Some DIY A/C.

utchuckd · #1 (**permalink**) 07-09-2010

I got the vibe from the other A/C thread that some boaters only really need A/C in more extreme times, so I came across these solutions that may be able to be adapted to a boat. Thought they might be a little more economically helpful than popping for a unit that won't be used but a relatively short time of the year.

How to build a $30 air conditioner

Assorted Tips: Homemade Air Conditioner Version 4

Need to close this system, but it looks cool:

YouTube - How to Build a Dorm-Friendly Air-Conditioner

A portable one:
Portable 12V Air Conditioner --Cheap and easy!

utchuckd · #2 (**permalink**) 07-09-2010

Here's a closed loop system with the fan and copper tubing:

QuickMick · #3 (**permalink**) 07-09-2010

i use one of these and love it.

Windscoop™ Ventilating Sail by Davis

rmeador · #4 (**permalink**) 07-09-2010

I was thinking about doing the same thing, but instead of having a bucket of cold water/ice, just circulate ocean water through it. Around here, the ocean almost never gets above 65 degrees.

utchuckd · #5 (**permalink**) 07-09-2010

That crossed my mind, but I didn't know how warm the water did or didn't get. Hook the fan and a small aquarium pump up to a solar panel and voila! Maybe.

hellosailor · #6 (**permalink**) 07-10-2010

That's actually how "whole building" air conditioning systems work. They chill water and send it around in pipes to hundreds of heat exchangers located in each office, because compressed gas would have major pressure changes running through systems on that scale.

The only trick to using raw sea water would be keeping it from clogging and rotting the plumbing and pump.

MARC2012 · #7 (**permalink**) 07-11-2010

The units using ice on a boat imo are not very practical.Few boats that I know have an xs of ice.Water chilled using sea water possible but pratical? have a wind scoop.marc

paulk · #8 (**permalink**) 07-11-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by MARC2012

The units using ice on a boat imo are not very practical.Few boats that I know have an xs of ice.Water chilled using sea water possible but pratical? have a wind scoop.marc

you have a windscoop, you don't need a fan. Just set up the copper tubing in the hatchway and let the wind blow through it. Slip the intake tube overboard (weighted down with a strainer over it, perhaps?) and leave the outflow tube to play over the deck to keep that cool too. Use a solar panel to power the pump and you have an eco-friendly Whole Boat Cooling System!

MARC2012 · #9 (**permalink**) 07-11-2010

Might give it a try,later replacing hx now.marc ps have wind gen.