yacht air conditioning systems

FROM THE ORIGINAL INNOVATORS OF MARINE CHILLED WATER AIR CONDITIONING COMES A NEW ERA OF CHILLER SYSTEM ENGINEERING FOR MEGA YACHTS AND SUPER YACHTS

A tradition begun by the Nall three-generation family of engineers , and today owned by marine industry designer and manufacturer, Seann Pavlik , AQUA AIR continues its tradition, ever enhancing its commitment, to EXCELLENCE IN ENGINEERING and attention to DETAIL IN MANUFACTURING .

Every unit is designed and built to the highest standard––the Nall , Pavlik , AQUA AIR standard of design , composition, and quality .

From titanium components   standard on every system to assembly , finishing, and system testing , AQUA AIR is committed to delivering unparalleled excellence for each and every yacht on the water.

Today’s AQUA AIR is the pinnacle of generations and families of outstanding design , engineering , and manufacturing for the yachting industry… since the 1940s.

Titanium Aqua Chiller™ Series

2 to 6 Tons (Compact)

OMEGA Chiller Systems

60 to 400 Tons

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Visit from NautiGuys – Victoria & Rico

Victoria & Rico from NautiGuys are building a Bering 75 and documenting the process! After selecting Aqua Air products for their air conditioning systems they visited our facility for a tour. See the 2 part series from their YouTube Channel in the videos below.

FACILITIES TOUR – PART 1

FACILITIES TOUR – PART 2

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Air Conditioning for Sailboats

Long-term test compares ac choices.

One of the great joys of sailing is the state of near nakedness (literal and figurative) to the wind, air, and sea-and the wisdom that comes with it. From that perspective, climate control seems antithetical to the sailors art. But being Practical Sailor (not Philosophical Sailor) we recognize that even the hardiest round-the-world racers seek temporary refuge dampness, cold, and heat. And for one looking to make the transition from the landlubbers life in temperate climates to full-time cruiser in the tropics, the idea of air-conditioning-despite its huge power demands-is alluring.

Today’s air-conditioning units are lighter and more power efficient than they were ten years ago, but they are still relatively expensive, regarded as luxury items on most boats. The expense of a professionally installed unit on a 35-footer can be as much as a new set sails.

Whenever you are plunking down that much money on a piece of gear, the first question that comes to mind is durability. How long will it last? So, in this, our first in a series of articles on climate control well look at types of air-conditioning and prospective life spans in the real world. (For those who are headed northbound and exploring heat options see Playing it Safe with LPG Heat , Practical Sailor , December 2015).

Photos by Drew Frye

What We Tested

This long-term comparison focused on two products from Dometic, a world leader in this field-the Dometic CruiseAir 6,700 BTU portable air conditioner and the Dometic 10,000 BTU Turbo Air Conditioner. The units were chosen as representatives of two popular types of integral air conditioning units designed specifically for cruising boats, and were confident that most of our findings can be applied generically to each type. To put these two units into context, we compared their specifications, performance, and attributes to those of portable air-conditioners designed for home use but often used by live-aboard cruisers. A fourth type of air conditioner, the split gas system, which allows separate installation locations of the compressor (usually in the engine space) and the condenser coils and fans, will be looked at in a future article. A fifth type, the RV-type permanent roof-top (or hatch) mount is only really suitable for house boats, or boats that are permanently moored to a dock.

Both systems were installed on the same boat-a PDQ 32 – for an extended period. PS tester Drew Frye, who carried out the testing, has several years of experience using with each of these units on board. For comparison sake we included a portable window unit and a portable ducted air-conditioner, readily available at local home supply stores. Since we did not test the non-marine products, we relied on manufacturer supplied data for comparison.

How We Tested

Along with durability, noise and efficiency are the key concerns for most buyers. Using a calibrated decibel meter we took multiple noise readings from the two air conditioning units at a distance of one meter. We took current readings using a Fluke multimeter to compare energy efficiency and peak current loads. Finally, we observed any other notable differences in performance. The data is recorded in the adjacent tables.

Observations

Without question, portable units are cheaper than fixed units. The CruiseAir 6,700 BTU is no longer in production, but Pompanette makes a similar 6,000 BTU unit available from West Marine for about $1,200. Contrast this to $2,200 plus $1,200 in installation parts and materials for the Dometic Turbo 10000 BTU unit. Fitting the ducts and installing hardware for the Turbo can add two days to the DIY job. If you opt for a professional installation, this can raise the total cost to more than $5,000. The expense of a professionally installed permanent AC is a little less painful when you consider that the AC will increase the boats resale value-especially in warmer climates.

Is a DIY installation practical for a permanently installed AC? Sure, if you’re prepared to run wires and duct work and install through hulls and plumbing. The vendors say it can be done in an afternoon, and this is possible for skilled workman in an ideal situation. However, if the job requires complicated ductwork, allow a day for planning and three full days for installation. If you do decide to do your own installation, be careful not to compromise any structural bulkheads when cutting out passages for ductwork.

Follow the instructions rigorously. We have seen many botched installations, both amateur and professional, almost always because the installer did not follow the instructions. To save money on ductwork, buy the insulated duct and inlet/outlet fittings from a home improvement store or an RV store rather than from the manufacturer or a marine equipment supplier.

