5 Questions to Ask When Taking Your Jet Ski Out of Storage

Smart Preparation Tips for a Trouble-Free Start to the Season

Your jet ski might look ready to launch, but storage can hide problems that aren’t obvious until you’re already on the water. Before you hitch the trailer and head to the dock, ask yourself these five key questions. They’ll help you catch common maintenance issues, avoid damage, and get the most out of your jet ski storage investment, whether you’re storing at home or using a secure facility.

1. Is My Battery Ready for the Season?

Jet ski batteries quietly lose power over time, even when not in use. If your battery sat through winter without a charger or maintainer, it’s likely lost some capacity. A battery reading below 12.4 volts is a red flag; it may still function for a short ride, but you’re risking a stall far from shore.

You should also inspect the battery case itself. Swelling, cracks, or any signs of leakage mean it’s time for a replacement. Swapping out a damaged battery takes minutes and spares you the stress of mid-lake breakdowns.

If you removed the battery during storage (a best practice), double-check its charge before reinstalling. Clean the terminals, secure all connections tightly, and make sure the battery is held firmly in its tray to prevent movement while riding.

Trickle chargers or battery maintainers are smart additions for future storage. These devices keep batteries topped off without overcharging, extending their life and reliability.

2. How Does My Fuel System Look After Storage?

Old fuel is one of the leading causes of startup issues in stored jet skis. Without a stabilizer, gasoline begins to break down in as little as 30 days, especially in warm or humid climates. Ethanol blends worsen the issue, drawing in moisture and leaving behind deposits that clog fuel lines and carburetors.

If the fuel smells sour or the engine sputters when starting, it’s time to drain the tank. Replacing the fuel filter at the start of the season is another proactive step that helps avoid poor engine performance. It’s a small cost that can prevent costly downtime.

Examine your fuel lines for more than cracks; look for soft spots, bulges, or areas that seem misshapen. These changes often indicate internal damage or weakening from ethanol exposure. Replacing aged lines is far less expensive than cleaning out injectors or overhauling the fuel system.

Also, be aware of your regional fuel options. If ethanol-free fuel is available, it’s often worth the extra cost for jet ski use, especially during extended storage.

3. Did I Protect My Jet Ski From the Elements?

Covers protect more than the paint job. A well-fitted, breathable cover helps block out UV rays, dust, salt spray, and even curious critters. If your cover has holes, missing straps, or sun-bleached areas, it might be time for a new one. Look for mildew, staining, or insect activity, common signs your jet ski wasn’t fully protected.

Inspect the body and deck for any changes in texture or color. Fading could mean prolonged sun exposure, while a rough surface might suggest oxidation or salt residue. A thorough rinse and polish help restore the finish and protect against further damage.

If your jet ski was stored outdoors, you may also want to inspect the trailer. Tires can develop flat spots, and rust can creep into hardware. Check the winch strap, safety chains, and lights to confirm everything is still roadworthy.

For owners storing in fluctuating climates, indoor or climate-controlled jet ski storage makes a clear difference. It limits moisture buildup, prevents freeze-related damage, and keeps your machine in better shape for longer.

4. Is My Jet Ski Still Safe and Legal to Operate?

Safety checks are often the most overlooked part of spring prep, but they make a big difference. That safety lanyard? Make sure it clips securely and stops the engine when pulled. This small device has saved lives in unexpected emergencies.

Lights, horns, and other signaling devices are easy to ignore until they don’t work. Test them before launch day. Replace bulbs or batteries now rather than scrambling at the boat ramp.

Check your onboard gear too. Every personal flotation device should be free of rips, mold, or broken buckles. Fire extinguishers must be pressurized and within their expiration window. Check your state’s regulations to confirm compliance; requirements can change yearly.

Registration numbers should be clearly displayed and free of peeling. Store paperwork in a waterproof pouch inside a secure compartment. If you're pulled over or involved in an accident, easy access to your documents can make a stressful moment far easier to manage.

5. Is It Time to Rethink My Jet Ski Storage Setup?

Not all storage is created equal. If you spent the first part of your prep dealing with avoidable problems, such as a dead battery, stale fuel, or pest damage, it may be time to upgrade where and how you store your jet ski.

Outdoor storage might save money up front, but it often leads to more maintenance down the line. Exposure to UV rays, rain, and fluctuating temperatures damages electronics, rubber, and metal components. Even the best cover can’t replace a protected space.

Indoor and climate-controlled storage offers more consistent conditions. It reduces the chances of corrosion, keeps pests away, and helps your jet ski stay cleaner between seasons. Storing gear like life jackets, covers, or safety kits with your watercraft also protects those items from mold and mildew.

StoreEase locations offer jet ski storage with features like 24/7 access, Bluetooth-enabled security, and contact-free rental options. Whether you're storing for a few months or looking for a year-round solution, these added conveniences can save time and headaches.

Don’t overlook location either. A storage facility near your launch point can save hours of trailering and setup. Look for units with wide drive aisles or outdoor vehicle access to simplify loading and unloading.

How Long Should a Jet Ski Last With Proper Storage?

A well-maintained jet ski can last 300 to 500 engine hours or more, often translating to 10 to 15 years of use, depending on how frequently you ride. Reaching that lifespan isn’t just about how you ride, it’s about how you store. Poor storage habits accelerate wear, especially when moisture, extreme temperatures, or sun exposure are involved.

Keeping your jet ski in a secure, climate-controlled environment helps protect the engine, electronics, and exterior finish over time. Components like fuel lines, gaskets, and electrical connectors hold up better when they’re shielded from weather swings and humidity. Even small habits like storing your watercraft clean and dry can delay corrosion and mildew growth.

If you want long-term ownership, storage plays a bigger role than most people realize. By investing in better storage now, you preserve performance and protect resale value down the line.

Make the Most of Jet Ski Season With Better Storage

A smooth return to the water starts long before launch day. By asking the right questions and handling small issues before they grow into big ones, you protect your time, your money, and your jet ski.

Prepping your battery, checking the fuel, inspecting the hull, testing your safety gear, and evaluating your storage setup can help avoid unnecessary repairs and get you back to doing what you actually enjoy.

If your current setup caused more hassle than it should have, it might be time to switch to smarter storage. StoreEase makes jet ski storage simple with modern features, flexible unit options, and locations that fit your lifestyle.

Find a StoreEase facility near you and prepare your jet ski for a better season.