As the winter months approach, it’s important to properly prepare your boat for winter storage. Without the proper precautions, your boat could be at risk of damage from the cold weather and extreme weather conditions. To ensure your boat is protected during the winter months and ready for the next boating season, follow these winter boat storage tips.
Choose a Storage Option
Choosing the right storage option for your boat during the winter months is crucial to ensuring its protection and longevity. The decision will largely depend on the value of your boat and your budget. Ultimately, the storage option you choose should align with your boat’s value, storage requirements, and budget. Evaluate the pros and cons of each option to make an informed decision and ensure proper care and protection for your boat during the winter months. Here are three common options to consider.
1. Storing Your Boat On A Trailer At Home
Storing your boat on a trailer at home is a popular and affordable option for winter boat storage. Not only is it affordable, but it also ensures that your boat is easily accessible when the boating season begins again. If you opt to store your boat at home, find a flat and level surface on your property where you can park the trailer. It is preferable to choose a covered area, such as a carport or under a sturdy boat cover, to protect your boat from winter conditions. A boat cover is essential to shield your boat from harsh weather elements like snow, rain, and UV rays. Once you have found a suitable spot, make sure to properly secure and block the trailer to prevent any movement or accidents. This will help maintain the overall stability of your boat during the storage period.
2. Storing Your Boat In Your Home Garage
Storing your boat in your home garage offers provides shelter from harsh winter weather conditions while also safeguarding your boat from potential pests and vandalism. Ideally, an attached garage is the preferred choice for boat storage in your home. The proximity to your house allows for heat absorption, preventing freezing overnight and reducing the risk of damage to your boat.
3. Dedicated Boat Storage
Dedicated boat storage at a secure facility, is a safe and protected option for winter boat storage. Unlike storing your boat in your garage or on your property, dedicated boat storage facilities are specifically designed to keep your vessel secure and protected from the elements. Storage facilities typically have around-the-clock security monitoring, giving you peace of mind that your boat is being watched over. In a climate-controlled storage facility, your boat is shielded from the cold, dampness, and other elements that can potentially damage your vessel. This means that your boat will remain in optimal condition and be ready to hit the water as soon as boating season arrives. By utilizing dedicated storage, you free up space in your garage or on your property, allowing you to utilize these areas for other purposes during the winter months which is especially beneficial for homeowners with limited space.
Clean and Inspect Your Boat
Clean all surfaces: Start by thoroughly washing the exterior of your boat with a mild detergent and water. Pay attention to removing any dirt, grime, or salt residue. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the surfaces gently.
Check for damage: Inspect your boat for any signs of damage such as cracks, scratches, or dents. Address any repairs needed before storing your boat to prevent further deterioration.
Clean and Dry all storage compartments: Remove all items from the storage compartments and drain any water that may have accumulated. Ensure all compartments are dry to prevent mold and mildew growth during storage.
Remove and Charge Battery
Remove and charge the battery: Before storing your boat for the winter, it’s crucial to remove the battery. Start by turning off all electrical systems and disconnecting the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal. This ensures that you remove the battery safely and prevent any accidental sparks.
Clean the battery terminals: Once the battery is disconnected, clean the terminals and cables using a mixture of baking soda and water. This helps remove any corrosion and ensures a good connection when you reinstall the battery in the spring.
Store the battery in a cool, dry place: Find a cool and dry location to store the battery during the winter months. Extreme temperatures can damage the battery, so avoid storing it in areas that experience freezing temperatures or excessive heat.
Check the Gasoline & Add Fuel Stabilizer
Check the gasoline: Before storing your boat for the winter, it’s crucial to check the fuel tank and take appropriate measures to protect it. Start by adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank. This will prevent the gasoline from deteriorating and causing engine problems when you’re ready to hit the water again in the spring.
Run the engine: To ensure that the fuel stabilizer is distributed throughout the entire fuel system, run the engine for a few minutes to let the stabilized fuel circulate. This will help prevent the formation of varnish or rust in the fuel lines and engine components.
