During the frigid temperatures of winter, the thought of going out on your boat probably doesn't sound too appealing. If the water you typically take your boat out on happens to be frozen, you also aren't going to get very far. Because of how much you've spent on your boat – and how much you treasure it – you've made the decision to put it in storage for the winter. The question is: how do you best prepare a boat to be put to sleep for the winter?

Tip #1: Properly Support The Hull

It is vital for your boat to have proper support while it is in winter storage. In fact, not supporting the hull while it is in storage cause it to become slanted and compromised. You can use jack stands, a trailer, blocks, or a custom cradle to properly support the hull. If you don't support the hull, you are going to find yourself doing repair work to your boat before you can take it out in the water after the winter season is over.

Tip #2: Change The Oil

If there is any water or acids remaining in the oil of your boat, it can cause corrosion in the engine. Ideally, you should replace the filter and flush out the oil. Then, replace it with fresh oil right before it goes into storage. The key is not to take the boat back on the water after doing this step before it is placed in storage. Otherwise, there is a chance water and acid will get into the oil. If acid and water corrodes your engine while it is in storage, you will have to have the engine repaired or replaced before you can enjoy your boat.

Tip #3: Refresh The Coolant System

After draining out all of the coolant currently in your boat, flush the coolant system with water. Then, fill the coolant system with fresh antifreeze. Make sure it is diluted to the manufacturer's specifications. This is going to prevent your engine from freezing while it is in storage and going to protect your engine from corroding.

Tip #4: Clean and Cover

Give your boat a good scrubbing and remember to cover the boat up when you place it in storage. This will help prevent dust from building up and causing problems while the boat sits in storage.

By following these four tips, your chances of being able to pull your boat out of storage and get it in the water for your next boating adventure a little quicker are a lot more likely. Just remember to give your boat another cleaning and a detailed inspection before hitting the water. Contact a company like Home Port Self Storage for more tips.

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