Bilge Heater Install

[Clayton 210BR]

I'm thinking of using a bilge heater this winter http://www.xtremeheaters.com and have a question about mounting the heater. Why do I need to mount the heater at all? My boat is in dry storage and it not likely to move around. Why can't I just place the heater in the engine compartment and plug it in. Then take it out when I'm ready to use the boat.

I just can’t see cluttering up the engine compartment with a heater that is only needed for a few months. Thanks for the feedback.

 

[Alex D]

generally you can. I would just make sure that the heater has a solid footing. I mount my BENSACO on a wooden board that fits exactly between the center stringers, so the heter cannot tip no matter what.

 

[chuck1]

Mounting it on a board should be ok. I had mine mounted on the 240 so I would not have to worry about it moving around while in the slip. I also had them add shore power and a charger at the same time.

 

[mrsrobinson]

I mounted ours between the 2 stringers, no board. If you ar ein dry storage i would think you would be OK to not mount it, but, better safe than sorry, you can always remove it when you splash again.

 

[Alex D]

I thought about what mrsR did, but decided against it because I don't see the reason to have that equipment in there being affected by bilge water heat and vibration all year when I don't need it and I don't like to drill holes in the bilge floor if I don't have to. Many people have the heater successfully installed as mrsR describes though ...

 

[chuck1]

Here is how i've got mine mounted on the 240SD

 

[Clayton 210BR]

Thanks for the great responses and picture. Those really help. Looks like I have a few options and a few months to figure it out. I'll post a pic when I have it installed. Thanks again.

 

[chuck1]

You're welcome. Glad I could help, that is what this forum is all about. :thumbsup:

 

[Dancin Dave]

Isn't there any concern for fires when left unattended? my marina forbids any heaters. is this new technology?

 

[chuck1]

Dave,

Not with the newer units, they are designed to go into the bilge area. I know there can be major problems with units that are not designed for the bilge.