut off at 40 psi or 25 psi.

• 31600-0092: 12 VDC with 40 psi (2.8 bar) pressure cut-off. This version suits 12 V freshwater systems where the higher cut-off pressure is preferred for stronger fixture pressure.
• 31600-0094: 24 VDC with 40 psi (2.8 bar) pressure cut-off. This version fits 24 V installations that need the same higher pressure cut-off without using a 12 V supply.
• 31600-0292: 12 VDC with 25 psi (1.8 bar) pressure cut-off. This version suits 12 V systems where a lower shut-off pressure is a better match for the plumbing and fixtures.
• 31600-0294: 24 VDC with 25 psi (1.8 bar) pressure cut-off. This version fits 24 V systems where lower pressure operation is preferred.

Installation and setup

The pump can be located above or below the freshwater tank, provided it is installed in a dry location. For vertical mounting, the motor should be positioned above the pump head so any leak is less likely to drip onto the motor.

Mount the unit on a solid surface and avoid over-compressing the rubber grommets, since they help isolate vibration. Flexible potable water hose or PEX tubing is preferred at the pump connections rather than rigid pipe, which can transfer noise and vibration through the boat.

Compatibility and fit

This range is intended for freshwater delivery systems on boats and RVs, not for bilge pumping or fuel transfer. Match the selected variant to the vessel voltage before installation, then confirm the pressure cut-off is suitable for the faucets, shower controls, accumulator arrangement, and any downstream equipment in the system.

The 1/2 inch port size works with many compact marine freshwater layouts, especially on boats where the pump is mounted near the tank, under a settee, in a service locker, or close to the galley and head plumbing runs.

Use cases on board

On cruising boats, the PAR-Max 3 Series is well suited to daily freshwater jobs such as handwashing, galley cleanup, and shower use. On fishing boats and weekend powerboats, it gives a simple automatic supply for sinks and wash points without needing manual switching at each fixture.