air conditioning

j34035 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-19-2011

I am wanting to install a split air conditioning system in my boat. What systems do any of you have and what recommendations would you make? I am looking to do a 16K unit with 2 evaporators; 4k in the v berth and 12k in the main cabin. This is a 37 foot sailboat. Any ideas? I am looking now at the Aqua Air products but I am sure there are others out there. Thanks for any feedback you may have.
DD

deniseO30 · #2 (**permalink**) 07-19-2011

After reviewing the Aqua air's site I have to admit that I'm impressed! It may be a bit daunting for the DIY types but the instructions and specs are easy to read and should make it easy to eliminate the need for a professional installer. Which seems to be what most boat owners want to do. We just installed a multizone system on the 3rd floor of a City house. The whole concept is about the same. The water cooled condenser is very small too.

j34035 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-19-2011

I have done several self contained systems over the years, but Ive never been totally happy because you have difficulty with distributing the air throughout the boat. With multi evaporators you can get distribution without the ductwork. I am not put off by the difficulty of the project, just wanting to get ideas from others on the best equipment to purchase. Looking for a bit of advice. Thanks
DD

Minnewaska · #4 (**permalink**) 07-20-2011

I have three Marine Air Systems units with digital temp controls. It works well, but I always find myself fiddling with the three controls by a couple of degrees. Obviously, if the companionway is open, it wreaks havoc on its ability to cool and control temps. However, shades on windows and hatches do the same. On crazy hot and humid days, we practically have to create a cave down below, but then she works great.

p.s. one of the features I like the most is my ACs ability to be set to a dehumidify setting while away. Marina's won't usually let you keep your AC on, and this setting just keep the humidity down while not cooling. I think it cycles about 3 or 4 times per day.

JimMcGee · #5 (**permalink**) 07-20-2011

Doug,
I just finished an AC installation on our boat this spring. Figure out the number of hours you think it will take and triple it. It seemed like every step took longer than expected.

You may have more room behind cabinets and built-ins on your 37, but on our 30 it seemed like every wire and duct run required multiple cuts, re-rerouting of existing plumbing, etc.

Also take some time to really read through the installation manuals. The manuals I got from Webasto were almost unreadable (Chinese English), the troubleshooting section was worthless and the equipment didn't quite match the manual.

It's all worth it on these hot days, but this job was much more of a bear than expected.

Jim