Onboard electronics now represent the nervous system of your boat, bringing together navigation instruments, multi-function screens, autopilots and communication systems essential to your safety at sea. In the hostile marine environment, this sophisticated equipment faces extreme conditions on a daily basis: salt spray, constant humidity, temperature variations and vibrations. Without proper maintenance, these combined factors can quickly degrade your installations, cause critical malfunctions and endanger your navigation. Corrosion insidiously settles in the connectors, moisture seeps into the circuits, and salt forms a conducting film that interferes with electronic signals. However, with simple and regular actions, you can considerably extend the life of your electronics while guaranteeing their reliability during your sea trips. This article takes you step-by-step through the best practices for cleaning and protecting your embedded electronics, from safe cleaning techniques to preventative solutions that will make a difference in the long run.
Why maintaining on-board electronics is essential
Understanding the root reasons that make the maintenance of marine electronics essential will help you adopt the right reflexes and prioritize your maintenance efforts. The maritime environment is one of the most aggressive environments for electronic equipment, and this reality fully warrants particular attention.
The effects of salt and humidity on equipment
Sea salt is the number one enemy of your embedded electronics. When spray settles on your devices, it leaves behind a thin crystalline layer that absorbs ambient humidity. This combination creates an electrolytic environment that dramatically accelerates the corrosion of metal components, including connectors, pins, and printed circuits. Salt also acts as an electrical conductor, creating parasitic short circuits that interfere with the normal functioning of your instruments. Over time, you will observe whitish or greenish traces on the connections, obvious signs of advanced oxidation. Humidity, on the other hand, seeps into the smallest gaps, even in boxes that are supposed to be waterproof, because no joint remains perfectly airtight indefinitely. This humidity encourages internal condensation, especially during temperature changes, creating droplets that can damage sensitive electronic circuits. LCD screens are particularly vulnerable to this phenomenon, sometimes developing fuzzy areas or irreversible stains.
The consequences of a lack of maintenance (breakdowns, data loss, security)
Neglecting the maintenance of your on-board electronics exposes your boat to very real risks that go beyond simple technical inconvenience. Offshore equipment failures can quickly turn a pleasant outing into a critical situation, especially when they involve navigation or communication systems. Imagine your GPS stopping working during night-time navigation in a congested area, or your VHF refusing to turn on when you need to make a distress call. These scenarios, far from being hypothetical, are often the result of inadequate maintenance. The gradual corrosion of the connections creates abnormal electrical resistances that disrupt the power supply of the devices, causing untimely restarts or complete extinctions. Data loss is another major risk, especially for electronic mapping systems that store your routes, waypoints, and navigation histories. Water entering an electronic box can permanently erase this valuable information. In financial terms, the replacement of equipment damaged by lack of maintenance is infinitely more expensive than regular preventive maintenance. Marine electronics manufacturers now offer monitoring systems such as Oria Marine's IoT boxes, which make it possible to detect anomalies early and anticipate problems before they become critical.
How often should you clean your on-board electronics?
The ideal cleaning frequency depends directly on how you use the boat and the navigation conditions to which you expose it. For a boat that is used regularly at sea, light cleaning after each trip is the best approach. This quick cleaning consists of simply wiping screens and exposed surfaces with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove salt from the spray. This routine of a few minutes prevents the accumulation of saline residues and preserves the readability of your screens. More thorough cleaning, including dismantling protective covers and inspecting connections, should be carried out monthly for intensively used boats. At the end of each season, before wintering, a thorough and meticulous cleaning is required, accompanied by an exhaustive check of all components. This annual major cleaning makes it possible to detect the first signs of corrosion or wear and to remedy them before they cause irreversible damage. For boats used occasionally, cleaning at the beginning and at the end of the season is generally sufficient, supplemented by an inspection before each trip to check for the absence of traces of humidity or mold. Remember that electronics located outside, which are particularly exposed to bad weather, require more sustained attention than those installed under deck in protected areas.
The equipment needed for effective cleaning
Equipping yourself properly before cleaning your electronics guarantees not only the efficiency of the operation, but above all the safety of your expensive devices. Using the right products and tools makes all the difference between beneficial maintenance and cleaning that would damage your equipment.
Recommended products (specific cleaners, microfiber cloths, antistatic sprays)
Cleaners specially formulated for marine electronics are your first ally. These products, available at specialized shipchandlers, are designed to dissolve saline deposits without attacking delicate surfaces or leaving conductive residues. Choose spray cleaners that allow controlled application and avoid excess liquid. Recognized brands such as Star Brite, Shurhold or Boeshield offer proven formulas that have proven themselves in the marine environment. Microfiber cloths are the ultimate cleaning tool for electronics. Their ultrafine fibers effectively capture dust and salt without scratching screens, unlike traditional fabrics that may contain abrasive particles. Invest in several quality cloths, reserving some exclusively for cleaning screens and others for less delicate surfaces. Antistatic sprays also deserve a place in your care kit. They reduce the accumulation of dust on electronic surfaces while creating a protective barrier against humidity. For electrical connectors, contact sprays like WD40 Contact Cleaner or CRC Contact Cleaner dissolve corrosion and leave a protective film that repels moisture. Finally, bagged dehumidifiers, placed strategically near your electronics, absorb ambient humidity and limit condensation.
