Whether you are a first-time owner of a ski boat, sailboat or even a yacht, at some point you will need to place your vessel into storage to protect it from the harsh forces of winter. What you do before that 'long winter's nap' is important to make sure corrosion, rust and frozen moisture does not come back to haunt you once spring and summer roll back around. 

Both wintry conditions and long-term storage accelerate wear and tear, contribute to a boat's breakdown and can lead to a hefty repair bill. Even if you don't reside in areas where snow cover piles deep in the ground, here are a few tips that will ensure your boat is prepared for lay-up. 

Clean the Entire Boat

While no one is rushing cold weather, proper cleaning will prevent dirt and scum from building up and will help maintain the beauty and quality of your boat. Make sure to use proper a biodegradable cleaner that will not harm the environment or marine life. 

A great all-purpose cleaning solution is a mixture of water and white vinegar or water and baking soda. Proper cleaning will help prepare your boat for storage and guarantee great performance in warmer climates. 

Prepare Your Systems for Cold Temperatures 

If your boat is going to spend an extended period in storage, it's time to flush the engine with fresh water to remove dirt, salt and corrosion. Make sure to use fresh water and anti-freeze in your cooling system and subsequently drain it dry. This will prevent parts of your engine from corrosions and freezing. 

Replace the Old Engine Oil

Performing an oil change is a boat storage maintenance must, as failure to do so can lead to damage due to how long your boat has to remain idle. A fresh healthy dose of oil is the best way to guarantee your engine stays protected. Talk with a boat mechanic about which type of oil would be best for your boat.

Take Your Boat Out for a Final Spin Before Storage 

While you should certainly savour the enjoyment from this last cruise, this is also the best time to detect small problems before they become major ones after storage. Get up close and personal to discover if there is anything that needs fixing before storage. For example, inspect steering, insulation, visible corrosion or any rough operations. If you notice anything off, then take it into a mechanic so that he or she can fix it before you put it into storage. 

Cover and Store

The best place to store your prized possession is in an enclosed, and preferably climate-controlled, storage unit. If this option is not practical for your water vessel, a high-quality, durable cover is your best bet during self-storage or outdoor storage. 

Proper storage requires taking these key steps to ensure you are rewarded with a clean, normally functioning boat come spring and summer. Take your boat into a boat mechanic if you aren't sure how to do any of these tips or if your boat is in need of repairs. Happy boat storage!

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