Edgewater Networks 245CX, Owner Assistance Manual

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5/Electrical Systems
5.1 General
Your EdgeWater 245CX operates on a 12 volt DC system, similar to your automobile. The battery
or batteries are typically lead acid type and require similar maintenance to your car’s battery. An
electrical schematic is included in the Appendix for troubleshooting if a problem should arise.
5.2 Panel Switches
Your EdgeWater 245CX is equipped with panel mounted breakers located at the helm as well as
main and 24hr breakers located in the aft seat storage locker. Switches are provided at the helm
for navigation lights, deck lights, locker lights, horn, bilge pump, livewell, raw water pump, fresh
pump and one accessory. The aft main battery switch panel contains circuit breakers for helm
main, trim tabs, stereo, bilge pump auto, and one spare circuit. A wiring diagram is included with
this manual to assist you in troubleshooting the boats’ electrical system. Please note that the
accessory circuits are protected by circuit breakers with various amperage ratings. Check that the
requirement of any device you install does not exceed the rating of the circuit breaker being used.
When equipped with dual batteries the boat will have a battery selector switch which provides
isolation for each battery and also provides the ability to have a back-up in case of a dead or
weak battery. When in port and running accessories such as entertainment equipment or pumps,
the selector switch should be set on “1” or “2”. When leaving the boat unattended, the selector
switch should be in the “OFF” position.
*NOTE: The bilge pump with an automatic float switch is wired directly to the battery circuits so it
can pump water out of the bilge even when the battery switch is in the “OFF” positions.
Avoid leaving the selector in the “both” position, as the weak battery will drain the
charged battery, leaving you with two weak batteries. Instead, start the engine using the
charged battery. Once the engine is running, turn the battery switch to the “both” position
to charge both batteries.
5.3 Electrical System Maintenance
At the beginning and end of each season the exposed electrical components of the switch panel
should be sprayed with a non-conductive rust/corrosion inhibiting spray. Inspect all wiring for
breaks, loose terminals and sound insulation. Replace worn or deteriorated components. Check
the electrolyte level in the batteries regularly and fill with distilled water, as necessary.
DO NOT
OVERFILL. Batteries under charge emit explosive hydrogen gas. DO NOT remove fill caps for
inspection in the presence of sparks or an open flame.