Starting to think about winterizing

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capejt

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May 17, 2004
276
Hunter 33_77-83 New London, CT
Hi all,
Winterizing isn't a new concept to me, but the past few winters (including the upcoming season) I have chosen to opt for "in-water" winter storage for economic reasons. Here in Eastern Connecticut we rarely see the "hard freeze" of Maine or Mass. but I would like to come up with a solution to keep whatever water accumulates in the bilge from freezing so the bilge pump will still work. My slip has power year round, but they sometimes go "part time" in the winter months.
I was contemplating the use of heat tapes you find on household pipes forming a circle around the bilge pump.
Just curious what others do in this situation. Especially when you're on a tight budget.
Thanks
 
Don S/V ILLusion

Don S/V ILLusion

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Sep 25, 2008
7,695
Alden 50 Sarasota, Florida
Assuming you live nearby and can periodically check on the boat, why not dump a gallon of antifreeze into the bilge? It may not seem environmentally correct but you can always pump it out into container(s) for proper disposal when Spring arrives.
 
C

capejt

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May 17, 2004
276
Hunter 33_77-83 New London, CT
Luckily, I do live about five minutes away. I also considered antifreeze. Maybe that would be a better way to go.
 
higgs

higgs

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Aug 24, 2005
3,736
Nassau 34 Olcott, NY
Living so close you must certainly check on your boat frequently. Go with anti freeze.
 
Sail123

Sail123

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Oct 6, 2011
678
CM 32 USA
Not automotive antifreeze. Use RV / Boat antifreeze. About 5 dollars a gallon at Walmart in the RV section.
 
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