Navagear often promotes products from manufacturers in our own backyard: the northwestern United States and western Canada. So we're thrilled to see a Seattle-based manufacturer with an ambitious and innovative new shore power offering.
At the same time, though, I wonder what sort of an uphill battle the folks at SmartPlug are prepared for. It's going be be difficult to carve out even a tiny chunk of market-share when every boat and every marina already has the conventional alternative installed.
The benefits would need to be overwhelming and incontrovertible.
Are they? You be the judge:
Anyway, on with the press release!
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The harsh marine environment can cause problems with even the highest quality shorepower systems. Shorepower failure is one of the leading causes of boat fires. Regular maintenance of cords and outlets is needed to keep them in good condition, providing dependable electrical components.
When not in use, a plug should be stored in a dry area, free of moisture and chemical agents. If stored outside, boaters should keep the plug end of the cord face down. This helps prevent intrusion of moisture into the plug body and internal electrical components. When unplugged, owners shouldn't throw the plug end onto the dock or any other hard surface to avoid cracking and damage.
Electrical contacts must always be dry and clean. Owners should check boatside and dockside plugs and receptacles weekly for scorching, discoloration, melted plastic and visible corrosion. If any are spotted, cord use should be discontinued immediately to avoid fire or electrocution.
To increase protection from these dangers, SmartPlug Systems has designed a new and patented shorepower system. Featuring advanced safety features, SmartPlug is currently available in a 30 amp plug and inlet with a 50 amp model in development.
When a plug is in use, it must be securely locked into place. It's also important to not apply undue strain or force on an electrical pin.
SmartPlug employs revolutionary side locks to enable users to feel and hear the positive connection. This locking system also ensures any pressure or force is absorbed by the assembly's body and not the electrical pins. Its straight electrical pins slide straight into the connector without any twisting, providing a more stable, safe connection.
To keep pins free from corrosion, the boatside cap or cover must be closed when not in use. Further enhancing the moisture resistance of pins and electrical contacts, owners can also coat them with dielectric grease.
With a triple seal waterproof connection, including a compressed front seal, rear seal and flanged cord seal, SmartPlug's internal electrical components are protected against corrosion. To avoid overheating, it incorporates a trip thermostat that turns off the power around 200˚F.
Most importantly, a plug should never be submerged under water. If it's accidentally dropped into the water, power should be shut off immediately before it's retrieved. If dropped in saltwater, the plug must be rinsed with freshwater. Before rinsing plug, the cord should be disconnected from any power source. Then, users should allow a few days for the plug to thoroughly dry before reusing.
Most boaters depend on shorepower systems to gain access to electricity. However, despite the best maintained system, the possibility of burning, electrical arcing and power surges still exist. The innovative SmartPlug, paired with proper shorepower maintenance, provides protection for boats and marinas, ensuring boating remains safe and fun.
