Winterizing Your Boat: Do It Now Before the Freezing Temps Roll In
In most regions of the country, boats are headed to their safe spot until the warmer temperatures visit us again in the spring. So, for now, follow some of these tips on how to winterize your boat properly.
Winterize Your Boat The Right Way
All things to consider…
1. Determine who is doing the work.
Do you have the skills and tools to winterize your boat on your own or with a friend? If you have not done a winterization job before, seek out a professional to do the job for you. Check out FirstMate Services , an app that allows you to find the right provider for maintenance and service.
2. Get your boat out of the water.
Water poses the most danger to your boat during the off-season. It is important to get your boat out of the water before temperatures drop too quickly. You’ll want it on land before temperatures consistently hit 32 degrees, causing fresh and saltwater to freeze.
3. Review your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Take note of specific maintenance needs your boat may require.
4. Inspect your boat.
Check the interior and exterior of the vessel for any damaged areas. Repair any tears, rips, or rust spots before storing for the winter.
5. Do the work.
Prep the engine. Apply corrosion protection. Add fuel-stabilizing additive to your fuel system. Change engine’s filters. Drain boats’ plumbing systems. Add antifreeze to plumbing system. Ensure all water is removed. Remove drain plugs.
6. Clean your boat.
You won’t want to put a dirty boat in storage. Be sure to thoroughly scrub your entire boat with appropriate boat washing soap and water. You’ll want to clean it all from hull to the interior.
7. Cover your boat or place it into winter storage.
Boats can be placed in boat storage units, dry stack storage, indoor storage, or even stored outside in your yard. No matter where your vessel calls home this winter, make sure it is covered properly.
8. Dock owners, list your dock.
Now that your dock is cleared and your boat is warmly tucked away for the winter, use this time to photograph your dock and list it on Dockshare. Create an account, share your images and details about your dock, determine your pricing and availability for the upcoming boating season, and earn extra cash.
Once you’ve taken the steps to properly winterize your boat, you’ll be able to put your mind at ease that your vessel will be ready to roll in the upcoming spring boating season without any potential problems. We’re already counting down until we can get our boats out of winter storage. 122 days until the first day of spring…but who’s keeping track?