Correct winterising of boats
Winterising your boat is crucial to prevent frost damage and corrosion during the cold months. The most important steps include cleaning, preserving the engine with antifreeze and changing the oil, as well as draining all water systems.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Hull and exterior
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the hull of algae, shells and dirt, especially if the boat is winterised on land.
Inspection: Check the hull for damage that should be repaired before winter.
Covering: Cover the boat with a well-ventilated tarpaulin to protect it from the weather and prevent mould growth.
2. Engine (inboard and outboard)
Fresh water flushing: Flush the engine with fresh water to remove salt deposits.
Antifreeze: Fill the engine cooling circuit with suitable antifreeze (propylene glycol) to prevent frost damage and corrosion.
Oil change: Change the engine oil and the oil filter, as old oil contains aggressive combustion residues that attack the engine over the winter.
Fuel system: Fill the fuel tank almost full and add a fuel stabiliser to minimise condensation (water in the tank) and fuel ageing.
Lubrication: Grease all moving parts such as cables and joints.
3. Water systems on board
Drain: Drain all water from fresh water, waste water and holding tanks as well as all pipes, pumps and the bilge.
Antifreeze: Fill the drained systems, especially toilets and faeces tanks, with antifreeze to bind residual water.
4. Electrics and batteries
Batteries: Remove the batteries, clean the terminals and store them in a cool, dry and frost-free place. Recharge them regularly to prevent deep discharge.
De-energise: Disconnect all unnecessary power consumers on board.
5 Sails and rigging (for sailing boats)
Sail care: Wash the sails with fresh water, check them for damage and store them dry and protected.
Rig: Check the rig and store it ashore if necessary or take appropriate precautions if it remains on the boat.
Image: medienmacher.eu
