[vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]September is here… that means Fall is upon us! Time to pack-up the summer toys and get ready for winter. Preparing your RV, trailer or boat for winter is vital to ensure it stays protected through the long winter months. Here are a few tips to guide you in closing up your boat until the next season.
Cleaning Your Boat
When preparing your boat or the winter, the first thing you should do is properly clean it. Wash the haul with environmentally-friendly marine detergent or algae remover. Empty the bilge of any excess water and thoroughly clean and wash it. Check with your engine mechanic to ensure you have the proper products to clean the boat’s engine. Fully wash and dry the interior of the boat.
Protecting Your Boat
Do a full inspection of your boat to check for cracks, or tears that could become worse throughout the winter and take the time to fix it now. Fill the boats fuel tank and clean the fuel filter. Having a full tank of fuel will help avoid a build-up of condensate. Remove the spark plugs and fog the engine cylinders with a rust inhibitor. Lubricate all moving parts.
Closing Up Your Boat
Make sure your boat is completely dry following your thorough clean! When deciding whether to wet or dry store your boat over the winter, there are many factors to take into consideration. If you are storing your boat in storage unit, make sure it is big enough to fit your trailer and that the access is sufficient to back the boat into. Covering your boat in shrink wrap helps seal out the debris and snow however it also traps all of the moisture inside. Ensure you have thoroughly dried out your boat prior to shrink wrapping and add vents to the installation to help reduce mold.
For tips on winterizing your trailer make sure to check out our blog:
The topics outlined in this blog do not supersede the information found in your owner’s manual. Please refer to the owner’s manual first and foremost and consult your local boat dealer with any questions.
If you ever have questions regarding your home or auto insurance policy or coverage in general, contact Rizk Insurance today and we’ll help answer any inquiries you may have.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]