Wintering of electric boats and KRONOS & ARION engines: the simplicity of electric propulsion
The arrival of autumn marks the dreaded moment for boaters: the wintering of the boat. But good news for owners of electric boats equipped with our engines KRONOS and ARION: wintering an electric propulsion system is infinitely simpler than that of a thermal engine! Discover in this comprehensive guide why switching to electric with Weenav saves you precious time and spares you the hassle of winter maintenance.
Why is wintering an electric engine so simple?
The decisive advantage of electric propulsion
Unlike thermal engines that require a long list of complex operations, the KRONOS and ARION electric engines from Weenav require very little maintenance during wintering. This simplicity is explained by their innovative design:
- No fuel to stabilise : no more anti-oxidation additives and risks of degradation
- No engine oil change : no oil, no filter to change
- No spark plug to check or replace
- No carburettor to clean or protect
- No risk of internal corrosion related to combustion residues
- No exhaust to protect against condensation
With about 100 times fewer moving parts than a thermal engine, the Weenav electric motors significantly reduce wear and require much less maintenance.
Winterising the KRONOS outboard motor: minimal maintenance
The features of the KRONOS motor
The KRONOS electric outboard motor from Weenav, available from 80 to 300 horsepower, represents the excellence of marine electric propulsion. Its Plug & Play installation not only facilitates the initial setup but also seasonal maintenance.
Steps for winterising the KRONOS
To prepare your KRONOS motor for winter, here are the few operations to carry out:
1. Exterior cleaning
- Rinse the motor with fresh water to remove salt, mud, and residues
- Apply a suitable cleaning product to the outer hull
- Thoroughly dry all surfaces
2. Moisture protection
- Spray an anti-corrosion product on exposed metal parts
- Protect the electrical connectors with dielectric grease
- Check for any signs of corrosion on the connections
3. Visual inspection
- Inspect the propeller and replace it if a blade is damaged
- Check the condition of the sacrificial anode
- Check for cracks or damage on the cover
4. Engine storage
- Position the engine in an upright position or use a suitable support
- Protect it with a cover if stored outdoors
That's it! Where a thermal engine would require several hours of meticulous work, the KRONOS prepares for winter in less than an hour.
Winterising the inboard ARION engine: robustness and reliability
The ARION engine: designed to last
The inboard electric engine ARION from Weenav, available from 100 to 1000 horsepower in dual installation, is discreet, robust and versatile, fitting discreetly into the bilges of your boat. Its advanced design makes it particularly suitable for large professional and leisure vessels.
Simplified winter maintenance of the ARION engine
The maintenance of the ARION system is mainly software-based and very occasional. For winterising, the operations are limited to:
1. Visual inspection No regular maintenance is required apart from periodic visual checks of the heat exchanger. Just ensure there are no blockages or deposits.
2. Checking electrical connections
- Inspect the cables and connectors
- Clean and protect the terminals if necessary
- Check the sealing of the cable passages
The first maintenance must be carried out after 20,000 hours of navigation, which represents a considerable saving compared to thermal engines that require servicing every 100 to 200 hours.
Wintering of lithium batteries: the crucial point
The importance of batteries in an electric boat
If the KRONOS and ARION electric motors are of exemplary simplicity, the batteries deserve special attention during wintering. Weenav uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries known for their reliability and durability.
Recommendations for wintering batteries
1. Optimal charge level Storing at a charge level of about 50% is optimal for lithium batteries. Contrary to popular belief, they should not be left charged to 100% during the winter.
2. Storage temperature Lithium batteries should be stored at a temperature between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius. Extreme temperatures, particularly below 0°C, can affect their performance and lifespan.
3. Disconnection and storage
- Disconnect the batteries from the electrical system to avoid any parasitic discharge
- If possible, store them in a dry and temperate place
- Avoid leaving a charger plugged in continuously throughout the winter
4. Monitoring during winter The charge loss will be 2 to 3% per month at a storage temperature of 25°C, and even less if stored in a cool place. Check the voltage once or twice during winter storage to ensure it does not drop below 20% charge.
5. Frost protection Batteries must not fall below a state of charge of 20% and 12.8-volt batteries must not fall below a final discharge voltage of 8 to 10 volts.
