Boat heating systems vary depending on your vessel but usually consist of a heater with a fan that relies on diesel to stay up and running. Your entire boat also needs an air duct or way to distribute the warmth and adequately ventilate.

However, you may discover that you don't need a robust system and can focus on protecting the most vulnerable areas of your boat instead. Here's what to know about heating a boat, staying safe, and the next steps. 

Do I Need Boat Heating Systems?

Whether or not you should invest in Boat Heating Systems depends on the size of your vessel, climate, and goals. Tropical climates may not need much need for heat at all. But even if you live in a cold environment, you may not need sophisticated boat heating systems. If you plan to winterize your boat at the first cold snap or don't enjoy being on the water when it's cold, you can pull your vessel out of the water instead. 

Some people also don't mind being out on the water when the temperature drops. You can find other ways to stay warm, but you still need to consider the safety of your engine and other systems. 

You may benefit from a small boat heater that keeps your engine compartment warm enough to stay dry, avoid damage, and prevent mold and mildew. Xtreme Heaters circulate air effectively and heats more evenly for the most accurate climate control. The automatic thermostat turns the heater on at 40°F and 55°F +/-3 for a failsafe design that never overheats. 

Alternatives to Boat Heaters

We've already established heaters for your boat engine compartment that can do wonders to protect your vessel. But when it comes to keeping yourself warm, there are several alternatives you can try instead. 

Breathable clothing with a high-wicking thermal base, including merino wool, are good options to help stay warm and dry. Wearing hats to keep in your body heat is also helpful to keep you out on the water longer.

If you have safe oil lamps or cooking stations on your boat, they can also help produce heat without needing multiple heaters. But stay away from candles with open flames, and always tend to any lamps or stoves you're using.

Are Boat Heating Systems Safe?

Safety is a must when it comes to boat heating systems, and some are more reliable than others. Fires are commonplace with poorly run or maintained boat heaters. The Freeze and Fire Prevention reports that portable heaters are the leading cause of winter vessel fires, as reported by the Boat U.S. Marine insurance claims. 

We use Positive Temperature Coefficient technology to self-regulate your boat heating systems safely. They turn off and on when they each optimal temperature conditions and also provide a 2-year warranty to ensure your Xtreme heater works efficiently, reliably, and safely for peace of mind.

What About the Cost?

The investment in boat heating systems adds up quickly, depending on what you want and the size of your boat. You also need to factor in the cost of installing your system and whether or not you'll need to make any modifications to your boat.

If you're just looking for an engine compartment heater, our Xtreme Heaters are extremely affordable at just a few hundred dollars. We also make a variety of sizes to scale up from the smallest to the largest boats. Best of all, our heaters are easy to install and mount in multiple directions to maximize the space in your engine compartment.

Next Steps

Ready to browse our boat heating systems? We're here to offer a safe and efficient product at an affordable price.

Our Xtreme Heaters are reliable, effective, and safe to use. They're also independently tested through the American Boat and Yacht Council, Military Specification, and Coast Guard standards. We exceed testing expectations and always put your safety first.

Check out our entire selection of small to large boat heaters for sale here, or get in touch to discuss which heater is ideal for your boat, RV, or other structure.