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Winter is just around the corner, and it is necessary to make the preparations that keep your boat protected for the winter months. Once the leaves start turning in fall, it is time to start winterizing your boat. Winterizing your boat can increase its investment life dramatically, and the efforts show in the springtime!

Boat Winterizing Checklist

• Check coolant for the proper antifreeze.
• Use only marine-approved heating devices. Not all UL-approved devices are for use in marine environments.
• Upgrade or add extra dock lines and provide chafing protection.
• Make sure there are adequate fenders of proper size, type and number to protect your boat.
• Secure winter covers, ensuring a good fit.
• Top off fuel tanks.
• Close all through-hulls, with the exception of the cockpit drains. Place a reminder note at the helm to open the through-hull before starting the engines.
• Insert an exhaust plug to prevent damage to exhaust line from vermin.
• Check all hose clamps to make sure they are tight and all through-hulls are double clamped.
• Do a final cleaning and pump out the holding tank.
• Check bilge pumps for working float switches and remove any debris from the bilge that could interfere or clog the pumps.
• Are the batteries filled and charged?
• Are the batteries switched off?
• If you have propane, make sure the valve is closed at the tank.
• Leave locker doors open to promote good ventilation of interior spaces.
• If you leave your boat with shore power, clean any corrosion from the power cord plugs and make sure it is firmly attached and secured.