When temperatures drop and winter arrives, it’s crucial to take proper care of your new boat. Doing so will protect its condition and ensure that it’s ready to use as soon as the weather warms up in the spring. If you’ve recently invested in a boat, keep these important steps in mind so that it doesn’t suffer the wrath of the season.

A Guide to Winterizing a New Boat

1. Do an Oil Change

When oil remains inside the boat, its acidic content can damage engine parts. Prevent this by changing the oil before you prepare the vessel for storage. This will not only prevent boat repairs but also extend the life span of the engine. During this step, you should also replace the filter, which can become clogged with oil.

2. Use Fuel Stabilizer

Fuel stabilizer is designed to prevent the fuel from separating during the cooler months. The problem arises when water and ethanol fuel combine. This causes natural separation and leaves a thick, gummy, and sticky substance to collect along the base of the engine. This is not only difficult to remove but can also damage the system.

3. Use a Moisture Absorber

When you bring out your boat after the winter season, mold and mildew are the last things you should have to hassle with. Using a moisture absorber such as DampRid® can eliminate moisture that leads to mold and mildew and maintain the freshness and cleanliness of your boat. It’s important to keep your boat smelling its best.

4. Clean It Thoroughly

Perform a quick surface examination. Even though the boat is new, it’s always best to make sure that no dings or surface scratches developed if you’ve given it a test ride. If you spot any imperfections, repair those promptly and apply a sealant to fix cracks. Wash the entire boat before preparing it for storage, too.

5. Cover the Boat

Protect your new boat from the elements by using a sturdy, durable cover that is breathable and designed to resist everything from mildew to water to potent ultraviolet rays. Seek out substantial fabrics that won’t suffer if they’re exposed to the weight of rain or water.

Since 1945, Petzold’s Marine Center has proudly served boat owners throughout Portland, CT, and surrounding areas. If you have a new boat, you can trust these professionals to assist you as you prepare to winterize it for the coming months. They’ll service the vessel and ensure it’s ready to go after you remove it from boat storage in the spring. Visit them online to learn more about their services and boats for sale, or call them at (860) 342-1196. If you’re in the market for a new boat, reach their Norwalk location at (203) 838-4523 and their Wakefield, RI, facility at (401) 846-8484.