Products to avoid (solvents, strong alcohol, excess fresh water)
Some products that are commonly used for household cleaning can cause irreparable damage to your marine electronics and should be strictly avoided. Isopropyl alcohol, while often recommended for cleaning electronic circuits, is not suitable for modern screens with anti-reflective or tactile coatings. Alcohol gradually dissolves these surface treatments, leaving permanent whitish traces and degrading the readability of your instruments. Powerful solvents such as acetone, white spirit or paint thinners attack plastics and rubbers, causing them to become brittle and discolored. Even multi-purpose household cleaners, which are harmless on hard surfaces, often contain chemical agents that are aggressive to electronics. Ammonia, found in many window products, corrodes metal contacts and tarnishes plastic surfaces. Excess fresh water is also a hazard, especially if it gets into connectors or housing openings. Contrary to popular belief, rinsing your instruments thoroughly with fresh water is not recommended, as water can enter sensitive areas and stagnate there, promoting corrosion. If you must use water, it should be applied sparingly to a rag, never directly to the devices. Detergents containing abrasives, even very fine abrasives, irreparably scratch screens and alter their transparency.
Protective equipment (gloves, dry cloths, soft brushes)
Protecting your hands and equipment while cleaning requires a few simple but essential accessories. Thin nitrile or latex gloves allow you to handle chemicals while maintaining good dexterity for delicate operations. They also avoid transferring your skin's natural oils onto cleaned surfaces, as these organic residues attract dust and can create tough marks on screens. Always have several dry microfiber cloths handy to immediately wipe off any excess cleaning product. This precaution prevents liquid from flowing into sensitive areas such as the gaps between the screen and its case. Brushes with soft bristles, such as a new toothbrush or makeup brush, gently remove dust accumulated in the grooves, around the buttons and in the ventilation grills without risking scratching the surfaces. For electrical connectors, specific antistatic brushes exist, equipped with carbon fiber bristles that clean without generating potentially harmful static electricity. A pack of cotton swabs is also a smart investment in reaching hard-to-reach areas and meticulously cleaning electrical contacts. Finally, use a table vacuum or a compressed air can to remove loose particles before wet cleaning, thus reducing the risk of scratches while the cloth is being wiped.
Steps to safely clean on-board electronics
Methodical cleaning, carried out in the right order, guarantees optimal results while minimizing the risks for your equipment. Following these steps sequentially is the key to a successful and secure interview.
1. Unplug and secure the electrical system
Before any intervention on your electronics, the first absolute safety rule is to cut off the boat's general electrical supply. Locate your main electrical panel and activate the general circuit breaker, or directly unplug the battery if your installation does not have a centralized circuit breaker. This basic precaution protects both the operator and the equipment against the risk of accidental short circuits during cleaning. Wait a few minutes after the switch off to allow the internal capacitors to discharge completely, as some circuits maintain residual charge even after switching off. Make sure that all screens are off and that no more lights are visible on your instruments. For particularly sensitive or expensive systems, physically unplug the power connectors, taking care to photograph their location before dismantling to facilitate later reassembly. This disconnection step also allows you to inspect the condition of the plugs and sockets, looking for traces of greenish corrosion or blackened contacts. If necessary, mark the complex connections with indelible marker, and place the unplugged cables in labeled plastic bags to avoid confusion during reassembly. If you have a monitoring system like the Oria Marine IoT box, note that this smart equipment can alert you to the status of your battery and your circuits even when the boat is unoccupied.
2. Clean screens, keyboards and navigation interfaces
Cleaning multifunction screens requires a particular technique to preserve their protective coating and legibility. Start by removing dry dust by gently running a dry microfiber cloth or soft brush over the entire surface. This first pass prevents abrasive particles from scratching the screen during wet cleaning. Then spray your specific electronics cleaner on a clean microfiber cloth, never directly on the screen to avoid infiltration. Clean the screen with gentle circular movements, without pressing excessively, working from top to bottom and making sure to cover the entire surface evenly. Pay particular attention to the edges of the screen where salt and dirt tend to accumulate. For stubborn traces, resist the temptation to increase the pressure, as you could damage the underlying liquid crystals or peel off the touch coating. Instead, rewet your cloth and let it work for a few seconds before wiping again. Keyboards and buttons deserve similar attention. Use a cotton swab slightly dampened in cleanser to clean around each key, removing any residue that has built up in the gaps. For touch keyboards, the same gentle method as for screens applies. Navigation interfaces such as trackballs or joysticks require partial disassembly if your user manual allows it, in order to clean the internal mechanisms where salt can create friction points that alter the precision of movements.
3. Dust off and dry the connectors
Electrical connectors are the most vulnerable points in your electronic installation, as they combine exposed metal surfaces and hollow spaces where moisture easily accumulates. Inspect each connector carefully for signs of corrosion, which usually appear as greenish deposits on copper or orange rust on steel parts. Waterproof connectors such as NMEA or SeaTalk, although designed for the marine environment, are not immune to degradation, especially if their O-rings are aged or poorly positioned. Use a soft brush to remove dust and light deposits, always brushing in the direction of the braces to avoid twisting them. For incipient corrosion traces, spray electrical contact cleaning spray and leave for a few moments before brushing again. Heavily oxidized connectors may require more aggressive cleaning with a small brass wire brush, but proceed with extreme care to avoid damaging the protective plating of the contacts. After cleaning, dry the connectors thoroughly with compressed air or a hair dryer set to cold or lukewarm, never hot. The aim is to remove any trace of moisture from deep cavities where it could remain trapped. Once completely dry, apply a dielectric protective spray that forms a hydrophobic barrier around the contacts, repelling future moisture while maintaining electrical conductivity.
