

So, ensure there is a power supply recharging the battery if you are using an electric boat heater. Electric heaters draw serious amps that can quickly run down a boat battery. Speaking of electricity, the downside with electric boat heaters is their high power demand. Winterizing the engine is also a good idea in case there is a power outage and the bilge heater cannot do its all-important job. Pictured below is the Twin Hornet 700W Bilge Heater.Įven if you purchase a bilge heater you should still winterize your boat, especially any components with water lines that can freeze up. They also keep the engine compartment and battery dry and eliminate condensation that can cause mold or mildew. Here are some heaters we recommend that are specifically designed to be used in boat engine compartments:īilge heaters are a great option if you are worried about freeze damage from water trapped inside the engine block. A double failsafe design will include an internal thermostat that prevents the unit from overheating and shuts down if the thermostat itself fails. If you have a gas-powered boat, look for a heater with ignition protection, so there are no sparks to ignite fumes on startup. Quality engine compartment heaters like those from Xtreme Heaters and BoatSafe Heaters include features that make them safe for the marine environment.

You do not need your cabin heater to be waterproof inside and out! Just make sure to get the right one for the job, as cabin heaters and engine compartment heaters (also called bilge heaters) have different uses and features. Here is a look at what you can do to stay safe while using an electric heater on your boat.Įlectric boat heaters can be used in the cabin to warm the living space or in the engine compartment to keep the engine warm and dry. But you need to know the potential hazards that come with using an electric heater on board, including the possibility of starting a fire. Whether you live aboard your boat or just want to extend your boating season, an electric heater can help warm the interior of your boat in cold weather.
