Caring for Garmin® Marine Electronics in Preparation for Inclement Weather

Most Garmin® Marine Electronics are water-rated IPX7, and per Water Rating Definitions, this means that equipment with this rating can withstand incidental exposure to water of up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes, and this includes but is not limited to splashes, rain, snow, or rain/snow showering.

Weather such as tropical storms and hurricanes involve:

• extreme atmospheric pressure changes,

• torrential downpours, and

• wind that causes stress and vibration to the vessel and electronics

Because of these harsh conditions, Garmin's warranty policy does not cover damage or water intrusion caused by extreme weather conditions.

To protect marine electronics in preparation for inclement and extreme weather conditions, Garmin recommends removing marine electronics from the vessel until weather conditions are optimal. If the marine electronics are flush mounted, the ship may need to be trailered to a safe, dry storage, such as a garage, barn, or facility that offers weather-safe storage conditions, until the storm has passed. A protective cover for the vessel may help, but it also may not protect the boat against extreme weather conditions.

How to Winterize a Boat’s Electronics

1. Check cables/wiring: Check any exposed cables or wiring for corrosion or worn spots before storing a boat; this is critical to avoid any potential damage during winter rest. Be sure to cover any electronic contact points and, if desired, apply dielectric grease to the ends of the plugs

2. Clean electronics: It’s also wise to clean electronics before being away from the boat for an extended period. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the screen and any buttons with open exposure. When cleaning a touchscreen:

   • Use a non-abrasive soap and water mixture

   • Use a clean, high-quality micro-fiber cloth commonly used on eyeglasses, camera lenses, and electronics

   • A high-quality cloth would be soft, lint-free, and with no ridges

   • Thoroughly rinse the screen with fresh water to remove any saltwater or chum residue first, and then use a clean cloth to wipe the screen dry. Do not spray the screen, as high pressure can cause seals to fail

   • Use a clean cloth each time you wipe the screen. Reusing the cleaning cloth builds up residue and no longer cleans the display. A dirty cleaning cloth wears down the anti-reflective coating due to abrasions

   • Do not use products that contain ammonia; this damages the anti-reflective coating. Eyeglass cleaner is an excellent option to look for when choosing a cleanser. Make sure that the eyeglass cleaner is safe for reflective surfaces

3. Remove electronics: If possible, remove the electronics. It is ideal for bringing marine electronics inside for the winter. Although Garmin chartplotters are tested to withstand freezing temperatures, being in a controlled climate and environment is preferable

4. Cover everything remaining on board: If electronic equipment must remain onboard, cover them up; this applies to all other instruments on board and the cockpit. If snow melts and refreezes, it expands again and could cause damage. Securely cover anything that remains onboard with canvas, and tie it down well