4. Check the condition of cables and fasteners
The physical integrity of your cabling directly determines the reliability of your embedded electronics, making regular inspection absolutely essential. Examine each cable methodically over its entire length, looking for signs of wear such as cracks in the insulation jacket, discolored areas indicative of abnormal heating, or deformations indicative of excessive twisting. Cables exposed to UV, especially those passing over the deck or near portholes, degrade more quickly and require increased surveillance. Gently feel each cable for hardening or abnormal soft areas that would signal water entering the conductors. Points of passage through bulkheads deserve careful inspection, as repeated friction due to boat movements can gradually wear away the insulation. Check that the rubber grommets are in good condition and maintain a proper seal. Fasteners, which are often overlooked, play a crucial role in preventing breakdowns. Poorly maintained cables vibrate with the boat's movements, creating repeated flexions at the connections that end up causing breakages due to metal fatigue. Make sure all cable ties are properly positioned and tight enough to secure the cables without excessively compressing them. Replace aged plastic collars that have lost their elasticity with new marine grade UV resistant ones. Also, inspect the mounting brackets on your instruments to ensure that no screws have come loose due to vibration, and that the seals between the devices and their supports remain in good condition.
5. Reboot and test the hardware after cleaning
Once cleaning is complete and all components are completely dry, the re-commissioning process must be carried out methodically to detect possible problems before going back to sea. First, reconnect all cables to their original location using the photos taken before disassembling, and make sure each connector is securely clipped until you hear or feel the locking click. Make a final check that all connections are properly inserted and that no cables are left unplugged. Then restore the power supply by activating the general circuit breaker or by reconnecting the battery. Carefully observe the startup of each device, noting possible error messages, unusual lights, or abnormal behavior. Most instruments perform a self-test at startup, displaying all segments of their screen in succession or flashing their indicator lights. Consult your user manual to verify that this startup sequence is proceeding normally. Then test each critical function of your devices by going beyond simply turning on. For GPS, check that it acquires satellites correctly and displays a consistent position. For the sonar, note that the screen shows probable depth and not outliers. Test VHF by making a routine call on an authorized channel. For navigation instruments such as autopilot or electronic weather vanes, perform the calibrations recommended by the manufacturer after a long period of inactivity. If you detect an anomaly, turn off the power immediately and investigate the cause before recharging the system.
How to protect your electronics after cleaning
Cleaning is only the first step in comprehensive maintenance. Effective protection of your electronics between cleanings considerably extends its lifespan and reduces the frequency of necessary interventions.
Use protective sprays and dehumidifiers
Protective sprays create an invisible but effective barrier against moisture and salt, providing your first line of defense after cleaning. These products generally contain polymers or silicones that repel water while allowing surfaces to breathe, thus avoiding the accumulation of trapped moisture. Apply these sprays to all exterior surfaces of your instruments, strictly following the manufacturer's instructions for spray distance and drying time. Avoid spraying it directly on the screens, prefer to apply it to a cloth that you then gently pass over the surface. For electrical connectors, specific dielectric sprays such as CRC Marine Heavy Duty or Boeshield T-9 offer exceptional protection by forming a film that excludes water without interfering with conductivity. These products are particularly valuable for NMEA connections, antennas, and exposed cable transits. Dehumidifiers play an indispensable complementary role, especially for electronics installed in confined spaces such as the cabin or technical boxes. Silica gel bags, which are widely used in industry to protect sensitive equipment during transport, are also proven to be effective on board. Place several bags in the compartments housing your electronics, replacing them regularly as they become saturated with moisture over time. Some reusable models change color when saturated, indicating that it is time to regenerate them in the oven or microwave. For larger installations, rechargeable or crystal electric dehumidifiers offer a more sustainable and effective solution.
Install protective covers or covers
Protective covers are a modest but extremely profitable investment to protect your electronics from environmental aggressions. These custom cases, typically made of neoprene, marine vinyl, or coated polyester, protect your instruments from spray, accidental impacts, and UV rays when not in use. For multifunction screens, rigid or semi-rigid covers offer the best protection by maintaining a small gap of air between the cover and the screen, allowing the evaporation of residual humidity while blocking water projections. Choose models that are specifically tailored to your devices rather than universal covers, as a precise fit ensures optimal protection without leaving spaces where water could seep in. Marine electronics manufacturers like Garmin, Raymarine or Simrad generally offer covers that fit their own instruments perfectly. Systematically install these protections after each use at sea, and especially during periods of wintering or prolonged inactivity. For permanently exposed instruments such as masthead anemometers, some manufacturers offer specific protective covers that preserve moving parts during storage periods. Remember to also protect keyboards and control buttons, as the salt that accumulates in their mechanisms can gradually seize them. The covers should be removed and dried regularly to prevent them from becoming moisture traps themselves. Wash them periodically in fresh, soapy water and allow them to dry completely before reinstalling them.
Maintain good ventilation in technical areas
Air circulation is your best ally against stagnant humidity, which promotes corrosion and mold in the technical areas of your boat. Embedded electronics generate heat during operation, creating heating and cooling cycles that promote condensation if the ambient air is not renewed sufficiently. Make sure that the ventilation grids in the compartments housing your electronics always remain clear and functional. Clean these grills regularly to remove dust and salt that could block their openings and reduce airflow. For under-deck installations, check that Dorade aerators or air bags are not obstructed by carelessly stored ropes, sails, or other equipment. In spaces that are particularly confined or poorly ventilated naturally, installing low-power electric fans can make a considerable difference. These fans, specially designed for the marine environment with moisture-protected motors, create a constant flow of air that removes moisture and maintains a more stable temperature. Choose solar or very low-power models that can work continuously without excessively discharging your batteries. The orientation of the fans also matters by creating a flow of air that passes through the entire space rather than blowing the air locally. Ideally, create a ventilation circuit with fresh air intake on one side and extraction on the other, allowing a complete renewal of the compartment atmosphere. During periods of inactivity, if possible, leave the boxes and access panels slightly ajar to promote natural air circulation, provided of course that the boat is sheltered from the weather.
