5 Important Boat Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

Owning a boat is a lot of fun, but it also comes with some required maintenance to keep your craft in tip-top shape.

As of 2020, there were approximately 11.84 million registered recreational boats in the United States.

Read on to discover five important boat maintenance tips that every boat owner needs to know.

1. Keep up with Oil Changes

One of the most important boat maintenance tips is to make sure you’re changing the engine oil regularly. If you need help, take your boat to a certified dealer who can handle the dirty work for you. If you prefer to do it yourself, make sure you have the right tools including an oil wrench and oil extractor pump, and never do it yourself if you’re not 100% sure about the process.

2. Boat Maintenance: Cleaning

Just because your boat is on the water, it doesn’t mean that you should not practice cleaning it on a regular schedule. Boat cleaning is crucial to protect the finish and parts from being affected by things like mold, barnacles, and rust. A professional boat cleaning company can help you keep your craft looking shiny and new, or you can try out a few techniques that work for you.

3. Replace Broken Parts

No matter what part it is, anything that’s rusted or broken should always be replaced before heading out on the water. From the propeller puller to the engine battery, you should perform regular inspections to make sure all boat parts are in good working order. Get to know your boat so you’re aware of what to look for in case something breaks or needs to be replaced.

4. Boat Care: Keep it Dry

You may not realize it, but when you return from an outing, it’s always a good idea to dry off your watercraft using a few towels. Any excess moisture can be bad for your boat, especially saltwater. Even moisture from dew can cause mildew and mold to build up, so always wipe any exposed surfaces dry whenever you can in order to protect it.

5. Practice Proper Waxing Techniques

A new coat of wax is always a good idea before you head out to the water each season. The best way to apply wax to your boat is to de-wax it first. Look for dewaxing solvents, and then use them to remove the old layer before applying a fresh new coat for the next boating season.

Take Care of Your Boat and it Will Take Care of You

Keep these boat maintenance tips in mind to ensure that your watercraft lasts for many years to come. From regular oil changes and keeping it dry to replacing broken parts, the right boat care will ensure that your boat is safe to use and that you will have peace of mind.

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