Why Winterize ?
Michele Hardman • September 12, 2026
Winterizing your boat for the season may seem like a lot of unnecessary hassle. So why bother with it? By taking a little time now, you can save yourself a lot of money on repairs later on. Protect your engine, hull, and plumbing from corrosion and damage from freezing by taking a few precautions. So what all do you need to do? Here are some helpful tips.
For The Engine & Fuel System
*Drain all water from the engine block, coolers, manifolds, live wells and ballast systems.
*Blow out fresh water lines and pump in non-toxic marine antifreeze.
*Lower outboard motors into the downward position so cooling water drains completely out.
*Change the oil. Old oil can gather moisture and acid if not changed before storage.
*Add some fuel stabilizer to a full tank of gas and run the engine for a few minutes.
*Drain and replace lower unit gear lube.
*Spray fogging oil into engine cylinders to protect from rust.
For The Battery & Other Misc
*Fully charge the batteries, then disconnect and remove.
*Pull hull drain plug so any rainwater or condensation can escape.
*Cover your boat with a heavy duty, waterproof cover.
How Much Marine Antifreeze Will I Need?
*A standard single engine typically takes 4-6 gallons.
*Larger boats equipped with multiple sinks, long hose runs, or a water heater that's not been bypassed will take 8-10 gallons.
*Twin engines will need at least 5 gallons per engine.
A properly winterized boat can safely sit in storage for up to 12 months. Self Storage New Mexico wants to see you protect your investment so it's ready to go when spring arrives and you're all set to go make new memories on the water with your family and friends. Give us a call today to rent your space, or check our website for more info.
There's nothing quite like seeing massive hot air balloons rising up with the sun over the desert. Since 1992 Alamogordo has played host to the annual White Sands Balloon Invitational, with this year's dates set for September 19 & 20. https://www.whitesandsballoons.com/ Two Launch Sites With two launch sites on two separate days, it affords you the opportunity to witness this event from different vantage points. On September 19th, activities will be at White Sands National Park. September 20th will be at Ed Brabson Balloon Park on LaVelle Road. The crowd is typically a little lighter on Sunday, which is something else to consider. Lift off is tentatively scheduled on both days between 7:30am-8am, but since hot air balloons are so heavily dependent on the weather, these times are always subject to change depending on the day's conditions. Keep this in mind and be flexible. It's common for spectators to start arriving around 6am, so plan to arrive early to get a good spot for viewing. Admission to White Sands National Park is $25 per vehicle. Admission at Ed Brabson Balloon Park is free. Be Prepared Being prepared for any outing always makes it more enjoyable for everyone. So what should you do? Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. It's likely to be a little chilly in the early morning hours, but the temps will quickly heat up as the day comes alive. The sun can be pretty intense in the southwest--especially in the park. Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. And since there won't be any food vendors at this event, you might want to bring along some snacks if you plan to stay for a while. You'll also want to bring along a lightweight camp chair so you can sit back and enjoy the show in comfort. Drones are strictly prohibited inside White Sands National Park since it's within restricted Military space, but you're always welcome to take personal photos with your phone or camera. It's a good idea to check the website at White Sands National Park before you go to be aware of any restrictions they have. https://www.nps.gov/whsa/index.htm Awesome Spectacle There are typically anywhere from 20-60 vibrant balloons that participate each year, depending on the weather and various other factors, and all of us here at Self Storage New Mexico always look forward to welcoming the pilots, balloon enthusiasts, and tourists to Alamogordo from all across the country for this amazing experience. There are several lodging options here in town within a short drive of both launch sites, ranging from hotels, vacation rentals, and RV sites. These usually fill up well in advance though, so make your reservations ahead of time. You might want to sign up for the Balloon Invitational e-newsletter thru their website so you'll receive important updates and notifications, such as schedule changes, weather alerts, planned activities, and more. With the breathtaking background of White Sands National Park and the mystery and intrigue of the desert, you won't want to miss this year's White Sands Balloon Invitational. Come experience the magic for yourself.
