Heating engine/bilge compartment area

[pachanga27]

Other than it may be overkill - is there any downside to heating the engine bilge/compartment of a boat during the winter if it is stored outside and the engines have been properly winterized ? (in my case - by an anuthorized Mercruiser shop). I have noticed that there is a heater available for this type of heating - "Xtreme Heaters Engine Compartment Boat Heater". I am more interested in maintaining a "dry" environment for the engines and associated electronics, trim pumps, etc. These being 1989 carb'd Mercruisers - I thought I would try to give them a more suitable environment instead of off and on cold weather for the next four months here in South Carolina. Are there any disadvatages?

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: Heating engine/bilge compartment area

Your electric bill for starters...
If you are worried about keeping moisture down, buy some desiccant bags or cups. Any of the big box home improvement stores carry a full complement of different ones to do anything you want (the Damp Rid brand comes to mind), and for far cheaper than buying and running a heater constantly.

 

[cyclops2]

Re: Heating engine/bilge compartment area

Plus you can put the drying bags right next to anything without overheating anything.
Bilges, engine room, storage locker. Some ARE REUSABLE. Put in a CORRECT temperature oven to redry them all winter......Keeps you loving the boat.

 

[pachanga27]

Re: Heating engine/bilge compartment area

alrighty - I think that going with the desiccant bags will be what I will do. Thanks.