Boat Winter Storage Tips

With the cold months in full swing, many of you will be putting your boats in storage for the winter. But not so fast! If you don’t want huge repair when the weather warms up again, you’re going to need to take some steps to protect your boats in potentially freezing environments.

To help you out, Seca Surf & Marine has provided you with some basic steps for preparing your boat for winter storage. Keep in mind that it could also do with some basic maintenance after you pull it out of storage, just to make sure that everything’s still working, so when that time comes, schedule a service appointment with us. We are conveniently located in Lake Country, British Columbia, and Calgary, Alberta, so get in touch with us today!

Clean Your Boat

Begin by giving your craft a thorough cleaning. It’s a good idea to wash off all the dirt, grime, water spots, and debris that your vessel has collected during your summer and fall rides. These substances can create the perfect conditions for rust to form if you let them sit there during storage. You can then apply a protective wax to the entire boat.

Before cleaning, you’ll want to do a quick inspection. Pay close attention to the hose connection and fuel lines, and look for any leaking fluids, corroded cables, or damaged fuses. You don’t want to leave your craft in storage with an unresolved issue as it can cause extensive damage over time. After you’re done cleaning, allow the boat to dry completely and apply a coating of wax to keep it protected during the off-season. Don’t forget to remove all equipment and gear like dock lines, fire extinguishers, flares, and life jackets, before storing your boat.

Change the Oil

Your boat’s engine may not be due for its regular oil change, but it’s smart to check it after you’re done with your final cruises for the season. If it looks clean, you may only need to top it off, but sludgy oil should be changed. Make sure you replace the oil filter at the same time. After the oil change, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the fuel through all the internal components.

Livewell Winterization

An aerated livewell is a must-have when you’re out fishing, so it’s important to make sure that it doesn’t get damaged during winter. After all, it’s just as susceptible to freezing as the moisture in your coolant. Even if you empty your livewells, any traces of residual water or moisture that build up over time could lead to big problems. Cleaning your livewell and flushing it with antifreeze will make sure that it’s also ready for the spring.

Flush the Cooling System

If you’re storing your boat in an area that’s likely to freeze, you’ll want to flush the boat’s cooling system with antifreeze. This will keep the internal components of your engine from freezing up and damaging your watercraft. The coolant that’s already there needs to be drained and then filled with fresh antifreeze, per the manufacturer’s dilution guidelines.

Find a Place for Storage

You’ll need to find a good place where you can store your boat. Of course, you can just keep it in your backyard or driveway. However, while this will save you money, it won’t provide good protection. You want a spot that’s going to keep the boat safe from the elements and thieves. If you have a garage that has enough space, you can put your boat there. Just make sure it’s protected from rodents and other pests.

One of the best options you have is a self-storage facility, which will keep your boat protected from the elements. Depending on the facilities offered, you can get additional amenities like maintenance and round-the-clock monitoring with security cameras. You should also think about investing in a cover for your boat, especially if you aren’t able to store it in an enclosed area. This will protect your boat from damage and extend the life of your vessel.

We hope that by following these tips, you’ll be able to store your boat for the winter. If you have any questions or you are looking for boats for sale in Alberta, stop by Seca Surf & Marine and we’ll be happy to help! We proudly serve the areas of Lake Country, BC, and all of Southern Alberta.