County Fairs are a long-standing way to bring a small-town community together. And here in Otero County, our local fair is the largest attended event of the year. At Self Storage New Mexico, we think the Otero County Fair is pretty special. What's so special about it? Maybe it's the opportunity to talk with friends you haven't seen in a while; Let the kids enjoy the carnival rides that they might only get to do one time all year. And don't forget about the chance to eat all that high fat, but totally delicious (and totally worth it) fair food that you can't get any other time. Mark your calendars! This year's Otero County Fair is set for September 24-27, 2026 All Those Animals Lots of people love animals, and the fair is full of the sounds and smells of all kinds of livestock. From cows, to horses, sheep and goats, rabbits and ducks, and who knows what else. This is a great place to get up close and personal with all of these critters and maybe even learn a few new things about them. Needing some additional space to store grooming and showing supplies closer to the fairgrounds? Consider renting one of our convenient units right here in Alamogordo. All That Action Get your adrenaline pumping at the rodeo. With bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding and roping, there's something for everyone, including the cute Mutton Bustin activities for ages 4-8. This is only available for the first 10 contestants each night, so get the kids there early to get in on the fun. Even though the fair admission is free, there is an admission price for the rodeo. You can find this, and lots of other helpful info on their website at: oterocountyfair.com . And another cool thing--a portion of Saturday ticket sales goes to cancer research and treatment. All Those Rides Frazier Shows will be providing the carnival rides, with specific Unlimited Ride Wristbands during specific hours. They'll have something for all ages to enjoy. Be sure to also take advantage of the chance to save $3 on tickets when you purchase them thru the fair website. All The Creativity Do you like fine arts and photography? Check out the exhibits with paintings, sculptures, hand spinning and weaving. Think you have prize winning flowers and succulents? Show them off here at the fair! And then you'll also be impressed with the Agricultural Mechanics Projects that showcase some amazing work of our local 4-H and FFA members. If all this isn't enough, there's also the Queen Pageant, all the exhibits of preserved foods, home art projects, and more. If you could use a little more storage space for any supplies or small equipment related to the fair, we've got three different locations right here in Alamogordo, just a short drive from the fairgrounds. Sizes range from 10x10, 10x12, 10x20, and 10x24. Visit our website to check prices and availability, book a unit, pay your bill, or upload documents. We make it easy and convenient for you. See you at the fair!
Valentine’s Day is coming up, and a very beautiful time of year to some. A time to celebrate the love you’ve cultivated over time, with that special someone. You may have just gotten moved in together, or even are planning to in the future. Consolidating what you do and don’t need is always a hassle, but self storage is always an option for your items. First, you need to have a discussion with your loved one. Do we really need both our living room sets? Where are we going to put our beds? What’s happening with our desks? All of these, and more, are valid questions to ask each other when moving in. Make sure if you both have items in your unit, that you add your better half as an alternate contact, so you will both have access to the storage unit. Of course, there is no issue with having two separate units, too. In case any disputes happen, having two different units under each person’s name is a better option, security-wise. Second, you’ll need to determine the size of the storage unit that you need. A 10x10 foot storage unit is about the size of half a standard-sized garage. However, there are smaller and larger units depending on your requirements! Please refer to our size guide to find the perfect size unit for your needs! Third, once you’ve chosen the perfect storage unit, you can book online and select the facility closest to your living place! Lucky for you, we have the ability to rent directly from our site. Click here to get started. The booking process is quick and easy. All you need to do is select your facility, then select the size unit you decided on. You will enter your personal information as well as your payment due at the time of registration! Rent is due every first of the month, and autopay is available for that added peace of mind. At this point, you will receive an email and text confirming your payment, giving you an assigned gate code, and notifying you with access hour and facility information. A lease agreement will be sent for you to sign digitally. A driver’s license will be required as part of the booking process. And don’t worry, we provide insurance at the low starting price of $12.00 a month! Please refer to our tenant protection section to learn more about our insurance! We also accept homeowners’ and renters’ insurance to cover your unit; all that we would need is a copy of the declarations page! Finally , you’ve secured your unit! Go ahead, and head to the facility- don't forget to take your own lock to attach to your rental. You can get one at Walmart or any hardware store. We recommend using a cylinder or disc padlock to secure your unit. Enter your access code followed by the number key provided. Remove the facility lock (if there is one attached) and place it in the lock drop box by the exit gate. Be sure to secure your unit with your lock before leaving! The units that we currently have available are drive-up, sheltered from the elements, but not climate-controlled. Consider contacting our friendly office staff if you have any questions about renting with us or our facilities! May the season of love be in your favor. With love, Happy Valentine’s Day, Self Storage New Mexico
