When it comes to boat storage, there are a lot of things to think about. How do you keep your boat safe and sound? What are the best ways to protect it from the elements? If you’re like most boat owners, you probably can’t wait for boating season to start. But before you hit the open water, it’s essential to ensure your boat is stored correctly. This blog post will discuss tips for keeping your boat safely and securely. Whether you have a small fishing boat or a large vessel, these tips will help protect your investment!
Remove Your Battery
One of the essential boat storage tips is to remove your battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Batteries can leak acid and cause severe damage to your boat if they’re left in too long. Also, if you have more than one battery, label them to know which one goes where.
Clean Everything Thoroughly
Another important boat storage tip is to clean everything thoroughly before putting it into storage. This includes the hull, the deck, and all of your gear. You don’t want to return to a moldy mess, so give everything a good scrub with clean water and soap.
Drain the Fluids
Draining the fluids from your boat is another essential storage tip. This includes fuel, oil, and coolant. Once these fluids have been exhausted, you can either dispose of them properly or store them in a safe place for later use. Check with your local marina or our storage facility for their specific requirements.
Cover It Up
One of the best ways to protect your boat during storage is to cover it up. This will keep it out of the sun and away from the elements. There are a variety of boat covers on the market, so be sure to choose one specifically designed for your make and model.
Make Sure Your Trailer Is In Good Condition
A vital step to storing your boat safely is ensuring that your trailer is in good condition. Check the tires for any signs of wear and tear, and ensure the brakes are working correctly. If you’re not confident in your ability to fix these things yourself, take it to a professional. You don’t want your boat falling off the trailer while it’s in storage!
In addition to your trailer, you’ll also need to ensure that your boat is properly secured. Tie down any loose items on deck, and be sure to cover any open hatches or windows. You don’t want anything falling out and damaging your boat while it’s in storage.
Drain Excess Water From The Motor
If you have a boat with an engine, it’s essential to drain the water that could have accumulated inside it. This is because water sitting in your engine can cause corrosion, leading to expensive repairs down the road. To do this, remove the plug at the bottom of the engine and let all of the water drain out. Then, replace the pin and ensure it’s tight so no water can get back in.
If you live in an area where the winters are particularly harsh, you may also want to consider adding some antifreeze to your engine before storing it for the winter. This will help to prevent any damage that freezing temperatures could cause.
Remove Gear And Electronics
Any gear or electronics you wouldn’t want to get wet should be removed from the boat and stored in a safe, dry place. This includes things like life jackets, fishing gear, and navigational equipment. If possible, it’s also a good idea to disconnect the battery so that there’s no risk of electrical fires.
Have Insurance In Place
The first step to take when looking into boat storage is to ensure that you have insurance in place. This will protect your investment in case of any damage that may occur while the boat is in storage. You’ll want to check with your insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for boats in storage and, if so, what the requirements are.
Be sure to document any pre existing damage to the boat before storing it so you can record what was there in case anything happens. It’s also a good idea to take photos of the ship inside and out so that you have a visual record.
There are a few key things to keep in mind when it comes to storing your boat. Following these tips can help ensure that your boat stays safe and sound until you’re ready to hit the water again. Thanks for reading! We hope this has been helpful. Safe boating!