If you keep your boat in the water during the winter, you may wonder if winterization is really necessary. After all, the boat is still floating, the engine is still there, and you may even plan to take it out on the water on a warmer winter day.
The short answer is yes, a boat that stays in the water still needs winter preparation.
Winter in Vancouver may not bring the extreme cold seen in other parts of Canada, but the combination of cold temperatures, rain, moisture, and long periods of inactivity can still cause problems for your boat.
Why Winterize a Boat That Stays in the Water?
Winterization is not only about protecting your boat from freezing temperatures.
When your boat sits unused for weeks or months, several systems can develop problems. Your engine, cooling system, fuel system, batteries, plumbing, and other components all need some attention before the boat goes into its winter routine.
Even if temperatures stay above freezing most of the time, cold weather and moisture can contribute to corrosion, condensation, and other issues.
Taking care of these things in the fall can save you from discovering an expensive problem when you’re ready to get back on the water in the spring.
What About the Engine?
Your engine is one of the most important parts of the winterization process.
If your boat has an inboard engine, outboard, or another type of marine power system, it may require specific winter preparation. Depending on the engine and cooling system, this can include checking fluids, protecting the cooling system, changing oil and filters, inspecting belts and hoses, and making sure everything is ready for an extended period of inactivity.
Fuel should also be considered. Old fuel can cause problems when you try to start the engine again after sitting for several months.
The exact process depends on your boat and engine, which is why having a marine technician inspect and prepare the system can be worthwhile.
Don’t Forget About the Batteries
Boat batteries can slowly lose their charge while sitting unused.
A battery that worked perfectly at the end of summer may not have enough power to start your boat when spring arrives. Cold temperatures can also affect battery performance.
Depending on your setup and storage situation, your batteries may need to be charged, disconnected, removed, or maintained through the winter.
It’s a small part of winter preparation, but it can save you from dealing with a dead battery when you’re eager to get back on the water.
Protecting Your Boat From Rain and Moisture
Vancouver’s winter weather brings plenty of rain, which means moisture is another major concern.
Water can find its way into areas where you don’t want it. Moisture inside the boat can also contribute to mold, mildew, unpleasant smells, and damage to upholstery and other interior materials.
Keeping the boat properly covered and allowing appropriate ventilation can help protect the interior during the winter months.
This is where shrink wrapping can also be useful. A properly installed shrink wrap can help protect the boat from rain, dirt, debris, and winter weather while it sits unused.
What If You Plan to Use Your Boat During Winter?
If you plan to take your boat out occasionally during the winter, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can skip maintenance.
In fact, boats that remain in the water and continue to be used may require a different approach than boats that are completely stored for the season.
Your maintenance needs can depend on the type of boat, engine, where it is kept, and how often you use it.
If you’re unsure what your boat needs, it’s better to have it checked rather than guessing.
Why Winter Preparation Is Worth It
Nobody wants to discover a major problem on the first boating day of spring.
Winter preparation gives you an opportunity to catch small issues before they turn into bigger and more expensive repairs. It also means you can spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying your boat when the weather gets warmer.
A little work in the fall can make a big difference when boating season comes around again.
Get Your Boat Ready for the Winter & Protect Your Boat Now, Enjoy It When Spring Arrives
At OS Marine Services & Boat Repair, we offer professional boat winterization and boat shrink wrapping services to help protect your boat through the colder and wetter months.
Whether your boat is staying in the water or being stored for the winter, our team can help make sure the important systems are properly prepared and your boat is protected while it’s not being used.
Don’t wait until spring to find out your boat needs attention. Prepare it now so that when spring and summer arrive, your boat will be ready to hit the waves!
