What are ventilation systems on a boat used for?
There are 2 types of ventilation systems:
A natural ventilation system consists of at least two ventilation ducts, fitted with cowls or their equivalent. The system must have:
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A minimum of one intake duct installed to allow fresh air to enter the confined space. The objective is to reach the deepest area of the vessel’s hold, below the level of the carburetor air intake, to ensure proper air circulation throughout all critical areas.
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A minimum of one exhaust duct installed to remove stale air, exhaust gases, or potentially hazardous fumes from the confined space. The exhaust duct extends from the lower portion of the hold to the open air to ensure proper removal of contaminated air.
Powered ventilation system
A powered ventilation system consists of one or more exhaust blowers. Each intake duct for an exhaust blower should be in the lower one-third of the compartment and above the normal accumulation of bilge water.
You, the owner of the boat, are responsible for keeping your boat's ventilation systems in operating condition.
Make sure:
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Openings are free of obstructions.
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Ducts are not blocked or torn,
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Blowers are operating properly.
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Worn out parts are replaced with equivalent marine type equipment.
NOTE: Boats built after July 31, 1982, that contain power exhaust blowers in gasoline engine compartments must have the following warning sticker near the instrument panel:
WARNING
GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OPERATE
BLOWER FOR 4 MINUTES AND CHECK ENGINE COMPARTMENT
FOR GASOLINE VAPORS.
