Boating is one of the most beloved pastimes in the United States. According to The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), over 100 million Americans go boating yearly. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, recreational boat sales have surged, with many first-time buyers entering the market.
Unfortunately, boating is not a 365-day-a-year activity. So before the weather changes, make sure you find a time to store your boat until next season. To reduce the wear and tear that inactivity can have on your boat, our Lock & Leave Storage specialists recommend the following tips for getting your boat ready for the down months:
- Clean Your Boat
Before putting your boat away for months, you’ll need to give it a good scrub. This includes cleaning the inside, outside, hardware, and all the trim. In addition, repairing damages before storage will keep your boat from unnecessary wear and tear.
- Take Care of Your Batteries
Remove all batteries from your boat and ensure all their terminals are clear from corrosion. Corrosion could seriously affect your ability to hold a charge when you get it out of storage. If everything is clean, disconnect all cables and store them securely.
- Change Your Oil
You should conduct an oil change on your boat before storing. Change out filters on the stern drive, inboard engines, or outboards. This step will help prevent water and acid from damaging your engine.
- Get Rid of Moisture
Water sitting on your boat and potentially freezing can wreak havoc on your boat while it’s stored. Make sure all water has been removed from all areas of your boat – compartments, behind bulkheads, etc. Use a dry towel to absorb any moisture.
- Drain-All Parts
Speaking of moisture, you’ll want to drain all fluids from your boat’s engine, transmission, etc., before putting it into storage. When these fluids are drained, you reduce the risk of corrosion.
- Lubricate
Using a marine-grade lubricant, lubricate all moving parts on your boat. These parts could include your propeller shaft, pulleys, or springs. Make sure they will be in good working order once boating season begins.
- Flush the Cooling System
Flushing your system with fresh water will help prevent the risk of corrosion by removing all salt, dirt, and debris that may be in there. If your boat will have to endure colder climates during the winter, run some antifreeze through the system.
- Cover the Boat
A good quality boat cover is one of the most important things you can use to protect your boat. You will want a cover made specifically for boats to resist water, weather, and UV damage. Secure your boat cover with proper tie-downs before putting it in storage.
Are you looking for indoor solutions to storing your boat? Do you want to find a storage facility where you can drop off your winterized boat and not have to worry about damage? Lock & Leave Storage Centers are just what you’re looking for.Â
Our Henderson location is excited to talk to you about what boat storage options we offer and how Lock & Leave Storage Centers will give you peace of mind until it’s time to get back on the water again. So contact us today to see what we can do for you and your boat.