I found and read a few old threads on here with regards to Espar heaters, but there isn't really too many so I figured I would just ask.
I just moved from a Campion 188 up to a 672. We loved our little boat, but desire for more adequate ladies' facilities and other conveniences in addition to more size and power landed us in the 672. Our 188 had a little bus heater that, with the top on, kept it bearable even at -4 one day's prawn fishing. The new boat has no heater at present and I am trying to figure the best way to go about having heat as well as defrosting abilities. After reading all sorts of stuff online, I have made the assumption that diesel powered heaters can be safely installed into inboard (gas) powered boats.
What have you installed in your boat? Costs? Pitfalls? Benefits (other than warmth of course)? DIY or professional install. Airtronic, Hydronic or a combination of both (Heatercraft or similar while running the main motor, diesel hydronic for nights or whenever you want to shut down the main motor) Could you use a diesel hydronic system like a block heater during winter while at the dock?
It seems that Espar is what comes up first in any conversation, but what about others. I seem to come across more complaints than rave reviews, and price point is markedly higher for Wallas heaters.
I guess my overall objective here is to comfortably use the boat year round. I would like to be able to stay out for a few days at a time and have safe heat in the cuddy during the evenings. Definately defrosting ability, which should double as a way to knock off the chill on deck with the camper canvas installed.
Thanks in advance for answers and guidance.
I just moved from a Campion 188 up to a 672. We loved our little boat, but desire for more adequate ladies' facilities and other conveniences in addition to more size and power landed us in the 672. Our 188 had a little bus heater that, with the top on, kept it bearable even at -4 one day's prawn fishing. The new boat has no heater at present and I am trying to figure the best way to go about having heat as well as defrosting abilities. After reading all sorts of stuff online, I have made the assumption that diesel powered heaters can be safely installed into inboard (gas) powered boats.
What have you installed in your boat? Costs? Pitfalls? Benefits (other than warmth of course)? DIY or professional install. Airtronic, Hydronic or a combination of both (Heatercraft or similar while running the main motor, diesel hydronic for nights or whenever you want to shut down the main motor) Could you use a diesel hydronic system like a block heater during winter while at the dock?
It seems that Espar is what comes up first in any conversation, but what about others. I seem to come across more complaints than rave reviews, and price point is markedly higher for Wallas heaters.
I guess my overall objective here is to comfortably use the boat year round. I would like to be able to stay out for a few days at a time and have safe heat in the cuddy during the evenings. Definately defrosting ability, which should double as a way to knock off the chill on deck with the camper canvas installed.
Thanks in advance for answers and guidance.