Bilge heater

[beamie]

I really wouldn't bother heating your bilge in the yard. This is not the same scenario as if you were using the boat in the winter and using a block heater. That heater probably cost $400 for if it is an official heater for that purpose it is probably explosion proof. Just keep what your doing with the heaters you use when doing projects.

It is good practice to always use some kind of engine preheat to keep things more "expanded". Even when laying up for months at a time in warmer environments it is the practice, (commercial wise). This is not always possible or practical with smaller engines, i.e. if on a mooring you can't plug the boat in. For these situations just make sure your using the proper oil for winter months. i.e. a multiviscousity oil or a lighter weight recommended by the oil engine, oil OEM.

[Mr. Sandman]

As for block heater you can get a generic block heater like this Wolverine Engine Oil Heaters Engine Block Heater for 89 bucks. (never been a fan of those dipstick devises) It is a pad that attaches to the underside of the oil pan and from what I heat they work great. (but you need 110 power) Since I am currently planing on extending my fishing season next year it is on my list of stuff to get. But I don't know if they are intended for winter storage devises.