VHF Radio Problems

A VHF radio is a 2 way radio that is often used on watercraft to send and receive messages. It operates on a high frequency and is sometimes used in satellite communication. Problems can occur during operation if the unit is not mounted properly or if the antenna is malfunctioning. Here are some of the more common VHF problems.
Improper Mounting
Attaching a VHF radio to a wall can prevent air from flowing into the unit. This can cause the radio to overheat, which can shut it down completely. An overheated radio can be permanently damaged. If overheating occurs, the radio should be removed from the wall and allowed to cool down before attempting to operate it again.
Lights Without Sound
Sometimes when a wall-mounted radio is turned on the lights may appear but there is no sound or other sign that it is functioning. This is likely the result of improper battery function, and it will either need to be recharged or replaced. It is also possible that the cables connected to the battery may be damaged or corroded.
Other Battery Issues
In a handheld VHF unit, the batteries used are typically nicad or lithium. Nicad batteries are the most common and can be recharged, but the battery will still lose power over time. As a general rule, one hour of use requires one hour of recharging. Also, many units that use nicad batteries can also accommodate AA batteries, which are often used to power smaller electronic devices.
Antenna Malfunction
A faulty antenna may be the culprit if a VHF unit is not functioning properly. This is often the cause of losing the ability to transmit messages while still being able to receive them. Also, the higher the antenna is mounted, such as at the top of the mast of a sailboat, the better the reception will be.