Summer and boating go hand in hand. What can be better than river cruising, fishing trips, and waterside or river picnics to beat the scorching heat! However, the type of engine on your boat can enhance or detract from the experience. Nowadays, many people use electric motors for their vessels.
There is no reason you should not use electric motor-driven boats in the summer months. However, these motors need careful handling when things get hot outside.
The batteries do not like heat
Your electric motor itself handles heat pretty well, but the battery is a different story. Most units use lithium batteries, which are sensitive to extreme temperature swings. Excessive heat may shorten their lifespan over time. To keep the batteries safe, here’s what you can do:
- Don’t leave your battery sitting in direct sunlight on a hot dock.
- Let it cool down before charging after a long day out.
- Store it in the shade when you’re not on the water for extended periods.
How to charge electric motor batteries in summer?
You may very well charge your boat motor batteries at night. That may not be possible every time. Try to charge the unit in the early hours of the day. If you’re at a marina, try to charge in a shaded spot when possible. But try to avoid charging the set during peak afternoon heat. This is recommended for all types of electric boat motors.
Things to keep an eye on
In summer, people tend to spend long hours on the water, for angling, recreation, or even weekend trips. Here are a few things to watch:
- Check your battery level before you leave, not when you’re already out.
- When it is not needed, cruise at moderate throttle.
- If your motor has a temperature indicator, keep an eye on it. Most top-end electric outboards have built-in thermal protection.
What about saltwater exposure?
If you’re mostly venturing into saltwater, summer brings more boat traffic, more spray, and more overall exposure. Most Electric motors are designed to handle this, but be careful about the batteries.
After every saltwater trip, you can:
- Rinse the motor with fresh water and clean the exposed metal parts.
- Wipe down the battery terminals and look for any corrosion buildup.
- Check your propeller for any debris.
Checking these will only take a few minutes. But you will be assured that things will stay in shape.
Summer motor storage tips
If you get busy and the boat sits for a few weeks mid-summer, don’t just leave the battery connected. It is better to disconnect it from the motor and store it somewhere out of direct sunlight. A garage corner, or a shaded area, would be just fine. Check the charge level every few weeks.
Conclusion
Handling an electric motor in the summer months is not that tough. You have to be careful about maintenance and storage. It is better to get your basics clear about handling and caring for an electric motor before buying one. On websites like Furthercustoms.com, you will find some worthy units.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