Check tightness and joints regularly
The tightness of your electronic installations is the last barrier against water infiltrations that would cause catastrophic damage. The rubber or silicone seals that ensure this tightness gradually degrade under the effect of UV, marine ozone and thermal variations, losing their elasticity and developing microcracks invisible to the naked eye. Inspect all gaskets methodically at least twice a year, before and after the boating season. Focus your attention on the joints surrounding instruments embedded in dashboards or deck panels, as these are the most exposed. A healthy joint should remain soft to the touch, with no hardened, cracked, or discolored areas. Test the elasticity by pressing the joint lightly with the nail, it should regain its shape immediately. Joints that have been blackened or yellowed by UV rays have generally lost their sealing properties and should be replaced immediately. To check the effectiveness of an installed joint, gently run your finger along its periphery, looking for loose areas, air bubbles, or irregularities that would indicate a lack of adhesion. Cable grommets deserve special attention, as their function requires maintaining watertightness while allowing the passage of several wires. Check that the rubber is not torn and that the cables fill the entire section of the cable grommet without leaving empty spaces. For installations crossing the bridge, periodically test the tightness by spraying pressurized water with a garden hose while observing from the inside if any seepage appears. When replacing gaskets, don't hesitate to invest in marine-grade products that are specifically designed to withstand the harsh environment. Neutral silicone or polyurethane sealants from recognized brands such as Sikaflex offer greater durability than consumer products.
Best practices for extending the life of your devices
Beyond cleaning and physical protection, certain use and preventive maintenance practices maximize the longevity and performance of your embedded electronics.
Update on-board software regularly
Marine electronics manufacturers regularly release software updates that fix bugs, improve performance, and sometimes add new features to your instruments. These updates are an often overlooked aspect of maintenance, even though they contribute directly to the reliability and safety of your navigation. Periodically check the websites of the manufacturers of your equipment to check the availability of new firmware versions. Most brands now offer automatic notifications or dedicated apps that alert you when an update is available for your devices. Some connected devices can even download and install these updates automatically using Wi-Fi or cellular connections. Before upgrading, take the time to read the release notes carefully to understand the changes made and to make sure they fit your configuration. Always back up your custom settings, routes, waypoints, and other important data before proceeding, as some updates reset to factory settings. Make sure your batteries are fully charged before starting the process, as a power outage during an update can corrupt the system and make the device unusable. Strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions for the installation procedure, whether using an SD card, USB stick, or network connection. Never unplug a device during an update in progress, even if the process seems to be stalled, wait or contact the manufacturer's technical support. After installation, carefully check that all essential functions are working properly and that your personal data has been properly restored. Map updates also deserve regular attention, as nautical charts are constantly evolving with new shoals detected, markup changes, or channel changes. Modern remote monitoring systems like those offered by Oria Marine also facilitate the management of these updates by alerting you to the available versions.
Store the boat in a dry or sheltered environment
Your boat's storage environment significantly influences the degradation of its electronics during periods of inactivity. A boat that is left afloat all year experiences continuous exposure to humidity and spray, accelerating corrosion even with rigorous maintenance. If your navigation program allows it, prefer storage on land during the off-season, ideally in a closed shed or under a waterproof shelter. This weather protection drastically reduces ambient humidity and eliminates direct exposure to UV rays that degrade plastics and joints. A boat stored dry also allows better control of the internal environment, with the possibility of installing effective dehumidifiers and maintaining optimal ventilation. If covered storage is not an option, invest in a quality protective cover that is perfectly adjusted and properly tightened to avoid pockets of stagnant water. Choose a breathable tarp that allows moisture to escape while protecting against precipitation, because a waterproof tarp traps moisture inside like in a greenhouse. Make sure the tarp does not directly touch your electronic instruments to avoid condensation by contact. During storage, keep your batteries properly charged by using an automatic maintenance charger, as discharged batteries can freeze in cold weather and deteriorate irreversibly. The maintained power supply also allows your embedded monitoring systems to continue monitoring critical parameters and to alert you in the event of an anomaly. For boats stored afloat in humid areas, increase the number of dehumidifiers on board and visit your boat regularly to ventilate confined spaces and check the absence of excessive condensation. Disconnect and store portable equipment such as navigation tablets, portable GPS, or transportable VHF radios on land, by keeping them in a dry and temperate place at home.
Schedule a complete annual check by a professional
Even with thorough personal maintenance, having your electronics inspected by a qualified professional at least once a year is a wise investment that can prevent costly and dangerous breakdowns. Certified marine electronics technicians have the technical expertise and specialized measurement instruments to detect emerging problems that are invisible during a conventional visual inspection. This professional review should ideally take place at the beginning of the season, before the first major outings, thus making it possible to correct the faults discovered before they put you in trouble at sea. The professional will conduct extensive tests of all your systems, verifying not only their apparent functioning but also their real performance. For GPS, it will control positioning accuracy, satellite acquisition time and reception quality. For the sounder, it will test the transducer's transmission power, the reception sensitivity, and the consistency of the depth measurements. The VHF antennas will be tested with an ROS-meter to verify their optimal tuning and their ability to transmit and receive effectively. The technician will also inspect all wiring with measuring devices, detecting abnormal resistances, voltage drops, or insulation problems invisible to the eye. It will check the compliance of your installation with current marine standards, especially with regard to ground links, surge protections and the appropriate separation of power and signal cables. This revision also represents an opportunity to perform the calibrations necessary for the proper functioning of certain instruments such as electronic compasses, inertial units or lateral sonars that require complex procedures and specialized equipment. The professional can also advise you on possible desirable upgrades, the obsolescence of certain components or the incompatibilities between equipment of different generations. Carefully keep inspection reports, which constitute a valuable history of your installation and can be useful when reselling the boat.
