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Winterizing Your Boat in Self Storage

by Self Storage

Once the crispness of autumn hits the air it is a good indicator that it is time to get the boat ready for winter storage. If only there was a way to simplify this process. Well, good news, there is! If you can make a comprehensive list of what needs to be done to properly winterize your boat. If you are new to this process then check online or with your local marina and they should have one printed up for their customers to use. There are several key issues that have to be addressed but don't be intimidated, it sounds scarier than it really is, IF you are organized.

Include preparing the engine, plumbing, and electronics first. Then address any other things that your boat might require. Spend some time creating the initial list because you can use it each year and it is sure to pay off especially because it addresses your boat specifically. You will be able to relax over the winter knowing that your boat is safe and sound and will be ready to hit the water in the spring. Possibly this might also be the best time for you to tend to some of those things, little imperfections or maintenance that you have been procrastinating on all summer such as little dings, exhaust, etc.

First, clean your boat both inside and out very thoroughly. Plus while you are doing that you might find some little surprises that you weren't aware of that need to be tended to. Anything that is electronic needs to be stored where it is warm and dry and you should also take such things as fire extinguishers, sails, curtains, and PFD's off of the boat for safe storage on land. Clean out the refrigerator and always be sure to leave it propped open. This will eliminate any mildew from developing over the winter months.

When it comes to the engine cooling systems and the plumbing, flush the systems and fill them with virgin propylene glycol antifreeze. Remember, this is protecting your drinking system for the summer so make sure you don't use any recycled products. If you really don't feel confident in doing these things then consider hiring the job out to a boat mechanic. This will avoid costly repairs for the upcoming season. Make sure that bilge spaces are very clean and oil free. If you live in a region that endures harsh winters then consider putting an absorbent sock in it while it is in storage.

One big consideration is where you are going to store your boat and likely this will depend greatly on your budget. For all obvious reasons it would be best if your boat could be stored in a climate controlled storage facility where is will be safe and dry. However, these can cost a few bucks. A more affordable option is to store your boat outside and under a covering but this option will include allowing your boat to withstand at least some of the elements. It is a cheaper option though. Some have opted for shrink wrapping their boat but your boat will still be outdoors and have to endure the brutal winter temperatures.

Always place your boat in storage with a full tank of gas and be sure to add a fuel stabilizer. If you use ethanol fuel then just drain the tank and clean it well before you fill it next season. Any lead acid batteries need to come out and be stored where they can be fully charged and warm, possibly a heated garage. Read the battery manufacturers directions on how to store it for the winter months and follow that guide. Sometimes it is in your best interest to utilize portable heaters or air dryers on the boat while it is being stored. It really depends on your boat and where it will be stored.

Whatever choices you decide on just make sure that you have supported the hull because if you failed to do so you will run the risk of your bulkheads cracking, stringers can break, and there can be a misalignment in the engine. This is why people often choose cradles for their boats because they offer the proper support in the right areas.

These suggestions can be of great help to you when boat storage times comes rolling along as it does every year. It might seem at first that it is best to go with the cheaper route for storage but in the end it might have been easier and cheaper to just rent the climate controlled unit.

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