If you’ve recently invested in a new boat lift or are considering one, you may have questions about how they work and what to expect. A boat lift protects your vessel, extends its lifespan, and makes boating easier. From types and warranties to upgrades and maintenance, understanding the basics helps you get the most from your investment. Here are ten common questions boat owners often ask, with answers to guide your decision.
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Common Questions People Asked About Boat Lifts
1. What Capacities are Boat Lifts Available In?
Boat lifts can range between 1,500 lbs to 25,000 lbs in capacity. Determine your boat's wet weight which includes fuel, water, engines, batteries, and anything else that you have added to the boat. You can find out what size will best accommodate your boat by contacting Duncan Seawall.
2. What Types of Boat Lifts Should I Consider?
There are three types of boat lifts you may consider: “4 or 8-Post Beam Lift” is the largest selling and is one where the boat lift beams are above the deck, “3 or 4-Post Beam-less Lift” has no top beam above the deck giving a cleaner look, “Elevator Lift” is used in narrow canals, embankments or where pilings cannot be used.
3. What are the Warranties?
Understanding warranties is key when investing in a boat lift. For 4 and 8-Post Beam Lifts, the cradle beams and top beams are backed by a 15-year structural warranty, while elevator lifts typically carry a 5-year warranty due to their unique design. The drive system, which powers the lift’s movement, varies by model, but most come with a 5 to 10-year limited warranty, giving you added peace of mind about long-term reliability.
4. Can I Increase the Capacity of My Lift?
Most modern boat lifts can be upgraded to handle greater weight. If you purchase a larger or heavier vessel in the future, many lifts can be modified with new cables, motors, or cradles to accommodate the change. Always confirm with the manufacturer or installer to ensure your specific lift is designed for capacity upgrades.
5. Are Remote Controls Available?
A wide variety of remotes are available for boat lifts. However, GEM offers the highest-rated remote controls on the market today. A GEM boat lift remote is equipped with a 30 Amp control relay. These outstanding remotes can control boat lifts with up to 4 motors.
6. How Many Amps Does the Motor Draw?
For boat lifts that operate with a ¾ horsepower motor at 110 Volts, it will typically draw 12.5 Amps, and at 220 Volts it will typically draw 7.5 Amps. For boat lifts that operate with a 1 horsepower motor at 110 Volts, it will typically draw 14.5 A, and at 220 Volts it will typically draw 8.5 Amps.
For a boat lift with multiple motors, these numbers can be simply multiplied by the number of motors to determine how many Amps you can expect the boat lift to draw when operating.
7. How Often Should I Service My Boat Lift?
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your boat lift runs smoothly for years. Inspect cables and pulleys every few months for signs of wear, lubricate moving parts, re-level your lift as needed, and rinse your lift with fresh water after saltwater exposure. Scheduling annual professional maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and extends your system’s lifespan.
8. Can I Use My Boat Lift During Storm Season?
It’s best to secure or remove your boat during severe weather. While many modern lifts are designed to withstand high winds, keeping your vessel on the lift during a storm increases the risk of damage. Work with your installer to review storm-preparation procedures specific to your lift design.
9. What Upgrades Can Enhance My Boat Lift?
Popular upgrades include walkboards, guide posts, canopies, and remote-control systems for added convenience and protection. LED lighting and wireless monitoring systems are also growing in popularity, providing better visibility and performance tracking.
10. How Do I Choose the Right Boat Lift Installer?
Selecting the right installer is just as important as choosing the lift itself. Look for a company with proven experience, quality craftsmanship, and strong manufacturer partnerships. As a top worldwide Golden Boat Lift dealer, Duncan Seawall combines decades of marine construction expertise with Golden’s industry-leading technology to deliver lifts that are strong, durable, and built to last. Using corrosion-resistant stainless steel and aluminum, each lift is engineered to perform flawlessly for years, backed by up to a 15-year structural warranty.
If you are looking for boat lift solutions for your residential dock or commercial marina, Duncan Seawall Dock & Boat Lift is a name you can rely on. Being among one of Southwestern Florida's largest marine contractors, we provide our valued customers with dredging services and a wide selection of waterfront structures as well. We have served clients in Manatee, Charlotte, Sarasota, Pinellas, and surrounding counties for years. Contact Duncan Seawall Dock & Boat Lift today to get answers to any questions you may have.
