Spring recommissioning checklist for boat owners

After the winter, or a long lay-up, it’s important to make sure your boat is in good working order before taking to the water. We recommend giving it a thorough going over from bow to stern. Here’s our spring recommissioning checklist to help you.

Engine compartment and bilges

• Check engine oil level
• Check transmission oil level
• Inspect drive belt tension and condition
• Clean weed filter(s)
• Inspect condition and operate all seacock valves
• Run up engine(s) and inspect for leaks
• Bilge pump function (lift float switches and check manual function)
• Clean or change bilge pump filters
• Adjust stern gland(s) and grease if required

Electrical

• Check battery electrolyte levels
• Fully charge batteries
• Test battery isolator function
• Test (RCD) mains circuit breaker functions
• Operate pumps, motors, fridges and test lighting

Water system

• Pump out any remaining water from domestic tank
• Fill and flush system
• Replace drinking water filter
• Add water purification tablets
• Check water heater is functional
• Test hot water tank pressure relief valve function

Toilet & shower

• Clean shower pump filters
• Clean toilet weed filters
• Flush and check toilet for leaks
• Lubricate manual toilet seal with cooking oil (flush a little down toilet)
• Charge holding tank with blue

Gas system

• Check gas bottle level
• Inspect flexible hose and regulator date and condition
• Test system with bubble tester or Hi/Low gauge
• Ensure ventilation is free from obstruction
• Check gas locker is clear and not used for storage
• Test gas alarm function
• Full inspection and test of system by Gas Safe engineer

Helm

• Test engine instrument function
• Test navigation equipment and charts
• Trim tabs
• Inspect wiper blade condition
• Check screen wash levels
• VHF
• Check fuel level
• Test navigation light
• Test horn

Exterior

• Clean window drains and tracks
• Check deck filler seals and chains
• Test davit function
• Inspect condition of ropes, wires and shackles
• Check condition of mooring line
• Inspect fenders and lanyards
• Inspect exterior cover condition and lubricate zips

Safety equipment

• Check fire extinguisher gauge reading(s)
• Check fire extinguisher service date
• Inspect fire blanket condition
• Have life jackets serviced
• Check life raft service date
• Check date of flares
• Inspect smoke and carbon monoxide alarm function and expiry date
• Inspect life ring and throwing line condition
• Check grab bag

Other checks

• Inspect heating system function
• Boat hook
• Log book
• Engine service requirements
• Documentation

If you need help or advice, please call our servicing team on 01603 712 334 or email service@broomboats.com. Alternatively, use our contact us form.