How to Store a Jet Ski
When you’re not zipping across the waves on your jet ski, you need a safe and convenient way to store it. If you’re storing your jet ski over winter or long term, you’ll need to prepare it accordingly. Storing your jet ski correctly prevents costly damage caused by freezing temperatures, moisture, and dirt. Additionally, secure storage protects your investment from theft.
Self-storage is the perfect solution for keeping your personal watercraft (PWC) cruising for years to come. This blog will help you understand how to prepare, maintain, and store your jet ski using Storelocal's self-storage options.
Your Jet Ski Storage Checklist: 6 Crucial Steps
Before storing your jet ski, follow these steps to ensure it continues to perform optimally. If you live in a climate that gets below freezing, make sure you follow all these steps to winterize your personal watercraft. Be sure to consult your watercraft’s manual for further details.
1) Clean and Dry Your Jet Ski
Cleaning your jet ski before storage is critical to maintaining its appearance and longevity. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to remove salt, grime, and debris from the exterior, then rinse it thoroughly with fresh water. Remember to dry your jet ski properly to avoid rust or corrosion.
2) Flush with Antifreeze
To prepare your jet ski for storage, drain any excess water from the engine compartment. Run a 50/50 mix of antifreeze through using the hose connection at the flushing port. This will protect internal components and prevent any water from freezing and expanding, which could crack your engine.
3) Empty Gas or Add Fuel Stabilizer
Gas that sits for long periods can harm your engine and clog your fuel system. If you’re not planning to use your jet ski for a while, either drain the gas or add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank. It will prevent the fuel from breaking down during storage. If you use a fuel stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it.
4) Change the Oil and Filter
You should change the oil at least once a year. Extended breaks are good times to do this. This maintenance will prevent gummed-up oil from choking your engine, and your future self will thank you when your jet ski is ready to go next season.
5) Disconnect or Remove the Battery
The battery should either be disconnected or removed entirely for the storage period to prevent it from draining. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Some owners like to hook their battery up to a smart charger or trickle charger to prevent it from draining.
6) Lubricate and Spray an Anti-Corrosive
Consider applying lubricant and anti-corrosive spray to the necessary engine parts. This step can protect your engine from damage caused by moisture and freezing temperatures. This may include spraying engine fogger into each cylinder.
7) Cover Your Jet Ski
A good cover is important, even for indoor PWC storage. Selecting a high-quality cover is essential to protect your jet ski from dust, debris, and weather elements, as well as rodents and other pests that might climb into storage compartments or the exhaust system. Ensure the cover is made of durable material and is a snug fit for your model. If you’re storing your jet ski outside, consider a double cover to keep the elements off.
Choosing The Right Storage for Your Jet Ski
Jet Skis can take up valuable space in your garage, driveway, or yard. Find a secure location with easy access so you can pick up your jet ski whenever you’re ready to hit the water.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage
An indoor storage unit, such as those available at Storelocal Storage, is the best way to protect your jet ski from extreme weather conditions. Outdoor storage might expose your jet ski to harmful elements that could lead to corrosion or engine damage. Fortunately, most storage facilities have drive-up units large enough to accommodate jet skis and their trailers.
Temperature and Humidity Considerations
Many Storelocal Storage locations offer climate-controlled units, which are ideal for maintaining the integrity of your jet ski. Constant temperature and humidity levels prevent rust, mildew, and other forms of damage.
5 Jet Ski Storage Tips
- Use a trailer or stand: It's best to keep the jet ski upright on a stand or a trailer to avoid pressure on any specific part of the hull. Storelocal provides spacious storage units that can easily accommodate your jet ski with its trailer or a jet ski stand. Drive-up units make it easy to drop off or pick up your jet ski without hassle.
- Maximize your storage space: The right-sized storage unit can also accommodate your other gear. Keep life jackets, inflatables, fishing gear, and other water supplies out of your way until you need them.
- Create a Maintenance Checklist: Track completed tasks and schedule future maintenance.
- Inspect Periodically: Check your stored jet ski every few weeks to ensure it remains in good condition.
- Document the Process: Take photos of your PWC before storage for insurance purposes.
Reactivating Your Jet Ski After Storage
When you bring your jet ski out of storage, inspect it for damage. Before you hit the water, check the fuel system, battery, and engine.
- Reconnect the battery
- Fill the gas tank
- Replace spark plugs
- Put drain plugs in
Consider doing a test run in a controlled environment before taking it out for a full ride in open water.
Find Jet Ski Storage Near Me
Proper storage of your jet ski not only maintains its condition but also ensures that it's ready for you when the new season begins. With Storelocal Storage, you get the added benefit of a secure, affordable storage unit that can be the perfect home. Click “Storage Locations” in the top toolbar to find the nearest Storelocal facility near you. One of our onsite managers will be happy to help you find a unit that will fit your jet ski and answer any questions about our facility.
