How El Paso's Desert Pests Can Ruin Your Boat's Wiring and Upholstery Over Winter

—
November 11th, 2025

The Hidden Damage of Desert Pests

Here in El Paso, we are lucky. With over 300 days of sunshine blazing over the Franklin Mountains, our boating season is the envy of many. But when the famous El Paso sun dips a little lower, and our "mild" winters bring those short, cold snaps with occasional freezing temperatures, most of us put our boats into seasonal storage. We cover them up, dreaming of spring days on the water, and often forget about a tiny, destructive threat lurking in our beautiful Chihuahuan Desert landscape: pests.

You might think our hot, dry, and desert climate would be a deterrent. But you’d be surprised. When the temperature drops, even an El Paso winter is enough to send desert critters scrambling for a five-star hotel. And to them, your dry-docked boat—with its cozy cushions and hidden compartments—looks like the perfect resort.

We're not just talking about a few harmless spiders. We’re talking about the primary culprits of winter boat damage in El Paso County: pack rats and mice. These rodents are masters of survival, and your boat offers them warmth, shelter from predators, and a treasure trove of nesting materials.

The True Cost of a Winter "Guest"

This is where the "hidden damage" comes in. While you're busy enjoying the off-season, perhaps visiting the El Paso Museum of Art or taking a scenic drive, these pests are getting to work.

First, let's talk about your wiring. Rodents have a biological, insatiable need to chew, and modern wire insulation, often made with soy-based plastics, is like a gourmet meal to them. They will methodically chew through critical electrical wiring, navigation light cables, speaker wires, and even engine harnesses. In the spring, you're not just faced with an annoyance; you're faced with a boat that won't start, a massive repair bill, or worse, a dangerous fire hazard from short-circuited wires.

Second, your upholstery. This is where the real estate boom happens. Mice and rats will shred your expensive boat cushions, vinyl seats, and life jackets to create their nests. They leave behind a disgusting and unsanitary trail of feces and urine, which not only creates a stench that’s nearly impossible to remove but also permanently stains and corrodes the materials.

Why Prevention is Your Best Defense

So, what’s a boat owner in the 79928 area to do? You cannot just park your boat and hope for the best. Prevention is everything.

Clean Impeccably: This is your number one job. Remove every single crumb, wrapper, snack, or stray piece of fishing bait. Any food source is an open invitation. Vacuum all upholstery, carpets, and compartments.
Block All Entrances: Get on your hands and knees and inspect your boat. Use coarse stainless steel wool (rodents can't chew through it) to block exhaust ports, drain openings, and any other potential entry point.
Use Repellents: Many El Paso boaters swear by scents that rodents hate. Placing cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil, or commercial-grade rodent repellents, in and around your boat can be a strong deterrent.
Cover It, But Be Smart: A high-quality boat cover is essential, but pests can and will get under it. Make sure it's tight, and don't assume the cover alone is enough.

Your Storage Solution: A Fortress Against Pests

While home prep is vital, where you store your boat plays the most significant role in its safety. If you're storing it outdoors on your property, you're in a constant 24/7 battle with the elements and local wildlife, from the desert sun to the determined pack rats.

This is where a professional storage facility becomes your best ally. For boat owners in East El Paso, finding a reliable spot is key. A dedicated facility, like Windermere Self Storage located at 13909 Windermere, understands the specific needs of boat storage in our unique climate. When you're vetting a facility, look for those that offer specialized Boat, RV, & Vehicle Storage Options. These are designed to be more secure and better protected than a simple carport.

When you call, ask for their Seasonal Storage Information and specifically inquire about their pest control protocols. Do they have regular pest management? Are the units well-sealed?

For the ultimate peace of mind, consider their Climate-Controlled & Self-Storage Options. A climate-controlled unit offers the ultimate defense, keeping your boat not only safe from pests but also from the damaging cycles of our climate—from the rare winter freeze to the blistering 100-degree summer days that can crack vinyl and fade gelcoats.Don't let a tiny mouse or pack rat, common visitors from areas like the nearby Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, turn your spring boating dreams into a financial nightmare. Take the right steps, secure your investment, and ensure that when the warm weather returns, your boat is just as ready to hit the water as you are.