PabloC

Thank you, I've thought about a back boiler, but I'm just keen to reduce the amount of work needed to get to a solution. But I can see the benefit of it over winter. Thanks, I'll have a look into what the engine manufacturer suggests but it is a new (relatively) engine. Thanks, I'll try that! Worth considering, thanks! I'll likely go down the webasto route and see some advice re fitting from an engineer. Very true. I can see myself getting a genny, even if only for deepest winter. Thanks, that's good to know. I'll have a look into that. Obviously, the less work to get it fitted the better. I wouldn't know where to start with getting a solar dump fitted 😵‍💫 Thanks again for the replies!

Thanks. I've taken a look at how they'd be fitted into the system and it doesn't seem too difficult. Thanks for the reply. And you find running the engine without moving is fine? Thanks. I have 800w solar. It looks like I'll go down the diesel heater route. Although I only have a single coil calorifier so I'm presuming I'd need values to isolate the engine when it's running. I have a multi fuel stove which is plenty for the size of boat. There are radiators fitted but they were previously set up via a heat exchange and small pump coming from the engine - quite a unusual set up but it seemed to work for the previous owners. I've never used them though. I tracked all the piping today and it seems quite a simple fit for a diesel heater by taking out the heat exchange/pump set up. Thanks for the reply, you're correct - The days I'm cruising is no problem, plenty of hot water. On the days I'm not, I'm going without at the moment. Running the engine on idle on occasion. It's only because I've heard running the engine idling for 45-60 minutes can be damaging that I limit how often I do this.

Hi, I'm looking for some advice on the options I have to heat the water (showers/sinks, not raditators). I've been a live-a-board for three years, mostly in a marina. When I have cruised I've made the most of the engine heated hot water on the days we've moved, and on the days we haven't, just made do with either the remaining tepid water or boiled water on the hob for washing up etc. Now I'm starting to CC, I'm looking into some different options. The boat has an immersion heater and calorifier which I run directly from the shoreline when in the marina. I don't have a gas water heater. I'm looking for the simplest solution. I know I could fit a gas heater but with the layout of the boat and where the pipes (both water and gas) run it would be a bit of a pain to fit. I've looked into a solar dump, but have no idea of where to start with fitting that when usually the immersion heater is powered directly off the shoreline - I wouldn't want to lose that option. Would the simplest solution be to run the immersion off a generator? I've also seen these - https://www.whisperpower.com/diesel-generators which seem to be able to be permanently fitted in an engine bay. Although they look expensive and maybe overkill? Also, I've heard mixed opinions on whether it's a good idea to run the engine on idle to heat the water. It's an 2004 Isuzu engine, if that makes any difference. Any thoughts you have would be appreciated!

@Tony Brooks I didn't realise that was your website, I will certainly have a read! Thank you

Thank you all for the replies. Thank you, I'll do those things. Could you clarify what tank cooled is? I should have said I'll be in a marina so I'll make sure the batteries are charged from shore power if needed. I have a Victron charger and a charging unit from the solar (forget what its called). Could these be boxed in? Or covered temporarily in some way? Would you recommend I put a heater in there for the really cold weather? Thanks again for the replies!

Morning everyone, As a live aboard, is there anything I should be doing to winter proof my cruiser stern engine bay? Everythings looking quiet exposed under there when the temperature drops and things start to get damp. Thanks!

Thanks for all the replies, there's clearly alot to think about re gas. Getting quotes for a webasto which seems like the better option.

Hi all, I'm looking to install an instant gas hot water unit. I've seen Rinnai are fairly popular, but as far as I can see these require 230v and I know there are units that are ignited using replaceable batteries. Does anyone have any suggestions on alternatives to Rinnai? I've seen plenty, but unsure of the build quality. As an aside, we do have an immersion and calorifier fitted for hot water, but my understanding is this wouldn't be an effective system for a couple of brief uses of hot water a day. We have shore power available if necessary. Thanks in advance

Thanks again for the replies. The seller and broker replied with a very genuine response. They're adding back in the notice of defects section, and made it clear I'll have the right to withdrawl under any circumstances. I've requested either a lower deposit, or none at all - shall see what they say.

Thanks Alan, I'm currently replying to the broker/seller as I'm not happy. I'm suggesting that a survey at my expense should be enough to demonstrate my interest.

Thanks for the replies. I've been sent this from a contract used by ABC Leisure Group in Alvechurch, which seems more reasonable? Also, arranging and paying for surveyor/boat yard should indicate I'm serious about taking this further in my mind. Following the survey, the Purchaser may, at his/her sole discretion, by written notice to the Broker, either: 5.2.1 reject the Vessel outright; or 5.2.2 reject the Vessel but offer to proceed with the purchase ...... (a) to rectify specific listed defects or deficiencies in the Vessel or the Inventory before Completion; or (b) to a reduction in the Purchase Price to enable the Purchaser to rectify such defects or deficiencies after Completion.

Hi all, the latest ... The seller (through a private broker - not a marina) has accepting an offer and survey is penciled in. I've been sent a contract that asks for a 10% deposit, that states if work relating to BSS or steelwork with a cost to repair of over this 10% is needed or if the boat is un-insurable, then I can back out and get refunded. There's nothing about any cost of repairs that don't total the 10% being deducted from the agreed price. Would any damage to the hull be classed as un-insurable? how about if the boat requires blacking (which it will within the next year) - is this something to negotiate on? I've attached the contract below with sensitive info taken out. I've seen past receipts with the owner's name, the owner has included their address in the contract, I've searched the owner's email address and found work profiles - so I'm fairly happy she is genuine. So far the broker has also been very straight with me and I've seen two previous BSSs. Any thoughts? Thanks

does anyone cat show signs of motion sickness?

That's a bit worrying. I did intend on having a survey, but questioning if its worth going that far. I guess its whether its commonplace and will cause me issues down the line

Sorry my mistake this was under the floor. The photo attached now was under the bed.