Did you know that if your boat is not properly professionally winterized, your insurance policy may not cover certain types of damage? We’ll walk you through the steps to prepare your boat for winter and other tips to keep in mind
There is a lot of work to be done before packing up your watercraft for the winter months, including performing routine maintenance and properly storing your boat.
As you pack your boat up for the off-season, keep in mind that many insurance companies will not offer coverage, specifically for damage caused by freezing, if you forgo the appropriate winterizing. This is because these damages could have been prevented with the appropriate care.
Winter Maintenance
Properly storing your watercraft for the winter months can save you a big headache come next boating season. Before you pack your boat up for the winter, your vessel’s winterization and maintenance should include:
- Changing the oil and filter to avoid corrosion over the winter.
- Stabilizing the fuel system by adding fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to keep your fuel from breaking down.
- Draining the cooling system to prevent freezing. If your boat has a closed cooling system, flush with fresh water to remove any salts.
- Emptying the water system including the freshwater tanks, water heater and plumbing system to prevent freezing. Use a non-toxic marine rated antifreeze to protect your plumbing system.
- Removing and storing batteries in a cool, dry place indoors.
- Lubricating any moving parts, such as prop shafts, steering system, etc., with marine grade lubricants.
- Fogging the engine with fogging oil to help protect internal engine components from rusting as the boat sits.
- Inspecting belts and hoses for excessive wear and damage and replace if needed.
Once your boat’s maintenance has been completed, it’s important to thoroughly clean and inspect the vessel inside and out, making sure to remove any salt, dirt and debris. Inspect all the hull’s components and the engine for excessive wear and/or damage. Additionally, be sure to clean and inspect all life jackets and store them in a dry location over the winter to avoid mould and mildew.
Always check your owners’ manual for manufacturer recommendations on winterizing your specific boat and motor. If you’re not sure how to do some of this maintenance, working with a trusted professional, such as a marine mechanic, can help give you peace of mind that your boat is properly winterized.
Storing Your Boat
If you are storing your boat at home, make sure to have appropriate safety and risk mitigation measures in place. This could include installing security cameras or alarms, ensuring that your watercraft is fully sheltered from the elements and keeping doors locked to prevent children from injuring themselves.
If you’re dry storing your vessel, the cover for the deck of the boat should be snug and secure to prevent wind damage. If it will be stored outside, consider shrink wrapping for the best protection. If you’re storing your boat in water, use proper dock lines and fenders to protect against changing water levels and ice.
Don’t forget to check on your vessel regularly throughout the winter and off-season months, especially if it is stored outdoors!
Despite your best efforts, if something were to happen, your home insurance might extend to your boat — depending on your specific policy. However, when you take into consideration the cost to repair or replace your boat, your home insurance may not offer enough coverage. This is why our Acera Insurance advisors recommend keeping your boat insurance policy in the off-season.
Insurance Coverage in the Off-Season
Some boat owners make the choice not to insure their watercraft during the winter in order to save money. This is not recommended as it is still very important to make sure that your boat has the appropriate coverage, even in the off-season.
While not in use, your boat is still susceptible to risks such as fire, theft or an accident that leads to injury.
By starting a conversation with one of our expert advisors, you can work together to secure the coverage you need at a price that fits your budget.