Gear That’s Not Only Useful


But Can Save You Money Here we are into February with winter upon us. This is a good


time to reflect on some of the less active aspects of sailing. This month we wanted to share with you some gear that is both useful and has the possibility to save you some money on insurance. However, “save you some money on insurance” needs some qualification. While the gear we suggest normally will earn you some discount on your boat insurance, you should always check with your insurance company if you are upgrading just to get a discount, as those are most often applied when you are applying for a new policy (new boat) or changing companies.


By Jack and Alex Wilken High Water Alarm – Even a slow


leak can add up when left alone. Early warning about water rising in the bilge is always important. It can be a life saver and at the very least can avoid water damage. The alarm consists of two main


components: the sensor, which is mounted in the bilge (Figure 1), and the alarm itself (Figure 2). The alarm can be mounted in a convenient place where 12volt power is available, and the wiring for the sensor can be run into the bilge in an unobtrusive way.


Explosive Gas Alarm – Both


propane and gasoline fumes can create an explosion if there is a source of ignition. This alarm is similar to the High Water Alarm in that the alarm mounting is the same but now the optimal placement is different. In the case of propane the alarm/control could be mounted in the galley (Figure 3) since it can be used to control the propane solenoid which is mounted in the propane locker. The sensor for propane should be close to where the gas is being used. Propane is heavier


than air so the sensor will be most effective if it is downstream from the source (Figure 4). Gasoline is present in the engine space and possibly where the fuel tank and fuel hose are located. These then are the target areas, with the engine space being the highest priority. Both of these alarms come in different models which have a variety of features. These include multiple sensors, and, in the case of the propane, automatic and manual control of the gas supply into the boat.


Automatic fire extinguisher(s) in


engine space – This system is ready to put out a fire in the engine space no matter the cause (Figure 5). It requires no intervention on your part because when the temperature rises to 175°F (79°C) the extinguisher will automatically discharge. This releases a fire fighting agent, completely flooding the space to smother the fire. The size of the unit is based on cubic measurement of the space. When calculating engine space volume, use the maximum dimensions, and do not deduct for engines, fixed tanks, and other fixed gear. Always select the larger size for adequate protection if you are in doubt. One of the agents used is HFC-227ea. HFC-227ea is clean, leaves no residue, is accepted world- wide as an agent that causes zero ozone depletion and is approved for occupied spaces. There are other agents available that have other characteristics. Some automatic extinguisher systems also have a manual discharge capacity. As


Figure 1 – High water alarm sensor mounted in bilge. This should be in the upper bilge but below woodwork and machinery.


Figure 2 – High water alarm mounted in a convenient location for easy wiring of both sensor and 12vdc power supply.


48° NORTH, FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 27


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