Essential steps to keep your vessel’s navigation and communication systems performing through the toughest season.
As winter approaches, maritime operations face colder temperatures, stronger winds, and harsher conditions at sea. While crews prepare for rougher weather, it’s just as important to make sure your vessel’s electronic systems are ready to perform. Cold air, humidity, and salt exposure can quietly damage critical equipment if left unchecked. At CWN Marine, we encourage operators to treat every seasonal change as an opportunity to give onboard systems a clean bill of health. Below is a simple guide to help your vessel stay reliable through the cold months.
1. Check for moisture and seals
Condensation is one of the most common and overlooked causes of failure in marine electronics. Inspect radar scanners, antennas, and sensor housings for cracked seals, corrosion, or signs of water ingress. Even a small leak can cause a short circuit over time. Replace worn gaskets and use protective coatings where necessary.
2. Test power supplies and batteries
Low temperatures reduce the efficiency of batteries and increase the strain on power systems. Check the condition and capacity of backup batteries for your navigation and GMDSS equipment. Confirm that chargers and alternators are working correctly and that cables are free from corrosion. For safety-critical systems, replacing aging batteries before winter is always a wise investment.
3. Inspect displays and bridge controls
Cold weather affects both crew comfort and equipment response. LCD and touchscreens can lag or dim in low temperatures, so inspect displays for brightness, responsiveness, and signs of condensation behind the glass. Make sure bridge heaters and protective covers are functioning correctly to maintain stable operating conditions.
4. Confirm antenna alignment and mount stability
Heavy winds and rough seas can loosen mounts and strain cables. Check the physical stability of radar scanners, GPS antennas, and VSAT domes. A minor tilt can degrade performance and affect data accuracy. Tightening and securing fittings now prevents costly callouts later.
5. Schedule a professional system check
Winter is the perfect time for a comprehensive preventative maintenance service. A qualified technician can perform deep diagnostics, test transceivers and sensors, and verify compliance with performance standards. Regular servicing not only improves reliability but also provides valuable documentation for inspections and audits.
Stay Safe, Stay Connected
Your vessel’s electronic systems are its eyes and ears at sea. Taking the time to ensure they’re winter-ready helps avoid failures, protects your crew, and keeps operations smooth through unpredictable weather.
CWN Marine specialises in inspection, repair, and calibration of marine navigation and communication systems. Let us help you prepare your vessel for safe, reliable sailing this winter.