Owning a boat is a thrill, but lots of maintenance work and attention come with that. Unfortunately, more often than not, most of the common mistakes made by every other boat owner can be responsible for expensive repairs, poor performance, and even safety hazards. Here are the five best maintenance mistakes you should be aware of and avoid to keep your boat in really good shape, serving you over the years:
Neglecting Regular Engine Checks
Your boat's engine is one of the most important components, and not taking the proper steps to have regular inspections will lead to some serious performance problems or complete engine failure. Too many people make the mistaken assumption that if it ran great last year, then there shouldn't be any problem running it again this year. An engine needs periodic oil changes, cooling systems, and fuel system maintenance to eliminate the building up and rust. Failure to do this may result in clogged fuel injectors, overheating, or even complete breakdowns that leave you marooned on the water. Regularly checking for oil leaks, inspecting the fuel lines, and replacing worn-out parts will save you from expensive repairs in the long run.
Negligence in Proper Sealing and Maintenance of the Boat Hatch
One of the least investigated yet most important sides of maintaining a boat involves the boat hatch. These are very crucial in ensuring water does not gain entrance into important compartments. Too many boaters do not look for cracks, worn-out seals, or loose fittings in their hatches, and thus leaks allow water intrusion that can facilitate mold and damages. Poorly sealed hatches allow moisture that will begin, over some time, to affect the electronics, stored gear, and even structural integrity of the boat. This calls for regular checking of hatch seals for any debris accumulated on them as well as the occasional smearing of lubricant or sealant on the contact areas where the hatch seal goes. Dry inside and damage-free, this is what proper hatches are for.
Ignoring the Condition of the Hull
The hull of your boat provides the foundation upon which it sails; thus, any damage lowers performance and may also be a safety concern. Most people ignore the fact that hulls usually crack, get blisters, or wear after long exposure in water. Undetected and small cracks eventually grow and open up, letting water seep into the inner part of the vessel and creating a weak spot. Besides, it also enhances barnacles and algae growth on the hull that again can reduce fuel efficiency along with speed. Regular cleaning and inspection of the hull, anti-fouling paint, and addressing minor damage immediately are vital to make your boat last longer and efficiently.
Neglecting Electrical System Maintenance
The electrical system-which encompasses everything from navigation lights to bilge pumps-is one of the most integral components on your boat, and it is one of the most overlooked. Perhaps the biggest mistake a boat owner can make is assuming that once installed, the wiring and battery will just keep on working. When those connections corrode, the wiring loose, and the batteries start to fail, power loss could occur unexpectedly and may be dangerous, especially when one is out on open water. Cleaning, drying, and insulating all electrical connections, along with regular testing of your battery and charging system, will head off frustrating, even hazardous, electrical failures.
Forgetting to Flush and Maintain the Cooling System
Perhaps the most common mistake made by boat owners involves not flushing a boat's cooling system-particularly, those operating in saltwater. The buildup from blockages of salt and debris creates overheating, hence severe engine damage. On the other hand, not checking and replacing coolant, inspecting hoses, and cleaning strainers will only serve to make your cooling system less efficient. The boat's cooling system needs to be in a perfect state to protect the motor and extend the boat's engine life. Have a flush in the system every after use and schedule regular checks just to keep your engine cool and running at all times.
Of course, taking care of a boat does take some diligence, but avoidance of these common mistakes will keep your vessel in excellent condition and ensure smooth, safe adventures on the water. Regularly inspecting and servicing some of the most important components in your boat can save you costly repairs and provide you with years of worry-free boating.
