How to Use a Boat Generator

Most boats over 28 feet long, as well as work craft, have a marine generator on board. These provide electricity for the boat's various systems and accessories. They're convenient when your main engines shut down or, shore power is unavailable (e.g. when you're anchored at sea). By using a boat generator you'll save battery power while using a lot less fuel than your core engine would use.

What a Boat Generator Is

There are various sizes of boat generators available today. Typically they're rated by how many kilowatts (1,000 watts) of electricity they produce. Small boat generators only produce around three kw, but larger boats (e.g. luxury yachts, fishing vessels, ferryboats, harbor tour boats) require 25+ kw. Portable boat generators also exist, but they're meant for use on fishing boats. Regardless of what type of boat generator you need, it's important to take things like appliances, instruments, and systems into consideration here to make sure your generator is big enough to deal with all of these things.

Boat generators are different from ordinary residential or industrial generators because they're designed to withstand problems that are associated with the marine environment, including moisture and corrosion from it. Furthermore, most boat generators don't require a self-contained cooling system. Instead, they're cooled via a hydraulic pump that continually circulates seawater through its core. This is why they take a lot less space, which is great considering that your engine space is probably already overcrowded.

What About Boat Wind Generators

Whether you get a new or a used boat generator doesn't matter. They'll typically still run on either diesel or or gas based on what your boat's fuel line runs. The only real difference is in the boat generator price. However, there's also such a thing as a boat wind generator. This probably has you thinking about really small generators installed outside of someone's home, but this obviously wouldn't work for a boat. 

Boat wind generators are relatively innovative, but they're rapidly becoming very popular in the boating community. This is because these generators help cut down on the costs of running your boat, which is great news considering that they are relatively easy to set up and not very expensive either.

Essentially, these work in a similar fashion to a normal wind generator. The major difference is that boat wind generators are much smaller so that they're easily installed on your boat. Fortunately, these boat wind generators are not required to produce nearly as much energy as other generators. This is due to the fact that you only need a few appliances running off of power on your boat. 

Not only do boat wind generators save you a lot of money, but they also help you do your part for the environment. Since these generators harness the wind's raw power without producing any carbon emissions or other types of pollutants like diesel and gas do. 


Things to Consider Before Buying a Boat Generator

Before rushing out to buy a boat generator there are a few things you must consider:
* The location and how much space is available there. You need easy access for maintenance and installation. Plus the new unit will affect the weight distribution, which is important to think about ahead of time.
* Know your boat's power needs so that you choose the right boat generator with the correct kW output. A good rule of thumb is for your boat generator to have an output of at least 20% more than all of your boat's power requirements combined.
* Since generators are water-cooled, do not forget to also install a water intake with a strainer so that debris doesn't clog it up.
* Your boat generator also requires air and an exhaust system to work. It's important that these are large enough to run your boat generator.
* If you're not opting for a boat wind generator, make sure that the boat generator runs on the same type of fuel as your boat.
* If you're buying a boat wind generator, you also need to make sure it's proportional to your boat's size so that enough electricity is produced for your boating needs.

What the Typical Boat Generator Is Like

Now that you're ready to go look at a boat generator for sale you'll want to keep the aforementioned considerations in mind. As you look at the various types of generators on the market today, these things will help guide your conversation with a professional so you're sure to find an affordable boat generator that meets all your needs. This is important because you don't want to spend more money than necessary.

Boat Engines

Regardless of why you're interested in boating, it's important to have a powerful boat engine so that your boat performs properly. Therefore, before heading out to take a look at boat engines for sale you need to learn about boat motors so that you're sure to buy the one that best meets your needs. 

How Boat Engines Work 

There are two main factors that affect your boat's performance. These are the horsepower and your boat's size and weight (including fuel, passengers, and gear). Various engines also need different types of fuel. The main types of fuel are Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), and Carbureted Fuel. Each of these fuels has its own specific qualities so you need to continue using whichever one is meant for your motor. You need to keep these things in mind when you're choosing between the various types of boat motors available on the market today. 

Boat Engines Types 

There are four types of boat engines. They include: 

* Inboard boat engines are mounted inside your boat's hull with its drive unit located at the stern so that its weight is equally distributed across your boat. These are typically found on small cabin cruisers, flat-bottomed ski boats and deck boats. They're the most traditional type of boat engine because hey allow you to turn your boat and propel it forward with great ease. 
* Outboard boat engines are also quite popular. These come in various sizes, but typically they're used in little boats. A lot of people really prefer them because they're small, quiet, light, and yet quite powerful. So, they're easy to steer or swirl around. Mounted on the boat's transom, there are different types of fuels required by these boat engines. 
* Stern drive engines (a.k.a. I/O engines) are heavier than outboard boat engines. They're fixed inboard via a small unit that's attached to the transom. You can turn them up and down for better cruise control. Being so powerful and versatile has made these boat engines quite popular today. 
* Jet drive engines are quiet since they don't include propellers, which is also why they're considered quite safe (for both marine animals and humans) and eco-friendly. Furthermore, they need less maintenance and can easily sail through even really shallow water. Typically, they're fixed inboard.

