Electrical systems on older vessels are in most cases obsolete and can pose a threat to the safety and proper functioning of your vessel. To ensure that the built-in electrical system can be relied upon, a proper update of the obsolete system is very important. Further below we will list the most important steps when changing your electrical system.

Before you decide to update your electrical system, you need to thoroughly check your existing system. This includes checking all the conductors, connectors, circuit breakers and other components. While checking your system you can find damaged cables, corroding connectors and components which need to be switched out. The built-in systems should also be checked by an expert who will be able to spot any further deficiences. A preliminary check of your system will provide you with valuable insight into the extent of the needed renovations and can prevent any unforeseen trouble that could appear during the renovations.

After you have checked your system it is time to plan your new electrical installation which has to be adapted to the specifics of your vessel. New circuit- breakers and their capacity, optimal location for new cabels as well as suitable conductors and connectors need to be chosen for your new electrical system. It is also important to take extended safety measures into account since vibrations, salt water and and humidity pose a threat to any kind of electrical system on any kind of vessel. A proper protection from the mentioned threats needs to be chosen and all the elements of your electrical system need to be positioned correctly. We recomend hiring an expert which will help you plan and choose the proper equipment.

Once the plan and blueprints have been finalised it is time to install the system. If you decide to install the system on your own you have to be mindful of the safety measures, since a faulty installation can damage the system or even cause fire.

It is also very important that you regularly maintain all of the components of your new electrical system. This includes regular checks of the built-in cables, connectors, conductors and circuit breakers. We also recommend, that you regularly check your chargers, inverters and batteries, use fine-wire tinned copper conductors and circuit breakers with high capacity.

Author: Jaka Vitko, Elektro Štumpfl d.o.o.