Perko LED Side Light Review

Let’s Talk About Perko LED Side Light

As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve learned that safety isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the bedrock of any successful expedition, whether it’s a weekend fishing trip or navigating challenging waterways. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the Perko LED Side Light, a crucial piece of equipment for any vessel operating at night or in low visibility. Perko, a trusted name in marine hardware, promises enhanced visibility and reliability with this European-style LED navigation light.

I needed a reliable side light for my recently restored vintage runabout. Modern LED technology was a must for energy efficiency and longevity. The sleek, black housing of the Perko LED Side Light immediately caught my eye. Its simple design and promised 2-mile visibility suggested a practical and effective solution.

My first impression upon unboxing the Perko LED Side Light was that of solid, no-nonsense construction. The black plastic housing feels robust, not flimsy, and the red lens is vibrant and clear. Compared to some older incandescent models I’ve used, this light feels significantly more modern and durable. It also felt lighter than I expected.

I considered other LED side lights from brands like Attwood and SeaSense, but the Perko LED Side Light’s reputation for quality and its specific certification for vessels under 20 meters ultimately swayed me. I was particularly drawn to the Perko LED Side Light due to its simple install and reputation for being a simple product that will last for a long time. I hoped this investment would ensure compliance and safety for years to come. My initial feeling was a mix of cautious optimism and a quiet excitement to upgrade my boat with a reliable, modern navigation light.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Perko LED Side Light to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Perko LED Side Light on my runabout just before a late-season fishing trip on a large lake known for its sudden fog banks. The installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal electrical knowledge. I tested the light extensively over a weekend, navigating in both clear conditions and during a brief period of dense fog that rolled in unexpectedly.

The Perko LED Side Light performed admirably in all conditions. Its bright, focused red beam cut through the fog with impressive clarity. The light was easily visible from a considerable distance, giving me confidence that other boaters could see my vessel.

The Perko LED Side Light was very easy to use. Once installed, it simply required flipping the power switch. There was no learning curve whatsoever. I had to do some light wiring but it was very intuitive.

Initially, there were no apparent issues. After about two hours of use, I noticed a slight condensation buildup inside the lens during the fog. This didn’t seem to affect the light’s performance, but it was something I noted for future monitoring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple evening fishing trips and a few overnight excursions, the Perko LED Side Light has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my boat. It has held up well to the elements, showing no signs of fading or deterioration despite exposure to sun, rain, and saltwater spray.

The housing remains intact, with no cracks or other damage. However, the condensation issue I observed during the initial use persists, although it is minor.

Maintaining the Perko LED Side Light has been simple. I occasionally wipe down the lens with a soft cloth to remove any salt residue or dirt. No other maintenance has been required.

Compared to my previous incandescent side lights, the Perko LED Side Light offers superior brightness, longer lifespan, and significantly lower power consumption. The Perko LED Side Light also gives me peace of mind knowing I will not have to worry about bulb replacement anytime soon. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Perko LED Side Light

Specifications

The Perko LED Side Light boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and suitability for smaller vessels:

• Bulb Type: LED. This ensures long-lasting, energy-efficient operation compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Housing: Black Plastic. This material offers durability and resistance to corrosion in a marine environment while keeping the light weight and affordable.
• Lens Color: Red. A vivid red that indicates the port (left) side of the vessel.
• Visibility Arc: 112-1/2 Degrees. This wide arc ensures visibility from a broad range of angles, enhancing safety.
• Visible Range: 2 Miles. A suitable range for safe navigation on inland waterways and coastal areas.
• Certified for vessels under 20 meters (approximately 65 feet).

These specifications matter because they directly influence the light’s effectiveness in providing clear and reliable navigation signals. The LED bulb offers energy efficiency and longevity. The 2-mile visibility ensures sufficient range. The plastic housing is a good balance of durabilty and light weight. These features give any boater a reliable product to help them safely navigate.

Performance & Functionality

The Perko LED Side Light excels at its primary function: providing a clear and visible navigation signal. Its bright red LED is easily distinguishable, even in low-light conditions. The visibility arc is wide enough to ensure that other vessels can readily identify your position and direction.

The light is generally reliable, but the aforementioned condensation issue is a minor drawback that could potentially impact long-term performance. The Perko LED Side Light meets my expectations. It gives me peace of mind for its safety and visibility.

Design & Ergonomics

The Perko LED Side Light features a simple, functional design. The black plastic housing is unobtrusive and blends well with most boat aesthetics. The light is lightweight and easy to handle during installation.

The light’s design is user-friendly. The installation process is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic housing of the Perko LED Side Light appears durable and resistant to the harsh marine environment. However, the condensation issue raises some concerns about its long-term integrity.

Maintenance is simple, primarily involving periodic cleaning of the lens. While no repairs have been necessary thus far, the sealed LED unit suggests that any major failures would likely require complete replacement of the light.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Perko LED Side Light is a standalone unit and does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. There are no customization options available for this light. While the ability to add a protective cover or adjust the light’s intensity would be a nice addition, the Perko LED Side Light performs well and does not have any need for customization.

Pros and Cons of Perko LED Side Light

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Who Should Buy Perko LED Side Light?

The Perko LED Side Light is perfect for boat owners seeking a reliable, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install navigation light for vessels under 20 meters. This includes recreational boaters, anglers, and those who operate smaller commercial vessels.

This product may not be ideal for boaters seeking a high-end, customizable navigation light with a metal housing and advanced features. Also boaters seeking a light for larger vessels.

A must-have is waterproof sealant during installation, to prevent water ingress.

Conclusion on Perko LED Side Light

The Perko LED Side Light is a solid, dependable navigation light that offers excellent visibility and energy efficiency at a reasonable price. While the condensation issue is a minor concern, its overall performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any boater prioritizing safety and reliability.

At around $180, the price is justified. The long-lasting LED and durable construction offer good value for money.

I would personally recommend the Perko LED Side Light to anyone looking for a dependable side light for smaller vessels. Upgrade your boat and ensure your safety on the water!