Maintenance of your boat for safe boating

When boat season arrives, every owner is ecstatic to go boating and wants to get their boat into the water right away. If you winterized it before the cold weather hit, then you should have no worries for the boating season.

There are a few precautions you must take each year to keep your boat in top shape so there are no surprises during the season. If you have an issue while out in the boat and it turns out to be wear and tear or a maintenance issue, your insurance company can and probably will deny the claim. There are many areas that need to be checked which you should be able to do yourself. If not, many of the marinas that store the boats over the winter, will include a maintenance pack which is well worth the money.

Maintenance – Annual Checklist to keep your boat in tip top shape

Fuel System

• Check the fuel tank for any rust or contamination and make sure the fuel system has been secured at the tank, deck, and filter pump.

• Look for leaks from the tank and hose

• Make sure your tank is protected from siphoning

• The engine department should be clear of any flammable materials.

• Make sure the fuel valve on the tank and engine is off.

Electrical System

• Make sure all wiring is approved for your make of boat

• The wire terminals and connections are sealed to prevent corrosion.

• The wiring must be clear of the exhaust system.

• There should be an adequate flex between the bulkhead and all the engine connections.

• Make sure batteries are stored in non-corrosive ventilated containers and non-conductive covers are fitted properly.

Miscellaneous Gear

• Check to make sure your bilge pump is working properly. You should have a manual backup bilge and a pail in case of an emergency.Always check the condition of your life jackets. If they are ripped, in bad condition or not up to code, they need to be replaced. We do not want the person wearing it to sink. There are always changes in the regulations of all safety water products.

Wash your boat!!!

•  This may be a daunting task to have to do this, but it has its rewards. A clean hull can will save you up to 20% in fuel each year. There are numerous types of excellent hull cleaners that will remove any algae, salt and scum fairly easily.

Maintenance on your boat should be done twice a year. Once in the spring and more importantly, when you are winterizing at the end of the season. If it is not done properly, you could be unknowingly causing damage to the motor. If you are not sure of how to do this, have your marina do it prior to storing it.

A boat does not decrease in value. An insurance company will insure to value if it has been taken care of and in excellent shape.  Our team of experts at Mariners Insurance Group will be able to assist you in finding the right type of insurance for you.