Days on the water are bliss-the wind in your sails, the crashing waves, something cold in your hand. You love your boat, and caring for it does not stop when boating season ends. Preparing your boat for self-storage is a process not to take lightly; in order to avoid damage and costly repairs, some steps need to be taken. Before you stow away your beauty, take a look at what needs to happen first: Check: Read the owner’s manual for manufacturer’s suggestions on cleaning, winterizing, and other preparations for long-term storage. Clean: Remove the drain plug, scrub the hull and decks, and dry thoroughly. Get rid of all grime and dirt, trash, and coolers. Wax exterior to protect from damage. Engine: Warm up the engine, change the oil, and change the oil filter. Check hoses, fuel line, clamps, and belts. Fill the gas tank and add gas stabilizer. Drain: Take care of fresh water tanks, flush coolant system and head, and drain water heaters. Remove: Electronics, batteries, perishables, and any personal items should be taken out and stored elsewhere. Charge batteries fully before storing in a dry, warm area. Remove spark plugs and spray in fogging oil. Replace spark plugs with a new set. Inspect: Bilge pumps, hulls, propellers all need to be looked over for damage, rust, and cracks. Inspect connections for loose parts. Cover: Use a waterproof or custom-made boat cover. No one wants uninvited guests (read: rodents and pests) to call a nice warm boat “home” for the off-season months, so a high-quality cover can prove worth the investment. Avoid plastic covers, which can lead to moisture buildup. Store: Tilt the motor downward while in storage. Check on your boat occasionally, and store batteries separate from your vessel. If possible, store on a trailer, setting blocks under the tires to prevent damage. Using a storage facility will protect your boat from the elements. Your boat is an investment you want to take care of, even when it is not in use. Take extra precautions and follow manufacturer’s directions for your particular type of vessel. Your Winter Park self storage facility offers 25’ and 34’ parking spaces for your boat with 24-hour access, competitive rates, and a professional staff. Our site is clean and secure, with an on-site manager and gated access for extra protection. The boating season may not last all year, but you can protect your boat year-round with peace of mind and in a secure location. Your Winter Park self storage facility is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to keep your boat safe and ready for the next trip on the water! To secure a home for your boat contact us in Winter Park today! US Storage Centers 7000 Aloma Avenue Winter Park, FL 32792 (407) 900-0360
