Posted on November 7, 2024

Seasonal Care for PWCs and PWC Floating Docks: How to Care for Your Floating Dock During Different Seasons

Seasonal Care for PWCs and PWC Floating Docks: How to Care for Your Floating Dock During Different Seasons

Written by HydroHoist Marketing

Seasonal Care for PWCs and PWC Floating Docks: How to Care for Your Floating Dock During Different Seasons

For discerning jet ski enthusiasts, investing in a drive-on floating dock is the best way to protect their personal watercraft (PWC). These practical docking solutions keep PWCs above the water line when not in use, minimizing biofouling and maintaining optimal performance. Moreover, quality options like the floating jet ski docks offered by HydroHoist offer the fastest load and launch in the industry, enabling riders to jump into adventure upon a whim. 

Below, we offer practical maintenance tips for keeping your PWC and PWC docking platform in peak condition, allowing you to keep the good times rolling year-round. 

Introduction to PWC Maintenance  

While you can spend the entire day ripping through the water, power sliding, and even catching some air, PWCs aren’t designed to sit in the water for extended periods when not in use. Similar to boats, jet skis can suffer from biofouling and hull degradation. Biofouling occurs as algae and marine organisms accumulate on the hull, creating drag that reduces fuel efficiency and speed. Prolonged water exposure can also weaken the hull material, potentially causing fiberglass delamination, stress cracks, and fissures. 

Aside from storing your PWCs on drive-on docks, we recommend washing them with mild soap and fresh water after each use to clean off salt and grime. Pay close attention to areas prone to buildup, such as the underside and around the intake grate. Flush the engine to remove salt, sand, and other debris that can damage the cooling system. Different PWC models may require slightly different flushing procedures. Consult the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for best results.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips for PWCs  

Depending on the region, PWCs may face vastly different conditions each season, requiring specific maintenance practices to optimize their performance and longevity. Here’s a quick guide to seasonal PWC maintenance:

Spring: Pre-Season Preparation

  • Thorough Cleaning: Wash the entire PWC, including the hull, seat, and other surfaces, to remove any dirt, grime, or debris accumulated during winter storage. 
  • Preventive Maintenance: Replace the engine oil and oil filter for optimal performance and flush the engine with fresh water to remove contaminant accumulation. 
  • Battery Check: Inspect the battery for signs of leaks and corrosion. Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water to remove any corrosion. Then, use a voltmeter to check the battery's voltage. A fully charged 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. If the voltage is low, it may need to be charged or replaced. 

Summer: In-Season Maintenance

  • Proper Fueling and Engine Oil Levels: Check the manufacturer's recommendations and use the appropriate fuel type to optimize your jet ski’s performance and longevity. According to Discover Boating, fuel with more than 10% ethanol attracts water, which can cause engine damage and void the warranty (Discover Boating, n.d.). Additionally, monitor oil levels and top up as needed to prevent the engine’s moving parts from grinding against each other and issues like overheating. 
  • Cooling System Maintenance: Regularly inspect the cooling system to ensure no debris or blockages hinder water flow, which can also lead to overheating.
  • UV Protection: Store the PWC out of direct sunlight and consider using a fitted cover to protect it from UV rays. 

Winter: Off-Season Storage

  • Winterize Critical Systems: While different models may have specific winterization procedures, they usually involve draining any remaining water from the engine and cooling system to prevent freezing damage and adding a fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel system in good condition over winter. 
  • Clean for Storage: Thoroughly clean the entire PWC and allow it to dry completely to minimize moisture buildup that can lead to corrosion. Consider placing desiccants or dehumidifiers inside compartments to absorb moisture and prevent mold, mildew, rust, and corrosion.  
  • Battery Maintenance: Disconnect and store the battery in a dry, climate-controlled area. Use a battery tender to keep it charged and ready for the next riding season. 

Remember, winterizing jet skis aren’t reserved for those in regions with freezing temperatures. In fact, data from Geico and Boat US Marine Insurance shows that Texas has over seven times more freeze-damage claims than frigid Minnesota, where enthusiasts understand the critical nature of winterization (BoatUS, n.d.). If this is your first winter with your PWC, we recommend taking it to a professional for proper winterization. 

Best Practices for Dock Maintenance  

HydroHoist PWC floating docks are designed for the utmost ease of ownership, providing superior protection for jet skis while requiring minimal maintenance. During peak season, regular cleaning with mild soap and fresh water to minimize algae growth and dirt buildup is enough to keep the PWC dock lift in good condition. 

In regions with harsh winters, we recommend removing your dock and jet ski lift from the water. If you must leave them in the water, apply a marine-grade lubricant to the support rollers, connectors, and other moving parts to mitigate freezing, moisture buildup, rust, and corrosion. Additionally, consider installing bubblers or de-icers to prevent ice from encasing the dock and causing structural damage.

Tools and Products for Effective Maintenance  

Aside from the fluids for maintaining PWCs, you’ll need the following for basic cleaning and maintenance:

  • Soft Brush and Microfiber Cloth: These are essentials for cleaning surfaces and removing debris without scratching. We recommend having multiple microfiber cloths on hand for different surfaces.
  • Anti-Corrosion Spray: Protects the engine and other metal components from rust and corrosion. 
  • Low-Pressure Hose: While using a pressure washer can be tempting, it can damage the anti-slip surfaces on PWC docks and even harm jet ski components when incorrectly used.  

Low-pressure rinsing using brushes with soft bristles, microfiber cloth, and marine-friendly cleaning agents is safer for removing salt, sand, and debris without risking damage. 

FAQs on PWC and Dock Maintenance  

How often should I perform maintenance on my PWC and dock?

We recommend rinsing the PWC with fresh water and flushing the engine after each use. For preventive maintenance, such as changing the engine oil and spark plugs and inspecting cooling systems, consult the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

How can I prepare my PWC for winter storage?

Draining water from the jet ski’s systems, adding fuel stabilizer, and disconnecting the battery are the most fundamental aspects of winterizing PWCs. Of course, you also want to ensure the PWC is clean and dry to minimize moisture buildup and corrosion during storage.  

References:

 

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