ACR HydroFix HRU – Hydrostatic Release Unit for Category I EPIRB Brackets – 9490
Free returns on all eligible orders
You have 30 days to request a return. All sale items are final sale.
The ACR HydroFix™ Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) is the mechanism that automatically deploys your Category I EPIRB if your vessel sinks. When submerged between 1.5 and 4 metres (4.9–13.1 ft), the HRU releases the beacon from its bracket so it floats free, activates, and begins transmitting your distress signal — even if no one is conscious to trigger it manually.
This is a patented rod-style HRU designed specifically for ACR Sea Shelter™ Category I EPIRB brackets. It is a mandatory safety component for any vessel carrying a Category I EPIRB in a float-free bracket installation.
This is a date-stamped product. It must be replaced:
• Every 2 years from the date of installation, or
• Every 4 years from the date of manufacture — whichever comes first.
Check the expiry date printed on the unit and replace before it lapses to maintain SOLAS and Transport Canada compliance.
Compatible Brackets
- ACR Sea Shelter™
- ACR Sea Shelter™ 2
- ACR Sea Shelter™ 3
- ACR Sea Shelter™ 4
Key Features
- Patented HydroFix™ rod mechanism — reliable hydrostatic release at 1.5–4 m depth
- Designed for Category I float-free EPIRB bracket installations
- Date-stamped for compliance tracking
- Direct replacement for expired or out-of-date HRU units
- Compatible with ACR Sea Shelter™ bracket family
Best Use Cases
This HRU is required for any Category I EPIRB installed in a float-free bracket on a commercial or offshore recreational vessel. It is most commonly purchased as a scheduled replacement when the existing HRU reaches its expiry date, or when commissioning a new EPIRB bracket installation. Vessels subject to Transport Canada, SOLAS, or flag-state safety inspections must have a current, in-date HRU installed to pass.
Parts Desk Insights
The HRU is one of the most overlooked items in annual safety gear checks — it has no moving parts to inspect visually, so boaters often miss the expiry date until an inspection flags it. Build the replacement date into your vessel’s annual maintenance schedule the moment you install a new unit. The 2-year installation limit is the binding constraint in most cases: even if the unit is within its 4-year manufacture window, it must be replaced at the 2-year installation mark. Keep the original packaging or record the manufacture date at installation. ACR part number: 9490. SKU: 33-9490.
Shipping information
In-stock and OEM parts: ship same or next business day.
Locally warehoused items: ship within 3–4 business days.
Special-order items: timeline confirmed after order.
Returns & warranty
Returns & Satisfaction Guarantee
We stand firmly behind the quality of every product we sell. Your confidence matters to us — and we back it with a straightforward 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee.
If you are not fully satisfied, you may request a return within 30 days of delivery. All returns must receive pre-approval prior to being sent back. Unauthorized returns will not be accepted.
To qualify for a return:
Item must be in new, unused condition
Product must be in its original packaging
All parts, components, hardware, manuals, and accessories must be included
Packaging must be undamaged and suitable for resale
Important:
Electronics are strictly inspected. No returns on open-box electronics. Exceptions may apply only with prior written approval. Any electronic unit that has been installed, powered, activated, or altered may not be eligible for return.
We are serious about product integrity — and equally serious about taking care of our customers. If there is ever a product issue, contact us immediately so we can make it right.
For return authorization, please contact our support team before shipping anything back.