As we enter the new year, you may think to yourself “How do I begin on the right foot?” . This may look like setting a resolution to better yourself or breaking some bad habits- but one thing many people forget to factor in is their environment. Look around, do you see furniture you don’t use or clothes that haven’t been worn in a while? Decluttering your surroundings can do wonders for your mental health. If you read on, you'll soon know how and why that is. Consider this: clothes in your closet that you’ve only worn once are taking up space, instead of the clothing you actually wear. You don’t want to get rid of them, because what if you do need them? Storing unused clothes, or even furniture, can help improve the functionality of your home. Each square foot has a purpose, and if it is not being utilized properly then it can definitely feel like a waste. A side table no longer in use, can be stored, until a decision is made on what to do with it. The bed frame you found at the thrift store can be placed into your unit until the time is right! Items of sentimental value can be protected from regular dust and damage by being placed into storage. An optimized flow of your home takes little inconveniences off of your plate and allows you to focus on the things that truly matter to you! A cluttered space can be hectic and anxiety-inducing for some, causing more stress in our already busy lives. Downsizing is an excellent option when this is the case! With less noise visually, more peace can be achieved thus some mental clarity can come with being there. You deserve an environment where you can be stress free from the day to day struggles of life. The importance of a clean space is fundamental to starting on the right foot towards bettering life for you. Once you’ve gotten the flow of your home to your liking and the clutter is gone, you can even focus on making improvements to the environment! Add seasonal decorations or rearrange your space to change the feeling of your home. The peace of mind achieved by downsizing and decluttering is invaluable to starting the year fresh. Self Storage New Mexico wishes that you have a year filled with peace, clarity, and exciting experiences! Treasure the objects that bring you joy. Thank you for reading, Happy New Year!
As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on that crisp, cozy feeling, it can only mean one thing: Thanksgiving is just around the corner! It’s a time when we pause, reflect, and give thanks for the people, moments, and little joys that make life meaningful. Here at Self Storage New Mexico , we want to start by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to you—our customers. Your trust and support are what allow us to do what we love every day, and for that, we are genuinely thankful. But Thanksgiving isn’t just about one day or one meal, it’s a reminder to notice the everyday blessings that surround us. Laughter echoing through the kitchen, friends checking in just when we need it, the warmth of a home, or even the simple pleasure of a favorite dessert. These are the moments that fill our hearts with joy. Here in New Mexico, we have a few local touches that make Thanksgiving extra special. Whether it’s a sprinkle of red or green chile on your mashed potatoes, a slice of green chile pumpkin pie, or the smell of homemade biscochitos in the oven, these unique flavors remind us of the small joys that make life memorable. This season, take a moment to appreciate the temporary things that make life beautiful. A walk with loved ones, a shared joke, or the quiet moments of reflection. Gratitude doesn’t need a calendar date; it’s something we can carry with us every day. So, as you gather around the table, enjoy the feast, and share stories, remember to savor the little moments. Give thanks for health, for happiness, and for the people who make life richer. And maybe, take a moment to appreciate the space around you, whether it’s your cozy living room, your backyard, or even that extra storage unit that keeps your life organized and stress-free. From all of us at Self Storage New Mexico , we wish you a joyful, peaceful, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.
Here in New Mexico, small and locally owned businesses are the heart of every town. From our biggest cities to the smallest villages, they’re the shops, restaurants, and service providers that know their customers by name, understand local needs, and give back to the neighborhoods they serve. At Self Storage New Mexico , we’re proud to be locally owned and operated by New Mexico residents. Our team lives and works right here in the same communities as our customers - and that’s something we think makes a real difference. Supporting Local Means Supporting Your Neighbors When you rent with a local business, your money stays close to home. It helps create jobs, supports local contractors, and keeps our local economy strong. The people who run local businesses are your neighbors, friends, and fellow community members. They care about the same things you do, because they live here too. Unlike large national chains, locally owned businesses make decisions based on what’s best for the people and places around them, not a corporate office across the country. For us, that means listening to our tenants, being flexible when possible, and providing the kind of personal service that only comes from knowing the community you serve. New Mexico Roots, New Mexico Values New Mexicans know the value of hard work, integrity, and connection. Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbor, celebrating at a local festival, or cheering on a school team, community ties run deep here. We bring those same values to the way we do business. Our facilities are designed to meet the needs of the people who live here - from families storing their extra belongings, to small businesses protecting their inventory, and RV owners who love exploring our beautiful state. We take pride in offering clean, secure, and convenient storage with a personal touch, for every need. Small Choices, Big Impact Every time you choose a local business - whether it’s a coffee shop, a mechanic, or a storage facility - you’re helping keep New Mexico unique. Local businesses bring character and care that can’t be replicated by big-box brands. They sponsor youth sports teams, contribute to local causes, and take part in community events because they’re part of the community, too. So, thank you to our tenants and neighbors who continue to support locally owned businesses across the state. Your support keeps the spirit of New Mexico strong. Proud to Serve Our Community At Self Storage New Mexico , we’re honored to serve our friends and neighbors with safe, convenient storage options throughout the Land of Enchantment. Whether you need a place for your household items, business supplies, or seasonal vehicles, we’re here to help!