Complete winter storage of the electric boat
Choice of winter storage type
As with all boats, you have several options to choose from:
Onshore winter storage
- In a heated shed: ideal solution but more expensive
- Outdoors under a tarpaulin: economical and effective solution
- On a trailer at home: convenient for maintenance and battery monitoring
In-water winter storage This option is generally less recommended for electric boats, as batteries can degrade with significant temperature variations and constant humidity.
Other maintenance points for the boat
Even though the electric motor requires little attention, your boat needs the usual care:
1. General cleaning
- Wash the hull with a suitable product
- Clean the interior: cabin, lockers, cushions
- Check the condition of the hull and accessories
2. Water circuits
- Completely drain the fresh water circuits
- Clean the black water tanks
- Protect with a non-toxic antifreeze if necessary
3. Onboard electronics
- Disembark valuable electronic devices if possible
- Protect the remaining connections with grease
- Remove the batteries from various devices
4. Hull protection
- Take advantage of wintering to inspect the hull
- Apply antifouling if necessary
- Repair any cracks or defects
5. Ventilation and dehumidification
- Install dehumidifiers in the cabin
- Leave lockers and cupboards open
- Ensure good ventilation
6. External protection
- Install a well-fitted quality tarpaulin
- Regularly check that it withstands the weather
- Ensure good air circulation to avoid condensation
The savings of electric wintering
Significant time saving
Wintering a petrol engine generally requires between 4 and 8 hours of meticulous work. With a Weenav electric motor, you reduce this time to less than 2 hours, batteries included. It's a valuable time saving that you can dedicate to other activities!
Financial savings
The wintering costs of a petrol engine include:
- Engine oil and lower unit drain
- Filters (oil, petrol)
- Fuel stabiliser
- Antifreeze for the cooling circuit
- Spark plug replacement
- Specific products (Stopsel, etc.)
- Labour if done on site
Total for a thermal: 300 to 800 euros depending on size
With an electric motor KRONOS or ARION:
- Cleaning product: 20 euros
- Anticorrosion: 15 euros
- Grease for connectors: 10 euros
Total for an electric: less than 50 euros!
The savings on wintering add to the savings in use : thanks to low maintenance costs and a long lifespan, electric systems quickly become profitable.
Weenav supports you throughout the year
A customer service at your disposal
At Weenav, we do not just sell you a electric motor. We assist you in the complete maintenance of your boat, beyond just electric motorisation. Our partner BoatnGo can take care of your regular maintenance if you wish.
Updates and continuous improvement
Maintenance will be primarily software-based. Stay up to date to enjoy the best features. We continuously develop new features to enhance our customers' sailing experience.
Network of partner shipyards
If you prefer to entrust the wintering of your boat to professionals, we collaborate with numerous shipyards across France. They are well acquainted with our systems and can handle all operations.
Wintering: the ideal time to switch to electric
If you still own a thermal engine boat and the wintering constraints weigh on you, it may be the ideal time to consider an electric retrofit with Weenav.
Electric retrofit: an ecological transition
The electric retrofit can reduce GHG emissions related to the production of a new boat by 56%. By transforming your existing vessel, you are making a significant gesture for the environment while keeping your boat.
Comprehensive support
Our design office manages all stages of the design of your electric or hybrid propulsion system. We support you throughout this project, and your main contact will be and remain Weenav.
Financial assistance available
Depending on your navigation sector (inland waters or maritime) and your type of activity (professional or private), you may benefit from grants for converting your boat to electric. Contact us to find out more about the assistance available in your area.
Conclusion: simplified wintering thanks to Weenav
The wintering of an electric boat equipped with a motor KRONOS or ARION is a striking demonstration of the advantages of electric propulsion. Less maintenance, lower costs, fewer constraints, and more time to enjoy your passion.
With a lifespan at least 3 times longer than its thermal equivalent, your investment in a Weenav system pays off quickly, especially when considering the simplicity of winter maintenance.
Electric navigation with Weenav is the regained freedom: sailing silently, with no emissions, and without the hassle of complex maintenance. This winter, while owners of thermal engines will spend hours draining, stabilising, and protecting their engines, you will enjoy your free time knowing that your boat is ready to set sail as soon as the first sunny days arrive.
Contact Weenav to learn more
Do you want to switch to electric propulsion or do you have questions about the maintenance of your KRONOS or ARION engine ? Our team of experts is at your disposal to advise and support you in your electric navigation project.
Configure your electric engine now on our site and discover how to simplify your life as a boater while contributing to the preservation of the marine environment.
Published on: 30/10/2025
Writer: Sophie Castelain