Common mistakes to avoid
Some common practices, while apparently logical, can cause serious damage to your embedded electronics. Identifying and avoiding these mistakes saves you from costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations.
Clean energized devices
This error is among the most dangerous and unfortunately the most frequent made by boaters. Cleaning your electronics while they remain electrically powered exposes the user to the risk of electric shock and the devices to catastrophic short circuits. Water or cleaning products applied to live equipment can create conductive paths between normally insulated circuits, causing short circuits that destroy sensitive electronic components instantly. Touchscreens are particularly vulnerable because their conductive surface, combined with the humidity of the cleaning, can generate interfering signals interpreted as commands by the system, deregulating your settings, or initiating unwanted functions. Even worse, a short circuit during cleaning can damage not only the device directly concerned but also other equipment connected to the same NMEA or Ethernet network, spreading the failure to your entire installation. Humidity introduced into an active electronics package can also cause microscopic electric arcs that progressively carbonize printed circuits, creating intermittent failures that are difficult to diagnose later. Some boaters think that a simple quick wipe with a damp cloth is safe on a switched on device, but even this seemingly trivial practice can be a problem if water gets into openings like ventilation slots, spaces around buttons, or junctions between the screen and its frame. The temptation to clean while sailing to immediately remove the spray that compromises the readability of the screens is understandable, but in this case, use only a dry microfiber cloth and wait until you are in port to do a thorough wet cleaning after turning off the power.
Use corrosive or abrasive products
The use of unsuitable products is another major cause of premature degradation of marine electronics, often due to a lack of awareness of the long-term consequences. Conventional household cleaners, while effective on the hard surfaces of your home, often contain aggressive chemical agents that attack the delicate materials used in electronics. Ammonia, found in many window products, dissolves anti-reflective coatings applied to LCD screens and can also attack engineering plastics used for enclosures. Strong alkaline detergents corrode metal contacts made of aluminum or brass, creating oxidation that increases electrical resistance and causes malfunctions. Solvents like acetone or white spirit literally dissolve some plastics, creating whitish areas, cracks, or irreversible deformations. Even alcohol-based disinfectant wipes, which have become omnipresent since the pandemic, are proving to be too aggressive for modern touch screens whose oleophobic anti-fingerprint coating they attack. Abrasive products, whether they are scouring creams or simply sponges whose scratchy surface contains hard particles, irreparably scratch transparent surfaces, reducing the readability of screens and creating micro-scratches that capture dirt. These scratches also diffuse light, making screens difficult to read in sunlight. Some boaters use paper towels to clean their screens, ignoring the fact that these papers often contain microscopic wood fibers that act as a very fine abrasive, creating a multitude of micro-scratches over time that tarnish the screen. Although effective against mineral deposits on faucets, anti-lime products are much too acidic for electronics and attack connector metals. Even simple white vinegar, often recommended as an ecological and economical cleaner, remains too acidic for use on delicate electronics and can leave crystalline residues after evaporation.
Forget about connectors and cables
A common mistake is to focus all cleaning efforts on visible and aesthetic parts such as screens and facades, completely neglecting the connectors and cabling, which are nevertheless the most critical elements for the reliability of your installation. The electrical connectors, although hidden behind the panels or under the instruments, are subject to the same environmental aggressions as the exposed parts, with the added disadvantage of retaining moisture in their internal cavities. The salt that enters a connector remains trapped there indefinitely, continuing its destructive work even when the outside seems clean and dry. This gradual corrosion increases the electrical resistance of the contacts, creating voltage drops that interfere with the operation of the powered devices. In data links such as NMEA2000 or Ethernet networks, even slight corrosion is enough to corrupt digital signals, causing intermittent communication losses that are extremely difficult to diagnose. The cables themselves deserve regular inspection because their external degradation, which is often superficial in appearance, sometimes hides more serious problems. A cracked insulation jacket allows moisture to penetrate to the copper conductors, causing oxidation that spreads along the cable by capillarity inside the insulation. This phenomenon, called “green wire corrosion”, gradually transforms copper into greenish copper oxide that no longer conducts electricity, increasing the resistance of the cable until it causes a complete failure. The connection points where the cables are attached to the terminals of the devices concentrate the mechanical stresses due to the vibrations of the boat, creating micro-movements that gradually wear out the contacts. Neglecting to inspect these critical areas exposes you to sudden breakdowns at sea, often at the most inopportune moment, as degraded connections generally fail when the boat experiences violent movements by heavy seas.
