Last Updated on June 9, 2025
Winterizing your boat is a big deal, and messing it up can cost you a lot of money and headaches when spring rolls around. This article covers some common mistakes people make when putting their boat away for the cold months. Avoiding these errors will help make sure your boat is ready to go when you are.
Fuel And Tank Care
When you put your boat away for the winter, how you handle the fuel is important. You should always add a fuel stabilizer to your tank and run it through the engine before storing the boat. This helps prevent problems in the spring when the fuel might break down.
For long-term storage, it's best to have your fuel tank either almost empty or completely full. If it's almost empty, you can fill it with fresh fuel in the spring. If you fill it up, make sure it's nearly to the top. This leaves very little space for condensation, which means less moisture in your tank. What you want to avoid is leaving your tank a quarter, half, or three-quarters full. This leaves you with old fuel and plenty of room for condensation.
Oil And Lubricant Changes
It's a common mistake to skip changing your oil and lubricants in the fall. Many people think an oil change is just an oil change, but for a boat stored for six months or more, it's different. Over time, acids build up in the oil in your engine and drive. You need to get rid of these old fluids and put in fresh oil to protect the bearings and other surfaces. For your outdrive, you also want to make sure there's no moisture or metal bits in the lubricant. Draining and refilling with fresh fluids is key.
Hull Drain Plug
Key Takeaways
- Always remove the drain plug from your boat's hull for winter storage.
- Make sure the bow is slightly higher so water can drain properly.
- Leaving the plug in can lead to serious damage from rain or snow accumulation.
Leaving the drain plug in the hull of your boat is a big mistake. If you leave it in, rain or snow can fill up your boat, causing damage to the engine, electrical parts, upholstery, and carpet. It can also lead to terrible mold and mildew. Always remove the drain plug for winter storage and make sure the bow of your boat is a little higher so it can drain properly.
Draining All Components
It's important to drain all water from your boat's components. The engine is the most expensive part if you have an inboard/outboard. You need to make sure all raw water is drained from the engine block, manifolds, and coolers. When you remove the drains, take the time to make sure no debris is blocking them. You should see a lot of water come out, and confirm there's no water stuck in any of the spaces.
Don't forget about other water systems on your boat, like heaters, washdown systems, live wells, or potable water systems. If you live somewhere that gets below freezing, all water needs to be out of these components to prevent damage.
Damp Items On Board
Leaving damp items like old covers, wet life jackets, or towels on your boat during winter storage is a bad idea. This is a perfect setup for mold and mildew to grow. Not only is it hard to get rid of, but it can also ruin anything on board. Before you store your boat, take everything out. Open up all storage areas, like ski lockers, under-seat compartments, and hatches. Let them dry out for a few days before you cover the boat tightly for winter.
Battery Care
If your boat battery is left in freezing temperatures and isn't fully charged, or if it's allowed to drain, it will likely fail in the spring. You should either disconnect or remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place for the winter. Make sure it's fully charged. If you leave it on the boat after it's fully charged, disconnect at least one terminal (either positive or negative) so it can't drain over the winter.
Snow Load On Covers
Don't think your boat's bow, cockpit, or mooring cover can handle snow and ice. They can't. Manufacturers design these covers for rain and sun, not for heavy snow. Your boat should either be stored inside for the winter or shrink-wrapped. Remove and store your boat's covers dry and neatly.
Following these tips will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your boat is ready for fun on the water next spring.