Floor mounted portables, connected to the outdoors via flexible ductwork, are another option. These are less expensive, only $250-$500 for comparable sizes, but they are still bulky, and they must be secured while the boat is underway. They are not a long-term solution for the mobile cruiser looking for maximum efficiency, but for the low budget cruiser stuck on the dock they are an affordable alternative to sweltering.

Avoid single-hose models. These draw cooling air only from inside, and exhaust hot air out through a duct. Since the air within the boat is often hotter and more humid than the outside air, this can reduce the cooling efficiency by as much as 50 percent.

A dual-hose unit recirculates indoor air and also draws air from outside, which improves efficiency significantly. Dual hose units are all greater than 10,000 BTUs. Some require a drain hose, while others evaporate the water into the hot air stream. Some can also operate as high capacity dehumidifiers.

Noise. A permanently installed air conditioner runs on seawater instead of air cooling, eliminating the often noisy cooling air fan required of all portable units. Testers installed the Dometic Turbos compressor and circulating fan inside one of the PDQs salon settees. With the settee seat cushions in place, the unit was very quiet-air hissed through the vents and the compressor emitted a low rumble.

The noise difference is considerable. Testers recorded 67 decibels for the installed Dometic Turbo vs. 75 decibels the smaller portable CruiseAir. Remember that a 10 decibel increase represents ten times the sound energy-so the difference is significant.

Tone. The sound pitch can also make a difference. The installed Turbo was lower in pitch and less intrusive than the CruiseAir. Quiet conversations were nearly impossible when the CruiseAir was running, while the noise of a permanently installed AC is can be nearly unnoticeable if installed correctly. Since the industry sound rating system is not directly comparable our own ratings for installed units, we did not rate the untested units for noise. Experience tells us that the standup and window portables will be closer to the hatch-mounted CruiseAir in terms of noise.

Distribution of cooling. With a portable air conditioner-any type-the person sitting next to it freezes. Distribution through the cabin can be aided by fans, but it will always be uneven. With installed air, vents take the air wherever you want it. However, it is important that area of the supply vent inlets falls within a recommended range. If a vent is too small efficiency suffers. If the inlet area is too big, the flow of cooler air is reduced.

The return volume must also meet the manufacturers minimum requirements, and the return inlet should not draw air from the bilge or engine space, which would not only spread odors and be inefficient, but also present a hazard.

Maintenance. The portable units require no maintenance, other than annual air filter cleaning. A permanent, central air conditioner requires regular raw water strainer cleaning, every 8 to 100 hours, depending on the amount of sea grass and nettles in the water. An external strainer is also required. This, too, needs to be checked for blockages, especially in high fouling areas.

Durability. The Dometic CruiseAir portable survived 18 years of seasonal use without complaint. Frye defied manufacture warnings, leaving it in place during many coastal passages on his catamaran, since it was too heavy to reasonably move and occupied too much space in the cabin. He lashed it down tightly, but that didn’t save it from spray and occasional green water. In the process of moving it, it took a few hard knocks. Eventually, the clamps on the leveling mechanism began to slip, but they were easily replaced with pins that were fabricated from fiberglass tent poles.

Weight. Excess weight is always a concern for sailors. The Pompanette 6,000 BTU unit weighs 53 pounds and the Dometic Turbo 10,000 BTU weighs 47 pounds-plus 17 pounds worth of installation parts (64 pounds total). The added weight of the installed unit is carried much lower, reducing pitching and lowering the center of gravity.

Storage Space. The compressor and condenser coils will occupy one small locker, and you’ll give up parts of other lockers for the duct work. This is the time for that house cleaning you’ve been putting off. Portable units require space when stowed for sailing, preferably where they are out of the way.

Power Requirements. The Pompanette 6,000 BTU portable draws 17 amps to start and 6.9 amps running. The Dometic Turbo, 10,000 BTU draws 14.5 amps to start and 6.7 amps running. It incorporates Dometics Smart Start capacitor and controller to reduce load spikes during start-up. The Avallon 12,000 draws a whopping 10.8 amps running, pressing the maximum safe running load of a 15 amp circuit. Clearly, the Dometic unit is the most efficient, and that translates not only into lower power bills, but also into reduced installation complexity. The Dometic, aided by the smart start controller is easily served by a 15-amp circuit, while the Avallon portable is bumping right up against the maximum.

Inconveniences. Carrying a 55-pound AC unit around the side decks, on-and-off the dock, and down below can be dangerous. Even with two people, getting it down through the companionway is still tricky. What is the cost of a single serious injury? When the unit is stored below for a foul weather passage, it must be well secured and takes up valuable space. If left in the deck hatch during fair-weather sailing, it blocks the view, blocks natural ventilation through the hatch, and snags every sheet that comes near it.

No matter how carefully fitted, hatch units leak rainwater during squalls. Because the close proximity to humid air where they fit through the hatch, most drip condensation. Window units and dual hose units also have concerns.

The only inconveniences of installed AC are opening the seacock and cleaning the raw water strainer. Locate both so they are easy to access. The strainer should have valves on both sides to reduce water spillage. The seacock should be closed when not in use (safety) and for 24 hours every few weeks. Closing the seacock for 24 hours prevents marine growth by eliminating oxygen and by allowing the concentration of copper ions in the water, leached from the copper coil, to reach preventative levels.

Hatch Mounted Units

A step above home store window units, hatch mounted units are a good temporary solution for dockside living while your moored to terra firma doing boat work or rebuilding the cruising kitty.

