Fishing boats and other watercraft provide plenty of fun during the summer, but in Alaska, the weather is too cold for year-round use. In the offseason, a reliable boat storage facility will keep your equipment safe and sound. To help you prepare it for the cold season, Ship Creek Storage, the premier boat and RV storage service in Anchorage, AK, explains how to get your vessel ready for winter.

How to Prepare for Boat Storage

1. Disconnect Battery

Disconnect the boat's battery so the charge does not slowly drain away during the months of disuse. To ensure the cells stay charged, top them off with distilled water. If possible, charge it once or twice while it's in storage to ensure it works next spring.

2.  Change Oil

Any moisture in the oil lines can lead to corrosion. Change the oil and filter before placing the watercraft in boat storage for the season to prevent expensive damage.

3. Replace Coolant

To protect against the cold, drain and flush your cooling system, and then refill it with the proper solution of antifreeze. This prevents engine components from freezing and further guards against corrosion.

4. Remove Drive Belts

Prolonged tension can cause your boat's drive belts to stretch and fray. To prevent damage, remove them and set them aside until you take the boat out again.

5. Fill Up Gas Tank

Moisture in the air will collect as condensation on the cold, inside surface of the fuel tank, and this can lead to corrosion, as well. To minimize condensation, top off your tank with gas before placing the boat in storage.

For a safe, secure, and inexpensive boat storage facility, contact Ship Creek Storage in Anchorage, AK. They offer a flexible contract and effective on-site surveillance to keep your watercraft as secure as possible. Contact them online or call (907) 276-4107 to discuss your options with a friendly, helpful representative.