The ShorPOWER SHF system is one of the most dependable and versatile electrical shore power converter system models available today. The ShorPOWER SHF has a unique design, making it easy to install in almost any situation and space available, while keeping the marina cleaner and greener.
Clean Shore Power – Protecting the Environment. Protecting the Marina.
Running a diesel engine while docked is noisy and adds more pollutants to the water and air. Marinas actively regulate and restrict the use of diesel engines during specific time periods, generally from 8PM to 8AM. As a result, this system is the perfect choice to power the yacht using electricity.
By using the ShorPOWER SHF while docked, local pollution is significantly reduced. As a result, the air is clean and the atmosphere is quiet.
How to Use Shore Power on a Boat
As we have specified elsewhere, you obviously do not want to run your boat’s diesel engine while docked simply to operate a microwave oven or to charge your phone. It would be a complete waste of power, which is why shore power is the ideal method for running A/C accessories.
Most boats come with a switch clearly marked ‘shore power’ in the cabin. To operate shore power, you would connect your boat to a shore-side power source — typically a power pedestal. Furthermore, some boats have two unique lights — Green and Red — for power and reversed polarity, respectively. You do not want the red light on in case the dock power is incorrectly wired.
Reduced Operating Hours Means Less Frequent Engine Overhauls
The engine is one of the most expensive parts of any ship. Keeping a diesel engine maintained and ready for use is a significant expense. Every hour the engine is running reduces the life of the engine. Not only does it cost money in fuel, but it increases maintenance costs to keep the engine running. Yacht owners are able to reduce the overall expense of maintaining an engine, while enjoying the benefits of powering all of the amenities and equipment onboard the yacht while in dock by using a marine shore power system.
Ease of Installation
The ShorPOWER SHF is designed to be installed either vertically or horizontally. This feature provides a great degree of flexibility in finding a suitable installation location. The ShorPOWER SHF also features a compact aspect ratio and form factor, allowing installation in small spaces otherwise unused onboard. Its lightweight, compact design has an aesthetic yacht finish and adds value at resale.
Reliable and Durable
The ShorPOWER SHF is designed from the ground up for marine use. It produces a regulated output that remains the same, regardless of changes in power from the dock or from load demands onboard. It is designed to work in marine environments, where it may be called upon for constant use in high-temperature environments. Additionally, the ShorPOWER SHF works with any marine power system worldwide. You can depend on the ShorPOWER SHF wherever your journeys take you. It cleans and conditions electricity which extends the life of marine electronic equipment installed on board the yacht.
FAQ
How does shore power work?
Shore Power works by plugging your boat into a power source on the dock, which transfers AC to your boat. On the dock, you will likely find an electrical tower, known as the power pedestal. Within it, there is an AC plug to which you can connect. Shore Power allows you to plug your yacht into the power pedestal and enjoy electric onboard.
What voltage is shore power?
Shore power is typically 120 volts. In the US, 30 amp provides 3.6 kilowatts of energy for vessels under 60-feet long. The need for more energy for larger vessels led to the wide availability of 50 amp-shore power in the US and Caribbean. However, shore outlets in Europe usually offer 16 amps of current with 240 volts at 50 Hertz. This is about the same wattage as US 30-amp supply, but the frequency and voltage differences make the two incompatible. Therefore, yachts must adapt accordingly. For larger European manufacturer vessels, the power supply is 32 amps with 240 volts at 50 Hertz.
Why is it called shore power?
The term “shore power” refers to the source of the power, which is “shoreside electrical power.” Shore power is beneficial in this way because it alleviates the unnecessary use of fuel, which would otherwise be used to power yachts and boats while in port.
Is shore power AC or DC?
Most yachts have a DC electrical system. This allows you to start your engine(s), use interior lights, operate marine electronics, and pump your bilge. Your DC system probably operates on 12V or 24V, using the batteries and reloaded through the charging system. Your shore power system is your yacht’s second electrical system, and it allows you to bring AC electricity aboard your vessel from the power pedestal via shore power cords.
Will shore power charge batteries?
Yacht batteries must be charged on a regular basis, as they will self-discharge if left to sit. You can charge your battery using a battery charger and shore power. Vessels that spend most of their time docked—and constantly hooked up to shore power—require smaller chargers.
How do I connect to shore power?
Be sure all systems are shut off—the power pedestal and your AC switches on your electric panel onboard. You will need a marine cordset (aka a shore power cord), which is likely yellow and 25-50 feet long. On one end is a male connector, which will plug into the female receptacle on the power pedestal on the dock. On the other end, a female connector will plug into the male outlet located somewhere on your vessel. Push the male connector into the pedestal, and then twist slightly clockwise to secure. No adapters should be required.
Contact Us
Atlas Marine Systems has more than 100 years of experience in designing shore power conversion and a variety of marine electrical systems. Call for more information on how the ShorPOWER SHF provides the most efficient and environmentally friendly power system for your yacht.