Dometic CruiseAir 6,700 BTU

We knocked this one around, it took green water right over the top several times (not while running), and though noisy and annoying to have on deck, it just kept running. I doubt many users abused theirs any more, although they may have more hours on them.

Bottom line: Recommended as a second-hand purchase.

Pompanette 6000

Very similar in size and weight to the CruiseAir, we’ve observed them on other boats but not studied them in depth. Those users we interviewed reported zero mechanical problems.

Bottom Line: Consider saving up for installed air.

Installed Air Conditioning

This is the option best suited for long-term cruising, because all of the critical components remain below decks protected from the elements. This feature is especially important for saltwater sailors. The premature failures with installed air systems that we know of stem from installation shortcomings, usually in the raw water suction design.

High intake loops that collect air result in unreliable operation. Oversized water pumps cause premature wear on the coil-bigger is not better in this case. Stray current can eat the cooling coil on the inside, and water leaks can drip seawater on the cooling coil, rotting it from the outside. Low voltage due to undersized wire or poor connections can strain the compressor. Properly installed, the unit should be as reliable and durable as a shore-based unit.

Dometic Turbo DTU 10 10,000 BTU

Dometic dominates this field with several lines of air conditioners to meet specific needs. Its smallest unit is the 3,500 BTU Cuddy, we opted for the 10,000 DTU 10 model.

This unit is quiet and efficient. Although the installation is time-consuming, the several days of boat yoga are well worth it. The very low power draw is a big bonus, allowing us to stay at marinas with modest power supplies.

A DIY installation requires good power tool skills and common sense (see aforementioned caution about penetrating structural bulkheads). It will likely require several days of steady work, or you can pay a contractor $1,000-$2,800, depending on the complexity of the installation and location of your boat.

Bottom line: Installed air is certainly the Best Choice, if you have either the DIY skills to do it right, or the dollars to hire someone.

Portable Uprights

There are dozens of brands of upright, dual hose-air conditioners. Friedrich is one brand that tested well with Consumer Reports, but their test field was limited. Our advice if you go this route is to compare warranty coverage and buy from a reputable supplier.

Avallon APAC120S

The advantage of caster-mounted units is that, unlike hatch mounted portables, you don’t have to lug them above and below decks. When you get the urge to sail they can be wheeled into a corner and secured, although they still eat up space. They are generally very quiet. Because they use a different BTU scale, a 12,000 BTU unit is closer to 5,500 BTU.

Finally, although they claim to evaporate all of the condensate back into the hot air exhaust, we still observed a few ounces of condensate on the most humid days. There is a pan with a sensor-remember to check it daily.

Bottom line: If you need quick AC for summer, this is a good solution while you make up your mind.

Window Units

Window units are clearly the shoestring sailors choice. Look for familiar brand names with good warranty coverage. Most today come with a remote control, which comes in handy.

Kenmore 10,000 BTU (#77060)

A dime a dozen, these are a cheap solution for the boat that spends a lot of time at the dock. We’ve seen them installed in companionway hatches using modified hatch boards, and over deck hatches, adapted to fit using some manner of home-made carpentry.

The former is more compatible with the design since the faceplate is meant to be in the room. There is also a YouTube video showing on how to modify one of these to operate below decks (although it requires quite a bit of metalwork).

Costing as little as $120 on sale, these can be the bargain solution for a small boat in a warm climate. Stowability and durability-especially in a marine environment-are the biggest drawbacks.

Bottom Line: A window unit can be a cheap, short-term solution while you make up your mind.

Conclusions

Portable air conditioning units can be durable and reliable, but they are inconvenient. Installed air conditioning adds considerable expense, particularly if professionally installed, but there is some recovery in increased resale value if properly done.

Generally these units are brought into service when the boat is dockside for long periods of time. If you are on the move between marinas – the stow and set-up routine with a portable can get tedious. But if you are held captive in one spot by circumstances and need some relief from the heat and stillness-a window mount or upright dual-hose will civilize your summer.

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the world of compressors and coils and various options among split-gas systems.

Portable air conditioner can meet the needs of a casual cruiser, but long-term cruisers in tropical climates, especially those with boats greater than 40 feet long, will be better served by installed systems.

Nearly all marine air-conditioning problems can be partly traced to poor installation. A key step is to create a schematic that maps out the wiring, plumbing, ducts, and vents. Due to the potential fire risk with these systems, if you have doubts about wiring or fuses, you should consult an electrician. Although you don’t need to be an expert to succeed with a DIY installation—it helps if you are a jack of all trades. And you need to do your homework.

1. A Fein Multimaster simplifies cutting in close quarters. Be careful not to compromise structural bulkheads or liners. 2. Measure twice, cut once. An inlet vent, mounted low in the main saloon fits snugly in its cutout. 3. We fabricated some of the plenums, transitions, and elbows, others were meant for use with clothes driers. 4. An above-the-waterline loop in the cooling water outlet (white hose) prevents backflow into a heeled boat. 5. Glue-on studs are a big help if you cannot through-bolt. These studs are from Duckworks. Weld Mount is another source. (See “ Glue-on Fasteners ” PS July 2017).

Properly plumbing the AC system is one of the most important installation tasks, not only from a functional standpoint, but also safety. In order to meet the American Boat and Yacht Standards for through hulls, the seacock needs to be able to withstand 500 pounds of static force for 30 seconds. This typically calls for a flanged base that is supported with screws or through-bolts. A backing plate that incorporates studs is one of the most sensible ways to meet the standard because it avoids the need for additional holes in the hull.

