Marina Shore Power Pedestals: Importance of Modern Units

The Importance of Upgrading to Modern Marina Shore Power Pedestals

Introduction to Marina Shore Power Pedestals

Power pedestals are the backbone of marinas. They provide convenient access to electricity, water, and other utilities to docked boats, their owners, and other guests. These utility hubs enable boaters to use onboard appliances, charge batteries, and run essential systems, such as lighting and air conditioning. In addition to enhancing comfort and convenience, modern power pedestals play a crucial role in the safety, efficiency, and overall experience of customers and marina operators alike.

Benefits of Modern Marina Shore Power Pedestals

Upgrading to modern power pedestals offers several advantages, including enhancing the marina’s operational efficiency and overall customer experience.

Enhanced Safety: Modern power pedestals have integrated safety features, such as Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which prevent shocks and electrocutions by quickly cutting off power when they detect even a slight difference between the electricity flowing into the circuit and the electricity returning (ESF, n.d.).
Energy Efficiency: Advanced power pedestals are designed to be energy-efficient, which can significantly reduce a marina’s overall energy consumption. Features such as photo-cell activated LED lighting and energy-saving circuitry help minimize energy wastage, leading to lower operational costs and a reduced carbon footprint.
Reliability and Performance: Modern power pedestals feature the latest technological advancements to boost reliability and performance. With HyPower’s PowerSnap technology, for example, you can configure individual pedestals to support the power requirements of a wide range of vessels and perform routine maintenance, repairs, and power system upgrades without calling an electrician or performing complex rewiring work.

HyPower is the industry leader in power solutions for residential docks, marinas, and RV parks across the US. We combine innovative designs with a commitment to safety and reliability to provide operators with versatile solutions that enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Key Features of Advanced Shore Power Pedestals

Are you thinking about upgrading your marina’s power distribution system? Here are some features to consider:

Smart Metering and Monitoring: Smart meters provide precise readings of electricity and water usage, enabling operators to bill users accurately for the utilities they consume. This feature often comes with remote monitoring capabilities that allow operators to quickly identify and address issues, such as outages and power surges, facilitating prompt intervention and faster response while minimizing downtime.
Flexible Power Configurations: Look for pedestals that offer various power configurations to accommodate different types of vessels and electrical requirements. The HyPower PowerPort offers 20A, 30A, 50A, and 100A receptacles and breakers to safely power everything from smaller appliances to larger boats and RVs.
Integrated Features: Besides providing electricity and water, HyPower power pedestals feature integrated boat dock lighting and internet and cable TV connectors, helping operators further enhance their marina’s customer experience.
Durable and Weather-Resistant Construction: Marine environments can be especially harsh, with saltwater corrosion, moisture, and adverse weather conditions presenting unique challenges to any equipment. HyPower’s power pedestals feature high-pressure injection-molded cases incorporating tin-plated copper bars, fine-strand tine-plated wiring, and marine-grade machine screw fasteners in threaded brass inserts for the ultimate all-weather reliability.

For even more extreme weather conditions, HyPower offers the optional PowerSnap Weather Base for its PowerPort. This detachable housing lets you easily remove the power head for safe storage during hurricanes, winter, and other adverse conditions. Contact our power solutions experts today for more information on enhancing your establishment’s convenience, functionality, and customer experience.

Case Studies: Successful Upgrades in Marinas

In July 2019, Lake Don Pedro Marina in LaGrange, California, completed the second phase of a massive renovation project (Marina Dock Age, 2019). In addition to building new slip sections, walkways, and rental docks to accommodate increasing boater needs, the marina upgraded its power pedestals with the HyPower PowerPort and EnergyMate.

HyPower Director of Sales Eric Farley said, “With the changing power needs for boats, an increase in transient traffic, and the power needs on the boat rental dock, our system gives the marina the ability to get the right power where they need it, when they need it. This is not only an advantage in the marketplace but will also reduce their operating costs.”

In Orange Beach, Alabama, Safe Harbor Sportsman praised the versatility of HyPower power pedestals and its PowerSnap technology. This technology allowed them to tailor power configurations from slip to slip by simply snapping in a different panel. The marina also benefited from HyPower’s innovative weather-proofing solutions.

Brian W. of Safe Harbor Sportsman wrote, “Our marina has been through three hurricanes. Thanks to the PowerSnap Weather Base, we were able to remove our pedestals from their bases and save them from being damaged.”

How to Choose the Right Shore Power Pedestal for Your Marina

Versatility, reliability, and durability are key considerations when choosing a marine pedestal that helps improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Here are some tips to help you select the optimal solution for your marina’s needs:

Assess Your Needs: Take stock of the types and sizes of vessels that frequent your marina to help determine the appropriate power requirements. Consider factors such as the number of slips, the average length of stay, and your customers’ power consumption patterns.
Prioritize Safety and Durability: Safety should always be a priority for power solutions in marine environments. Look for UL-certified and ADA-compliant units that meet or exceed all National Electric Code (NEC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements. These ensure the power pedestals meet safety, accessibility, and regulatory standards.
Consider Future Growth: Choose pedestals that can accommodate potential future expansion. Opt for units with scalable features and additional power options to ensure your marina can meet increased requirements.
Warranty Coverage: Look for warranties ranging from two to five years. Extended warranties provide greater peace of mind and indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and performance. Moreover, ensure the warranty covers critical components, including electrical systems, housings, and integrated technologies. Comprehensive coverage protects you from manufacturing defects and early failures.
After-Sales Support: Quality after-sales support is essential for addressing any issues that arise after installation and for ensuring the continued performance of your power pedestals. Look for manufacturers that offer maintenance packages or support services, including routine inspections, parts replacement, and system upgrades.

HyPower’s TotalPower Solutions streamline and enhance the electrical infrastructure of marinas and RV parks. This service includes integrated electrical design to optimize layout, load distribution, and the necessary electrical components, such as substations, panelboards, transformers, wiring, and cabling–all from a single source. Contact us today at (800) 825-3379 to learn more.

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