Fill up the tank: Next, fill up the fuel tank to its maximum capacity. A full tank minimizes the amount of air inside, reducing the risk of condensation and moisture buildup. Be sure to use fuel that contains a lower percentage of ethanol, as ethanol can attract moisture and cause fuel system issues.
Add a gasoline stabilizer: Even with a full tank, it’s a good idea to add an additional dose of gasoline stabilizer. This will provide added protection during the winter months when the boat is not in use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount to add based on the size of your fuel tank.
Run the engine again: After adding the stabilizer, run the engine once more for a few minutes. This will help ensure that the treated fuel is distributed through the fuel lines and the entire system. Running the engine periodically throughout the winter can also help prevent any fuel clogs or buildup.
Check and replace the fuel filter: Before storing your boat, it’s a good idea to check the fuel filter and replace it if necessary. Over time, the filter can become clogged with debris and contaminants, which can lead to poor engine performance and damage. A clean fuel filter will keep your engine running smoothly when boating season arrives.
Store the boat with a full tank: When choosing a storage option for your boat, consider keeping it somewhere that allows you to leave the fuel tank full. This eliminates the risk of condensation forming inside the tank, which can lead to fuel system issues. Additionally, you’ll be ready to hit the water as soon as boating season starts with a full tank of fresh, stabilized fuel.
Drain All Fluids
One important step in winter boat storage is draining all fluids from your boat. This includes removing any water from the engine block to prevent freezing and potential damage. While specific instructions may vary depending on your boat’s make and model, there are general guidelines you can follow. Start by referring to your boat’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to properly drain the engine block. If you’re unsure or want to be extra cautious, it’s always best to contact an expert at your local marina or boat service shop. To drain the engine block, you will typically need to locate the drain plugs. These are usually located on the sides or bottom of the engine block. Use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the drain plugs, allowing any remaining water to drain out completely.
Add Marine Antifreeze
Protect your boat’s systems from freezing temperatures to prevent damage by adding marine antifreeze. To add marine antifreeze to your boat’s systems, start by locating the intake hose and disconnecting it from the water source. It’s important to choose a non-toxic antifreeze specifically designed for marine use.
Next, attach the intake hose to a bucket filled with marine antifreeze. Make sure the bucket is positioned above the engine to allow gravity to assist in the flow of antifreeze. Start the engine and let it run at idle speed. As the engine runs, the antifreeze from the bucket will be drawn through the intake hose and circulated through the various systems, effectively displacing any remaining water. Keep an eye on the antifreeze level in the bucket, adding more as needed to ensure a continuous flow. As the antifreeze circulates, check each exhaust outlet to ensure that it’s flowing with antifreeze. This step ensures that all water has been displaced and the systems are adequately protected. Once you’re confident that the antifreeze has run through all the systems, turn off the engine and reconnect the intake hose to the water source.
Cover Your Boat
One essential tip that applies regardless of whether you choose indoor or outdoor storage is to properly cover your boat. This simple yet vital step can help protect your boat from damage caused by the harsh winter elements.
Even if you opt for indoor storage in a climate-controlled facility or a well-insulated garage, it is still highly recommended to cover your boat. This extra layer of protection can prevent dust, debris, and potential scratches from accumulating on your boat’s exterior. However, if you plan to store your boat outside during the winter months, a high-quality boat cover becomes even more critical. It is important to choose a cover that is specifically designed for your boat’s size and shape. Ensure that the cover fits snugly to avoid any gaps where snow or moisture could seep in and cause damage. Look for a boat cover that is 100 percent waterproof and in good condition. A properly fitting cover not only shields your boat from rain, snow, and ice but also provides some protection against strong winds that could cause damage or wear on exposed components.
Secure Storage offers boat self storage facilities in various Oregon cities, including Redmond, Hood River, Prineville, and Hillsboro, Oregon.