Rev. 7-25-2024
Installing air air conditioning is like a lot of projects; all the hard work is hidden, and if you do it right, it doesn't look like you did anything. I put in a good 20 hours worth on this, not counting head-scratching time. And I work fast.
The short version is that the installation work is considerable, but it is MUCH quieter, easier to use, delivers 50% more BTUs, and consumes 23% fewer amps. Best of all, it does not leak rain, freeze the person sitting under it, snag sheets, or block the helm view. The weight is slightly less and is carried lower.It actually takes a little more space, just hidden in lockers. It can actually run it off the batteries for 4-6 hours once the cabin is cooled down (meaning I can leave a marina in the morning and leave it one until we are out in the breeze). Fortunately, I kept the lockers pretty cleaned out, so I still have far more storage than I need.
Detailed write-up coming to Good Old Boat Magazine. Meanwhile, if you're looking for AC, I've got nothing but good things to say about the folks at Dometic. Great unit and great tech support (I had no trouble with the installation, but I had a lot of tech questions for the article). The toughest part is running the ducts to the optimum positions, which is very important. Not as difficult, but also very important, is plumbing the water intake so that the pipe rises steadily, without loops, through the strainer and through the pump. If there are loops, the system will air lock after hard sailing. Finally, place the temperature sensor in the warm return, out of the cold blast, to avoid short cycling. Don't draw the return air from bilge space; you can pick-up odors, fuel fumes and even CO. Run a separate plenum from the cabin.
And the obvious. Keep the door closed to reduce humidity and icing. Don't expect it to work in water over 90F (check the manual for limitations) and separate the intake and discharge. Reflective window covers and awnings will greatly reduce the work load. Insulate if possible.
We *love* ours!
ReplyDeleteDidn't realize both you and Bob were A/C guys. Didn't think you (Drew) spent that much time on board at the marina.
ReplyDeletea. Chesapeake Bay Marinas can be horribly hot mid-summer. No wind. At anchor is not too bad.
ReplyDeleteb. Probably adds resale value if done well. I think I did it well. So I think perhaps it did not cost anything, from a point of view.
c. Got a good deal on the unit, and I work on my own stuff cheap.
d. Quiet.