By Marine Specialties — Your Official HydroHoist Dealer & Certified Repair Team for GA & SC


Preparing your HydroHoist boat lift for the winter isn’t just a seasonal chore; it’s the best way to protect your investment, prevent costly repairs, and ensure you’re ready for smooth boating when spring returns. Whether you’re on Lake Lanier, Lake Hartwell, Lake Keowee, Lake Allatoona, Lake Chatuge, or any of the lakes we service across Georgia and South Carolina, proper winterization keeps your lift operating safely year after year.

Why Winterizing Your Boat Lift Matters

Even in the Southeast, where winters are milder compared to northern states, your lift still faces risks:

• Cold snaps can cause freezing damage to tanks, hoses, and motors

• Excess moisture and humidity accelerate corrosion

• Winter storms can stress brackets, cables, and frames

• Electrical components are vulnerable to condensation and power surges

A well-maintained lift is safer, lasts longer, and ensures you avoid the springtime repair rush.

Step 1: Perform a Complete Post-Season Inspection

Before deciding whether to remove or secure your lift for winter, start with a thorough check of all structural and mechanical components.

Structural Areas to Inspect

• Frame: Look for rust, stress cracks, or misalignment, especially near waterline areas.

• Tank mounts: Ensure tanks are secure and free from damage or unusual wear.

• Pivot bolts & brackets: Tighten any loose hardware and inspect for corrosion.

• Cables & bearings (if applicable): Check for fraying, binding, or rust. Lubricate rollers, pulleys, and gears to prevent freezing or stiffness over winter.

Electrical System Check

For motorized HydroHoist lifts:

• Remove the motor and store it in a dry indoor location

• Disconnect power to the control box and accessories

• Inspect wiring, terminals, and remotes for corrosion or salt buildup

• Ensure the control box seals properly to block moisture

Set the Correct Winter Position

If your lift remains in the water during winter:

• Raise it to its highest position

• Remove canopies to avoid damage from heavy rain or debris

• Ensure bunks, guides, and arms are clear of waterline exposure

Step 2: Clean & Prep for Storage

Whether you store your lift on land or leave it in the lake, clean, dry components will resist corrosion and wear.

Best Practices

• Remove algae, debris, and marine growth from tanks, arms, and bunks

• Use mild soap or eco-friendly cleaners

• Rinse with fresh water

• Dry all parts thoroughly with microfiber towels

• Store loose hardware, pins, or accessories in labeled bags in a dry space

Scheduling repairs now also ensures availability, as spring gets busy across all Georgia and South Carolina lakes.

Step 3: Decide Whether to Remove or Leave the Lift in the Water

When You Should Remove the Lift

Removing your lift is recommended if your lake:

• Freezes

• Experiences shifting ice

• Has severe winter storms

• Has fluctuating winter water levels

This is more common on higher-elevation lakes such as Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee in colder seasons.

When You Can Keep the Lift in the Water

Many lifts stay in the water year-round across Georgia and South Carolina. If so:

• Secure beams and arms to prevent wind movement

• Check gangway connections and dock stability

• Consider a de-icer or bubbler system if ice is possible

• Ensure shoreline anchors and cables are properly tensioned

Marine Specialties can advise based on your specific lake.

Step 4: Off-Season Maintenance Tips

Even in the off-season, a few simple steps keep your HydroHoist lift in top shape:

• Cycle the lift occasionally to keep mechanisms moving

• Lubricate gears, pivot points, and pulleys every few months

• Inspect after major storms for potential damage

• Re-grease before spring reactivation

These small efforts extend your lift’s lifespan and ensure a seamless start to next season.

When to Call Marine Specialties

As the official HydroHoist dealer for Georgia and South Carolina, Marine Specialties provides complete winterization, inspections, parts, and repairs. Call us if you notice:

• Electrical issues or unresponsive controls

• Advanced corrosion or rust on structural components

• Uneven lifting, binding, or unusual noise

• Damage after storms or freezing conditions

Our certified technicians understand HydroHoist systems inside and out, and we service every major lake in Georgia & South Caroline.

Keep Your Boat Lift Ready for Spring

Proper winterization is the key to protecting your HydroHoist lift, avoiding unnecessary repairs, and getting back on the water without delays. Whether you need a professional inspection, motor removal, part replacement, or full winterization service, Marine Specialties is here to help.

Click here to request service or schedule winterization.