Whether a boat will be left in the water, or stored in a boatyard for the winter, a little preparation in the fall can prevent major problems when winter settles in.
Remove Food and Clothing and More from the Boat
Begin winter preparations by taking off all perishable food items, including canned goods that may rust in damp lockers. Also remove clothing, bedding, books, life jackets, sails and sail bags—anything that can hold moisture and may mold or mildew over the winter. Also remove detachable electronic devices such as GPSs, plot charters, and sound systems that might attract thieves or be damaged by dampness.
Prepare the Boat’s Engine and Batteries
Refer to the engine’s owner’s manual for specifics, but in general, the engine either needs an adequate amount of antifreeze added to the coolant system, or it needs to be drained. If the boat has a heat exchanger, the heat exchanger should also be drained, along with the hoses that take water to and from the heat exchanger. Remove the boat’s batteries and store them in a warm dry place, and connect them to a trickle charger so they maintain a charge over the winter.
Treat the Fuel Tank
Some experts recommend draining the fuel tank, and some boat storage facilities require it. However, there is a large contingent of boat owners who do the opposite. They fill their fuel tanks leaving as little space as possible for condensation to form. Adding a biocide to diesel fuels keeps microbes in the fuel from growing and gumming up the system.
Winterize the Boat’s Plumbing
Take the boat to the pump out station, and have the holding tank pumped. Run some fresh water into the tank, and have that pumped out as well. Close the seacocks, and drain the hoses leading to the head. Pump the boat’s drinking water tank dry, disconnect the hoses leading to sinks and drain them. Without water in the tanks, fittings, or pipes, there is little danger of damage from freezing.
Complete Maintenance and Repairs to the Boat Exterior
Touch up varnish and paint to protect wood, metal and fiberglass surfaces through winter. If the caulking around windows, vents, chain plates, or deck fittings, is crumbling, recaulk to keep water out and reduce potential problems below deck. Finish by washing and waxing the boat.
Below Deck Preparation
Clean any soiled surfaces, paying special attention to the galley and head. To reduce the growth of mold and mildew, leave locker doors, hatches, drawers and the ice box open. Vacuum carpets and upholstered surfaces, and prop seat cushions up so air can circulate around them.
To Cover or Not to Cover
Boat covers can help keep a boat clean, and protect woodwork, canvas, and paint from the elements, but if they are not properly vented, boat covers can also trap damage-causing moisture. In the wind, the cover can wear away paint, gel coats, woodwork or canvas if not properly secured.
Inspect Dock Lines
If the boat is going to spend the winter at the dock, inspect dock lines to make sure they are not frayed, or led ashore over sharp or rough edges that might saw through them in rough weather. Consider adding rubber shock absorbing snubbers to dampen the effect of heavy winds on dock lines.
Winterizing a boat in the fall can prevent many costly problems in the long run.
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