1. The home-made backing plate assembly is tested before gluing, from left: long screw used for clamping during gluing, UL certified Marelon through-hull, the assembled seacock and backing plate. 2. The backing plate with studs is clamped in place as epoxy glue cures. 3. A t-connector simplifies draining for winterizing, ensuring no low spots. 4. The water should rise smoothly from intake, through the strainer, to the pump. If any air pockets exist, the pump will not prime after a short peried of sailing (waves drive air into the pipes and the pump cavitates).

• West Marine

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

One suggestion, if you are using your AC system in places like Florida – include provisions to flush the piping. This includes connections from the seacock to the thru-hull, with connectors that are easy to get to and install. plus valves, if you have more than one unit on the boat. You will have to periodically use Barnacle Buster to clean out the pipes, and this is best done in recirc mode with a 5 gallon bucket. Also, think about installing a strainer that will accept a pool-cleaner chlorine tablet (or a sizeable piece of a tablet), to keep the piping clean.

Here, this is really useful comment, many thanks!

I am sorry but this article does not help. You should have tested same type of ac across different brands. But here, you are comparing apples to oranges….

Thank you for this article. Very encouraging in a safe manner.

We have a 1998 Beneteau Oceanis 321. We bought the boat in 2015. The first owner installed a Mermaid M6 6,500 BTU air conditioner shortly after he bought the boat. It has a heat cycle. It is designed to cool 550 cubic feet. We keep the boat on Lake Erie and sail six months a year. It works very well. No major repairs. The only repairs have been that we have had to replace the water pump in 2016 and 2022 due to wear and tear on the impeller.

We use the heat cycle in the spring and the fall. We leave it on most of the time at our dock. It keeps the humidity down in the boat. We have two effective 12v fans that we can run when we are not on shore power. We run it off 15 amp, 115 volt shore power.

I have experience as a yacht broker.

I agree with the advice in your article. I would add the following suggestions, 1. If at all possible buy a sailboat with factory A/C. The installation should be neater and easier to maintain. As the article states, most faults are with the installation. The yard who installed ours did a good job but I have seen many others that are less than seamanlike. 2. If installing an A/C unit, ensure you have an easy way to bleed air out of the water inlet plumbing to the pump. We have to bleed the system every spring after winter haulout. It is a pain in our boat. There are self priming pumps available but they are two to three times more expensive. 3. If installing an A/C unit, ensure you have a relatively easy way to clean the inlet water filter strainer. We have to clean the strainer about once a month in the summer. It is a pain on our boat. 4. If you are installing an A/C unit, ensure you install effective sound proofing. Ours is a bit more noisy than the factory A/C units I have experience with.

We have a Swallow Craft Swift 33 sailboat. It is a very large capacity 33′ boat. After almost a year of exploring options for AC we put in an overhead RV unit in the main cabin overhead hatch. One season in Florida and so far, we are very pleased. The unit is a Houghton B3500. It is low profile with 13,000 BTUs of cooling and 12,000 BTUs of heat. We just could not afford the lazarette space for a built in.

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Best Marine Air Conditioners

‍ Key Takeaways

• The best marine air conditioner will vary based on key factors specific to your needs
• Webasto, MarinAire, and Flagship are some of the most recognizable air conditioners
• Most marine air conditioners are affordable and made with quality parts
• Consider choosing a cooling system based on the size of your boat
• Marine air conditioners will likely last up to 20 years with preventative maintenance

‍ A good quality marine air conditioner inside a boat comes in handy on a hot day. But what qualifies one as the best marine air conditioner?

The best marine air conditioner could be argued for brands such as Webasto, MarinAire, Dometic, and Campelify. The best marine air conditioning systems all rely on factors for the size of the boat, how easy it is to install, and the budget in order to be considered the best.

Drawing from personal experience, the best marine air conditioner is one that can hold up well to the marine environment at a good price. You should also aim for air conditioning systems that do not require a lot of assistance installing if you are by yourself or have never installed one.

Table of contents

‍ Nine of the Best Marine Air Conditioner Units

Hot weather in the summer is a great time for sailing but can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Investing in marine air conditioners can make your sailing experience more enjoyable and prevent heat-related illnesses.

You and your passengers can stay cool and comfortable during hot weather especially in the summer with a functional air conditioner on board. Choosing the best marine air conditioner can be challenging due to the numerous options available.

MarinAire 16,000 BTU

Equipped with pressure gauges and a sound cover this unit boasts a stainless steel drain pan, D- Smart control system, a low startup current, and a compact design suitable for small spaces. While unsuitable for household installation, its standout features include a 60% noise reduction and 360-degree blower outlet to help make it a smart investment.

• It has a D-Smart control system that protects from damage and detects humidity
• Rotating 360-degree blower outlet
• Includes sound cover
• Short power cord
• The electrical box can be intimidating if needing to work on

Webasto 10,000 BTU

Webasto's platinum series features a self-contained marine air conditioner with a 10,000 BTU cooling output with a robust design, is quiet, and has a reverse-cycle heat. This unit is great for new installations or as a system replacement and upgrade and includes a compressor compartment, condenser, evaporator, remote thermostat, and controller, as well as velocity blowers for superior cooling. Its programmable thermostat, low maintenance, fuel efficiency, and easy installation make it one of the top marine air conditioners available.

