Like all vehicles, boats need regular upkeep to ensure quality performance on the water season after season.
As the boating season winds down and the air becomes cooler, it’s important to get the most possible out of what’s left of the season. You can stretch out your boating season into early to late fall by taking proper care of your boat throughout the season. Like all vehicles, boats need regular upkeep to ensure quality performance on the water season after season. Here are some fall maintenance tips for your boat.
Check Your Batteries and Electronics
Cold weather can be especially hard on electronic components, so it’s important to ensure all marine batteries have sufficient charge. Summer use has likely already drained a lot of battery life, so it’s a good idea to charge everything you can if you plan to keep going on the water. If you plan to pack it up for the season, do not let your battery sit idle and cold in storage. Otherwise, their life span may be slightly shorter once summer comes. Store your batteries in a separate, temperature-controlled location only after you have cleaned them of any corrosion.
Service Your Onboard Motor
Leaving your engine to sit idle can cause problems later, especially if all the old fluids stagnate. Luckily, you can make the off-season much easier with these tips:
- Drain and replace the oil
- Replace the fuel filter and inspect the fuel lines
- Perform a coolant flush with new fluid
- Check and replace the cap, rotor, plugs, and wires
- Inspect the belts and hoses and replace them as needed
Protect Wiring from Corrosion
Humidity can cause your boat wiring connectors to corrode. To prevent this, you must spray the connectors with a lubricant to prevent corrosion. This is especially important if you remove your radio or other electronics and leave the connectors exposed to the elements.
Clean Your Boat Thoroughly
Now is the perfect time to clean your boat from top to bottom. Start by vacuuming the interior surfaces and sanitizing them. Be sure to lubricate hinges and other moving parts to keep them in good working condition. Wash your boat with fresh water to protect the outer hull, especially if you are on saltwater. Use fresh water, specifically formulated boat soap, a soft-bristle brush, and boat wax to clean your boat of harmful residues and protect it from sun damage.
While cleaning, look for any signs of damage that need attention through the fall and winter seasons. Even minor nicks and scratches require prompt repair, or the issues could worsen over time.
Marine Electric Systems, LLC is a Leader In the Maritime Industry
We here at Marine Electric Systems have over 30 years of industry experience. You can trust our team for reliable service and expert craftsmanship in the Maryland, Baltimore, Annapolis, and Baltimore city areas! We’re highly certified and adhere to all ABYC and NMEA regulations. We specialize in top-notch electrical solutions for recreational, commercial, and government boating clients. Anything from electrical refits, to navigation systems, or boating maintenance. To stay up to date on our services, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube. You can also contact us at 410-263-0807.