Winter Planning

[RobMcClain]

During the winter season one of the heaters I operate inside my C-30 is a True North by Caframo. It’s the one with the anti-freeze setting so it goes on when the temp drops to roughly 40 degrees. West Marine sells the same heater under their brand name. The heater works great as a heater but I find the anti-freeze setting generally always keeps the heater on, even when it’s not very cold inside. While I have considered buying a new heater, I recently became aware of external plugs that have built-in thermostats to turn on and off whatever is plugged into them. You simply plug the thermostat plug into the outlet, and then plug your heater (or whatever) into the plug and it then turns the heater on and off at roughly set temperatures. From what I’ve read these plugs are not particularly precise in terms of temp setting, but since otherwise my heater is always on, it seems like a reasonable fix to try as the thermostat plugs are not particularly expensive. Have any of you been using these, or tried these? Any feedback, recommendations, warning, etc.??

Rob

 

[Rebel112r]

I have one and use it, seems to work fine. Like you said, temperature accuracy might be a little iffy.

 

[RobMcClain]

Rebel, what type do you have?

 

[Rebel112r]

Thermo Cube,1 input 2 output. Says it comes on at 35F. Hope that helps.

 

[bob daily]

I have been using them around the farm for years the only problem is trying to find them in the shop after the summer! Currently using the EASYHEAT EH-38 thermostatically controlled device.
Cost is about $10-15, on at 38°F and off at 50°F and has a light to indicate power available .
Bob

 

[William Sanborn]

I use a couple of thermostaic Ceramic heaters, put one in the engine space and one in the head. On my RT 27 with the aft head I open all the compartment including the head door and place one heater on the shower pan and direct into where all the plumbing is.
I would think that a thermostate plug that plugs above the counter is a good distance from where I want the heat. Boat is setting in the water and current is mixing so usually water temp in 40's.

 

[RobMcClain]

I appreciate the feedback! Bill, regarding the location, the installed plug I currently use for the heater is in a rather isolated and insulated location so my thought is to use an upgraded gauge and type of extension cord so I can put the actual thermostat plug in a better location. The heater doesn’t draw much but I will still feel better using a better quality cord.