Boat Elecrical
- Maintaining your boats batteries is essential to their longevity, and safe operation.
- A good slow (trickle) charger will help to prolong battery life.
- Lead Acid, AGM, Gel-Cell batteries all require charging, but at different rates.
- A vessel mounted electronic charger can bring your batteries to full charge.
- There are many brands and features available, to match your electrical system’s needs.
- Most Marine Batteries last longer if stored fully charged.
- Check the Battery Terminals for Corrosion or loose connections, tighten any loose connections..
- A good corrosion inhibiter like X-9 or LPS-3 sprayed lightly on the terminals will help to reduce corrosion.
- Check the Wiring, to prevent chaffing, and corrosion build up.
- Make sure your batteries are properly secured, they should not move more than one inch in any direction.
- Make sure all wiring is properly supported, and run neatly away from fuel lines and any chafing hazards.
- To comply with ABYC standards, conductors should be supported at least every 18 inches, throughout their runs.
- All wire runs should be separate, and placed away from any fuel filters, fuel lines, or fuel valves.
- Make sure all systems are properly fused especially any new additions to the vessel.
- Wire penetrations that run through bulkheads & cowlings require chafing protection.
- Routinely check large wires to starter motors and alternators that endure engine vibration, for chafing.
- Make sure all circuits are properly fused and grounded.
- Make sure the Water/Electrolyte level is correct for your battery(s).
- A properly maintained electrical system will help to ensure a great day on the water.
