I wonder what precautions do I need to take if I'm cleaning my hull while in the water?
I purchased the boat that was a bit neglected. I will attach a photo. I am unsure what can get that clean besides hauling it out, but which due to engine issues, it's not moving at the moment, what can I use to get that off. Oxalic acid has been recommended but unsure if it will harm sea life. Even diluted. Any suggestions?
She is moored in Lake Macquarie if that helps
Most people on the lake are fine. I have never had an issue but I don't let any dust or rubbish go overboard. As for acid, what's the fuss. It will need to be well diluted before you use it, when it hits the water it will dilute much much more. It aint a forever or damaging chemical. It is found in nuts and healthy foods although eating too much can give you kidney stones. Get into it!
At most you'd use half a litre of oxalic acid or proprietary hull cleaner on the hull. I might do the yellowing stains near the waterline once a year. A half-litre of the hull cleaner will dilute into the millions of litres of lake water. I'm sure the effect on the environment is akin to copper antifoul leaching into the water.
As for engine issues and not being able to move the yacht, you could mount an outboard bracket on the stern temporarily, and when the diesel does work, then fill in the 4 holes you drilled. Not ideal to have a motor so far back, but better than not being able to manoeuvre the yacht. It's what I did.
