Like it or not Winter is just around the corner and unless you’re planning on sailing off into the sunset and finding warmer climates for the next few months, it is vital to prepare your boat for harsher temperatures, weather conditions and potential ‘time out’ all of which can be especially tough on your boat.
Long periods of inactivity can usually bring about the onset of wear and tear of the exterior of your boat and its motor and when it comes to increased use when the spring finally arrives this can contribute to breakdowns when you least expect them.
Here we bring you a few of Adec Marine’s top tips on getting your boat prepared for Winter:
Storage
If using your boat over the entire Winter season is highly unlikely, storage may be worth considering. While this can be costly it will retain the boats condition and avoid any higher risks of damage that in water storage may provide.
Consider storing your boat undercover whether it is in or outdoors to prevent water leaking into water hatches or window tracking. Ropes must be slack to handle rises and drops that could be encountered with blustery winds. If storing within a harbour, consult your harbour master who will know the storage area well and be able to offer guidance.
Engine service
Prior to putting your boat into hibernation, or even prior to embarking on a winter journey it is advised to have your boats engine serviced to ensure that any water or acidic liquids in the oil won’t cause corrosion, if possible opt for an oil change, drain and flush the coolant system.
Steering and control should also be checked and if possible nurture joints with grease to ensure seamless movement and prevent seizure of your boats moving parts.
Remove and store
Believe it or not, it is bad to leave things onboard your boat when it is likely to be subjected to the elements during the cooler more turbulent months.
Remove lifejackets, liferafts, fire extinguishers, flares and other vessel related items and store them indoors over the winter. GPS plotters, VHF Radios and EPIRBS should be removed, even if fitted to protect against damage and theft as it is likely that any harm caused to them over winter won’t become apparent until you need them and with all safety equipment this can be dangerous if you plan to embark on longer journeys in future months.
Sailing away?
If you plan to get away and take your boat to foreign, warmer climates, engine checks are not a bad idea. Make sure you have a suitable life raft which fits the capacity size for your boat and one which is safe and complies to health and safety as well as marine safety regulations. Adec Marine offer excellent liferaft hire packages should you need a temporary solution.
Contact us today if you want to know more about how our products can help you prepare for Winter.
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