As the boating season winds down and the cooler months approach, every boat owner faces the same annual question: Should I winterize my boat myself or let the professionals handle it?
For many, winterization feels like a simple checklist—drain the water, add antifreeze, and call it a day. But anyone who’s spent years on the water knows that skipping even a small detail can turn into a major headache when spring rolls around.
At Jones Marine, we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge while also reminding them that the right maintenance now means fewer surprises later. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do yourself, what’s best left to the pros, and why trusting a dealership like Jones Marine can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
If you’re a hands-on boater who loves getting involved in your vessel’s care, there are a few winterization tasks you can confidently tackle on your own:
Clean the Boat Thoroughly: Remove all personal items, clean the upholstery, and wash and wax the hull to protect against grime, mildew, and corrosion over the winter.
Drain Water Systems: Drain freshwater and livewell systems, and add non-toxic marine antifreeze to prevent freezing.
Fuel Stabilization: Top off the fuel tank and add a stabilizer to keep the fuel from breaking down. Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it through the system.
Battery Care: Disconnect the battery, charge it fully, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Cover It Right: Invest in a high-quality cover or shrink wrap to keep out moisture, rodents, and debris.
These are great steps to help preserve your investment, and many boaters enjoy the satisfaction of getting their hands dirty and learning the ins and outs of their craft.
While you can handle the basics, true winterization and end-of-season maintenance involve more than just draining water and wrapping up the boat.
Professional technicians like the service team at Jones Marine have the training, tools, and experience to go deeper—identifying hidden issues before they become major problems. Here’s what you might miss doing it yourself:
Engine and Lower Unit Inspection: Professionals flush, drain, and inspect your engine for leaks, cracks, and worn seals. They replace lubricants, check the impeller, and ensure the motor is protected from internal corrosion.
Electrical System Check: A professional service includes checking electrical components, wiring, lights, and charging systems that can fail from moisture or corrosion during storage.
Propeller & Shaft Inspection: Bent props or misaligned shafts can cause vibration and power loss next season. A technician will inspect, grease, and protect these critical components.
Safety Equipment Review: From fire extinguishers to bilge pumps, we make sure your boat’s safety gear is up to code and ready to go when you are.
Diagnostic Scans: Modern boats often have advanced electronics and sensors. A professional winterization includes scanning for fault codes or performance irregularities before they worsen.
These are the behind-the-scenes checks that prevent “uh-ohs” on opening day—the kind of things you don’t notice until you’re back on the water and the engine sputters or the trim won’t move.
You might think DIY winterization saves money, but improper storage or missed maintenance can lead to cracked engine blocks, frozen lines, or corrosion—all of which can cost thousands in repairs.
When you bring your boat to Jones Marine, you’re not just paying for a service; you’re investing in peace of mind. Our certified technicians follow manufacturer-recommended procedures and use marine-grade products designed for long-term protection.
We also keep detailed service records, so you’ll have documented maintenance that helps retain your boat’s resale value. And when spring returns, you’ll launch knowing your boat was cared for by the same team that’s trusted by boaters all across Idaho.
“Our customers want one thing when the season starts—no surprises,” says the Jones Marine Service Team. “We handle the details now, so they can hit the water running later.”
Winterization isn’t just about freezing protection—it’s your annual opportunity to make sure everything is in top shape. Here are a few additional services worth scheduling before you store your boat:
Oil and Filter Change – Fresh oil prevents internal corrosion while your boat sits idle.
Gearcase Lubrication – Replacing old fluid prevents water intrusion and bearing damage.
Fuel System Inspection – Ensure filters and lines are clean and free from ethanol buildup.
Hull and Trailer Check – Inspect bunks, tires, and bearings to ensure your trailer is road-ready come spring.
By completing this checklist before winter, you’ll extend the life of your boat and guarantee a smoother start when the next season begins.
Choosing the right service dealership makes all the difference—and Jones Marine has earned its reputation for being the region’s most trusted marine service center.
Here’s why our customers keep coming back:
Certified Technicians: Our team understands every make and model we sell and service.
Top-Tier Products: We use only marine-approved oils, lubricants, and parts.
Honest Assessments: We treat every boat like our own—no unnecessary upsells, just honest care.
Convenient Scheduling: We work around your schedule to make winterization easy and stress-free.
Full-Service Care: From winterization to storage and spring tune-ups, we’ve got you covered year-round.
At Jones Marine, we’re not just fixing boats—we’re helping families protect their investment, extend the life of their vessel, and get the most out of every boating season.
You can absolutely handle the basics of winterization yourself—and we encourage our customers to learn about their boats. But when it comes to ensuring your boat’s long-term performance and safety, having a trusted dealership like Jones Marine perform professional maintenance is worth every penny.
Because when that first warm day of spring hits and the water’s calling your name, the last thing you want to hear is the sound of an engine that won’t start.
So before you tuck your boat in for the winter, give Jones Marine a call. We’ll make sure your boat is fully protected, properly maintained, and ready to make next season your best one yet.
Visit www.JonesMarine208.com to schedule your professional winterization today.
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