For powering appliances, navigational equipment, and so much more, modern boats are reliant on electrical systems. You’re likely to be either beached at the dock or stranded at sea without a properly functioning electrical system. To ensure you are getting the most of your marine electrical system, there are important steps that will also keep it functional and efficient for oncoming decades. Today, we at Simon Electric, LLC would like to share some of the top tips for maintaining the condition of your marine electrical system.

Marine Electrical Systems Maintenance Tips

1) Invest in regularly scheduled services for your electrical system. The marine electrical system is still prone to damage, despite that they are hardened to resist the damaging effects of the sun, saltwater, and other elements, if they are not repaired as needed and regularly serviced.
Most experts agree that the electrical system receives an annual inspection and maintenance check. This service can quickly resolve quick fixes before the evolve into major repairs and a marine electrician will typically conduct basic check to make sure the circuits are functioning properly including at the correct amperage and voltage.
2) Every 5 years get a professional assessment. Typically, due to corrosion, the boats electrical systems degrade rapidly. A comprehensive electrical systems survey performed by a qualified marine surveyor is recommended every five years. The survey procedure is inexpensive and quick, which can spare you headaches and potentially save you thousands of dollars. You may uncover a serious and dangerous issue, like a short-circuit or a fire hazard on your boat but usually the assessment will just reveal some minor electrical issues. By preventing an accumulation of issues, you will avoid major and costly repairs.
3) Do not hire non-specialized electricians and do not perform DIY repairs. Where many people want to save a few dollars, or think they know all there is to know, doing your own marine electrical services is something you should not do unless you have professional training. Smaller craft can occasionally be adequately serviced with basic knowledge but taking the risk on any size boat where electrical systems are depended on should be left to the professionals.
4) Diligently be observant for signs of trouble. If nothing else, the electrical issues that occur are fairly obvious and people can notice problems early on. Major electrical faults that are on your boat are not likely to go unnoticed. Common indications of electrical issues include:
– Radios and navigational equipment malfunctioning
– Unreliable power outlets or flickering lights
– When docked, failure to use A/C power
– Failing to start engine
– During normal boat operation, you experience circuit breakers that repeatedly trip
The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) of your boat will often relay information about electrical faults. Be ready to take your boat in for service should you notice any of these issues and be mindful of what is going on.

Marine Electrical Services & More in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County Florida

Applying these basic tips will help you avoid some of the expensive repairs, dangerous circumstances like experiencing electrical system issues out on the sea, as well as preserve you’re your electrical systems. Simon Electric is proud to offer marine electrical services such as Marine Electrical Wiring Design, Installation, Connector Assembly & Maintenance, Boat Dock Shore Power, Fiber Optics and Emergency Electrical Services. Contact us for all your electrical needs!