
Lake life is one of the best parts of spring and summer, whether you spend your days fishing, skiing, cruising, or kayaking. As temperatures dip, however, it’s time to consider putting your watercraft up until next year.
If you’re unsure where to start with storing your boat, Jet Ski, or other watercraft, we’re here to help with the winterizing tips you need.
Motorboats and Jet Skis
Thoroughly Clean Your Boat
One major step to proper boat or Jet Ski storage for the offseason is to give your watercraft a deep clean. Scrub it inside and out, making sure to include the hardware and trim. A fresh coat of wax can also help protect it from the weather, especially if your boat or Jet Ski is stored outside. Check for blistering or cracks and repair that damage before putting your vessel into storage.
Perform Mechanical Maintenance and Checks for Your Boat
Depending on the size of your boat and the number of engines, this step may take longer than others. Change the oil on all motors, including outboard and inboard engines. The best time to change the oil is when the engine is still slightly warm.
Be sure to reference the owner’s manual and get the right kind of oil. Changing the oil keeps water and acid from corroding the engine, so don’t skip this step.
You should also flush the cooling system, top off the fuel tank and add stabilizer, and disconnect the battery. Lubricate steering systems and any other mechanisms to shield them from freezing temperatures. We also recommend checking these components for damage, just like you did with the hull.
Do You Have To Winterize a Jet Ski?
Yes, you should winterize a Jet Ski if you live in a climate with cold, snowy winters to prevent environment-related issues like freezing water and corrosion. There are several steps you need to take to winterize your Jet Ski for storage, including:
- Draining the engine. Before you store your Jet Ski, you need to flush the engine based on the specific instructions for your model. This is a necessary step for avoiding corrosion and salt buildup.
- Cleaning the exterior. Just like your engine, you need to give your Jet Ski’s exterior TLC to prevent rust. Use a mild, pH-balanced car or marine wash soap, scrub with a microfiber mitt, and rinse off the hull. Once your Jet Ski is completely dry, apply a coat of wax.
- Ensuring the battery is disconnected. Prevent your Jet Ski’s battery from losing charge by unplugging it while your watercraft is in storage. If you prefer, you can invest in a battery tender—a small, automatic charger—to keep the battery fully charged.
- Changing fluids. Refresh your oil, fill your gas tank, and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent issues like gasoline deterioration and corrosion.
Invest in a Proper Cover and Trailer
Covering your boat or Jet Ski can help protect it from the elements. Be sure to invest in a water-resistant cover to prevent moisture damage if the boat is left outdoors. In addition, properly secure your boat to a trailer and park on a flat surface, if possible. Otherwise, use heavy blocks to keep the trailer from rolling away.
Kayaks and Canoes
Storing kayaks and canoes presents a different set of challenges. Even though these watercraft are portable enough to store just about anywhere, they still require storage prep.
Clean the Hull and Remove Fabric Seating
Give everything a proper cleaning, including both the interior and exterior surfaces. For kayaks, remove any fabric elements, such as seating, compartments, and straps.
Buy or Build a Storage Rack
Don’t leave your kayak or canoe on the ground or floor. The hulls of these boats aren’t built for long-term placement on hard surfaces. Using a storage rack and placing it upside down will help keep the boat secure and protect its structure. The plastic exterior could be dented without proper support.
Use Climate-Controlled Storage To Shield Kayaks From Extreme Temperatures
The best place to store your kayak is inside a climate-controlled storage unit. This will help shield it from wind, rain, or sunlight. Because the temperature is regulated inside a storage unit, you can rest easy knowing your kayak isn’t exposed to extreme cold.
Choose Compass Self Storage for Your Watercraft Storage Needs
Whether you own a full-size fishing boat, Jet Ski, or kayak, storing your watercraft properly can make the difference when it comes to having it recreation-ready for the following spring. The best way to ensure your vessel is stored properly is to bring it to Compass Self Storage.
In addition to keeping your boat ready for the next season, our storage experts can help you reclaim valuable real estate in your garage or driveway. To get started with storage for your boat, Jet Ski, or other watercraft, find a facility near you.