Winter Storage - thinking of a heated crate

[Stichill_imp]

Since the goal is simply to keep the bike's temperature above the dew point, it's not strictly necessarily to move (possibly wet) air around unless forced convection is the only way to distribute the heat. Lamp(s) at the bottom of the crate would create air circulation as the warmed air rises, cools, and falls.

Whether or not heat dispersal takes 1500W / 5000 BTU from a 120V / 12.5A forced-air residential space heater operating in a confined crate is really the open question. It may become more of a concern about the risk of initiating an electrical fire.

[buckwheat_imp]

I don't think I would put the heater in the crate but instead run a duct from heater to crate. However electrical fire is still a concern.

[kennyw]

I don't think I would put the heater in the crate but instead run a duct from heater to crate. However electrical fire is still a concern.

Ducting in cold external air and heating it will take far more energy than sealing the crate and using one 100w lightbulb.

[Elipten_imp]

Small vents to prevent moisture buildup. I think a small heater better than light bulbs. The ones used for gun safes are perfect but too small for this project.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro

[stateboy_imp]

I learned long ago with a variety of metal objects like tool boxes and a motorcycle in the garage that these should not sit on bare cement in a cold environment like Illinois. I live north of you in Michigan and have even greater swings of temperature due to the Great Lakes influence.

I solved the problem by parking my motorcycle on cardboard or wood if it's going to be on a cement floor. Otherwise, like others who have chimed in from the colder climates or experience, gas stabilizers and attention to the battery are important. I also fill my tank to cover the interior walls of the tank to prevent rusting from our friend condensation.