Boat Winterization Guide: Protect Your Boat
Your pontoon boat is your pride and joy. It gives you hours of pleasure every year as you drift away during the spring, summer, and early fall. It only makes good sense to protect your investment by winterizing your pontoon before you put it away in storage. Take some winterizing tips to ensure your pontoon boat will be in tiptop shape when you are ready to break it out when the good weather comes around again and the waterways have thawed.
For those that are unfamiliar with the process of winterizing your pontoon boat, it is wise to consult or hire a professional, such as a boat dealer, to assist you or even store your boat. For those DIY-ers that are looking to winterize their own pontoon boats this year, here are a few tips to help you keep your pontoon boat in top condition during the off-season.
Importance of Winterizing your Boat
Winterizing your boat protects it from damage that can occur when water freezes and expands.
The process of winterizing your boat helps you catch issues early on and prevent other issues that could lead to safety concerns once back out on the water.
When you take the time to winterize your boat, it will be faster to get out on the water in the spring.
Potential Consequences of Not Winterizing
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Damaged engine
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Mold or mildew
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Damage from the elements or critters
What You Need to Winterize a Boat
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engine oil
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fuel
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gas stabilizer
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antifreeze
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spark plugs
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battery charger
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boat cover
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boat cleaner
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plastic or metal paint stripping tool
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lime cleaner
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mildew protection products
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protective polish
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rodent repellant
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vacuum
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steam cleaner
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window cleaner
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rags
Steps to Winterize a Boat
Begin with the inside of the boat, take out anything that’s not “tied down,” and store indoors if possible.
It's beset to check the owner's manual for relevant information regarding the water systems and need for antifreeze.
It is recommended by many experts to fill the gas tank to 3/4, then add a gas stabilizer.
Drain the coolant, then add antifreeze (a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water is effective up to -30F). This helps prevent corrosion and lime buildup.
For pontoon boat owners that intend on storing their boat in the water during the off-season, the battery should be kept on board and charged regularly so that the bilge pump is able to run if it is needed.
First and foremost, your boat needs to be covered against the elements. Even if you plan on storing your boat inside, a good tight-fitting cover or seal will help keep out dust and insects. There are a few options for this, ranging from a quality waterproof canvas cover to shrink-wrapping the entire boat.
Tips for Storing your Boat
Don't leave any of your belongings on your boat when it is about to be placed in storage. Removing all accessories that are capable of being removed can ensure that they remain damage-free and cannot be stolen. This includes any electronics, furniture, seats, ladders or tables. Cold weather can damage depth finders or audio equipment, as can condensation. Depending on where you choose to store your boat for the winter, you may want to remove the motor as well, as it can be a prime target for thieves.
A storage factor that not many boat owners think about is protection from rodents and insects. A boat can be an appealing place for critters during cold winter months, and a plastic or canvas barrier only offers temporary protection from their sharp, gnawing teeth. Consider using humane methods of discouraging interest in your boat in the first place, like spraying a rodent repellant around the perimeter of your boat.
If stored outside where this is snowfall, ensure the boat cover doesn't allow snow to build up on the cover, which could potentially cause damage to windshields. Check on your boat after heavy snowfalls and brush off any accumulated snow if needed.