Store the boat in a dry or sheltered environment
Your boat's storage environment significantly influences the degradation of its electronics during periods of inactivity. A boat that is left afloat all year experiences continuous exposure to humidity and spray, accelerating corrosion even with rigorous maintenance. If your navigation program allows it, prefer storage on land during the off-season, ideally in a closed shed or under a waterproof shelter. This weather protection drastically reduces ambient humidity and eliminates direct exposure to UV rays that degrade plastics and joints. A boat stored dry also allows better control of the internal environment, with the possibility of installing effective dehumidifiers and maintaining optimal ventilation. If covered storage is not an option, invest in a quality protective cover that is perfectly adjusted and properly tightened to avoid pockets of stagnant water. Choose a breathable tarp that allows moisture to escape while protecting against precipitation, because a waterproof tarp traps moisture inside like in a greenhouse. Make sure the tarp does not directly touch your electronic instruments to avoid condensation by contact. During storage, keep your batteries properly charged by using an automatic maintenance charger, as discharged batteries can freeze in cold weather and deteriorate irreversibly. The maintained power supply also allows your embedded monitoring systems to continue monitoring critical parameters and to alert you in the event of an anomaly. For boats stored afloat in humid areas, increase the number of dehumidifiers on board and visit your boat regularly to ventilate confined spaces and check the absence of excessive condensation. Disconnect and store portable equipment such as navigation tablets, portable GPS, or transportable VHF radios on land, by keeping them in a dry and temperate place at home.
Schedule a complete annual check by a professional
Even with thorough personal maintenance, having your electronics inspected by a qualified professional at least once a year is a wise investment that can prevent costly and dangerous breakdowns. Certified marine electronics technicians have the technical expertise and specialized measurement instruments to detect emerging problems that are invisible during a conventional visual inspection. This professional review should ideally take place at the beginning of the season, before the first major outings, thus making it possible to correct the faults discovered before they put you in trouble at sea. The professional will conduct extensive tests of all your systems, verifying not only their apparent functioning but also their real performance. For GPS, it will control positioning accuracy, satellite acquisition time and reception quality. For the sounder, it will test the transducer's transmission power, the reception sensitivity, and the consistency of the depth measurements. The VHF antennas will be tested with an ROS-meter to verify their optimal tuning and their ability to transmit and receive effectively. The technician will also inspect all wiring with measuring devices, detecting abnormal resistances, voltage drops, or insulation problems invisible to the eye. It will check the compliance of your installation with current marine standards, especially with regard to ground links, surge protections and the appropriate separation of power and signal cables. This revision also represents an opportunity to perform the calibrations necessary for the proper functioning of certain instruments such as electronic compasses, inertial units or lateral sonars that require complex procedures and specialized equipment. The professional can also advise you on possible desirable upgrades, the obsolescence of certain components or the incompatibilities between equipment of different generations. Carefully keep inspection reports, which constitute a valuable history of your installation and can be useful when reselling the boat.
Common mistakes to avoid
Some common practices, while apparently logical, can cause serious damage to your embedded electronics. Identifying and avoiding these mistakes saves you from costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations.
Clean energized devices
This error is among the most dangerous and unfortunately the most frequent made by boaters. Cleaning your electronics while they remain electrically powered exposes the user to the risk of electric shock and the devices to catastrophic short circuits. Water or cleaning products applied to live equipment can create conductive paths between normally insulated circuits, causing short circuits that destroy sensitive electronic components instantly. Touchscreens are particularly vulnerable because their conductive surface, combined with the humidity of the cleaning, can generate interfering signals interpreted as commands by the system, deregulating your settings, or initiating unwanted functions. Even worse, a short circuit during cleaning can damage not only the device directly concerned but also other equipment connected to the same NMEA or Ethernet network, spreading the failure to your entire installation. Humidity introduced into an active electronics package can also cause microscopic electric arcs that progressively carbonize printed circuits, creating intermittent failures that are difficult to diagnose later. Some boaters think that a simple quick wipe with a damp cloth is safe on a switched on device, but even this seemingly trivial practice can be a problem if water gets into openings like ventilation slots, spaces around buttons, or junctions between the screen and its frame. The temptation to clean while sailing to immediately remove the spray that compromises the readability of the screens is understandable, but in this case, use only a dry microfiber cloth and wait until you are in port to do a thorough wet cleaning after turning off the power.
Use corrosive or abrasive products
The use of unsuitable products is another major cause of premature degradation of marine electronics, often due to a lack of awareness of the long-term consequences. Conventional household cleaners, while effective on the hard surfaces of your home, often contain aggressive chemical agents that attack the delicate materials used in electronics. Ammonia, found in many window products, dissolves anti-reflective coatings applied to LCD screens and can also attack engineering plastics used for enclosures. Strong alkaline detergents corrode metal contacts made of aluminum or brass, creating oxidation that increases electrical resistance and causes malfunctions. Solvents like acetone or white spirit literally dissolve some plastics, creating whitish areas, cracks, or irreversible deformations. Even alcohol-based disinfectant wipes, which have become omnipresent since the pandemic, are proving to be too aggressive for modern touch screens whose oleophobic anti-fingerprint coating they attack. Abrasive products, whether they are scouring creams or simply sponges whose scratchy surface contains hard particles, irreparably scratch transparent surfaces, reducing the readability of screens and creating micro-scratches that capture dirt. These scratches also diffuse light, making screens difficult to read in sunlight. Some boaters use paper towels to clean their screens, ignoring the fact that these papers often contain microscopic wood fibers that act as a very fine abrasive, creating a multitude of micro-scratches over time that tarnish the screen. Although effective against mineral deposits on faucets, anti-lime products are much too acidic for electronics and attack connector metals. Even simple white vinegar, often recommended as an ecological and economical cleaner, remains too acidic for use on delicate electronics and can leave crystalline residues after evaporation.
