Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

[Ripfence]

I have an extra Alpine amp but it isn't specifically rated for marine use, could I safely use it in my boat if I were to mount it where it wouldn't be splashed with water or would the humidity and water vapor be too much for it?

Thanks.

Ripfence

 

[john744]

Re: Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

If your concern is SAFETY (ie: electrical shock), I don't believe that the automotive is more or less safe than a marine unit. Most safety concerns arise from being or not being IGNITION PROTECTED. That is, when placed in an explosive atmosphere (gasoline vapors) will the device produce a spark that may ignite those vapors and possibly cause an explosion. Anything placed in the bilge (where gasoline vapors will collect) must be MARINE - Ignition Protected.

Your amplifier placed in a warm dry cabin will work ....................... but salt air can be corrosive. If you boat in salt water, be prepared to throw that amp away after a few years. Marine electronics should use conformal coatings to protect the circuit boards and components (at least the good quality ones use coatings).

So - Enjoy the tunes and have a safet boating season !

John D

 

[mikeneal]

Re: Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

There are not spark producing effects with a audio amp ( or radio). I do military electronics packaging for a proffesion and maine stero equip is makeyin hype. Every "marine " steros I have disassembled are hype and not even conformal coated internally. They are simply white automotive units. If you really love the amp by a aerosol can of conformal coating , disassemble the amp and spray the boards on both sides. I have had a auto amp (coated) in a boat for nearly 15yrs.

 

[Ripfence]

Re: Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

Thanks for the info guys. Sparking wouldn't be a problem. The amp would be nowhere near the fuel tank. I use the boat in freshwater only and it is tailored and isn't kept in a slip. I'd be happy if I could get a couple years use out of the amp. I can usually find them for cheap on my local Craigs List.

Thanks again.

 

[not enuf toys]

Re: Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

i use a non marine amp - it is bolted up under the dash out of the sun and not able to get wet (unless you have a garden hose) been on there for several years and not one issue

 

[boaterinsd]

Re: Can I use a non-marine amplifier in my boat safely?

good reading as i was thinking about this for my boat.

John744 I like this "After Tuesday, even the Calendar says W T F!"