How to Care for Your Marine Audio System Between Seasons
Albertans love their recreational toys, and for many Edmontonians, there’s nothing like hitting the lake on a hot summer day. Marine audio systems help make the most of every outing, and can transform your boat into party central or a relaxing place to unwind. Whether you’re entertaining friends, relaxing with your family, or heading out on a solo fishing trip, a crisp, powerful sound system brings every moment to life. However, constant exposure to water, UV rays, and fluctuating temperatures can begin to do a number on electronic components.
While you should always take care of your systems during the active boating season, off-season care is just as important for extending the longevity of your unit. At Certified Radio, we’re proud to be Edmonton’s all-access pass for fun and aftermarket equipment you can trust, including leading solutions from Wet Sounds, and Fusion. We’re also here to help with quality installation and maintenance so you can have the sound you deserve all year round. Below, we’ll provide a quick guide to caring for your marine audio and how to spot early signs of system damage. Read on to learn more!
Don’t Wait for It to Break: Know the Warning Signs
A lot can happen between seasons, and while you’re out having fun, the elements are constantly working against your gear. Before you put your boat in storage (or bring her out to hit the water again), you can save yourself time and headaches by taking a few moments to inspect your system. When recommissioning your system for the season, look for common issues like:
- Distorted sound or weak bass
- Flickering power or random shut-offs
- Cracked or foggy speaker cones
- Crusty or discoloured terminals
Each of these can be a sign of damaged wiring, corrosion (rust), and other issues that may require a replacement or repair. If you see or hear something that isn’t right, don’t delay, get a closer inspection done ASAP.
Clean, Dry, and Disconnect Before Storage
Before storing your boat for the off-season, you’ll want to make sure she’s cleaned up and ready to rest. Marine components require a little extra TLC due to their constant exposure to moisture, so you’ll want to thoroughly clean and dry all audio components, including speakers, head units, amps and exposed wiring with a microfiber cloth. Be extra gentle around grills and sealed areas and ensure everything is fully dry before moving your boat into storage.
Wherever possible, we also recommend disconnecting your audio system from its power source. Doing so helps to avoid battery drain over time. If your setup includes removable faceplates or Bluetooth controllers, it’s best to take those inside and store them in a cool, dry place that protects them against the elements.
Moisture is Your Enemy
We’ve mentioned moisture already, but we’ll double down one more time: remember, moisture is not your friend when it comes to electronics. Even though marine electronics are built to withstand the unique needs of aquatic environments, you still need to protect them from the threat of standing water, which can breach protective enclosures and lead to serious damage over time. Even during storage, condensation can build up in closed cabins or under poorly ventilated covers.
Use silica gel packs or moisture-absorbing products in the boat’s interior to reduce humidity levels while stored. If your marine audio system is housed in compartments or sealed areas, open them up from time to time during the off-season to let the air circulate. If you plan on storing your boat outside,
For boaters storing their craft outdoors, it’s crucial to use weatherproof marine covers designed for breathability. Avoid plastic tarps or tight vinyl wraps that trap moisture instead of keeping it out.
Upgrade When It’s Time to Replace
Buying a boat is a long-term investment, and one of the best ways to maximize your ROI is to constantly upgrade your craft. Even the best base audio systems will eventually need to be replaced, and when the time comes, it’s always a great idea to take your setup to the next level!If your gear has endured several rough seasons and/or is beginning to show its age, consider upgrading your boat and bringing everything up to date. Modern systems offer plenty of fantastic features like Bluetooth streaming, waterproof touchscreens, multi-zone control, and RGB lighting so you can enjoy optimum entertainment while onboard!
Brands like Wet Sounds and JL Audio offer marine-grade durability with premium sound quality and seamless connectivity. At Certified Radio, we’re here to help you build a system that’s the perfect fit for your boat and your lifestyle. Upgrading during the offseason is a great way to make sure you’re ready to go for next year and have the chance to rock out on the waves all summer long!
Trust Certified Radio for Marine Audio Solutions
Certified Radio has been Canada’s go-to source for high-performance automotive aftermarket solutions and marine audio for over 70 years. We understand how much fun life on the water can be, and we’re here to offer industry-leading brands that you can trust to deliver powerful, long-lasting performance.
With professional on-site installation, unbeatable customer service and knowledge that always has your back, Certified Radio is your choice for marine audio in Edmonton!
Visit us in store to learn more!
