{"id":11108,"date":"2023-10-23T17:26:19","date_gmt":"2023-10-24T00:26:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog2.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=11108"},"modified":"2024-01-29T15:28:17","modified_gmt":"2024-01-29T22:28:17","slug":"before-fueling-your-boat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/before-fueling-your-boat\/","title":{"rendered":"What Should You Do Before Fueling Your Boat"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Fueling your boat is far riskier than fueling your car.  Think about that the next time that needle on the boat fuel gauge gets precariously close to the “E”.  It’s easy just to pull into the service station, tap your credit card, pump the gasoline, and leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But there’s a lot more to the refueling process with a boat. The danger of a fire or explosion during the process is very real, with possible life-altering consequences.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read on as we fill you up with high-octane wisdom on the boat fueling process<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pre-Fueling Preparations: Ensuring a Safe Environment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Creating a safe environment is an underappreciated step in preparing to fuel your boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

First, avoid refueling after nightfall.<\/strong>  Some self-serve fuel docks are open 24\/7, but every task will be easier in daylight.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know your fuel system’s condition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fuel systems should be inspected at least annually, and checked <\/strong>thoroughly <\/em><\/strong>any time you detect unexplainable gas fumes<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check fuel lines or fuel valves for any cracks in hoses or damage that could lead to leaks or spills. Test each hose-end clamp for tightness.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Checking fuel vents’ operation is essential for safety purposes, as well as engine performance.  A blocked vent can reduce fuel flow to the engine.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check vents by placing your hand under the vent opening while refueling and confirm that air is flowing from the vent.  If not, the vent line is blocked. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try clearing the blockage by inserting a stiff metal wire, e.g., straightened paperclip<\/em>, into the vent and start jostling it around. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspect the fuel tank annually<\/strong> (or when you smell fumes) for leaks, instability, or loose connections on top of the tank. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Secure Your Boat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Have dock lines ready, and tie your boat to the fueling dock. Minimize movement<\/strong> of the boat relative to the dock. As a final precaution, don’t let either end drift far enough to put tension on the fuel hose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stretching the hose across the boat is inconvenient and risky.  If possible, position your deck fill (gas cap) near the dock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, shut off your engines.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clear the Area<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Clear the work area.  Tripping hazards are dangerous, especially in an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Require all passengers to leave the boat and remain at a safe distance during refueling<\/em><\/strong>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How Neighbor is changing boat storage<\/h2>\r\n\t\t <\/header>\r\n\t\t
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Transparent monthly savings<\/h3>\r\n\t\t

Renters save 30-50% on boat storage, on average. No rate hikes.<\/p>\r\n\t\t <\/div>\r\n\t\t

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Keep your boat nearby<\/h3>\r\n\t\t

With locations in every state, the perfect boat spot is already near you.<\/p>\r\n\t\t <\/div>\r\n\t\t

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Storage made simple<\/h3>\r\n\t\t

Don't settle for stone age tech and long contracts. Neighbor makes it easy.<\/p>\r\n\t\t <\/div>\r\n\t\t <\/section>\r\n\t\t