Radiant Heater ? ?

[Cubacheski]

My boat will stay on the lift in the slip this winter. I have been told it might be good to get an electric radiant heater and set on a low setting just to keep a little warmth inside the boat unader the cover. I havent done this in the past but I can see where it might keep the interior seats slightly warm and keep them from cracking over the years. Any thoughts ?? And the use of electricity over the winter is not an issue as it is part of the slip rental cost. Thanks

[Wakeman22]

Hey fellow Oklahoman.

Where are you keeping your boat?

Are you winterizing it at all? Meaning engine and ballast system?

I would if I were you. It gets very cold here and you risk freeze damage even with a heater on. Remember that electricity could be lost on a cold night and or during an ice storm and then you will have damage.

[chpthril]

If the interior is dry, clean and the vinyl is conditioned, I do not see heating the cabin space as a benefit. Will the drive train be drained, or is the heater idea to also keep the block from freezing? If so, I would recommend a marine bilge heater because you are renting a private slip, rather then it being stored on your private dock.

[Wakeman22]

If it is winterized then a heater set low would probably be a good idea.

[thtrog]

I have an Extreme heater that I use in the bilge if I plan on using the boat in the winter. Like Chp said, this is marine safe and what I use.
http://www.bakesonline.com/detail.aspx?ID=1769

If you are just looking to dehumidify and protect the interior I've heard lots of good things about the Air-Dryr.
http://www.bakesonline.com/detail.aspx?ID=1630

[Cubacheski]

Thanks for all the replies. Yes I plan on fully winterizing the boat as well as conditioning all the interior.