Winter is a good time to start tackling boat maintenance and upgrading your electronics.
Maybe you won’t be using your boat much this winter or only have a few trips planned. Whatever the case, winter is a good time to start tackling boat maintenance and upgrading some of your electronics. As with anything else, marine electronics have a certain lifespan. Every so often, boat owners should consider upgrading and replacing their current electronics. Maintaining and upgrading your boat in the winter will ensure it will be ready for spring.
Safety Concerns
The first thing to consider when upgrading your onboard electronics is safety. Marine electronics are used to keep everyone on board as safe as possible. The bottom of a body of water can change anytime due to factors such as sand moving from tides or even a hurricane. New chart plotter technology allows boat owners to get highly accurate readings in any environment. Updating your electronics ensures you will not encounter unknown waters and keep everyone on board safe.
New Technology
Another factor to consider when upgrading marine electronics is technology. Outdated technology will not work as well or as efficiently as newer technology. For some boat owners, it can be tough to let go of equipment you are comfortable with and have grown accustomed to using. However, by not upgrading, you could miss out on something more efficient and easier to use that you may like. One crucial technology every boater should own is an automated identification system (AIS). An AIS is a fully automated tracking system to visually identify and track other vessels, preventing collisions and improving positional awareness. And, since AIS is transmitted over VHF frequencies, it is not affected by mountains or islands. Unlike radar, AIS can “see” around corners. All you need to take full advantage of AIS is a VHF antenna and AIS receiver, plus a compatible chart plotter.
Switch to Solar
You may have noticed how many boaters are installing solar panels on board. Not having to use the generator or engine to charge batteries is a massive benefit to those who want to stay on the water for extended periods or for boaters who don’t want to run the engine while sailing. Many are choosing solar to remain at anchor for an extra day or two without increasing the battery bank. Another benefit of solar is that your house batteries have a longer life since they are not discharged as much. If you have an older solar panel and aren’t sure about the performance, consider upgrading to an MPPT controller, which can increase the charging current, optimize battery life, and protect the batteries from being overcharged.
Marine Electric Systems, LLC is a Leader In the Maritime Industry
We here at Marine Electric Systems have over 30 years of industry experience. You can trust our team for reliable service and expert craftsmanship in the Maryland, Baltimore, Annapolis, and Baltimore city areas! We’re highly certified and adhere to all ABYC and NMEA regulations. We specialize in top-notch electrical solutions for recreational, commercial, and government boating clients. Anything from electrical refits, to navigation systems, or boating maintenance. To stay up to date on our services, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube. You can also contact us at 410-263-0807