• Respectable cooling results with low maintenance
• More affordable compared to other models with the same output
• Quieter when operating than other models
• The square fit might be difficult to retrofit on some boats

CAMPELIFY Portable Air Conditioner Unit

This is a top rated portable marine AC unit with mild cooling and is ideal for boats and campers. It uses vapor compression, 134A refrigerant, and a micro-channel condenser for compact design.

It also features a DC rotary compressor for high performance and vibration cushioning. It can be powered by a grid or battery for spot cooling in small spaces or larger rooms.

• Ideal as a small boat air conditioner
• Energy-efficient and can be used with solar power
• Easy to install and is cost-effective
• Not as efficient cooling larger rooms

Dometic Envirocomfort 16,000 BTU

The EnviroComfort Dometic marine AC retrofit kit is a cost-effective, eco-friendly option for mid-sized boats that provides year-round comfort with a climate control feature. User reports claim that it is easy to install, clean, and monitor. This Dometic marine air conditioner has an audible fan that may unintentionally switch modes during extreme temperature fluctuations.

• Best bang for your buck marine AC unit
• Simple to set up and has quality air output
• Energy efficient for mid-sized boats
• Can be pretty noisy compared to other models

Black+Decker Portable AC

The BLACK+DECKER portable air conditioner is a powerful and versatile unit with a 10,000 BTU ASHRAE exhaust system that is ideal for midsize cabins at sea. It has a corded electric power source, remote control, environment-friendly refrigerants, LED control panels, and a 24-hour timer with auto-control sleep mode.

You would likely need to use two units as a primary and secondary backup for larger boats during a more extended sailing trip. Maintenance is easy with reusable air filters, pressure gauges, air intake gaps, and an exhaust hose. You might need a sound cover to help reduce noise.

• Worth a shot as a backup marine air conditioner for larger boats
• Very affordable
• It can be quite noisy compared to other models
• Somewhat bulky and can take up a lot of space if you buy more than one

ASA Electronics ACM135 Advent Air

ASA's AC model for sailboats is ideal for non-ducted setups with 13500 BTU cooling and eco-friendly features. Its robust build minimizes vibrations, has three fan speeds, and connects to a standard 14.25 opening.

It requires professional installation for this self-contained unit that has refrigerant. There are six foam pads that line the watertight vent opening and it has filters that you can wash to help ensure clean air. Saltwater may corrode the stainless steel drain pan faster and there is no warranty without professional installation.

• Three fan speeds for various air output
• It has a removable air filter
• Can add a heat strip for warm air
• No pressure gauge
• Need a professional to install
• Warranty in question

Miami's CTM Marine created a powerful marine air conditioner that is resistant to corrosion and compatible with other major brands. These units are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and quiet.

Depending on your cooling needs they can range from 6,000 to 72,000 BTUs and are compact. They also come with a two-year warranty and offer excellent as a top marine air conditioner choice in the market.

• Competitive price compared to other marine air conditioner brands in the market
• Quality materials meant to last in marine environments
• It has a warranty for two years
• Control is sold separately
• The blower is not able to turn past 170 degrees
• Have to buy from an authorized dealer

Flagship FM16H

Flagship Marine's FM series air conditioners are praised by boaters for their robustness and potency. Their units are renowned for their durability and are used on US Coast Guard and Navy vessels. These models have also lasted over 20 years for recreational boaters.

They operate quietly, utilizing isolator bushings, have insulated blower chambers, and use LG Rotary Compressors. Their low noise level enables them to be installed even beneath bunks. FM units also feature a smooth startup and low surge as well as dry drain pans that protect against condensation and corrosion.

• Uses relays instead of circuit boards
• Has a warranty on parts for five years and one year on labor
• Constructed in the US
• Does not have a variable speed
• Unit has to be shipped off if problems cannot be fixed over the phone
• Warranty can be strict in certain situations

Mermaid M16

Mermaid boasts a proficient crew and backs their products that include the M16 flagship model. This 16,500 BTU AC cools or heats boats to roughly 1,400 cubic feet with superior US-made parts and is perfect for larger boats.

They craft with high-grade components on sturdy stainless steel bases. It is also customizable with several different air discharge options.

• It has a five year warranty on craftsmanship and materials
• Easy to make repairs and install
• Outstanding customer service where people talk to you that have built them
• Unit has to be shipped to them if any major issues
• Might have some minor noise issues

How to Find the Best Marine Air Conditioners

Choosing the best marine air conditioner can be a challenging task for some boat owners. You would need to understand a variety of factors before jumping into a purchase for one.

It is best to conduct all the research you can when considering a marine air conditioning. Choosing the right boat AC unit requires careful planning and significant investment.

How Big is Your Boat?

Selecting an optimal marine air conditioner requires measuring the cooling area and factoring in the following:

• Adequate insulation
• How much sunlight exposure
• Number of windows
• Size of your boat

Consider choosing a higher capacity unit or several smaller units for larger boats. Confirm that there is adequate space near the engine for the condenser when choosing a split system.

Important Details of the Marine Air Conditioner

Marine air conditioners come in a variety of intended uses and price ranges. However, there is more to look into than just that. Consider the type of unit you choose based on:

• How much space it requires
• Ease of mounting and its location
• Research power requirements in case you need extra power
• Evaluate the impact on vessel performance from added weight
• Understand British Thermal Units (BTUs) and how they apply to output

Other factors will likely affect your decision to buy a certain model. You need to consider the noise level if you are a light sleeper in order to avoid sleep disturbances.

