While buying a boat doesn’t come cheap, repairing broken or damaged parts may be a lot more. That’s why after purchase, you should follow proper boat maintenance that will keep your boat in tip-top shape for long.
You don’t need to pay for costly services every now and then because some of these tips are surprisingly DIY-friendly. Whether you’re a new boat owner, or someone who’s clueless why certain boat damages happen, these tips will come in handy.
Related: Yacht Maintenance Tips You Should Know
Basic Boat Maintenance Checklist 
Boats have a lot of parts to keep in check, but it pays to know which ones the most important. Inspect your boat on routine following this important checklist:
Engines
Your choice of fuel can make or break your engines. Avoid using fuel containing ethanol, or at least limit ethanol content to 10 percent. If you’re not going to use your fuel for over a week or two, consider adding a fuel stabilizer. This is to keep gasoline from forming deposits that can cause trouble in your engines.
Batteries can also cause engine problems if not properly maintained. Make sure your marine battery is installed properly with a good battery tray. Check battery connections and keep it tightly in place so it won’t go bobbing around when in motion.
Hull and Topsides
Paints run big when it comes to the overall maintenance of the boat’s hull and topsides.There’s always a debate between using Single or Two-Part paints in your boat’s topsides— but why not mix them both? These two types of paints work differently that when combined, would create a certain effect to make a harder protective layer that will stand the test of time
When repainting the hull and topsides, scraping and peeling old paint eats a big chunk out of the whole process, budget and time-wise. If you’re on a budget, better to do this preparation yourself so you don’t have to spend more.
Electrical system
The battery gives life to the overall electrical system of your boat. It works hand-in-hand with your boat’s engine but is also a lot of work in itself.
Using a multimeter to check your boat for open circuits is highly recommended. This can save you more money than hiring cheap ‘experts’ in town just to determine why your wiring is not working. You can also use it for other different functions like testing battery voltage, or determining power consumption apart from detecting faulty wirings.
Related: Boat Inspection: Everything You Need to Know
Plumbing System
This is where boat maintenance comes easy. Plumbing system in boats is easier to maintain than in homes.
Threaded fittings in your boat’s tank must be sealed with Teflon or strong thread sealants. Plastic tanks must not be overtightened, and hoses must be secured with steel hose clamps. Pumps must be checked if they’re working well. Both electric and manual pumps work fine, but to reduce water wastage, manual pumps are more advisable.
Never use plastic fittings when plumbing water heaters. Sink and shower drains must be checked regularly to avoid jammed bilges, or your boat can stink inside.
HVAC System
Maintaining your boat’s HVAC system will need a lot of cleaning. Clean your boat’s air filters by removing the panel cover to be properly dusted off. Like the air filters, your boat’s sea strainers must be tidied as well. Clear all debris and other pollutants by flushing a hose on it, or scrubbing.
Seawater is corrosive which can clog your boat’s condensers. With this, schedule maintenance service so your boat can avoid all these troubles. Don’t fret because you only have to do this at least once a year.
Windows and Doors
Your boat’s windows and doors must be properly cleaned after every trip. Water stains on old window glass can block the wonderful view. Consider changing your boat’s window glass when cleaning alone doesn’t work.
Check your windows and doors for leaks. Leaks develop if seals around the glass and frames are damaged. Inspect your windows and doors for cracks and consider replacing them for even the smallest of cracks.
Remember that windows and doors are movable, and the boat is always in motion. Cracks can make the window glass vulnerable and susceptible to breakage.
With this helpful checklist, you’re sure to keep you boat at its best condition for the long haul. If you plan on replacing your boat’s windows and other glass fittings, we can help you with that.
Let us know more about your boat’s window needs– contact us today!