Adler Barbour compact compressor kit

[turbulicity]

Does anyone have experience with the Adler Barbour CS-NC-15 icebox conversion kit?

Compact Compressor Cooling Kit

I have a large icebox (~8 cu) with 3" insulation. I will start living aboard so I need a refrigeration unit that will keep things fresh. Any recommendations on alternatives are welcome but please mind the price range. This AB unit is going for around $650. I can't go much higher, so is this a good choice?

Thanks.

[deniseO30]

Very simple un-complicated design. you will need access and air circulation around the backside (compressor side)

[turbulicity]

Thanks, I was just at the boat and it seems there is no clearance on either side of the icebox. If I choose this unit, I will have to cut into a side cabinet. Plus side is that it would have good air circulation.

Anybody on the performance of the unit or alternative suggestions?

[dockbumdan]

I installed the same unit this past july, I also have arouind 3" of insulation, and a vent from the locker it is installed into outboard. I was impressed with the units ability to "Freeze" everything. In the past I couldn't keep anything cold, Now if Im not carefull everything, milk, eggs, soda, butter all freeze. I run it now at less than 1/4 turn from Off. Just right.

[turbulicity]

Thanks dockbumdan. Can you tell me what size your ice box is?

[turbulicity]

This is a follow-up. I ended up installing the unit and it is performing flawlessly so far for the last two weeks. My icebox is about 8.5 cu. ft., right at the limit of the unit's listed capacity. My insulation is not particularly good (~ 2 inches). But the fridge stays between 43 F (when left overnight) - 50 F (when lid is opened frequently). It is set on max and it is idle most of the time. So, not a hog in power.

[mitiempo]

The safe fridge temperature is 32 to 41 degrees f.

[turbulicity]

Originally Posted by mitiempo

The safe fridge temperature is 32 to 41 degrees f.

OK, forgot to mention: The thermometer I put in is at the top near the lid. The water at the bottom freezes. So there is a gradient. Sensitive things like milk and meat goes to the bottom. As I said, insulation is something I need to improve a little but the point is. Thanks for the pointer though.

[deniseO30]

many boxes have really badly made lids, try to make sure you have a good airtight seal on it. If not, there are all kinds of weather strips in all kinds of configurations that you can use to create an air tight seal. Also if the lid is not insulated, glue or screw foam board on the bottom of it. Aim for 38* at the bottom of the box and mark the thermostat and leave it set there. Turning it to the lowest setting will not make it get cold faster but it will become a freezer.