Boat Maintenance Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Boat
Regular preventative maintenance will help extend your boat's life and ensure everyone stays safe while on the water — but do you know how to maintain your boat?
Whether you currently own a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) or you're thinking about getting one this season, maintenance should be a significant consideration as part of your current or future routine as a vessel owner.
Let's make sure your boat stays in its best condition so you can enjoy it often throughout the season! Here's what you need to know about good boat maintenance.
Start With Inspections
It may feel like a hassle, but following these boat maintenance tips routinely can be the difference between a successful day on the water — or getting stuck away from shore on a boat that won't run.
Take the following steps before launching (every time) to ensure your boat is always ready for use:
- Refer to your owner's manual for oil change recommendations.
- Inspect all belts and hoses and replace any components that show signs of wear.
- Inspect all fluid levels, oil levels, and battery condition before every voyage.
- Make sure there are no signs of corrosion or oxidation and take measures before there is a problem.
Additionally, service your transmission as recommended by the manufacturer. You won't need to do this before every trip on the water, but it's crucial to keep up with transmission services to avoid a breakdown.
Are There Other Boat Maintenance Tips to Follow?
Your boat is a significant investment, even if it's a small boat you bought secondhand. Taking good care of it helps you get more out of it for longer and helps you keep yourself and others safe while on the water.
Keep the following tips in mind to make sure your vessel serves you well every time you take it out:
- Use only manufacturer-approved marine parts.
- Store your boat only in dry places out of direct sunlight.
- Always check fittings that go through the hull, such as engine-cooling intakes.
- Always clean and wax the decks and hull of your boat. While cleaning, closely inspect for any damage.
- Don't neglect electrical connections. Regularly clean and grease all connections to prevent corrosion.
Taking care of your boat will lead to better fuel efficiency and a longer life span.
Maintain Safety on the Water with a Boater Education Course
In addition to making sure your boat is safe to operate on the water with these boat maintenance tips, you need to know how to operate it safely!
ilearntoboat makes it easy (and fun) to learn boating safety essentials through our online, gamified courses. Plus, after completing the course and passing the exam, you get a boater education card to carry with you on the water. This shows you've met your state's requirements for boating education and can operate watercraft safely and legally.
Ready to learn more about safe boat operations? Choose the course for your state and get started!
First published in 2021. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy August 9, 2024.
