Did you know that 14.5 million American households own a recreational boat?
If you’re thinking of joining this large group, then learning about watercraft maintenance can help you decide if you’re willing to put in the work to keep your boat in top shape. Since boats for sale are a big investment for many families, you should do everything you can to lengthen its lifespan.
Are you ready to read about proper boat maintenance? Check out these 5 steps everyone should take when storing their boat.
- Opt for Indoor Storage If Possible
One of the most important elements of boat care is finding the perfect storage space that can shield your boat from the elements and unwelcome visitors. Using climate controlled storage is always ideal, because these facilities come with security and you won’t have to worry about weather damage.
When leaving your boat outdoors, you should pay to have it shrink wrapped by a professional to get more coverage than a traditional tarp.
- Never Forget About Boat Cleaning
It’s always a good idea to get into the habit of rinsing off your boat after every trip in saltwater. Salt can wreak havoc on the exterior once it dries, which can lead to a shortened lifespan and even repairs.
For long-term storage, be sure to give the interior and exterior a thorough clean, so the condition won’t get worse over time.
- Stabilize the Gas
Stabilizing the gas is another essential step in water vessel maintenance, because the engine is the heart of your boat. Not only will adding a stabilizer to your gas allow you to use what’s left of your tank during your next outing, but you can have peace of mind that the leftovers won’t corrode your engine while in storage.
- Change the Oil and Filter
Your boat will need new oil on a regular basis, just like your car does. Old oil shouldn’t sit in the boat for long periods of time, because it can also corrode the engine.
This is why you should flush out the oil before replacing it and don’t forget to change the oil filter as well.
- Remove Food and Valuables
There’s nothing better than lounging on your boat with snacks and drinks, but you shouldn’t leave any food items behind in storage. Food can attract pests and create a horrible smell if it expires.
Even if you plan on storing your boat in a secure indoor environment, you should still remove valuables, too, to be on the safe side.
Proper Boat Maintenance Is Worth the Time and Money
Boat maintenance may seem like a pain, but these steps will ensure you can preserve this expensive investment for as many years as possible. By following this guide, you’ll be able to tackle your to-do list with ease.
Did you like reading these expert boat maintenance tips? If you want to know other ways you can adopt your happiest lifestyle yet, our site has you covered. Check out our blog so you can find more inspiring articles.
