Boat Electrical System

An efficient and safe electrical system is essential to ensure comfort and safety on board a boat. It includes several key components, including:

• Batteries : These provide the energy needed to power lights, instruments, and other devices on board.

• Alternator : enables the batteries to be recharged while the engine is running.

• Circuits and wiring :

  • 12V or 24V systems :
    • Used to power most on-board appliances.
    • It is important to size the cables correctly to avoid overheating and ensure safety.
      
  • 220V systems :
    • Used to power appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners.
    • It is essential to provide proper grounding to avoid current leakage and galvanic corrosion.
      

• Protection components :

  • Fuses and switches :
    • They protect circuits from overloads and short circuits.
    • It is advisable to use quality components that are correctly sized based on the expected load.
      

• On-board utilities :

  • Lighting :
    • Essential for night visibility and safety.
  • Navigation tools :
    • GPS, depth sounders and other essential electronics.
  • Other devices :
    • Such as bilge pumps, winches and other accessories that require a dedicated power supply.