Good boat maintenance can be considered an investment for improving boat safety and not an expense. The benefit is clear: prolong the useful life of the boat and its equipment to enjoy sailing more and better.
Periodic checks of the boat
Periodic inspections allow you to discover failures at a premature stage and thus avoid larger repairs. In addition, and even more importantly, they help the boat not to depreciate as much and to achieve better conditions when it comes to selling it. Of course, it is easier to carry out proper maintenance when we have a new boat, but it is also possible to find a second-hand boat that has been thoroughly cared for, with foresight. This will become evident on both sailboats and powerboats when you look at their innards, engine chambers, and original and added installations. Cleanliness and order will give you a clear idea of how the people who preceded you lived there. If it is possible to improve the boat, we will do it, to have a starting point where everything works and avoid unexpected repairs.
Boat security
Your boat is not completely free from the risk of theft. Come on, there are always people who might intend to steal your watercraft! Equipping your boat with a GPS tracker, for example, one of the PAJ-GPS trackers will be a real advantage to save your boat.
Wash down
It is essential that you wash your boat after each use with a pH-neutral biodegradable boat wash. Salt on metal fittings begins the corrosion process as once salt dries it becomes abrasive on your boat’s paint. Also, consider using a water filter or softener to ensure that the water you are using is of the best quality, as this will ensure a stain-free rinse.
Engine room and bilge
Your engine room and bilges are the heart of your boat, and a marine gas strut can help ensure smooth operation and accessibility. If you keep them dry and clean, it will be easy to spot any service requirements issues, such as oil, fuel, and belt dust. Catching a problem early will reduce your chances of an emergency on the water and often save you money down the road! Any water that accumulates inside the hull, whether fresh or salty, is not good for your boat.
Alarm indicators
Do not ignore the indicators on the scorecard, because they can warn of future problems. If the indicator lights are of poor quality or have very low consumption, they may not be very visible in broad daylight, going unnoticed. If you opt for audible indicators, these should also be audible when the boat is at maximum power.
Take care of the engine
The engine is the most expensive part of the boat and the one that would cost us the most money to repair or replace if it broke down. Diesel engines require annual maintenance that includes changing the oil and replacing the fuel filters. As for frequent checks, you should take into account the condition of the drive belt, and the general wiring to ensure there are no loose connections and the coolant level. A new engine has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, and batteries between 3 and 5 years.
Follow the tips above and you will significantly increase the safety of your boat in various aspects!