From our headquarters in Pensacola, Florida, we upgrade, maintain, and winterize boats around town and across the country. If you’re new to boating or to these wonderfully warm Southern states, you may wonder if you can skip winterizing your boat... the answer is no.
Florida boaters, winterize your boat!
In our beautiful Florida climate, winterization may seem optional, but warm states have surprisingly high rates of freezing-related boaters’ insurance claims, compared to colder states like Minnesota.
As peak boating season tapers off, prepare your boat. It takes very little time to freeze and crack a block in below-freezing temperatures, especially when the boat is stored on land. Whether you winterize your boat yourself, or hire a professional, winterization protects your investment.
5 essential steps for winterizing your boat
Step 1: Clean the Boat
Take time to remove dirt, debris, and any potential sources of damage.
Exterior Cleaning: Wash the hull and deck with a marine cleaner to remove salt, grime, and algae. For tough stains, you may need specialized boat cleaning products. Rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent rust and corrosion.
Interior Cleaning: Vacuum and wipe down all surfaces inside the cabin. Pay special attention to areas where mold or mildew could develop, such as under cushions or in storage compartments.
Storage Preparation: Remove any food items and trash to avoid attracting pests. Clean out the refrigerator and any other appliances on board.
Step 2: Winterize the Engine and Lower Unit
Protect the engine and lower unit from freezing temperatures and corrosion.
Engine: Run the engine briefly to warm it up, which helps in removing any moisture. Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to prevent the fuel from degrading. After stabilizing, run the engine again for a few minutes to make sure that the stabilizer is mixed throughout the fuel system.
Oil and Filters: Change the engine oil and replace the oil filter. Old oil can contain contaminants that could cause corrosion if left in the engine.
Antifreeze: Use marine antifreeze to protect the engine and cooling system from freezing. Make sure to flush out the old coolant first, if required, then circulate the antifreeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Lower Unit: Drain the lower unit’s gear oil and refill it with fresh gear oil. Check for any water contamination in the old oil, which could indicate leaks.
Step 3: Winterize the Fresh and Wastewater Systems
Prevent freezing and damage to the plumbing systems.
Freshwater System: Drain all freshwater tanks and lines. Use a non-toxic, marine-grade antifreeze to protect the system. Run the antifreeze through the lines and through any fixtures like faucets and showers.
Wastewater System: Pump out the holding tanks and flush them with a marine-grade treatment to prevent odors and damage. Add antifreeze to the wastewater system, including the holding tank and any hoses, to prevent freezing.
Step 4: Prepare the Cabin and Interior for Long-Term Storage
Keep the interior in good condition and free from damage.
Ventilation: Leave vents open or use moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing products can help control humidity inside the cabin.
Protective Covers: Use protective covers for cushions and other fabric surfaces to prevent dust and mildew buildup. You can also use plastic sheeting to cover large areas.
Batteries: Remove the batteries if possible and store them in a cool, dry place. If leaving them on board, make sure they are fully charged and disconnected to avoid drainage.
Step 5: Properly Cover the Exterior and Trailer
Protect the boat and trailer from environmental elements.
Covering: Use a high-quality, marine-grade cover that fits your boat well. Verify that the cover is secured tightly to prevent wind from catching it and causing damage. For added protection, consider using a shrink-wrap cover for a more secure and weather-resistant option.
Trailer: Check the trailer for any issues and perform necessary maintenance. Grease the wheel bearings and inspect the tires for wear. Store the trailer in a dry location if possible.
Storage Location: If you’re storing the boat outside, consider placing it on a sturdy, well-drained surface. If indoors, verify that the storage area is clean and dry.
Even here in sunny Florida, winterization protects your boat from damage and makes it easier to get back on the water when the weather warms up again. Many boat owners choose to winterize their boats themselves, which is a great option for those who have the time and experience!
Let the Experts Handle It and Winterize Your Boat with Blue Coral Sport Fishing Towers
Not sure you want to DIY it this year? Hiring a professional, like Blue Coral, gives you the confidence that everything was done correctly. Plus, it could also save hundreds of dollars versus the cost of doing it incorrectly. At our workshop in Pensacola, Florida, we winterize boats shipped to us from all over the country. We’d love to take care of yours next.
PS: If you're wanting to make sure your boat is ready for next fishing season, connect with us to have your boat upgrades ordered and installed during off season!
