Maintenance Tips To Prepare for the Boating Season
The sun is staying out longer, the weather is warming up, and that means it’s time to get your boat ready for another season on the water. Before you launch into the excitement of boating season, there are some important steps to take in preparing your vessel. The last thing you want is to be stuck dealing with repairs or maintenance issues while you’re out on the water.
We’ve prepared your boat maintenance checklist and some of the best boat storage ideas to help you get your boat in prime condition and ready to make the most of the season.
The Importance of General Maintenance and Boat Cleaning
When your boat has been in storage for a while, it’s normal to feel eager to get it out on the water. However, it’s always important to first inspect and clean it thoroughly. Boats can sit for months without use, and during that time, humidity, heat, and other unstable environmental conditions can wear away at their finish and fragile components. This is especially true if you live near the coast, where the salty and humid air adds extra wear and tear.
A little preventive care goes a long way in maintaining the quality of your boat and extending its life. Start with a few basic steps to keep it in top condition.
Why Washing Should Be Part of Annual Boat Maintenance
The first thing we want to do is give your boat a thorough wash. That might seem counterintuitive—after all, aren’t we going to be putting it back on the water soon anyway? What you may not realize is that, especially if your boat has been stored outside under the sun, your boat’s paint and clear coat may be deteriorating.
The thin, transparent outer layer above your paint protects it from tarnishing and damage, and most importantly, it is your frontline defense against rust buildup. We want to wash the boat first, removing any dust or dirt that could get in the way, before polishing. Many products targeted toward cars, like Turtle Wax, work well on boats, and can help your finish remain strong and protected against the battering of waves, rain, and intense heat.
Along the way, do not forget to:
- Inspect the hull for cracks, chips, or other damage. They’ll only get worse once you’re on the water.
- Clean the interior to avoid mold and mildew accumulation.
- Inspect the propeller. Propeller damage starts small but grows fast, so catch it early before you are stuck on the water.
Motorized Boats
Motorized boats are common and relatively affordable, but that doesn’t mean maintenance will be equally easy compared to their non-motorized cousins. Adding an engine to any vehicle means added complexity, and on top of the other boat maintenance and upkeep tips we’ve covered, there are some important points of failure that you should be aware of.
Common Boat Maintenance Issues
Motorized boats have more moving parts than any other type, and that means there are more opportunities for something to break. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common issues:
- Battery problems. A dead or weak battery is one of the most common reasons why a boat won’t start. Batteries naturally lose charge over time, and poor storage conditions (like leaving them connected or exposed to extreme temperatures) can accelerate this process.
- The solution? Disconnect your battery during the offseason, or be ready to buy a new one.
- Fuel system problems. Clogged or contaminated fuel systems can lead to engine failure. This can be caused by old fuel, water in the fuel tank, or even by running your fuel pump at low gas levels.
- How to address this: Always use fresh fuel at the start of the season, add fuel stabilizer before storing, and replace fuel filters regularly.
- Electrical system failures. There are many reasons why your electrical system may fail, but believe it or not, sometimes it’s sabotaged by rodents! Well, more accurately, rats and mice constantly chew to sharpen their teeth, and they are fond of nibbling on wires and using them in their nests.
- A close inspection of your electrical system should always be part of boat motor maintenance. Be sure to check for clean connections and to replace damaged components to avoid a failure.
Stay Prepared for the Boating Season with Boat Storage from Superior Storage
The best way to reduce the amount of time needed for maintenance between pulling back the tarp and hitting the water is with secure storage space from Superior Storage. With covered and uncovered outdoor lots that can easily fit vessels of any size, you can enjoy easy access to your boat at your convenience. Storage for boats is easy and stress-free with Superior Storage. Explore our vehicle storage options and contact us today to keep your boat ready for every day on the water.