Frequently Asked Questions

+ What makes Smart Skipper different from other monitoring systems?

A: Smart Skipper is different in a couple of ways:

• First, we do not use a traditional gateway and instead use a smart device that stays on board at all times. This is beneficial to users as you have all the reliability of a modern smart device with the increased flexiblity to use it as you wish.
• With other systems, when you lose service there is no utility to using their monitoring system while on board. Since Smart Skipper does not rely on a traditional gateway, you can continue to monitor your vessel while out on the water. Know what is going on with your bilges, batteries, fuel/water tanks, temperature, and more!
• No hardware upgrades! With Smart Skipper, never worry about having to buy an all new system every few years. The only upgrades you will need will come as free app updates.
• Buy what you need and nothing more! Don't have a need for a temperature sensor? No problem! With Smart Skipper, configure your system exctaly as you need and nothing more!
• Keep your existing sensors! Smart Skipper can utilise your existing sensors such as open/close door sensors, bilge switches, high water sensors, ... etc.
• Install with ease! With our bluetooth mesh technology, install Smart Skipper devices wherever it is the easiest for you.

+ Do I have to keep a device, like an ipad or other tablet on board all the time?

A: Yes, the iPad acts as a gateway to the cloud for the Smart Mate devices. Smart Mates are sending the iPad information, the iPad then sends that information onto the cloud so you can access it anywhere, anytime.

+ How do I get access to my boat’s information when I am not onboard?

A: Make sure you have an active cloud subscription and the Smart Skipper™ app on your mobile device.

+ Do I have to use all the extra alarm inputs?

A: No. You can use as many of the inputs as you would like. To remove them from your home screen view simply click the edit button then delete any unwanted tiles. Don’t worry, you can always bring them back by clicking on the plus sign.

+ How do I delete unwanted Smart Mate devices?

A: Go to the sensor page on the onboard Smart Skipper™ app and swipe left on the device you wish to delete. Click the red delete button.

+ How long will my Smart Mate device last on back up battery?

A: The Smart Mate device will last roughly 72 hours on back up battery.

+ Where is a smart switch mounted? How far off the deck of the bilge should it be installed?

A: With the factory default settings, it is recommended to mount the sensor two inches above the pump outlet allowing the pump to prime. For higher mounting options use the BGI Config App on Android or iOS to connect and configure the pump run time to fit your bilge setup the best.

+ What is the operating voltage of the smart switches & sensors? Do you have to buy different ones for each standard operating voltage?

A: The operating voltage of our units is 12 Vdc, 24 Vdc, 32 Vdc.

+ What kind of pump do the smart switches work with?

A: The Switches & Sensors power DC pumps up to 20 amps.

+ Do I have to install it horizontally or can I mount it vertically? My bilge has limited space.

A: The BG-One and BG-Oil must be installed horizontally for the oil detect feature to be effective, the other switches and sensors may be installed vertically or horizontally.

+ What types of oil/fuel does the BG-One and BG-Oil detect?

A: Gasoline, diesel, engine oil (fossil and synthetic), and hydraulic fluid.

+ Do the smart switches work with DC clutch pumps?

A: Blue Guard Innovations offers the BG-SWCL for DC clutch pump applications.

+ What is splash protection and how does it work?

A: Our sensors are very sensitive and can detect momentary splashes of water. During rough seas this can cause frequent cycling of the pump. To prevent this, turning on splash protection causes our sensor to delay pump activation until water has been detected continuously for a certain period (low = 2s, medium = 3s, high = 5s). Factory default for the BG-HW is off and for all other models is medium.

+ What is oil sensitivity and how does it work?

A: Similarly to how splash protection works for water, oil sensitivity changes the number of subsequent oil reading required before we raise the oil alarm. In some cases, setting the oil sensitivity too high will cause false alarms. Factory default is medium sensitivity.

+ Can one switch activate more the one bilge pump?

A: Yes, as long as the total amperage does not exceed 20 amps.

+ Is there any maintenance that needs to be done on the switches?

A: Yes, clean the sensor every 3-6 months. Refer to the switches user manual for instructions.

+ Do we have to use your junction box or control panel?

A: No, you can wire into any current 12 Vdc, 24 Vdc, and 32 Vdc system.

+ There are 16 screws on the bottom of the switches and sensors, can I open or tighten them?

A: Absolutely not, there are no serviceable parts inside the unit. It will void your warranty and can put your unit at serious risk.

+ How much of the 6 ft marine grade wiring can I cut or trim?

A: You can only cut or trim 4in before you void the warranty. 6ft of marine-grade wiring is provided to keep the connections dry.

+ Can my splicing connection be in water or in constant splash?

A: No unless you can certify that they are waterproof

+ Can you use one of your alarm panels with a traditional mechanical float switch or does it have to be one of your switches & sensors?

A: You can wire a traditional mechanical float switch. See wire guide.