For most of us, the cold weather is starting to roll in, and it’s time to accept that the boating season is almost over. If you’re new to owning a boat or have never winterized before, we’re here to help! In this blog, we’ll explore why you should winterize your boat, some of the basic steps for winterization, and where you can find professional help!
Why Should I Winterize My Boat?
Have a smooth start to next season: Putting in the work at the end of the season can help you get on the water faster next season and avoid the added work and expense that could come from damage caused by neglect.
Maintain engine health: Changing the engine oil, adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent varnish buildup, and applying fogging oil to internal engine parts all help protect against rust.
Prevent freeze damage: If you live in a climate where temperatures have the potential to drop, ensuring that your boat has been properly drained will help prevent any fluid from freezing, which can cause cracks and damage to your plumbing.
Protect from moisture and corrosion: Winter moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth inside your boat. Corrosion can also damage the engine’s internal components and exterior hardware if they aren’t properly treated.
Less effort for annual maintenance: Performing winterization is an opportunity for many owners to also perform their annual maintenance, like changing the engine oil, oil filters, spark plugs, fuel filters, and testing the batteries.
Keep your resale value high: If you plan to sell your boat at some point, a well-maintained, properly winterized boat will retain a higher resale value than a boat that has skimped out on maintenance.
What Do I Need To Do To Winterize My Boat?
Stabilize the fuel: Fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent deterioration during storage. Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the system.
Change engine oil and filter: Replace the oil and filter to remove moisture and acidic buildup that can cause damage.
Flush and drain the cooling system: Flush the engine with fresh water and then drain all water from the system to prevent ice damage.
Run antifreeze: After draining, run non-toxic marine antifreeze through the engine’s cooling system. This protects against residual water and corrosion.
Fog the engine: For outboards, spray fogging oil into the cylinders to protect internal components from rust and corrosion.
Change gear oil: Replace the gear oil in the lower unit of an outboard or sterndrive.
Drain all water: Thoroughly drain all freshwater systems, including sinks, showers, and raw water washdowns.
Add antifreeze to plumbing: Pour non-toxic marine antifreeze into all drains to protect the pipes and holding tanks from freezing.
Clean and wax: Clean the boat inside and out. Wax the exterior to protect the finish from the elements.
Cover and secure: Use a boat cover or shrink wrap to protect the boat from weather and pests. Ensure the cover allows for air circulation to prevent mildew.
Remove the battery: Remove the battery, fully charge it, and store it in a cool, dry place. Reconnect it to a marine charger if possible.
Remove valuables: Take out all electronics, valuable items, and any soft goods to protect them from moisture and theft.
Check trailer: Inspect the trailer, check the tires, and grease the wheel bearings.
Where Can I Find Winterization And Storage Services Near Me?
Would you rather let professionals handle preparing your boat to be stored for the winter? If you’re in South Jersey, then Sheltered Cover Marina has you covered! We offer winterization and storage services to give you peace of mind that your boat will be in top shape for the next boating season!
Sheltered Cover offers a safe, well-lit, fenced, secure yard, state-of-the-art hauling equipment, an indoor service shop, fully factory-certified mechanics on staff, all manufacturer-original parts, and free pickup options available!
If you’re interested in learning more about our winterization and storage services, get in touch with us!
