When navigating, an electrical breakdown onboard can quickly become a major problem, affecting both the safety and comfort of passengers. It is therefore essential to know how to quickly diagnose the origin of the malfunction and adopt the appropriate solutions. Here is a guide to identify and resolve the most common electrical breakdowns at sea.

1. Identify the Origin of the Breakdown

Before any intervention, start by analyzing the symptoms of the breakdown:

• Several electrical devices no longer work: The problem may come from the main power source (battery, shore power, generator).
• Only one device is out of service: It could be a blown fuse, a faulty connection, or a defective device.
• Voltage fluctuations: This can be caused by a faulty voltage regulator or a battery at the end of its life.

2. Perform Basic Checks

• Check battery status: Make sure they are well charged and that no cables are loose or corroded.
• Inspect fuses and circuit breakers: A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker can be the cause of the problem.
• Check connections: A loose contact or oxidation of cables can disrupt the electrical supply.

3. Solutions Depending on the Type of Breakdown Discharged or Faulty Battery

• Use a voltmeter to check the voltage (a charged battery should show approximately 12.6V).
• Try to recharge the battery via the engine, a solar panel, or a generator.
• In case of a dead battery, have a spare battery or a jump starter.

Blown Fuses or Tripped Circuit Breakers

• Replace blown fuses using models of the same rating.
• If a circuit breaker has tripped, try to reset it and observe if the breakdown recurs.

Loose Contacts or Faulty Cables

• Examine electrical connections and tighten loose terminals.
• Clean corroded contacts with a brush and a specific product.
• Replace damaged cables if necessary.

Charging Circuit Problem

• Test the engine's alternator to check if it is charging the battery correctly.
• Ensure that the charge regulator is functioning normally.
• If using a solar panel, check the status of the MPPT or PWM regulator.

4. Anticipate and Prevent Breakdowns

To avoid electrical breakdowns, it is crucial to adopt some good practices:

• Regularly check the condition of batteries and connections.
• Provide a backup system, such as a spare battery or a portable charger.
• Use quality equipment to minimize the risk of failure.
• Perform preventive tests before each navigation.

An electrical breakdown at sea can be inconvenient, or even dangerous if it affects critical systems like the radio or GPS. By adopting a methodical diagnostic approach and applying appropriate solutions, you can quickly restore your electrical system and navigate safely.