By the way, boat rentals in Fort Lauderdale will help you enjoy the pleasure of sailing without even owning a boat or a yacht. 

Yamaha Boat Engines 

There are a lot of people who really like Yamaha boat engines. They're renowned for their power and versatility. You can choose from different sizes of horsepower ranging from two to 300 with the higher horsepower meaning the more power the boat actually has. 

Yamaha boats have two types of drives: propeller (the most common) and jet. As such they're more efficient and reliable than a lot of other boats. Of course, the many add-ons that are available increase people's liking of this boat. Regardless of what you add to your boat it's still really quiet too, so you never have your peace disturbed while out on the water without slowing up when it comes to their power. This means that, all things considered, you'll have a great day fishing. 

Boaters also state that the battery life is very satisfactory. Manufacturers design these batteries to last longer because they have a cooler running mechanism. Plus they're really easy to steer even though they react a lot.

Buying Used Boat Engines 

It's not a bad thing to purchase a used boat motor as long as you take its description at face value and make sure you actually talk with the owner yourself. When you do so, ask if there's anything wrong with the outboard. Listen carefully and don't allow random babble to distract you. If they try avoiding your question, make sure to repeat it until you're satisfied with their answer. Questions you'll want to do this with include: 

* When was the filter changed last? 
* How did they use the outboard (e.g. saltwater, freshwater)? 
* What maintenance did they conduct? 
* What's the age of the outboard? 
* What's the serial number? (This is important because anyone who can't tell you this information may either have a stolen or really old boat engine.) 

When possible, make sure that you actually see the boat engine for yourself. This tells you a lot about the engine, especially if you're an experienced boater. It also allows you to see if the cooling system is working properly if you see it in motion. Even if you're unfamiliar with boats, all you're doing is simply looking for a bit of steam coming out of it. You can also ask for a bottle of the 2-stroke oil that's been used to make sure it's TCW3 approved. Anything different isn't good for the motor, so avoid it. Additionally, lift the cowl and take a look at the oil that's on the dip stick to make sure it isn't murky as that means water got into there and the boat engine has problems. These are all important things to do as is taking an experienced boater with you if you're not one yourself.

Boat Fenders

Boat fenders are an important piece of equipment for any boat in the water today because it protects the boat's hull from coming into contact with the dock. For this reason, they're sometimes called dock fenders. Regardless of what you call them, there's a lot that you need to know about them. 

The Cost of Boat Fenders 

Although large boat fenders are usually quite costly, you can also get boat fenders at Walmart. Regardless of what type of whether you need Taylor made boat fenders or pontoon boat fenders, the fact remains that they're much less expensive than what you paid for your boat. 

Types of Boat Fenders 

There are many types of boat fenders on the market today, each uniquely crafted for a different situation. These include: 
* Sausage or cylindrical double-eye fenders are used on short, lightweight boats. 
* Center hole, round, and hybrid cylindrical-round fenders are used on big, heavy boats. 
* Special fenders also exist for specific types of mooring (e.g. those developed to protect the gunwales and rub rails of the boat). 

Manufacturers of Boat Fenders 

In the same way as there are various types of boat fenders, there are also different manufacturers of boat fenders as well, including: 
* Supafend makes “one-piece” molded folders that rotate. They're heavy-duty, durable and reliable. This is why they're commonly found on boats traveling through harsh conditions. 
* Polyform boat fenders are compact, yet they also have several different configurations ready for you to choose from. 
* Taylor made boat fenders are available in both round and oval cylindrical shapes. They're manufactured for 10-foot dinghies and 50-foot cruisers, as well as other specially made fenders (e.g. a pink or white mermaid-shape). 
* Megafend yacht fenders are vinyl fenders that are easily inflatable, which makes them great for boat owners with limited storage space. These are mostly available in either standard or custom sizes. 

Choosing the Right Size Boat Fender 

When you're ready to choose a boat fender there are some considerations that you'll need to keep in mind. They are your boat's weight, length and mooring conditions. While most sizing charts take these things into account, you'll also need to use some common sense along the way. Generally speaking, a cylindrical fender requires 1” of diameter while a round fender requires 2” for every 4' – 5' of boat length. 

Properly Positioning Fenders 

In order to place your fender correctly, you'll need to hang it so that its bottom barely skims the surface above the water then raise it up one or two inches. This will keep the dock from pushing the fender out of place. Make sure that when docking you tie off on a solid anchor point. Also, tie the fender as low as possible to make sure the fender maintains its position. 

