Should I run engines with Bilge heater over winter?

My plan is to blow out my fresh water systems, pump out, and to close up my sea cocks. I will be going down to the boat two or three times a week to exercise ALL my engines. I will be placing a heater in the cabin and ER, and a circulating pump under the boat. My fear is a loss of power
 
I've varied the location over the years. One year, my mechanic stored it at his location in Stafford for free. For a couple of years, I've stored it next door at Captain John S. Beach. Last year, I actually stored it at Occoquan Regional Park. Most of the time, it's been a cost decision. I haven't finalized my winter plans yet with my mechanic, so not sure what I'm doing this year.

By the way, my wife and I walked the docks after going out last Saturday and you have a beautiful boat.

Mike
 
Mikemapva said:
I've varied the location over the years. One year, my mechanic stored it at his location in Stafford for free. For a couple of years, I've stored it next door at Captain John S. Beach. Last year, I actually stored it at Occoquan Regional Park. Most of the time, it's been a cost decision. I haven't finalized my winter plans yet with my mechanic, so not sure what I'm doing this year.

By the way, my wife and I walked the docks after going out last Saturday and you have a beautiful boat.

Mike
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Oh Mike....thank you so much. We have owned With Benefits for 3 seasons. She's our first boat. HUGE learning curve, but we took tons of boating and navigation courses. Spent a lot time over at Mattowoman dock practicing. We still have a lot of work to get her where we want (a thought of most boaters, I'm sure). I'm beginning the transition to accept winter is rapidly approaching, so I'll be down at the marina for a few days soon to work on new projects....I'm doing a big LED lighting upgrade in the bilge with 40' of super bright LED ropes, etc.

Feel free to stop down and say hi.
Robin
 
I installed belly applied oil pan heaters from Wolvine a couple of years ago. I closed up all the vents to the engine room and other air in or exhaust vents with foam rubber from Wally World (Walmart) and the engine room stays great. By heating the oil pan the entire block warms up like a radiator and keeps the entire engine room cozy. This allows me to keep the water on most everywhere and use the boat all winter which we do. Can;t say enough good things about this that I like so check them out if you're intrested as the wattage of the heater varies on the size of the engine.
 
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