Forget about connectors and cables
A common mistake is to focus all cleaning efforts on visible and aesthetic parts such as screens and facades, completely neglecting the connectors and cabling, which are nevertheless the most critical elements for the reliability of your installation. The electrical connectors, although hidden behind the panels or under the instruments, are subject to the same environmental aggressions as the exposed parts, with the added disadvantage of retaining moisture in their internal cavities. The salt that enters a connector remains trapped there indefinitely, continuing its destructive work even when the outside seems clean and dry. This gradual corrosion increases the electrical resistance of the contacts, creating voltage drops that interfere with the operation of the powered devices. In data links such as NMEA2000 or Ethernet networks, even slight corrosion is enough to corrupt digital signals, causing intermittent communication losses that are extremely difficult to diagnose. The cables themselves deserve regular inspection because their external degradation, which is often superficial in appearance, sometimes hides more serious problems. A cracked insulation jacket allows moisture to penetrate to the copper conductors, causing oxidation that spreads along the cable by capillarity inside the insulation. This phenomenon, called “green wire corrosion”, gradually transforms copper into greenish copper oxide that no longer conducts electricity, increasing the resistance of the cable until it causes a complete failure. The connection points where the cables are attached to the terminals of the devices concentrate the mechanical stresses due to the vibrations of the boat, creating micro-movements that gradually wear out the contacts. Neglecting to inspect these critical areas exposes you to sudden breakdowns at sea, often at the most inopportune moment, as degraded connections generally fail when the boat experiences violent movements by heavy seas.
Recommended products and tools (quick buyer's guide)
Investing in the right products and accessories makes it considerably easier to maintain your electronics while guaranteeing professional results without the risk of damage.
Certified marine cleaners like Star Brite Screen Cleaner, specifically formulated for marine LCD and LED screens, offer excellent value for money and proven effectiveness against saline deposits without attacking protective coatings. Shurhold Serious Shine is a versatile alternative that can be used both on screens and on the plastic surfaces of cases. For electrical connectors, the CRC Marine Heavy Duty Corrosion Inhibitor remains an essential reference in the nautical industry, offering long-lasting protection against humidity and corrosion. The Boeshield T-9, originally developed for aeronautics, is also excellent for protecting metal parts and connectors, with the advantage of not attracting dust. The WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner, despite its mainstream reputation, offers remarkable effectiveness in cleaning oxidized electrical contacts while evaporating completely without leaving any residue.
When it comes to antistatic and protective sprays, 303 Aerospace Protectant stands out for its ability to create a UV barrier while repelling water and dirt, perfect for surfaces that are permanently exposed. The CorrosionX Corrosion Block represents the ultimate investment in maximum protection of critical connections, penetrating deep into the gaps to displace moisture and form a microscopic protective film. For touch screens, look specifically for antistatic sprays designed for consumer electronics, which are generally less aggressive than industrial products.
Useful accessories include packs of high-quality microfiber cloths, available in packs of ten or twenty from nautical suppliers, allowing some to be dedicated exclusively to screens and others to less delicate surfaces. Special electronic pre-soaked wipes, such as those from Zeiss for optics, are ideal for quick additional cleaning. The complete cleaning kits, offered by brands like WHOOSH! or Screen Mom, generally contain a cleaning solution, an antistatic spray and several suitable cloths, offering a complete and practical solution. For protective covers, choose custom models from original manufacturers, guaranteeing a perfect fit and optimal protection. Third-party brands like Blue Performance or Navyline also offer excellent adjustable universal covers for most standard screen sizes. Don't forget complementary accessories like antistatic brushes with soft bristles, compressed air bombs for non-contact dust, and reusable desiccant bags that change color when saturated.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cleaning and protecting on-board electronics
What products should I use to clean a marine multifunction screen?
To effectively clean a marine multifunction screen without damaging it, use only cleaners specially formulated for marine electronics or LCD screens. Recommended products include Star Brite Screen Cleaner, Shurhold Serious Shine, or Plexus Plastic Cleaner that dissolve saline deposits and dirt without attacking anti-reflective or tactile coatings. Always apply the product to a clean and dry microfiber cloth, never directly on the screen to avoid liquid infiltration. First pass with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and abrasive particles, then clean the screen in gentle circular movements with the cloth slightly dampened in cleaning product. Finish by wiping with a second dry microfiber cloth to remove all traces and obtain a perfectly clear surface. Absolutely avoid multi-purpose household products, window cleaners containing ammonia, pure alcohol, and all abrasive products that irreversibly damage modern screens. The frequency of cleaning depends on exposure to spray, but a light cleaning after each sea trip and a thorough monthly cleaning is generally a good balance.
Can fresh water be used to rinse the devices?
The use of fresh water to flush marine electronics remains a controversial topic that requires significant precautions. Contrary to popular belief, rinsing your instruments thoroughly in fresh water is generally not recommended, as water can seep into gaps, connectors, and ventilation openings where it will remain trapped, promoting internal corrosion and short circuits. If you absolutely must use fresh water, limit yourself to slightly dampen a rag that you pass over the external surfaces, never spraying or pouring water directly onto the devices. This method makes it possible to dissolve saline deposits without creating risks of infiltration. For exposed external connectors, very moderate rinsing with fresh water may be considered only if immediately followed by complete drying with compressed air and the application of a protective spray. IPX7 certified instruments or higher, which are designed to withstand temporary immersion, are more resistant to rinsing with fresh water, but always consult the user manual before proceeding. In any case, prefer the use of specific cleaners that dissolve salt without the need for rinsing, offering a much safer and equally effective solution. After any use of water, however minimal, allow the devices to dry completely before recharging them electrically.
