Yes, you should almost always unplug your trailer lights before launching your boat. Submerging hot trailer lights in cold water can cause thermal shock, leading to cracked lenses, burned-out bulbs, and ultimately, premature light failure. While modern LED lights are more resilient, the risk, hassle, and minimal effort required to unplug them make it a worthwhile precaution to avoid potential problems and extend the life of your trailer lights.
The Science Behind the Spark: Why Unplugging Matters
The core reason for unplugging lies in the principles of thermal expansion and contraction. Traditional incandescent bulbs generate significant heat. When these hot bulbs, encased in their lens housings, are suddenly plunged into cool water, the rapid temperature change causes the glass (and sometimes the plastic housing) to contract quickly. This rapid contraction creates stress, often leading to cracks in the lens or filament damage within the bulb. While LED lights generate less heat, they aren’t entirely immune to thermal shock, and the wiring and connections within the light fixture can still be vulnerable to water intrusion after repeated submersion. More importantly, even the best “waterproof” lights can leak over time, especially if the seal is compromised by age or damage.
Beyond thermal shock, electrolysis is another concern. Submerged metal components of the lighting system in the presence of electricity can corrode more rapidly. This corrosion degrades the wiring, connections, and grounding, leading to erratic light behavior and eventual failure. Salty water accelerates this process dramatically, making unplugging an absolute necessity when launching in saltwater environments.
Alternatives to Unplugging: Are They Worth It?
Some boaters argue for the use of “waterproof” lights or claim their lights have never failed even without unplugging. While technological advancements have improved light durability, truly waterproof lights are rare, and even the best models can suffer from seal degradation over time. Relying on luck is a risky strategy, especially when facing the potential expense of replacing the entire lighting system or encountering legal issues due to malfunctioning lights. Furthermore, regardless of the light type, repeated submersion can contribute to corrosion in wiring and connections.
The Unplugging Protocol: Simple Steps for Prevention
Unplugging your trailer lights is a quick and easy process:
- Locate the trailer light connector: This is typically a flat four-pin or a round seven-pin connector located near the trailer hitch.
- Disconnect the connector: Gently pull the connector apart.
- Protect the connector (optional): Consider covering the connector on the vehicle side with a plastic bag or cap to protect it from water spray while launching.
- Store the connector safely: Tuck the trailer-side connector safely away from the water, ideally inside the tow vehicle’s cab or a storage compartment.
After launching, simply reverse the process, ensuring the connector is clean and dry before reconnecting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Will Unplugging My Lights Void My Trailer Warranty?
It’s highly unlikely that unplugging your trailer lights will void your warranty. In fact, many trailer manufacturers recommend this practice in their owner’s manuals. Review your warranty document for specific details, but generally, preventative maintenance actions like unplugging lights are encouraged.
FAQ 2: I Have LED Lights. Do I Still Need to Unplug?
Yes, even with LED lights, unplugging is recommended. While LEDs are more resistant to thermal shock than incandescent bulbs, they are not immune, and the wiring and connections remain vulnerable to water damage and corrosion. LED lights are an investment, and unplugging helps protect that investment.
FAQ 3: My Trailer Lights Are “Waterproof.” Is Unplugging Really Necessary?
No trailer light is truly 100% waterproof forever. Seals can degrade over time, allowing water to seep in. “Water-resistant” is a more accurate term. Unplugging provides an extra layer of protection, especially in saltwater.
FAQ 4: What Happens if I Forget to Unplug My Lights?
If you forget to unplug your lights, monitor them closely after launching. Check for flickering, dimming, or complete failure. If you notice any issues, inspect the wiring and bulbs for damage or corrosion. Consider applying dielectric grease to the connections to prevent further corrosion.
FAQ 5: Can I Use Dielectric Grease on My Light Connectors?
Yes, using dielectric grease on your light connectors is a good preventative measure. It helps prevent corrosion and ensures a good electrical connection. Apply a small amount of grease to the connector pins before reconnecting the lights.
FAQ 6: What’s the Best Way to Clean My Trailer Lights After Exposure to Saltwater?
Rinse your trailer lights thoroughly with fresh water after each exposure to saltwater. Use a mild soap if necessary to remove salt buildup. Dry the lights completely before storing the trailer.
FAQ 7: How Often Should I Inspect My Trailer Lights?
Inspect your trailer lights before each trip, paying close attention to the lenses, wiring, and connections. Look for cracks, corrosion, or any signs of damage. Repair or replace any damaged components immediately.
FAQ 8: What Kind of Replacement Bulbs Should I Use?
When replacing bulbs, use high-quality bulbs that are specifically designed for trailer use. Consider upgrading to LED bulbs for increased durability and longer lifespan.
FAQ 9: My Trailer Has a Grounding Issue. Will Unplugging Help?
Unplugging won’t directly solve a grounding issue, but it can prevent further damage caused by electrolysis and corrosion while the lights are submerged. Address the grounding issue as soon as possible to prevent long-term electrical problems. Proper grounding is essential for a safe and reliable lighting system.
FAQ 10: Is There a Way to Make My Trailer Lights Truly Waterproof?
While you can’t make them entirely impervious to water, you can take steps to improve their water resistance. Apply silicone sealant around the lens housings and wiring entries to create a tighter seal. Regularly inspect and replace any damaged or worn seals. Consider using heat shrink tubing to protect wiring connections.
FAQ 11: I Have a Roller Trailer. Does Unplugging Still Apply?
Yes, even with a roller trailer where the lights might not be fully submerged, unplugging is still a good practice. Water spray and splashes can still reach the lights and contribute to corrosion over time.
FAQ 12: What Are the Legal Requirements for Trailer Lights?
Trailer light requirements vary by state, but generally, you must have functioning brake lights, turn signals, and taillights. Ensure your lights meet these requirements to avoid fines and ensure safe towing. Regularly check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for the most up-to-date regulations.