How To Winterize A Boat

Before starting the winterizing process, clean your boat thoroughly, inside and out.

• Exterior wash: Clean the hull to remove salt, grime and marine growth. Apply a fresh coat of wax to give it an extra layer of protection.
• Interior cleaning: Empty and clean all lockers, cupboards, and storage spaces. Remove electronics, cushions and personal items for storage in a dry location.
• Inspect for damage: Check the hull for any cracks or damage and make repairs before storing.

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Your boat’s engine is one of the most expensive components, it is key to protect it from any winter damage.

• Flush the engine: Use fresh water to flush out any salt or debris from the cooling system. This prevents corrosion and buildup over the winter.
• Drain the cooling system: Remove any water from the engine and cooling system. For inboard engines, drain the water of circulate marine-grade antifreeze to prevent freezing.
• Change the oil and filter: Warm the engine to thin the oil, then drain it completely and replace the oil filter. Fresh oil protects against corrosion caused by moisture.
• Fuel stabilisation: Add fuel stabiliser to your fuel tank and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the system. This prevents fuel from degrading and clogging fuel lines.
• Fogging Oil: For inboard and outboard engines, spray fogging oil into the intake or spark plug holes to coat internal components and prevent rust.

See our boat engine maintenance products here.

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Frozen pipes and water systems can lead to major leaks and damage.

• Drain water tanks: Completely drain your freshwater tanks, hot water heaters, and any pipes.
• Add Antifreeze: Pump non-toxic, marine-grade antifreeze through all the freshwater systems, including sinks, showers and toilets. This will prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing cracks. 
• Empty and Winterize the Head: Pump out the holding tank and flush the system with the antifreeze to protect the toilet and waste pipes.

See our winterizing product range here.

See our marine antifreeze product range here.

The vessel’s electrical system also needs protection from the cold and inactivity.

• Remove and store batteries: Disconnect batteries and store them in a cool, dry location. Keep them charged periodically to avoid depletion. 
• Check electrical connections: Grease electrical terminals and connections with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion. We recommend using Liqui Moly battery terminal grease.

See our range of boat engine oils and additives here.

Avoiding mould and mildew buildup is essential for maintaining your boat’s condition, eliminating moisture from the boat’s interior is key.

• Dry everything: Make sure all cushions, fabric materials, carpets, etc., are thoroughly dry before storage.
• Dehumidifiers and Absorbers: Place moisture absorbers or a dehumidifier in the cabin to prevent condensation.
• Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation throughout the boat, but keep hatches and ports slightly open to allow air circulation while preventing water intrusion.

See our winterizing product range here.

See our range of boat dehumidifiers here.

The vessel’s exterior will face the most stress of the winter’s elements, so it’s essential to prepare it properly.

• Inspect the Hull: Check for any cracks, chips, or damage. Repair them before storage to prevent water ingress and freezing expansion.
• Wax the Hull: Apply a fresh coat of wax to protect the boat’s finish from snow, ice, and UV damage.
• Cover the Boat: Use a high-quality, breathable boat cover or opt for shrink-wrapping to shield your vessel from the elements. Ensure that water can’t pool on the cover by using support poles or a frame.

See our range of marine sealants, fillers and resins here.

See our range of boat polishes and waxes here.

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With your boat cleaned, winterized, and covered, you’re almost ready for storage.

• Inspect the Bilge: Make sure the bilge is dry and that the bilge pump is working properly in case of rain or snowmelt.
• Store Your Boat Properly: Whether you’re storing your boat in the water, on a lift, or on land, ensure it’s in a secure, dry location. For outdoor storage, use jack stands or a trailer to support the hull and prevent stress points.

See our winterizing product range here.