winterizing

[te102056]

I am new to boating so this might seem like a stupid question. I just bought a 36 classic. I am located in Kentucky and would like to continue using the boat on nice weekends. I really don't want to winterize the boat for a while but we are expecting temps to get down to about 27 this weekend. Can I just put a space heater in the engine compartment to keep the temp above freezing or should I totally winterize. I was reading somewhere that as long as the water doesn't freeze around the boat then I should be ok. Is that the case?
Thanks
Tom

[lpbp]

Up here on L Erie there is still the odd boat in the water , The water temp is still in the 40,s and we have had at least 6 nights below freezing . The water is warm enough at the water front to keep the coastal areas a touch warmer and hold off freezing in the engine compartments . But fresh water systems take your chance being farther above the water . But if you have concerns leave a 110 volt 100 watt light bulb on in the engine room or 2 if a bigger compartment .Some thing like a trouble light works good . There is enough heat there to keep things from freezing when the temperture dips just below freezing the odd night and your water temps are still up there . This is a common practise here , My self I would do this then have the worry of a heater in there that could be more of a fire hazzard. For the sake of a couple of cool nights and you are just trying to strech the boating season a safe and easy way .
But once that water temp starts dropping ,it is time to keep a very close eye on things.

[te102056]

Thank you for the information. I will do just that.

[jcollins]

I've done it both ways. 100 watt light bulb. (not reliable)
Boatsafe engine heater. (very reliable and safe)