What’s a boater to do when the rain just won’t go away?
Rain delays are best spent maintaining your boat. Have you checked your bilge pump lately? It has no doubt been getting quite the workout this spring with the massive amounts of rain we have received. While you’re at it, check your batteries too. If the rain has kept you at the pier, your batteries may need to be charged. Dead batteries mean no bilge pumps, which can mean sinking at the pier. Check over your wiring and look at your bilge. Debris, oil and gas can cause sludge to form in the bilge which can keep your pump from working. Dawn and bleach are good cleaners, but remember, it will all go overboard, so only in moderation. This wildlife and vegetation are not partial to cleaners. Salt water causes corrosion. Corroded wiring will also keep pumps from pumping, so check all of your wiring connections from the pump to the battery and float switch. If you find that you need to replace your pump, batteries and/or float switch, here are some excellent sites to help you do it yourself.
