A boat is covered with a cover and stands outdoors in the snow.

Winterizing Your Boat

November 30, 2023 | Seasonal | By: River Rocks Marina

A boat is covered with a cover and stands outdoors in the snow.When winter approaches, it's time to start thinking about winterizing your boat. Properly winterizing your boat is essential to ensure its longevity and protect it from the harsh winter conditions. There are several steps you need to take to prepare your boat for winter storage and our team at River Rocks Marina can help!

Flush the Systems

The first step in winterizing your boat is to remove all of the water from the engine, cooling system, and any other water systems on board. This is to prevent any water from freezing and causing damage to the engine or other components. It's also important to add antifreeze to the engine and any other water systems to provide extra protection against freezing temperatures.

Clean the Boat

Next, you need to clean your boat thoroughly. This includes washing the exterior and interior of the boat, as well as removing any debris or clutter. It's also a good idea to apply a coat of wax to the exterior of the boat to protect it from the harsh winter elements.

Store the Battery

After cleaning your boat, it's important to remove the battery and store it in a dry, warm place. This will help to prevent the battery from freezing and potentially getting damaged. You should also check the battery periodically throughout the winter to ensure that it's still holding a charge.

Boat Covers

Finally, you need to cover your boat properly for winter storage. A good quality boat cover will protect your boat from snow, ice, and other winter elements. It's important to ensure that the cover is securely fastened to prevent any wind from getting underneath it and causing damage to your boat.

Winterizing your boat is an important step in protecting your investment and ensuring its longevity. By following these simple steps, you can rest assured that your boat will be in good condition when it's time to take it out of storage in the spring. Visit us in Kankakee, IL, to browse our selection and learn more about winterization essentials. We are proud to serve the Beecher area.