Houseboat Repair, Repairs, Maintenance, Sales and Information

Houseboats for sale, Houseboat for sale

Fuel savings

I never completely fill our boat up unless we are on our way out. That way I know I'm burning some of it off on the way to our destination.  Let me explain why.   The fuel is kept buried on land and is generally at a lot cooler temperature.  When pumped into your aluminum fuel tanks it tends to warm up in the engine room.  Generally speaking summer water temperature is in the mid to upper 80's. Your engine compartment will be the same and even warmer due to the engines and generator running. The fuel expands quickly in the tanks and spills out the overflow wasting money and causing strong fuel odors.   Simply have someone keep an eye on the fuel guage and let you know when it's at ¾ tank.  Something else to watch for is fuel kicking back.  Most marine fuel tanks don't vent fast enough during fill up.  Fuel up at a slow pace and even stop now and again to let the air bleed out.  Doing this will save you money at the fuel pumps and also makes the wife and guest much happier not having to smell the gas. 

Uncle Ricky say's its as simple as that!!