How often should you clean your electronics?
The optimal frequency for cleaning your embedded electronics depends mainly on three factors: the intensity of use of the boat, the usual sailing conditions and the location of the equipment. For a boat used weekly at sea, do a light cleaning after each trip, simply wiping screens and exposed surfaces dry with a microfiber cloth to remove salt spray before it dries and forms a tough crust. This quick gesture of a few minutes prevents gradual accumulation, which becomes much more difficult to eliminate later. A thorough monthly cleaning is required for frequently used boats, including inspecting and cleaning the connectors, dusting off the vents and checking the wiring. At the end of the navigation season, before wintering, carry out a complete and meticulous cleaning of the entire electronic installation, accompanied by a detailed inspection of each component to detect the first signs of wear or corrosion. For boats used occasionally, cleaning at the beginning and end of the season is usually sufficient, supplemented by a quick inspection before each trip to check for the absence of mold or abnormal traces of humidity. Outdoor equipment such as antennas, anemometers or projectors require more frequent attention than electronics protected under deck. Also adapt your frequency to local conditions: navigating in humid tropical areas or in particularly salty waters requires more sustained maintenance than using it in temperate waters or fresh water.
How to avoid corrosion of electrical connectors?
Preventing the corrosion of electrical connectors is the major challenge in the sustainability of your marine electronic installation. The most effective strategy combines several complementary approaches. First, after each cleaning or inspection of the connectors, consistently apply a dielectric protective spray such as CRC Marine Heavy Duty Corrosion Inhibitor or Boeshield T-9 that forms a hydrophobic barrier that repels moisture without interfering with electrical conductivity. These products penetrate the microscopic interstices of the contacts and displace residual moisture while leaving a durable protective film. Second, regularly check the condition of the seals on marine connectors that are the first line of defense against seepage. Replace hardened, cracked, or deformed O-rings without hesitation, and apply a thin layer of silicone grease to new seals to improve their seal and extend their life. Thirdly, make sure that all connectors are firmly locked until the characteristic click is heard, as a partially engaged connection lets in moisture and creates contact resistances that promote corrosion. Fourth, maintain good ventilation in the compartments housing the electrical connections to avoid the accumulation of stagnant moisture. For particularly critical or exposed connections, consider installing additional protective caps or wrapping the connectors in self-vulcanizing tape that forms a watertight barrier by fusing onto itself. Inspect your connectors regularly for the first signs of greenish or whitish corrosion, and clean them immediately before oxidation spreads and compromises the connection. Modern monitoring systems can also alert you to electrical anomalies that often signal incipient connector corrosion.
What should I do if a device has taken moisture?
Finding out that one of your electronic instruments has been exposed to humidity requires quick and methodical action to minimize potential damage. Your first reaction should be to immediately cut off the power supply to the device concerned by unplugging its connection or by activating its dedicated circuit breaker, because maintaining the power on wet equipment causes short circuits that transform a potentially reversible problem into a permanent failure. Do not try to turn the device back on to check if it is still working, this classic error considerably worsens the damage. Carefully remove the device from its location if possible, taking photographs of all connections beforehand to facilitate subsequent reassembly. Open all hoods, hatches, and covers that are accessible without tools immediately to promote airflow and moisture evaporation. Gently blot visible water with absorbent cloths or paper towels, dabbing without rubbing to avoid pushing moisture deeper into the circuits. Then place the unit in a dry and ventilated environment, ideally with a dehumidifier nearby, with the openings facing downwards to encourage the flow of water by gravity. Resist the temptation to speed up drying with a hair dryer in hot mode, as excessive heat can damage electronic components, deform plastics, and melt solders. Choose drying at room temperature or with a fan, which certainly takes longer but presents much fewer risks. For major infiltrations, place the device in an airtight container filled with raw rice or silica gel packets that will gradually absorb residual moisture, leaving it in this way for at least 48 to 72 hours. After this drying time, if you have the necessary technical skills, open the device to inspect the interior and gently clean the circuits with 99% pure isopropyl alcohol that dissolves saline residues and evaporates without leaving a trace. In any case, seek the advice of a qualified professional before refilling the appliance, as only an expert diagnosis can confirm that the drying is complete and that no internal damage remains.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance of your on-board electronics is much more than a simple technical constraint: it is a direct investment in your safety at sea and in the longevity of your equipment. The simple cleaning actions after each trip, the systematic application of protective products, the periodic verification of connectors and seals, as well as the maintenance of good ventilation in technical spaces together form an effective shield against the aggressions of the marine environment. By adopting these best practices and by avoiding common mistakes such as cleaning under voltage or using unsuitable products, you considerably extend the life of your instruments while ensuring their reliability during your navigation. Remember that your embedded electronics provide critical functions for your safety: precise navigation, emergency communication, monitoring of the vital parameters of the boat. An equipment failure at sea can quickly turn a pleasant outing into a dangerous situation, especially in difficult weather conditions or during nocturnal navigation. Preventive maintenance costs infinitely less than replacing devices damaged by negligence, not to mention the human risks associated with a technical failure at the wrong time. Integrate these maintenance routines into your boating habits, in the same way as checking oil levels or checking the fittings. Whether it is by a quick cleaning after each outing or by a complete revision at the end of the season, your vigilance and your regularity will make all the difference. Your on-board electronics will thus accompany you faithfully for many seasons, offering you the peace of mind essential to fully enjoy your moments at sea.
