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As autumn wraps up and the winter temperatures approach, now is the perfect time to prepare your boat for the upcoming season. Proper winter boat storage will keep your vessel safe from damage while it’s dormant so that you can quickly get back on the water once the weather warms. To learn more about getting your boat ready for the winter, consider the helpful tips below. 

3 Ways to Prepare Your Boat for Winter Storage

1. Clean & Wax the Vessel

boat storageOnce you remove the boat from the water, you have clear access to the bottom portion that was previously submerged. Take the time to clean the hull from top to bottom using a pressure washer. Be sure to blast away traces of algae and barnacles so that they don’t continue growing while in storage. You will also need to wash the deck with soap and water and then apply a coat of wax. You want your vessel to be clean and completely dry before you put it in boat storage to prevent mold and mildew growth as well as rust corrosion. 

2. Change Your Fluids

Water may have infiltrated your boat’s oil tank, which can lead to the corrosion of vital metal components. Keep your engine free from rust by draining the oil, changing the filters, and adding fresh oil to the tank. You will also need to toss out your current coolant and add new antifreeze. This step will prevent engine corrosion as well as the freezing of certain mechanical parts. 

3. Remove Battery

Freezing temperatures can be detrimental to a battery’s lifespan. With Connecticut’s frigid winters, it’s best to disconnect the battery from the boat. Instead of leaving it in the vessel where the charge can drain, keep the battery indoors in a warm space. Periodically use a portable charger to keep the battery healthy and ready to use in the spring. 

 

If you need safe and secure boat storage this winter, look no further than Petzold’s Marine Center in Portland, CT. They have been the area’s go-to boat sales and service center for over 74 years, and their expert team offers world-class customer care and superior marine services. They can provide vessel storage, winterization assistance, and boat repairs. To learn more about their new and pre-owned boats and technical services, call (860) 342-1196 or visit them online today.

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