Bossman Bilge Heater

[Gary Pilson]

Purchased a 2000 Model boat and it has a 750 Watt Bossman Bilge Heater,
with the breaker on I do not see an indicator light to tell be it's on. What is the best way to tell it's working. Thanks, Gary

 

[rwidman]

Does it heat?

OK, here's the deal: I don't know about that brand but similar bilge heaters contain a thermostat that kicks in and turns on the heater at about 40 degrees. If you just plug it in in Knoxville in October, it will just sit there waiting to be needed.

To test it, put it in the freezer for an hour or so. Take it out, plug it in and see if a light comes on or it starts putting out heat. If it does, fine, put it back in the bilge and use it as intended. If not, my guess is, it's defective but you could go online and see if you can find the manufacturer's contact information. Follow up with them.

 

[Gary Pilson]

Thanks, Wes good idea and I'll do that first chance I get.
Gary

 

[rwidman]

Thanks, Wes good idea and I'll do that first chance I get.
Gary

You're welcome. I actually did that to test one I had on a previous boat.

 

[vistar]

Similarly, I installed a Cumins engine block heater. I plug it into shore power around December 15 and leave it on until spring. It draws 750w and keeps the engine compartment including water tanks above freezing even in the coldest Knoxville weather. Certainly beats a ceramic heater for efficiency. Heated block stays warm for hours if power is interrupted and allows us to operate year-round.