Putting Her To Bed For The Summer

 

Many of our Northern friends are used to winterizing their boats. Here on the Gulf Coast, many of us utilize our boats in the winter months when mild temperatures arrive with abundant sunshine and little chance of rain. Snowbird season is generally considered to be November through April. We find however than many folks are staying through May so as to enjoy some of our summertime adventures as well. As many folks leave for northern ports in the summer, it is useful to store their boats for the season. There is also a necessity for some to store their boats in the summer. That is there is an insurance clause within some seasonal boater’s policies that require either the storage of the vessel out of the water during those months with the highest probability of cyclonic formation or the removal of the vessel from the state of Florida and in the most extreme cases north of the North Carolina coast.

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If a boat is to be hauled and stored for the summer, it is not advisable to just remove the boat from the water, rinse it off, lock it up and let it be till fall. A number of components could suffer from such a hasty storage. Important items to consider when storing a boat for extended periods are the following:

 

1. Condition of batteries

2. Seals and parts lubricated by water

3. Climate as it relates to humidity and biological growth (mold and mildew)

4. Fluid levels (sump, water, holding and fuel tanks)

5. Covering or cleaning

6. Inspection

 

The conditioning of batteries while the boat is being stored is important for the health of the batteries and those DC systems operated by batteries. Where feasible, a boat should be stored where power is available to condition batteries. If the boat is being stored for extended periods, it may be best to disconnect the batteries. Today’s systems are very sensitive to low voltage and therefore a boat that is subjected to extended periods of low DC voltage could develop aggravating issues when it comes time to be placed back in service. The easiest way to avoid this is to either fully disconnect the batteries or to provide a conditioning charge to the battery system (trickle charge). 

 

Seals and components that are lubricated by water such as seals in heads can deteriorate when stored dry and especially when lacking climate control. A simple fix it to add a small amount of water and head system conditioner to the bowl upon storage. Other components such as fresh water pumps, raw water pumps, and shaft seals should be inspected prior to launch.

 

For those who are fortunate enough to be able to store their boats under cover in climate controlled areas, the risk of mold, mildew, and other issues relating to heat and humidity are limited. However, if a boat is not stored in a climate controlled facility, steps should be taken to minimize the effects of heat and humidity. For those boats stored outside with power available, dehumidifiers should be employed. Depending on the size of the boat, numerous dehumidifiers may be necessary. They should be placed strategically where they can drain through sinks and directly overboard. This will greatly reduce or inhibit the growth of mold or mildew. Some choose to utilize the Damp-Rid bags however they are limited in the amount of moisture they can remove and they must be replaced regularly. Additionally, the use of fans to keep air moving will help in inhibiting mold and mildew. For those who must store their boats outdoors and lack access to power (not advisable), it would be best to regularly inspect the boat on a weekly basis and prep and clean any areas that show signs of moisture and/or mold and mildew damage.

 

Most fluids should be removed from the boat prior to storage. This includes sump boxes, water tanks, and holding tanks. Fuel tanks do not have to be emptied, yet the fuel should be conditioned for extended storage. Be careful not to over utilize treatments such as Biobor as this could have adverse effects on the fuel system. We can refer to owner’s manual and directions for use regarding any fuel treatments. Sump boxes should be emptied and cleaned so as to minimize smells. Holding tanks should be evacuated, flushed, and treated with head system conditioner. The water tank can be emptied as well. However some who leave water aboard tend to treat with bleach. The amount would vary depending on the amount of water in the system.

 

The exterior of the boat should be washed with all salt residue removed. This is true for the engine room as well and should include cleaning of any oil or other fluid residue. This way come launching, a quick inspection will reveal any new found issues with leaks. If a boat is to be stored outdoors, it should be stored in an area free of any falling debris such as leaves and branches. Leaves, branches and other detritus can collect in cockpits and other open areas making it difficult for rainwater to escape and thus creating issues with standing water. If necessary to store under a tree or in an area of blowing debris, fashioning a tent similar to that which must be utilize in norther climates to keep snow and ice out may be a good course of action.

 

Hauling and storing a boat for the season is a perfect time to inspect items such as bottom paint condition, running gear, through hulls, and sea cocks. Service of these items can be arranged while the boat is not being utilized minimizing service needs while being enjoyed in season. If we follow proper steps and protocols during the storage of our boats, getting them ready to enjoy upon our return should be straightforward and simple.