Welcome to Whale Shop’s FAQ section. With 39 years of experience serving the marine industry, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about our products, delivery, and services. Can’t find what you need? Our Peterborough-based team is always ready to help at [email protected].
About Whale Shop
Who is Whale Shop’s typical customer?
Our products serve a wide range of marine enthusiasts and professionals:
- Boat owners maintaining or upgrading their vessels
- Marine technicians sourcing professional-grade equipment
- Off-grid explorers needing reliable power solutions
- Fishing enthusiasts requiring livewell/bait systems
- Commercial marine operations
What makes Whale Shop products special?
Our marine equipment stands out through:
- Saltwater resilience: Corrosion-resistant materials for harsh marine environments
- Precision engineering: Including our proprietary PCB assemblies
- Installation-ready: Comprehensive guidance with every product
- Field-tested reliability: Solutions refined through 39 years of marine industry experience
Product Questions
How do I choose the right bilge pump for my boat?
Consider these factors:
- Boat size and water displacement
- Automatic vs manual operation needs
- GPH (gallons per hour) rating requirements
- Power source compatibility (12V/24V)
What maintenance do battery management systems require?
Our smart battery chargers are designed for minimal maintenance, but we recommend:
- Quarterly terminal cleaning with marine-grade protectant
- Annual firmware checks (for smart systems)
- Visual inspection after extreme weather conditions
Are your marine heaters suitable for liveaboard use?
We offer both intermittent-use and continuous-operation models. Key considerations:
- Look for “24/7 rated” in the product specifications
- Ensure proper ventilation space as per installation manual
- Consider fuel type compatibility (diesel/electric)
Ordering & Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major payment options for your convenience:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- JCB
- PayPal
Can I modify my order after placement?
Order modifications are possible if your order hasn’t entered processing (within 1-2 business days). Contact [email protected] immediately with your order number and requested changes. We’ll make every effort to accommodate your request.
Do you offer business/wholesale accounts?
Yes! Marine professionals and commercial operations can apply for our trade program featuring:
- Volume pricing
- Dedicated technical support
- Priority processing
Shipping & Delivery
What are my shipping options?
We offer two reliable services:
- Express Shipping (£12.95):
- 1-2 day processing
- 10-15 day delivery via DHL/FedEx
- Full tracking from warehouse to dock
- Free Standard Shipping (Orders >£50):
- 1-2 day processing
- 15-25 day delivery via EMS
- Tracking updates at major transit points
Pro Tip: Combine orders with fellow boaters to reach the £50 free shipping threshold.
Do you ship worldwide?
We deliver globally except certain remote Asian regions. During checkout, our system will automatically confirm if we can ship to your location. For special circumstances (expeditions, remote marinas), contact us before ordering.
How are marine electronics packaged for shipping?
Every shipment receives our signature marine packaging:
- Saltwater-safe moisture barriers
- Anti-vibration cushioning
- Corrosion-inhibiting wraps for metal components
- Waterproof documentation pouch
Returns & Warranty
What is your return policy?
Our satisfaction guarantee allows returns within 15 days of receipt:
- Items must be unused, in original packaging
- Return shipping is at customer’s expense
- Refunds processed within 5 business days of receipt
What if I receive a damaged item?
While rare due to our robust packaging, if damage occurs:
- Photograph the packaging and damage
- Do not discard any packaging materials
- Email evidence to [email protected] within 48 hours
Do you offer product warranties?
Yes, warranties vary by product category:
- Pumps: 2-3 years depending on model
- Battery Systems: 18-36 months
- Electronics: 1-2 years
Technical Support
Where can I find installation instructions?
Every physical product includes:
- Printed quick-start guide
- Comprehensive digital manual (on USB or download link)
- Whale Shop support contact information
What support do you offer after purchase?
Our Peterborough-based marine experts provide:
- Email support with 24-hour response guarantee
- Troubleshooting flowcharts for common issues
- Video tutorials for complex installations
- Warranty claim assistance
Still have questions? Our marine specialists are ready to assist at [email protected] or +44 (0) [PHONE NUMBER]. Whale Shop – Your Trusted Marine & Plumbing Partner Since 1985.