At Self Storage New Mexico, we’re all about making space for the things that matter most - and sometimes that means taking a break from the daily routine to enjoy the season. Here are a few fall activities and weekend getaways to enjoy across New Mexico. π 1. Drive the Enchanted Circle Few places capture fall quite like the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. This 83-mile loop winds through Taos, Red River, and Eagle Nest, offering incredible views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains blanketed in fall colors. Every overlook is worth the stop - don’t forget your camera! π 2. Explore Cloudcroft and the Sacramento Mountains If you’re in southern New Mexico, Cloudcroft is a must for a cozy mountain escape. The town’s small shops, trails, and fall festivals make it a great weekend trip. Hike through Lincoln National Forest, visit Bluff Springs Waterfall, and end your day with a slice of pie at a local café. Burro Avenue has all your needs and wants for a fun day trip. π 3. Catch the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta It’s one of the most iconic fall events in the world - and for good reason. The Balloon Fiesta fills the sky with hundreds of colorful balloons every October, drawing visitors from everywhere. Even if you’ve seen it before, it never gets old watching those dawn ascensions. (Pro tip: bring layers because mornings can be chilly!) This year’s Balloon Fiesta runs from October 4–12. π 4. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch or Fall Festival From apple picking in High Rolls to pumpkin patches near Las Cruces and Albuquerque, fall festivals are a fun way to spend a Saturday. Support local farmers, grab some roasted corn, and take home a pumpkin or two for your porch. The Mesilla Valley Maze (in Mesilla, NM) is fun for the whole family - complete with a corn maze. Floren Family Farms in Tularosa even hosts a U-Pick sunflower and zinnia event each fall. Depending on your area, you may have to spend a few days taking advantage of all these fun events. π 5. Extend Summer Adventures with an RV Getaway Fall is one of the best times for RV camping in New Mexico. The crowds thin out, the weather cools down, and the sunsets are unbeatable. Check out Elephant Butte Lake or Caballo Lake for peaceful waterfront spots. And when it’s time to tuck your RV or boat away for the season, our facilities are here to keep them secure until your next adventure. π Make Room for What You Love Whether your fall plans include road trips, home projects, or simply enjoying quiet weekends, it’s the perfect time to get organized and make space for new memories. At Self Storage New Mexico, we’re proud to help our neighbors across the state store their gear, vehicles, and keepsakes - safely and conveniently. Here’s to a cozy, colorful, and adventure-filled fall in the Land of Enchantment.
Running a small business in New Mexico comes with its own unique challenges. From managing inventory to finding affordable office or warehouse space, entrepreneurs are always looking for ways to cut costs while staying efficient. One often-overlooked solution? Self-storage . At Self Storage New Mexico , we see more and more small business owners turning to storage units as a smart, flexible way to manage their operations. Here’s how renting a storage unit can help local entrepreneurs save money, time, and space. Save on High Overhead Costs Commercial real estate prices can be steep, especially if your business doesn’t need a full storefront or warehouse. A self-storage unit offers an affordable alternative for inventory, supplies, or equipment without the long term commitment of a lease. Instead of paying for unused square footage, you can choose the unit size that matches your needs and scale up or down as your business grows. Seasonal Inventory Storage Many New Mexico businesses thrive on seasonal sales , think holiday retailers, outdoor gear shops, and event planners. But what happens to all that extra inventory once the season ends? Self Storage New Mexico gives you the flexibility to stock up when it makes financial sense, then safely store your surplus until the busy season returns. That means your workspace stays clutter free and your products stay protected. Organize Your Operations A crowded workspace can slow down productivity and even cost you sales. By moving excess inventory, archived files, or bulky equipment into storage, you free up valuable room to focus on what matters most, serving your customers. Security You Can Trust When you store business assets, peace of mind is key. Our facilities are equipped with gated access, security cameras, and well-lit areas to help protect your valuable products and equipment around the clock. Flexibility for Every Entrepreneur Whether you’re an online retailer, contractor, event planner, or service provider, Self Storage New Mexico adapts to your business model. Units can be used for: Staging and shipping products Holding tools and equipment Safely storing seasonal displays or trade show materials Archiving paperwork or supplies Grow Smart with Self Storage New Mexico Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. At Self Storage New Mexico , we’re here to support entrepreneurs with affordable, convenient storage solutions that grow with your business. If you’re ready to clear out some space and cut costs, contact us today to find the perfect storage unit for your small business.
