How to winterize your boat in 7 steps

Written by Aleesha McMullin | Published on: October 2, 2024 | Categories: At home

A man sprays down the hull of his boat with a pressure washer, showing one necessary step on how to winterize your boat.

As the weather gets colder and the boating season ends, it's time to shift gears from sailing to safeguarding. Properly winterizing your boat not only helps extend its life but also means you’ll be ready for a safer boating experience when spring arrives. Follow these essential steps to prepare your boat for the colder months!

Clean and dry your boat’s interior and exterior. Remove all dirt, grime, and any salt buildup — especially from the hull. Salt can cause corrosion if it’s left to sit. Use a mild soap and fresh water to scrub every nook and cranny. Don’t forget to clean the interior and stow away any gear, flotation devices, or personal items. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew, so ensure everything is dry before tucking it away for the season.
Protect the engine. Your engine is one of the most critical parts of your boat, and it needs special attention. Start by changing the oil and replacing the oil filter. Old oil can contain contaminants that might harm your engine if left over winter. Afterward, flush the cooling system with fresh water and add antifreeze suitable for marine engines. Spray fogging oil into the carburetor or air intake while the engine is running to help protect the internal parts. Add a few drops of oil into each cylinder before replacing your spark plugs to lubricate the engine and prevent rust.
Drain the water system. If the water system isn’t drained before winter, residual water will freeze and expand, causing serious damage. Clear all the water from your pipes, tanks, and pumps, and pump a marine-grade antifreeze through all lines, including the faucets, showers, and bilge pump, until it comes out clear.
Protect the battery. Disconnect the battery and clean the terminals with a baking soda solution to prevent corrosion. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, and if possible, keep it on a trickle charger to maintain its charge. If you have a dual battery system, make sure both batteries get the same level of care.
Inspect and repair any damage. A long and enjoyable boating season can cause some wear and tear. Inspect your boat for any cracks, leaks, or damage in the hull and other critical areas. Check the condition of the belts and hoses and replace any that look worn out. If you spot anything that needs attention, complete repairs or contact a specialist to get it fixed before it becomes a bigger problem.
Before storing your boat for the winter, make sure you’ve properly cleaned the interior and exterior, serviced the engine, and drained the water system to extend its life and prevent damage.
Shield your boat from the elements. If you’re storing your boat indoors, protect it from dust and pesky rodents with a high-quality, fitted cover. If you’re storing your boat outside, you might also want to use a boat shrink wrap for added protection from snow, ice, and high winds.
Safely store it. Consider storing your boat indoors for the winter. But, if you must keep it outside, use a boat lift or trailer to keep it elevated and prevent moisture from seeping into the hull. If you're storing it on a trailer, make sure the tires are properly inflated, and consider placing blocks under the trailer to relieve some of the pressure from the tires.