A weed hatch is one of the most useful features on many narrowboats, but it is also one of the fittings that deserves real care and attention. Used properly, it lets you clear rope, plastic, weed and other debris from the propeller without going into the water. Used carelessly, it can lead to leaks, injury…
Narrowboat water pump problems can turn a peaceful day afloat into a frustrating one very quickly. One minute the taps are running normally, the next you have a spluttering sink, a noisy pump, or no water at all. The good news is that many freshwater pump issues are straightforward to diagnose. With a calm, methodical…
A reliable fresh water system makes life aboard far more comfortable. Whether you live on your boat full time or head out for weekends, good narrowboat water system maintenance helps prevent leaks, stale water, pump failures and winter frost damage. The good news is that most routine checks are simple. With a little time and…
Understanding narrowboat plumbing basics makes life afloat far more comfortable. Whether you are buying your first boat, planning a refit, or simply trying to work out why the water pump keeps running, a little knowledge goes a long way. Narrowboat plumbing is not usually complicated, but it is different from plumbing in a house. Space…
A shower is one of those onboard comforts you only really appreciate when it stops working properly. If the tray fills up, the pump grumbles, or water refuses to leave the bathroom, it can quickly turn a relaxing wash into a messy job. Most narrowboat shower pump problems are caused by fairly simple things: hair,…
A reliable toilet is one of the quiet essentials of comfortable life afloat. When it works well, nobody thinks about it. When it smells, blocks or leaks, it can quickly become the most urgent job on board. Good narrowboat toilet maintenance is not complicated, but it does need a regular routine. The right approach depends…
A cassette toilet is one of the most practical toilet options on a narrowboat, especially if you cruise away from your home mooring or prefer not to rely on pump-out facilities. It is simple, compact and easy to empty, but it does need regular care. Good narrowboat cassette toilet cleaning is not just about keeping…
A pump out toilet is one of the most convenient toilet options on a narrowboat, especially if you prefer not to carry cassettes to an Elsan point. Like any boat system, it works best when it is looked after regularly. Good narrowboat pump out toilet maintenance helps reduce smells, avoid blockages and make pump out…
LPG is part of everyday life on many narrowboats, powering cookers, hobs, water heaters and sometimes fridges. Used properly, it is convenient and reliable. Treated casually, it can become dangerous very quickly. Regular narrowboat gas system checks help you spot obvious problems before they become serious. They also make it easier to prepare for a…
LPG is part of everyday life on many narrowboats. It may run the cooker, hob, fridge, water heater or central heating, making life afloat comfortable and practical. Used correctly, it is reliable and convenient. Used carelessly, it can be dangerous. This narrowboat LPG safety guide explains the essentials in plain English. It covers storage, ventilation,…
