What is the consequence of carrying fuel hoses under bilge water?

Carrying fuel hoses under bilge water can lead to fuel contamination. When hoses are submerged in bilge water, particularly if the water is contaminated with oil, chemicals, or other hazardous substances, there is a risk that these contaminants can be drawn into the fuel system. This can compromise the integrity of the fuel, affecting the performance of the engine and potentially causing damage.

Contaminated fuel can lead to several operational issues, such as clogging filters, degrading fuel quality, and even causing engine failures. Thus, maintaining clean fuel lines is crucial for the operational reliability and safety of a vessel.