Some marine air conditioners are easy to install and you can do them yourself. However, some require proper installation for efficient refrigeration, return air flow, to allow for maintenance, and ducting or discharge options.

Budget and What it Costs to Maintain Marine AC Units

Only you know exactly what you can and cannot afford. Budgets are crucial in determining which AC units appeal to you.

Maintenance requirements should also not be overlooked. Complex systems might require more money to fix than standard AC units. However, most marine AC systems will have a customer support line to help fix any issues.

Some marine AC units have warranties on parts, labor, materials, or a combination of a few. You will need to verify warranty coverage for your chosen marine AC unit to ensure customer protection for potential defects, parts that need to be replaced, and urgent issue resolutions.

You should make sure to follow exactly what it explains so that you do not void your marine air conditioner warranty. This means properly following a schedule of routine maintenance and other rules for repairs.

Benefits of a Marine AC Unit

Adding an AC unit to your boat offers more than just cooling benefits on a hot day at sea. You will discover many advantageous features that make them more valuable than just that.

You can likely still find sailors that do not use an air conditioner on their boat. But there are plenty of positives to consider adding one to your vessel.

Fights off Mold

Air conditioners aid in preventing the growth of mold by promoting proper air circulation. This keeps boats free from mold and its associated foul odor caused by high heat and humidity.

Mold infestations can be challenging to eliminate once established. Installing an air conditioner will help keep you proactive of a mold situation.

Staying Cool

The main point for AC units is to help cool the boat cabin or intended room. You can escape the heat while sailing with an air conditioner on board your boat. This will also make your boat more appealing to be on as you explore the waters with your companions.

This feature maintains vessel coolness during rain in wet and humid regions. That allows for drying and cooling without opening windows. The air conditioner manages climate control and eliminates the need to expose the interior to rain and air.

Can Potentially Use as a Heater

Some marine air conditioner units double as heaters in winter. That alone could be worth the extra investment since you would not need to find a separate heating system like a diesel stove.

If you are able to use your air conditioner as a heater then it will allow you to save space. Some units are only for cool air so you would need another unit simply for heating and that will take up more space.

Helps Dehumidify Vessel

Marine air conditioners on boats help the cooling process but also dehumidification and heat through reverse cycle. Boats that are dry during storms or when it is insanely humid increase comfort and reduce corrosion for onboard systems.

Varieties of Marine Air Conditioners

Prioritize researching available marine AC systems and their suitability for your vessel's size and needs before making any extravagant purchases. Choosing the wrong unit can result in inefficiency, battery drainage, and inadequate cooling.

Self-Contained Units

These compact systems can be fixed onto a single chassis and make them suitable for cooling vessels between 25 and 40 feet. They can be installed in various locations, such as the living area, near the waterline, under a settee or bunk, and require thru-hull connections for efficient water absorption.

Hatch-mounted Units

Compact vessels like small motorboats and daysailers are ideal for using such systems and are popular due to their portability. However, they can be bulky and require two people to move. It is important to note that portable AC units for boats may not be effective in cooling larger cabins.

Chilled Water Units

These systems consist of a chiller in the engine room that cools freshwater. Units like this are ideal for cooling multiple cabins on super yachts and larger vessels.

The water is then circulated through a pipe loop to air handlers installed in the fore room. Despite their high energy requirements these AC units are an efficient option to consider.

Split-air Units

Boats up to 80 feet benefit from central or split air conditioning with a condensing unit housing the seawater condenser, compressor, and electrical parts. The evaporating unit, consisting of a blower and evaporator coil, is installed in living spaces. Insulated copper tubing connects the two units for refrigerant flow.

How You Can Install a Marine Air Conditioner

Installing an air conditioning unit on your boat can be hassle-free if you follow the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to have the necessary thru-hulls and tools before installation. You can also watch instructional videos for your specific model or seek professional help for complex installations.

Placement is crucial and should be in a well-ventilated and dry area and away from flammable sources. If you do not have enough space then consider making some modifications. Follow the manufacturer's recommended installation instructions for best results.

If you find the installation process daunting then it is best to seek out professional assistance. In doing so make sure to pay close attention to the procedure and learn how to troubleshoot common issues. Being knowledgeable about your AC unit will help you keep it functioning efficiently.

How to Take Care of Marine Air Conditioners

To help optimize your marine AC unit's performance you can do simple tasks such as consult the manual and clean the rear filter. Further proper cleaning instructions can be found in the manual that might be necessary.

Most marine air conditioner units need the sea strainer cleaned for sufficient water supply. You should also check raw water discharge for proper operation.

Maintenance conducted by a trained professional is recommended every few years to prevent clogging. Extending the unit's lifespan up to 20 years is as simple as properly maintain your marine air conditioner.

Related Articles

Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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HVAC for Yachts

Ongoing innovation and R&D enables Heinen & Hopman to create yacht HVAC systems that meet the highest possible comfort requirements. Cooling, air quality and sound levels contribute significantly to onboard ambience. Using insulation, absorption, special custom-made air conditioning casings, mufflers and low air speeds, Heinen & Hopman has developed super silent HVAC systems for yachts.

