Planning to install a boat lift, but also confused about the factors you should know about it, right? Investing in the boat lift is a wise decision, but there are different key factors involved when you are about to get a new boat lift. It is highly important to consider weight capacity, the type of mechanism, as well as other features of the boat lift.
Without the prior knowledge, you might end up purchasing the wrong boat lift and, as a result, find it unworthy to use. Therefore, see the factors mentioned below and then seek the assistance of a professional like Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance for the best services. In this blog, I have explained the top 10 common factors you should know before paying for the boat lift.
Factor 1: Weight Capacity of Your Boat Lift
One of the most crucial factors that you need to know about is the capacity of the boat. In case the new boat lift cannot hold the vessel for long, it is useless for the person. Each boat lift is made for a different purpose, such as some are for speedboats while others are for jet skis. So when choosing a new boat lift, you have to ensure that it is suitable for you or not.
For instance, a boat lift in Cape Coral, FL, for 5000 lbs is made for holding up the boats, including their weight, the motor, and fuel, plus 4 to 5 people. You can also add the accessories to the boat, like the latest extensions. Before you purchase a new boat lift, check its full capacity by calculating how many people it can hold, motor, and fuel, then pick one up.
Factor 2: Type of Lift Mechanism
There are different types of lifting machines; some are for the large boats, while others serve the purpose of holding small boats. When you are picking up a new boat lift, ensure that it suits the vessel you have as well as aligns with the demands of the boat owner.
Manual winch lifts were commonly used in the past. They are simple to install, do not require much maintenance, as well as less expensive. On the other hand, they require physical effort to operate because there are no buttons or electronic systems, so the owner has to operate them manually. These boat lifts are suitable for small vessels.
Electric boat lifts are widely used in our region. They are complex to install and require more maintenance. Due to the weather conditions in Cape Coral, a new boat lift must be maintained from time to time in order to improve its performance. You can contact professional boat lift maintenance in Cape Coral, FL, like Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance, for the best services.
Hydraulic lifts are also widely used, but for large boats. They are highly powerful and do not require much maintenance. However, a hydraulic lift does not contain features like an electric one. The best part is that there is no effort required, like in the manual lifts. A new boat lift that operates hydraulically is more expensive compared to the electric one.
Factor 3: Lift Height and Water Level
One of the highly significant factors when you are choosing a new boat lift is its height and water level. First, you need to consider in which area you live. Tides are high in a few regions while the water levels are low in other places. So a new boat lift must have an adjustable height option.
Ensure that the lift aligns properly with your dock so it will be protected from boarding damage. Secondly, a new lift should have a feature to accommodate the fluctuations in the water. Lastly, it offers boat hull clearance, which can prevent algae and corrosion.
Sometimes, people choose too high or too low a lift. In case the new boat lift is high lifted, then boarding damages are possible, so you should avoid using such apparatuses. A low-quality boat lift requires more sessions for maintenance compared to others. Similarly, avoid using the low height boat lifts because tides or water exposure can cause several problems.
Factor 4: Material & Durability
When it comes to installing a new boat lift, people rush to pick up one that is affordable or looks attractive; they do not focus on the build or material of the machine. But if an apparatus is made of fragile material, your hundreds-of-dollar boat’s security is threatened. Therefore, you should always opt for a durable and long-lasting material that does not compromise the safety of the boat.
- Aluminum: It is a lightweight and durable material that does not get rust or corrode. The aluminum new boat lift is a budget-friendly option, plus it requires less maintenance. Simply put, it is one of the best lift machine materials that has an average life of 5 to 7 years.
- Galvanized Steel: For those who are looking for a stronger and more robust option, should choose galvanized steel. This material is used for building a new boat lift for the large vessel. It is an expensive option as well as requiring time to time maintenance, while prone to rust and corrosion.
- Stainless Steel: Another option that is also budget-friendly and useful for small boat owners is stainless steel. It can withstand the bad climate and rust factors.
Factor 5: Installation Requirements
When it comes to buying a new boat lift, you should always go with one that offers simple installation. There is a list of the lifts available that do not require professional solutions. In case the installation is complex, then seek the expert boat lift installation in Cape Coral, FL, by Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance. Because incorrect installation can cause damage and compromise the safety of the boat so always connect with professionals to protect the boat from dangers.
Factor 6: Power Source and Energy Efficiency
An automated new boat lift that you are about to install should not require more energy than necessary. Therefore, opt for the one that has a battery to support functionality as well as it should be energy efficient. Either install the electric boat lift or choose the hydraulic; it should consume less energy, so the overall cost of using a new boat lift is reduced.
Factor 7: Maintenance and Upkeep
Sometimes, people blindly order the boat lift that seems nice on internet platforms, but when it arrives, they understand why the price was too low. Basically, there is a type of boat lift that requires more maintenance; otherwise, its performance is compromised. Avoid installing such a new boat lift; otherwise, you will end up wasting time on daily cleaning and replacing its components.
Factor 8: Safety Features
The purpose of installing a new boat lift is to protect vessels from water damage, boarding scratches, and other challenges. In case the boat lift does not have safety features, then it is a useless machine. Ensure that it has an emergency stop mechanism, locking devices, and an anti-slip body. If you are going to buy the boat lift for the first time, then get a company of an expert who knows complexities and is familiar with the must-have features a new boat lift should have.
Factor 9: Environmental Conditions
A new boat lift should have the capacity to withstand all types of weather conditions. If it is designed only for a specific season, then avoid paying for such an apparatus. Make sure the body of the boat lift can combat saltwater, rust, and corrosion, and seasonal changes. In this way, you do not have to worry whether you have to replace the new boat lift with the previous one. The outer body must have a coating to prevent the development of rust and other environmental conditions.
Factor 10: Warranty and Support
The boat lift must have a warranty for at least 2 years. It will help you to recover the amount in case the lifting apparatus stops working due to any structural or mechanical problem. Furthermore, you have to check the warranty of different parts like components, motors, and electronics. Lastly, verify that the manufacturer offers support services.
Partner With Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance To Get the Best Solutions
Buying and installing a new boat lift is not as simple as it seems. One has to consider several factors, including the material of the apparatus, its features, and the type or weight capacity. For the best consultation, you can seek support from Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance. They have a dedicated team for consultancy, which does not charge you for asking questions.
We know that each client has distinctive needs; therefore, Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance focuses on providing customised solutions. Whether you need repair solutions or boat lift inspection in Cape Coral, FL, our team is ready to serve you. Dockside Mobile Boat and Lift Maintenance is a licensed and registered company that operates under the supervision of the state department.
We offer on-site and mobile lift repair and maintenance solutions in the region at affordable rates. So, all you need is to contact us and get the best services of inspection or repair. Let’s partner together to secure your boat from damage.