Cleaning and Stowing Your Boat Fender 

Whenever you clean your boat's fender you'll simply need to use some soap and water. Never use any harsh cleaning products (e.g. acetone), as these will damage your fender. If at all possible, you don't want to get your fender dirty to begin with. Instead, cover it with a washable fender cover. 

It's also a good idea to carry extra fenders on board your boat with you. Of course, this means that you'll need a place to stow them. You can either buy and install a storage locker or simply place them under your seat, which is sometimes inconvenient. An even better option, especially on boats that have a limited amount of space, is to install a fender rack. Not only will this make sure that your fenders are always accessible, but it will also keep them out of your way. 

There are two main types of fender racks that are available for sale: 
* Folding racks, such as the Norestar Folding Fender Rack, do as their name suggests. They fold downwards once you remove the fenders, thus freeing up some more deck space for you. 
* Non-Folding racks, like the Taylor Made Racks, don't fold down. Thus, they take up deck space even when you deploy the fenders. Generally, these racks are more expensive, but they're sturdier than folding racks. 

Accessorizing Your Boat Fender 

You'll find that there are many accessories available to make it more convenient for you to work with your fenders. These include: 
* Hand pumps that allow you to quickly and easily add air to your fender when necessary. However, most sport pumps will also work. 
* Fender height adjusters that instantly adjust the height of your fender without requiring you to tie knots. 
* Fender lines that make sure your fender is always properly secured. 

A Final Word 

Ultimately, it's important to make sure that you have the right number of boat bumpers on your boat. Nevertheless, it goes beyond just having them. It's equally as important to use them correctly. Doing these things will make your boating experience much safer and a lot more fun as well.

A Variety of Boat Designs to Consider

There are many boat designs available. The function, as well as what type of water they boat will travel through (freshwater or saltwater) determines its design. Below you'll find some of these boat designs, but they are merely a few of the more popular ones. There are many other ones available as well.

Fishing Boat Design

One of the main boat designs is fishing boat design, which, as the name suggests, is primarily used for fishing. These are sturdy, reliable boats that do the best to use as much of the deck as possible. Their size wholly depends on the size of the crew, as well as what they're catching. The water the boat occupies determines how much power the engine needs (e.g. sea boat designs are much more powerful because of the waves). One of their most important features is a compartment beneath the hull that acts as a freezer and keeps the catch fresh.

Small Wooden Dinghy Boat Design

Those who are just starting to build boats often beginning with dinghies because they're so easy to build, and they don't need a lot of skills, resources, or time. Usually, they're used in calm water because you navigate them with a paddle. Although the simple boat design appear as a drawback, they are nonetheless, a great choice for anyone who's just starting to learn how to navigate a boat or who wants a reliable, low maintenance boat design.

Runabout Boat Design

The runabout boat design is sporty, fast, and versatile. This is great for water skiing because when the boat moves quickly and crashes against waves, it can give a rush of adrenaline. There are three types of runabout boat designs: the cuddy cabin boat design, the deck boat design, and the bowrider boat design.

Houseboat Design

Although the name is rather self-explanatory for this boat design, there are actually two different types of houseboats: those that are always stationary (usually built without a power source) and those that are usually on the move (used mainly by those who rent them to take on a vacation).

Yacht Design

Yachts are typically used for recreation. Their size usually is proportional to how much you're able to spend on them, but range from 8 to 12m long with the larger size yachts being the most luxurious but also the most pricey to maintain. Nonetheless, this is a very highly sought-after boat design because they come with a lot of features that make them fun to sail. Some of the features you'll find on yachts include:

* A partial glass hull for viewing fish

* Spas that include massage rooms, as well as an internal sauna/hammam

* A large, private owners' deck on either the main or upper deck (especially prevalent when a hired crew is aboard)

* A helicopter deck

* Floodable tender garages where small boats can float in and the owner may secure them here by emptying the water out

* A big sports court for playing basketball or tennis – some even have ziplines or squash courts

* Indoor gardens so that those aboard can have green landscapes regardless of the season or where they're located

* Infinity pools (a large pool on the end of the main deck) with lounge chairs right below the front of the pool

Canal Boat Design

When you live near a canal, you'll want a canal boat design because it's long and narrow enough to make its way through the canals. Prior to deciding upon the length of your boat, you'll want to take a close look at the canal to see how sharp its bends are so that you're able to navigate through it without any problem.

The internal canal boat design is usually like that of houseboats since people oftentimes take them on weekend trips. They need a reliable motor so that your boat doesn't break down, causing the canal to clog up with a backlog of boats. However, it doesn't need a lot of power since you'll cruise at really low speeds in waters that have no currents.

A Final Word on Boat Design

Now that you're aware of all the distinct boat types that exist, you're better equipped to decide what boat style actually works best for you and what you want to use the boat for. Of course, another consideration you'll want to make as you decide upon what's the optimal type of boat, are the different boat hull types that exist. Once you consider all things, you're sure to find the “perfect” boat for you.