The highest quality as standard

At Heinen & Hopman, special multi-stage air filters – with the filter quality of an operating theatre and the option to clean parts of the air conditioning system – are installed as standard. One of the latest developments in this field is the integration of active bacteria and virus removal filters in our systems.

HVAC system innovations

Thanks to a process of constant development, Heinen & Hopman has introduced various innovations in the field of HVAC in which sound and space as well as efficiency and the environment are key factors.

Vessels in yachting

Motor yachts

Sailing yachts

Expedition yachts

Superyacht support vessels

Our working method, how we work in 5 steps, 1 - consultancy & pre-engineering.

Support with your inquiry by preliminary sizing of equipment, space reservation or excellent advice in system design. Writing a technical specification or assessing general arrangements are part of our daily business.

2 - In House project execution

Design and engineering of the best HVAC solution for your vessel after which our project teams prepare each project in every detail. At the same time the innovative cooling equipment is manufactured and tested in one of our factories.

3 - Delivery

Export or local road delivery, we transport all products according the 2020 Incoterms.

4 - On Site project execution

Installation by or under the supervision of H&H mechanics. Our commissioning engineers balance and start each system for handover to the client.

5 - After Sales

Clients can rely on our global service and 24/7 support.

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Game Changer

H&H HVAC and Refrigeration for Yachts

No matter how much is spent on interior decoration, fabulous facilities and high-tech luxury, the ambience onboard a superyacht largely depends on the air-conditioning. Heinen & Hopman has the solution.

No matter how much is spend on interior decoration, fabulous facilities and high-tech luxury, the ambiance onboard a superyacht largely depends on the air conditioning.

Yacht-HQ, LLC

Complete Yacht Management Solutions

Five Reasons Why Marine HVAC Systems Are Different

Air Conditioning systems that are installed on boats and yachts are very different from the typical residential and commercial air conditioning units that most land-based HVAC contractors install and service… so it makes sense that qualified MARINE air conditioning experts that specialize in boat & yacht HVAC systems are your best choice for installing maintaining, and repairing marine HVAC systems .

Here are just a few key reasons why you should call a qualified marine HVAC specialist for all your air conditioning and refrigeration needs.

Reason #1 – Yacht and Marine HVAC systems are seawater cooled (not air-cooled) so proper seawater flow through these systems is absolutely critical in order for marine systems to operate properly.

Above: These HVAC sea water pumps were properly installed by Yacht-HQ. They are securely mounted below the water line and hoses slope upwards so that air cannot get trapped in the pump housing. All hoses are properly double-clamped and all threaded fittings are assembled with PFTE tape to prevent leaks.

• Seawater cooling sub-systems require care and maintenance to periodically remove marine growth and mineral deposits that frequently clog seawater pumps, strainers, and hoses.
• Pumps and plumbing must be designed and installed properly in order to reliably deliver the desired flow of cooling water. Too much flow causes increased erosion & corrosion of metallic components such as heat exchangers. Too little flow results in poor performance and/or “high pressure” faults which are indicated by “HPF”, “HI PS”, or “E1” errors on digital HVAC control panels.
• Hose clamps, sea strainers, seacocks, and through hull fittings must be inspected, maintained, and replaced with appropriate marine-grade parts on an as-needed basis. Failure to exercise seacocks or replace rusty hose clamps is an invitation for disaster.

Reason #2 – On-board HVAC systems are often installed in hard-to-reach areas so they aren’t exactly easy to access for routine maintenance. Therefore, they don’t often get the preventative care and attention that is needed to keep minor issues from becoming bigger problems.

Above: This Webasto FCF self-contained unit was installed on an Island Packet 38 by an unknown contractor or by a “DIY” owner. Either way, this installation makes it painful and time-consuming just to clean the air filter (which really should be done at least every three months). We call this type of installation “maintenance proof” because it is so difficult to access.

• Condensation catch pans should all have drain lines to efficiently route water to a bilge or sump area. A clogged (or non-existent) drain line can cause thousands of dollars of damage from mold, mildew, rot, or rust/corrosion.
• Air filters must be cleaned/changed frequently to ensure proper air flow through the system and to maintain acceptable indoor air quality.
• Refrigerant lines MUST be properly insulated in order to prevent condensation from forming and dripping onto surfaces where mold, mildew, and rot can cause damage.

Reason #3 – Modern yacht air conditioning systems have sophisticated control systems that should be setup and configured and NOT simply left with the “default” settings.

Above: This MicroAir Digital Control Board is popular with numerous HVAC system manufacturers because it offers a number of configurable options at a reasonable cost.

• The blower/fan for your air conditioner should be configured to be “always on” in order to keep air moving throughout your boat. Failure to do this leads to inconsistent system performance and allows increased humidity which can encourage mold & mildew. This setting is typically NOT enabled by default.
• Thermostats must be calibrated in order to display accurate temperature readings. Most thermostats are NOT properly calibrated by default.

Reason #4 – Most marine systems are equipped with dehumidification, reverse cycle (heat pump), and/or electric heating capabilities. Knowing how (and when) to use these options can significantly reduce your utility and maintenance costs.

Above: Even “simple” electronic control boxes have configurable controls, such as a lock-out timer for the compressor (to prevent short-cycling).

