Love the Water We Play On
Boaters can help to protect (and save money) the unrivaled beauty of the Florida marine environment we love to play on with these three simple tips.
Cut Energy Costs
Never underestimate how much money and energy you could save during each and every boat ride by taking a few simple steps. Begin by paying attention to your Air Conditioning system and clean the filter. Keeping the filter clean is one of the most effective steps you can take to keep the system from working harder than it has to. Just like your homes HVAC system, it requires maintenance to keep it running efficiently. A good way to cut air conditioner usage during hot Florida summers and keep your boat cool is by installing protective window shields to limit the amount of sunlight that can enter your boat. Window tint can block up to 79% of solar heat, cutting down substantially on cooling costs. Window tints have a relatively low initial investment and can make a major difference in the overall appearance, comfort, and privacy level of your boat.
Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products
It should come as no surprise that most mainstream cleaning products for boats are filled with chemicals that can damage the delicate balance of the aquatic ecosystem. The good news is that you don't have to trade off your desire for a clean boat for your desire to boat in clean waters. When looking to buy green and eco-friendly boat cleaners and soap that will have a minimal impact on the environment, key terms to look for on packaging include:
Non-toxic
Biodegradable
EPA-Certified “Design for the Environment” GreenSeal label
Prevent Oil Spills at All Costs
The single most important precaution all boaters should take during every boat trip is to do all they can to prevent oil spills. A shocking (and preventable) proportion of oil within North American waters is a direct result of human activity. This includes the emissions from boats. To ensure that you’re fueling your boat properly, make sure the process is completed at the dock. Don’t attempt to top off your gas tank, the heat of summer and from the engine will cause the gas to expand and overflow into the water. Ultimately, it’s your duty as a responsible boat owner to keep the environment in mind during each and every excursion, and these tips can help you get started.