Top 5 Tips for Maximizing Your Last Days of Summer on the Water

As summer ends, it doesn't mean the boating fun must end. There are still warm, sunny days to soak in. To make the most of these remaining days on the water, you’ll want your boat running at its best. Our Johnson Pump marine experts put together the top five tips to help you maintain your boat and enjoy every moment of the season.

Tip #1. Inspect and Clean Bilge Pump Baskets and Motor Cartridges

Before you set off for a day of cruising, fishing, or relaxing, take a few moments to inspect and clean your bilge pump baskets and motor cartridges. These components play a crucial role in keeping your boat's bilge pumping system free of debris like fishing line, scales, carpet fibers and rocks. These materials clog the system and lead to pump malfunctions, overheating and flooding. By regularly inspecting and cleaning these parts, you ensure smooth water flow and reduce the risk of costly damage or downtime, and better ensure your safety. Simply remove the bilge pump baskets and motor cartridges, rinse and remove any debris and check for any signs of wear or damage. This simple maintenance step can help you avoid unexpected issues.

Tip #2. Keep Your WD & WPS Pump Strainers Clean

Your Wash Down (WD) and WPS (Water Pressure System) pump’s mesh strainers are essential for maintaining clean and efficient water flow with high-pressure through your boat’s spray down and freshwater systems. These strainers prevent debris from entering your pump system, protecting it from contamination and damage down the line and ensuring consistent performance. With temperatures still on the warm side, your WPS pumps are likely working harder than ever to supply fresh water to sinks, showers, ice makers and more. Likewise, WD pumps are taking the heat from spraying off debris like algae, barnacles, bird droppings and spider webs. Make it a habit to inspect and clean your WD and WPS pump strainers frequently, especially if you’ve been in waters with a lot of plant matter or debris. Remove the strainer’s clear cover, inspect the O-ring condition, rinse and remove the mesh under fresh water, and check for any obstructions. A clean strainer allows your pump to work efficiently, reducing strain on the motor and helping you avoid costly repairs down the line.

Tip #3. Monitor Engine Temperatures

Keeping an eye on your engine temperature is more than just a precaution—it's a proactive way to detect early signs of wear or damage to your engine’s cooling pump. High engine temperatures can signal that your cooling pump impeller is worn or damaged, which leads to overheating and engine failure if not addressed promptly. Make a habit of regularly monitoring your engine temperature gauge during every trip. If you notice the temperature creeping up, stop and inspect the cooling pump impellers. Ask yourself, “when did I last change my impeller, and did I log it?” Look for signs of wear, cracks or debris. Replacing a worn impeller before it fails can save you from being stranded and help you enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind. Don’t forget, replacing an impeller is a lot less expensive than replacing an engine.

Tip #4. Listen to Your Pumps

Your boat’s pumps—including bilge, ballast, and aerator pumps—have unique sounds when functioning properly. Familiarize yourself with these sounds, as they can provide valuable clues about the health of your pumps. If you hear unusual noises such as grinding, rattling, or inconsistent humming without water flow, it might indicate a problem, such as blockages or motor wear. Trust your instincts and use your ears as a diagnostic tool. Listening to your pumps can help you catch issues early, allowing you to replace or service them before they fail completely. Regularly testing your pumps in a controlled environment can help you become more attuned to their normal operational sounds, making it easier to detect when something isn't right.

Tip 5. Test Float Switches and High Water Alarms

Float switches and high-water alarms are vital safety components that automatically detect rising bilge water levels. Float switches are the first line of defense to activate your bilge pumps when water levels rise to a certain point. These devices help prevent your boat from taking on too much water, which can be especially important in rough conditions or after unexpected leaks. High water alarms’ blaring buzzer can be an annoying yet necessary feature to detect and alert you that your bilge pumping system may have a problem keeping up or is not working at all. Better safe than sorry.

Take the time to test your float switches and high-water alarms regularly by activating them manually or to ensure they trigger as intended. If any switch or alarm is sticking, malfunctioning, or not responding, replace it immediately. This small step can make a big difference in keeping you and your passengers safe on the water.

Incorporating these maintenance tips into your regular routine will not only extend the life of your Johnson Pump marine pumps but also keep your boat running at its best. With just a little care and attention, you can fully enjoy every last day of fun in the sun out on the water, worry-free. So, take a moment to give your pumps the care they deserve, and make unforgettable memories as the season ends.

Happy boating!