Boating should embody freedom over labor. When you are either starting for your first trip in the morning or calling it a day after a long day on the water, it should be equally as smooth as your engine when launching or retrieving your boat off a lift. That’s why boat owners are turning to electric motors for boat lifts more than ever before.
No more exhausting manual effort. No more strain on your back. Just effortless, effortless, easy lifting. The right motor will save you time, protect your boat, and let your time on the water be truly relaxing, not exhausting. With the proper setup, you’ll also get more years out of your boat, spend less money on repairs, and have far more enjoyment launching and retrieving your boat.
Why Switch to an Electric Motor?
Manual boat lifts are exhausting and tiring, especially if you use your boat frequently. Electric motors do the work for you. Once you press the button to raise or lower your boat, it is done in no time at all.
Electric motors will also protect your investment. Keeping your boat dry and off the water when not in use protects you from corrosion and algae building up on surfaces and prevents hull damage. Why not have the best of both convenience and protection?
Electric lift systems are also more consistent. Manual lifts may develop uneven wear over time, which can lead to tilted or unbalanced lifts. Electric motors always provide smooth, even lifts no matter the circumstances, including when your boat is docked in deep and choppy water.
Types of Electric Motors
Depending on the boat lift, different types of motors will be required to lift your boat out of the water properly. Each motor style has its unique attributes based on boat size, how often you use it, and the environment.
1. Direct Drive Electric Motors
These motors are tough and reliable. They also have a direct connection to the winch shaft, which means limited moving parts are involved without limiting the maintenance activity. As a result, these motors are very fast, considerably quiet, and strong enough to lift even hefty boats.
This is a great option for busy boaters who are lifting boats on a more regular basis. You’ll value how easy it is to lift quickly and silently in the early morning or late at night.
2. Friction Drive Electric Motors
These motors are suitable for scenarios where the contact force is used to turn the lift drum. Friction drive electric motors are easy to install and cost-effective to purchase; however, their friction-based performance is best utilized in dry conditions, as humid or wet conditions can cause the motor to lose grip. The continually turning friction wheel will lead to increased wear over time.
Best suited for light-duty lifts and those boats that are not lifted often each week. If you don’t find yourself lifting your boat daily, this will likely be your best low-cost option.
3. Chain Drive Electric Motors
The chain assigned to each lift has a stronger build and can support much heavier boat lifts without getting to the slipping point. These drives are reliable.
Operates efficiently while keeping appearance and installation Simple! With worm gear motors, general motors are relatively inexpensive, but they may not provide the best overall system performance.
Additionally, keep in mind that worm gear motors are not freewheeling. Worm gear systems are slower than a standard chain motor, but they offer an inherent safety feature when lifting, particularly in windy conditions or at a distant dock.
AC or DC Power Considerations
Like most things in life, power choices for your boat lift come down to what works with the configuration and situation you find yourself in.
- AC is better for docks with electric connections that will not be cut off anytime soon. AC power is clean and fast. You’re seeing a portion of boat lift systems powered by AC from homes, marinas, or city docks.
- DC requires 12V OR 24V battery(s). DC is a great scenario, as most dock configurations do not include electricity. DC provides the same beach and shoreline security without introducing safety factors in the wet conditions, and installation is very simple.
Typically, DC or battery systems are used together with solar options as the charging portability is ideal for cabins and remote places where pulling power is a challenge, and the alternative solar charging perspectives work!
Features That Matter For Better Performance
When considering electric motors for your boat lift, there are a few features that can help to improve performance and make your experience more enjoyable:
Wireless Remote Control
With the wireless remotes that many modern motors come with, you can raise your boat from a distance. Some even have advanced models that can pair with phone apps for additional convenience.
For family or groups, this means anyone can operate the lift safely, or with great safety, rather than needing direct access to the switch box.
Auto-stop & Limit Switches
By design, limit switches prevent damage by stopping the lift at a set height. Stopping the lift protects your motor as well as your boat.
This design feature reduces wear and tear on your equipment, and while it does not eliminate maintenance, it lengthens the life of your system.
Weatherproof Design
Since your lift will be exposed to the elements, you will want one whose motor was built to withstand sun, salt, and water exposure. Look for rust-proof casings and waterproof pushbuttons.
If you live near saltwater and/or in an area with regular storms, this is non-negotiable. Cheap motors are only cheap when they last for more than one season.
Manual Backup Option
If you suffer a power outage, you’ll want a motor that has some type of manual override that allows you to lower or raise the boat without electricity.
It’s a small feature, but it’s a great help during emergencies or when the battery is dead.
Noiseless Operation
Noise is important, especially in quiet environments or residential areas. Some motors are silent in their operation.
This allows neighbors to be happy and makes those early morning excursions as peaceful as rather than rambunctious.
The Advantages of Electric Boat Lift Motors
Now we want to discuss really what these motors are doing after the installation. Here are the winners:
- Time Saving
You can lift and lower your boat in seconds. No more hand cranking or waiting.
- Lower Physical Demand
Excellent for families, older users, or if someone just wants to make the lift easier.
- Boat Longevity
Having your boat out of the water minimizes corrosion, hull damage, and marine growth.
- More Boating instead of Maintenance
You are spending less time cleaning your hull and more time on the water.
- Safety
With auto-stop, remote access, and worm gear locks, the risk of slips, falls, or lift failures is reduced.
Best Situations for Using Electric Motors
Still not sure you need a motorized lift? Here are three scenarios that highlight precisely that:
- You use your boat several times a week
- You have a heavy pontoon, cruiser, or fishing boat
- You have family members or friends who struggle with manual lifts
- Your dock is away from home and is not always powered
- You want to protect your investment and keep your maintenance to a minimum
- You dock on a tidal, or unpredictable, water level
Easy Installation Tips
Adding a motor to your lift is easier than many expect. However, just a few steps to comply with the license reduced stress.
- Check compatibility with your lift brand and type
- Use marine-rated wiring and sealed connectors
- Check that the lift is balanced and operational before using power
- Check your manual for safety guidelines
- Test the unit fully before normal service
Final Thoughts
If you love your boat, you’ll want to take care of it, starting with the lift. Electric motors for boat lifts add ease of use, safety, and performance to your dock setup. If you’re lifting a speedboat, pontoon, or fishing skiff, they take care of the heavy lifting for you!
With several types and power options, and cool features to choose from, there’s something for every boater. And ultimately, once you make the move, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one.
