Steps For Winterizing Boats}

Steps for Winterizing Boats

by

Douglas Malat

The time for winterizing our boats is quickly approaching. The size of the boat affects the amount of time it takes to complete the job. Winterizing a runabout is less difficult, since there is usually no head, sink or fresh water system. A yacht will take longer, and merits purchasing a book for complete instructions. Here are some general guidelines for addressing each area.

The winterizing process prevents the freezing of water freezing anywhere in the boat. This includes the fresh water systems in the galley, head, holding tanks, air conditioning, deck wash down, engines and generators. It also includes the salt water system for the engines and generators.

Lets begin with emptying the head hold tanks and fresh water tanks. If your fresh water tank has an accessible drain or hose, empty it that way. If not, just run it until it is empty. Then add non-toxic anti-freeze. Any additional anti-freeze should flow to the bilge, which is desirable in preventing freezing of any rain accumulation. Use the hose inlet to empty out the sinks, shower, and deck wash down. The inlet side should be attached to the pump. The other side should be placed in a container of anti-freeze. Once everything is emptied, you can shut the pump off. Turn on an outlet that is furthest from the pump and let the water flow until you see that only anti-freeze is coming out. Repeat this procedure with each faucet. Now, lets address the air conditioning. Place the inlet hose into the anti-freeze and run the pump until the liquid coming out is the color of your anti-freeze. Do this for all the units.

If your engine is fresh water cooled, Here you will have to check the antifreeze protection in the freshwater half of your engine, which is a combination of fresh water and regular antifreeze. Youll find an inexpensive tester in any marine store. Make sure you see anti-freeze wherever it needs to be throughout the engine. The engines salt water system also needs to be winterized. Place the engines salt water inlet hose in a container with anti-freeze. Run the engine to pull the anti-freeze through and out the exhaust. If you have another engine, do this process to it as well. Its also a good idea to change the oil and filter. All seacocks should be closed.

These are general instructions for boat winterizing. You should consult your boats manual for additional instructions.

Douglas Malat is a captain, sailor and creator of YachtAuthority.com, where you will find a dealer in your area for

winterizing boats

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Steps for Winterizing Boats }