Running your boat all winter

[RandyR]

I would like to use my boat during the winter. I am planning on running the inside heater and installing a engine compartment heater. Is there anything else I need to do? Do I need to do anything to my generator, holding water, grey water, engine water etc. Help I am a new boater! Thanks

 

[tmhudson2]

A lot depends on where you are, and somewhat on what your boat is. If you'll add that information to your signature, I'm sure someone here can help.

 

[mrsrobinson]

Make sure your insurance covers your boat year round. Some do not.

I pour a gallon on the pink antifreeze into the holding tank. I also add 6+ gallons to the fresh water tank and run it thru all lines, including any outside lines (don't forget the swim platform sprayer).

That combined with the Caframo heater in the cabin and the Boat Safe heater in the engine compartment has done the job for us for 4+ years.

 

[RandyR]

I have a 280 sundancer, central Arkansas, Is it ok to run the ac/heater during the winter? or should i use a standalone inside cabin heater? thanks for your input.

 

[RandyR]

Thank you

 

[mrsrobinson]

I have a 280 sundancer, central Arkansas, Is it ok to run the ac/heater during the winter? or should i use a standalone inside cabin heater? thanks for your input.

Not an expert here, but I have been told once the temp of the water drops to a certain point your are asking a lot out of your heater. That is why we have the Caframo. That said, when on the boat in the winter our boat heat is on the entire time.

 

[Southpaw II]

The efficiency of the water circulating heat unit drops noticably when the lake water temp drops below 40 degrees. However, they will continue to heat. If you put the pink antifreeze in all of the water lines and flush it through, as others have said, all will be well. A small supplemental electric heater in the cabin will keep it comfortable. Remember to watch out for power outages, and use the type of heater that cuts off if it tips over. Keep drinking / washing water on board, and some extra pink so you don't run out when you flush.

 

[mrsrobinson]

"and some extra pink so you don't run out when you flush."

+1, we keep a gallon in the head