The winters are mild enough in my area that freeze damage isn't normally a problem, but I just discovered a burst water pump in the bilge. In the future I want to heat the bilge and engine compartment to prevent any issues; what's the safest and most efficient heater for an inboard engine boat?
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By: Lenny Rudow
March, 2010
I never had a problem with the old classic - a low-wattage lightbulb - but the Coast Guard and American Boat & Yacht Council now recommend against using them because they present a potential fire hazard. Forced-air heaters (from Boatsafe, www.boatsafeheaters.com or Xtreme Heaters, www.xtremeheaters.com) are the only options that meet U.S. Coast Guard ignition protection standards. Since fuel fumes can collect in enclosed engine compartments, it's better to be safe than sorry. That means you'll have to shell out between $350 and $500 for one of these units. If you want to remove it during warm weather, plan to spend another $50 or so on a removable mounting bracket.