As boaters, it’s imperative that we pay attention to the little details when it comes to boat maintenance and safety. One of those details is the presence of water in the pontoons. For those who may not know, pontoons are the hollow tubes underneath the boat that help to provide buoyancy and stability.
Many boaters wonder whether it’s necessary to have water in the pontoons or not. The short answer is that it depends on the type of pontoon and its design. Some pontoons are designed to be completely dry, while others have chambers that are partially filled with water.
Dry Pontoons
Dry pontoons, as the name suggests, are completely void of any water. These types of pontoons are typically made of aluminum and are sealed so that water cannot enter. The main advantage of having dry pontoons is that they are less likely to corrode or develop leaks over time. Additionally, dry pontoons are generally lighter in weight, which can improve fuel efficiency and performance.
Partially Filled Pontoons
On the other hand, partially-filled pontoons can offer certain benefits that dry pontoons cannot. These pontoons are designed with chambers that are filled with water, which helps to distribute weight across the boat. This can improve stability and can make the boat easier to maneuver in rough waters.
Additionally, partially-filled pontoons can help to reduce noise and vibrations. This is because the water acts as a dampener and absorbs sound and vibrations that could otherwise be transmitted through the boat’s structure.
However, partially-filled pontoons can also pose some disadvantages. For example, water can add significant weight to the boat, which can reduce fuel efficiency and performance. Additionally, if not properly drained and maintained, water in the pontoons can lead to corrosion and other damage.
Maintenance and Safety
Regardless of whether your pontoons are dry or partially-filled, it’s important to properly maintain them to ensure their longevity and safety. For dry pontoons, it’s important to inspect them for any signs of corrosion or other damage. Meanwhile, for partially-filled pontoons, it’s crucial to ensure that the water is properly drained and replaced with fresh water to prevent corrosion and bacterial growth.
In summary, there is no right or wrong answer as to whether there should be water in the pontoons. It ultimately depends on the design of the boat and the individual preferences of the boater. However, regardless of which type of pontoon you have, it’s important to maintain them properly to ensure the safety and longevity of your boat.