As the warmth of spring and summer roll in, many of us feel inspired to refresh our homes, take vacations, or tackle long-awaited renovation projects. Whether you're deep cleaning, decluttering, or preparing for summer adventures, one simple tool can make a big difference: self-storage. Spring Cleaning Simplified Spring is synonymous with fresh starts. That usually means clearing out closets, garages, and living spaces. But what do you do with the extra stuff you’re not ready to part with? Self Storage New Mexico offers a flexible and affordable way to temporarily house winter gear, seasonal decorations, or items you’re sorting through. Think of it as an extension of your home — minus the clutter. Make Room for Summer Fun As summer approaches, so does a new set of gear: camping equipment, pool toys, bikes, kayaks, gardening tools, and more. Instead of cramming it all into your already full garage, consider using a storage unit to rotate seasonal items. You can swap out the snow shovels for surfboards, or trade heavy coats for hammocks. It keeps your home more functional and less chaotic. Support for Moves and Renovations Warmer months are the peak season for home buying, selling, and remodeling. If you're in transition, Self Storage New Mexico can be a lifesaver: Moving? Store belongings safely while you wait for closing dates or prepare your home for showings. Renovating? Protect furniture and valuables from dust and damage by keeping them in a secure. Create Space for Guests or Projects Summer often brings visiting family, kids returning from college, or space-hungry projects like painting, crafting, or side hustles. Clear out a spare room quickly and conveniently by using Self Storage New Mexico to hold extra furniture, decor, or hobby materials. Peace of Mind, All Season Long Many storage facilities offer 24/7 security and flexible rental terms. That means your items stay safe, and you stay stress-free, all spring and summer long. Ready to Make Space for What Matters? Whether you're diving into a spring refresh or gearing up for a busy summer, Self Storage New Mexico can help you stay organized, prepared, and clutter-free. Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your needs — and let the season of sunshine begin!
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season is a pivotal time for military families, marked by transitions that can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're relocating within the United States or overseas, the logistics of moving can be overwhelming. One effective strategy to ease this transition is utilizing self storage solutions, especially in areas like Alamogordo, New Mexico, where facilities such as Self Storage New Mexico offer tailored services to meet military needs. The Role of Self Storage in PCS Moves During a PCS move, timing is crucial. There are often gaps between leaving your current residence and settling into a new one. Self storage provides a secure and flexible option to house your belongings during this interim period. Facilities like Self Storage New Mexico offer drive-up units and 24/7 online rentals, making it convenient to store items on your schedule. Benefits of Using Self Storage During PCS Season Flexibility: Month-to-month rental agreements align with the unpredictable nature of military schedules. Security: Features like gated access and surveillance cameras provide peace of mind that your possessions are safe. Convenience: Online rental options and multiple locations, such as those offered by Self Storage New Mexico in Alamogordo and Hobbs, make accessing storage straightforward. Cost-Effectiveness: Storing items you don't immediately need can reduce moving costs and prevent the need to repurchase items later. Tips for a Smooth PCS Transition with Self Storage Inventory Management: Before packing, create a detailed inventory of your belongings. This helps in deciding what to store and what to take with you. Labeling: Clearly label all boxes and storage containers. This will make retrieval easier when you need specific items. Accessibility: Place frequently needed items at the front of your storage unit for easy access. Insurance: Self Storage New Mexico offers in house insurance for stored items to protect against unforeseen events. Choosing the Right Storage Facility W hen selecting a storage facility during PCS season, consider the following: Proximity to Base: Facilities close to your current or new base can reduce travel time and costs. Facility Features: Look for amenities such as security measures and flexible access hours. Customer Reviews: Research customer feedback to gauge the reliability and quality of the facility's services. Self Storage New Mexico , with its multiple locations and commitment to customer service, exemplifies these qualities, making it a strong candidate for military families in transition. Additionally, Self Storage New Mexico offers a 10% discount to all military members with a valid government ID. Final Thoughts PCS season doesn't have to be a stressful experience. By leveraging self storage solutions, you can create a more organized and manageable moving process. Facilities like Self Storage New Mexico offer the flexibility, security, and convenience needed to support military families during these transitions. Book a unit today!
