Here are the last three boat storage tips to know when keeping your boat in self storage for the winter.

6) Drain any coolant from the engine and replace it with propylene glycol base antifreeze which is non-toxic. This type of antifreeze is better for your engine and the environment as opposed to ethylene glycol base antifreeze which releases toxins.

7) Clear out the boat. Remove any sails, lines, fenders, and anchors. Take out the bunk cushions, fire extinguishers, flares, pfds, and carpets. Empty out all lockers and remove any loose gear from the boat. Ensure that you securely propped open all hatches, and locker doors. This will help improve air circulation. Finally, don’t forget to clean out the icebox or refrigerator.

8] Make sure to pump out the holding tank and concurrently flush the head with clean water multiple times. Close the head’s intake seacock and then remove the hose. Put the hose in half water and half non-toxic antifreeze. Then pump the head so all the water in hoses are replaced by anti-freeze. Finally put the hose back on the seacock and don’t open it.

Hopefully these tips are everything you wanted to know before putting your boat into storage during the harsh Winter months. Mother Nature’s cold climate can be unpredictable and fearsome; making it a real chore when preparing your boat for the Winter. That is why cheap short term storage companies are the solution to keeping your boat safe during the Winter.

Here are the next three important tips to know when putting your boat into storage for the winter.

3) Repair or fix any cracks or dings on the boat before you put it in storage. Repairing these problems early on will save you lots of money in the future. If you put your boat into storage with a small problem it will likely grow into a bigger one after a few months; especially with the change of weather in the Winter.

4) Give your boat a thorough cleaning. Power washing the outside of the boat will help clean off sea build up and stains. This will also help you identify any parts of the boat that need to be fixed, painted, or sealed. Then apply some anti-corrosion spray to help protect the exterior of the boat. It’s recommended to get mildew and mold bags for your boat. They will absorb any moisture and protect your boat from starting to smell. You can find these at any local boat dealer. As mentioned earlier, a cover such as a tarp is important in keeping moisture and dust out too. Make sure your cover has a snug fit on the boat.

5) It’s important that you support your boat’s hull when you decide to put it into storage. If you don’t, your boat might end up with cracked bulkheads, or an engine misalignment, which could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

Check back soon for the last three most important tips for keeping your boat in self storage during the winter.