12 volt accessory heater

[ryansdata]

I bought a plug-in 12 volt accessory heater at Wally World.

I'm hoping it will work on the boat, to maybe keep some heat in the cockpit area after skiing in the chilly spring now.

Has anyone tried this?

It is rated for 20 amps and has its own fuse. I don't know what amperage my boat has for the 12volt accessory plug. I sort of think the boat is 10amps since my car is.

Any input or advice would be appreciated.

Thanks

2006 Crownline 180BR 4.3l

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

The accessory socket will likely melt its innards at 20 amps. Check the fuse for that socket. Check the wire size feeding it. And just so you know, that 20 amp heater will kill a battery in a hurry. And No! Your engine will not keep the battery charged with just a short run. A 60 amp alternator will take a fast 20 minute run to replace the juice consumed in one hour by the heater (provided all the other accessories are turned off). Part of that 60 amps is also needed to run the ignition so you are likely looking at a 30 - 45 minute run.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

you will most likely need to run a dedicated circuit and circuit breaker (or fuse). the stock wiring will go up like a candle with a 20 amp draw. not to mention, you will be draining your battery in a hurry.

you could always pull the plug on the bottom of the engine circulating pump, and run a conventional type heater

http://www.heatercraft.com/category.aspx?categoryID=1

 

[Bondo]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

2006 Crownline 180BR 4.3l

Ayuh,.... Plumb a hot Water heater to the motor....

 

[riptorn]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

The 20 amps would be about the same as using a rear window defroster in a car. The 4.3 should have enough amps to supply when running but you will need to run an extension (with a fuse)from battery to the heater. Sorry can't remember the gauge they used(9,10?).

 

[Pontoon24]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

You don't give a link to the heater so can't comment on it but doing the math, 20 amps X 12 volts equals 240 watts.

Now compare that with typical plug in home heaters rated at 500, 1000, or 1500 watts and what you can expect is a little warm air. I have a 12 volt plug in accessory heater and it's main purpose is to provide just enough heat to help defog a windshield if your defroster isn't working. If left running while I drive it will take a little of the chill off but it will never make the car warm.

If you plan to huddle around it and keep warm I think you may be disappointed. It's not the heaters fault, it's just that 240 watts is just that and a 12 volt heater that provided real warmth would draw a battery down in no time and would require huge wires. A nice warm blanket would be my choice

 

[ryansdata]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

Wow! Thanks to all for preventing me some damage and frustration. Another reason why this forum is excellent.

 

[oops!]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

hi.....i live in canada......for a few weeks.....we get really hot weather......the rest of the time....its chilly.

i did as bondo suggested....and plumbed in a hot water heater.....same as is your car....

i love it. one of the best things i did with the boat.

as well.....i am going to install heated seats.

i think with the two.....there will be no more shivers late night boating !

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

or you could try one of the propane camping heaters

 

[eclark53520]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

or you could try one of the propane camping heaters

+1

I have a 'little buddy' heater that takes those 1lb propane cylinders for ice fishing. Runs for about 5-6 hours on one tank running on low. Low heats my two person flip over ice shanty up to Tshirt temps while it's 0 outside.

Has a tip over sensor and shuts off if we even move it. So it's not going to stay lit while you're riding, but at rest it would be a great way to put some heat into the cabin.

I think a water type heater from the engine would be the best option though, more work, but better results.

 

[shrew]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

MMMMM nice!!! A portable, open flame on a boat.....underway??? There's a big difference between sitting in a bob house and floating on the water. That thing will fall over and become a fire hazzard too easily for me.

 

[eclark53520]

Re: 12 volt accessory heater

MMMMM nice!!! A portable, open flame on a boat.....underway??? There's a big difference between sitting in a bob house and floating on the water. That thing will fall over and become a fire hazzard too easily for me.

You apparently didn't read my entire post before you jumped to conclusions.