Fill with Antifreeze vs Blow Out with Air

[twistedtree]

I'm interested in everyone's opinions and experience with blowing out the fresh water pipes on a boat for the winter storage versus filling them with anti freeze? On houses I've always taken the compressed air route, but antifreeze seems to be the norm for boats. Why?

[sailorboy1]

anti-freeze is easier on the boat

but this year I'm going the blowout route

[AnchorageGuy]

The biggest difference is in the re-commissioning process. If done properly, blowing out the system will save a lot of time in flushing out the antifreeze in the spring. The advantage to the antifreeze is that no compressors or tanks are needed to winterize. If using air, it is vital that all water is purged from the entire system. Anything missed can be a problem. Chuck

[twistedtree]

Originally Posted by Don Lucas

anti-freeze is easier on the boat

How so?

The risk I'm aware of with blowing out the pipes is small pools or water that don't get completely evacuated and freeze in unaccommodating locations leading to breakage.

Antifreeze would still be used for drains, sumps, etc.

[delmarrey]

Originally Posted by twistedtree

How so?

The risk I'm aware of with blowing out the pipes is small pools or water that don't get completely evacuated and freeze in unaccommodating locations leading to breakage.

Antifreeze would still be used for drains, sumps, etc.

It's the pumps and heat exchangers you really have to worry about. Hoses will expand. I run antifreeze thru my pumps and motor then just drain the system.

But I keep the inside of my boat above freezing. If there is a power outage then I'm safe.

So, do both!