About one hundred million Americans go boating each year. A boat is a floating haven for relaxation, fun, and stress-fleeing. But a wrecked ship makes any lazy weekend on the water miserable.
But constant use can take a toll on your boat’s electrical components; sooner or later, one of these parts will likely stop working. Thus, rewiring is essential.
Rewiring a boat is a significant operation that a qualified electrician should only handle. Read these tips to ensure you don’t take your boat out on the water with faulty wiring. Don’t risk the safety of your passengers and expensive electronics for the sake of a few missing wires.
Read below for a detailed rundown of everything you need about boat rewiring.
1. Have a Proper Assessment
Before you begin rewiring your boat, it’s vital to assess the current state of the wiring. It means looking at the condition of the wire itself and the connections and terminations. It’s also essential to identify areas where water may be present, as this can cause corrosion and other problems.
Once you have a good understanding of the current state of the wiring, you can begin planning your rewiring project. It’s always best to consult an electrical specialist before starting any work.
2. Create a Plan for the New System
Different boats have different numbers and sizes of wires running through them. Creating a plan for your new system is essential before beginning any work.
Consider what you want to add or change and how it will affect the existing wiring. Draw a new system diagram, and label each wire, so you know where it needs to go.
3. Get to Know Your Batteries
It would be best if you understood how your batteries and boat electrics work. Without this knowledge, you could end up damaging your batteries or causing a fire.
Lead acid, gel, and AGM batteries are the three main types of batteries used in boats. Each type of marine battery has pros and cons, so research is essential to decide which is suitable for your boat.
Boat batteries also differ in size. Check a marine battery size chart to determine the size you need for your boat.
4. Remove Old Wiring and Installing New Materials
You can do this by disconnecting all the wires from the battery and removing the old fuse box. Once the old wiring has been removed, you will need to install new wiring. It includes running a new wire from the battery to the fuse box and then connecting all cables to the new fuse box.
You will also need to install new switches and outlets. It includes running new wires to the controls and outlets and then connecting them to the new fuse box.
After the installation, you will need to test them to ensure they work. You can do it by turning on all of the switches and outlets and then testing them using a multimeter.
Have the Right Preparations in Rewiring a Boat
If you’re considering rewiring a boat, ensure you have the right tools and materials. Take your time and be careful by doing a proper assessment. Hiring electrical specialists is always a good idea if you’re unsure what to do.
Want to learn more? Visit the rest of our website for the latest tips and information about boat safety, maintenance, and more!
