Winterize Your Houseboat
If your in the northern climates, its time to think about winterizing your houseboat. This is not only a {mosgoogle left}chance to get the required maintenance done, but also finish up things you have been putting off all summer, like the leaking faucet.
Engine(s)
It is recommended that any engine winterization be done by a qualified marine technician, but there are many things you can do.
|
Clean the engine compartment to get rid of all the grease buildup from the previous use.
Clean and lubricate your engine and steering controls. If you have hydraulic steering be sure to fill reservoir.
Shut off cooling water sea cocks.
Clean and inspect all fuel lines.
Clean and inspect all water lines.
Fill fuel tank(s) and add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank(s).
Clean and inspect all battery connections. Be sure to use a battery terminal cleaner and scrape out any corrosion.
Inspect/fill battery(s).
Check all fuel and water filters, replace as needed.
Inspect Halon system.
Inspect all electrical connections an fuses. Replenish "back up" fuses that were used during the summer months.
Interior
Wash/clean all blankets and linens.
If you will not be using the refrigerator all winter, turn off, take out bulb, and prop open door.
Drain water tanks, fill with RV antifreeze (per manufacturers recommendation) and run through all faucets.
You can also bypass the above step, by simply getting a compressor, and blowing out your water lines and tank. Simply turn on all your faucets and hook the compressor to the water inlet. This will blow out the water in the lines.
Drain/inspect all holding tanks.
Treat holding tanks with holding tank treatment.
This is a great time to give the interior a thorough clueing from top to bottom.
Inspect all window/door areas for any potential leakage problems. |