• Most systems have a “dehumidify” mode that can be accessed via the digital control panel. Using this mode when you are away from the boat will dramatically reduce electric bills and minimizes marine growth in the seawater cooling system while providing necessary dehumidification to keep mold and mildew from growing inside the boat.
• Most marine HVAC systems have delicate “reversing valves” that are used to automatically switch-over from cooling to heating mode. These valves MUST be exercised regularly in order to prevent them from locking-up. For this reason, Yacht-HQ recommends leaving HVAC systems in an “Auto” mode (and setting an appropriate temperature on the thermostat) which allows the HVAC system to automatically switch back-and-forth between heating and cooling modes as needed. Simply setting the system in cooling mode (and leaving it there) will, over time, allow the reversing valve to get “stuck” in the cooling mode which makes heating mode inoperable. This is an expensive part to replace.

Reason #5 – Boats and yachts live in a hostile (hot, damp, and salty) environment in which corrosion wrecks havoc on wiring, metals, electrical components, and electronics.

Above: This HVAC System Control Board failed catastrophically moments after it was sprayed with salt water from a ruptured sea water hose.

• Yacht-HQ uses ONLY marine-grade tinned stranded copper wiring and adhesive heat shrink wire terminals for AC (120/240 volt) and DC (12/24/32/48 volt) wiring. Untinned wire, solid (not stranded) conductors, aluminum wire, and the nylon (plastic) wire terminals found at hardware and home improvement stores are NOT acceptable in a marine environment. Failure to use the proper materials WILL lead to premature systems failure as corrosion and/or short circuits frequently cause irreparable damage to electrical components and electronic controls.
• Is should be obvious to all that circuit boards DO NOT like to be WET and/or HOT… so HVAC control boxes should ALWAYS be mounted far away from potential sources of water and heat… even if doing so means that wiring must be extended. Wire is cheap. Circuit boards are expensive. Yacht-HQ is constantly amazed by the frequency with which we are called to replace circuit boards that failed prematurely due to water intrusion and/or over-heating.

High Quality air conditioning service isn’t necessarily expensive… but poor quality work will cost you MUCH more in the long run . Please contact Yacht-HQ for a free consultation regarding your upcoming HVAC installation, maintenance, or repair needs.

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The Best Marine Air Conditioners for Boats & Other Marine Vessels

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

Having the best marine air conditioner is beneficial for the entire boat and the people on it. The even temperature movement from any boat AC unit and other self-contained units of a marine AC influence boating results.

Getting the right boat AC system starts with knowing the answer to, “How do you size a marine air conditioner?” Here are other essential features, factors, and FAQs about marine air conditioning systems for your reference:

• Boat Sizing and Layout – These are important when choosing the top-rated marine air conditioners or specific portable boat air conditioner. Decide wisely which marine air conditioner or portable marine air conditioner to buy. Measure the square area you like to get cooled to know the load factor. Include insulations, sunlight exposure, windows, height, and other factors for a large or small boat air conditioner.
• These refrigeration factors help determine the desirable British Thermal Units (BTUs) or power draw for the entire boat, which influences the needed cooling power of the entire boat hatch from your energy-efficient marine air conditioners.
• Ease of Installation: This relates to the practical cost of installing your boat hatch air conditioner. The easier you install it, the better to plug, play, and relocate like a portable AC for boat does.
• Installation for a portable boat AC, a 12 volt boat air conditioner, or a marine air conditioner 16,000 BTU varies. They’ll likely need specific wiring, plumbing, ducting, and location aspects that may be handy, mild, or complex to install.
• Mount your marine air conditioner units properly for good refrigeration cycle or return air to and from the cooling units. Ensure the marine air conditioners have proper ducting, discharge options, and enough space to ease their maintenance servicing.
• Power Supply: All marine air conditioners run on an alternating current or AC power source. They range from a 12v marine air conditioner to a larger 230-volt cooling performance with 3-phase compressors.

Check the manufacturer’s specifications of a marine air conditioner brand for recommended amperage, wiring, and circuit breaker sizes.

Read these reviews to get your most efficient marine air conditioner.

• Comes with a chiller unit
• Low fuel consumption
• Durable construction

• Easy to install
• Low start-up current
• Best works with boats and yachts

• Power-saving
• Portable and lightweight
• Ideal for small rooms and spaces

Table of Contents

1. Webasto 5011396A Air Conditioner Retrofit

2. marinaire marine ac and heat pump, 3. campelify 1910e-ac compact air conditioning, 4. dometic 207500310 envirocomfort retrofit, 5. black+decker bpact10wt portable ac, factors to consider when choosing marine air conditioners, how many watts does a marine air conditioner use, how long do marine air conditioners last, how do you maintain a marine air conditioner, how do you size a marine air conditioner, top 5 marine air conditioner reviews.

Among all the Webasto marine air conditioners (ACs), this self-contained AC retrofit unit is the first bestseller. Boaters love this sailboat air conditioner model that comes as a platinum series with a chiller unit for optimum performance.

The 5011396A marine air conditioning system has a cooling output of 115 volts/60Hz producing 10,000 BTU. It features a reverse cycle heat marine AC with quiet operation and a robust design that is solidly built and economical.

This self contained marine AC unit works best as a new installation or replacement and upgrade of an entire unit. The square-sized kit has a compressor compartment, condenser, evaporator, remote thermostat, and controller for a quiet operation.

I love the AC kit’s performance among big air conditioners with superior velocity blowers. The velocity blowers are durably built, comes with instructions, and complete with product information and materials for solid cooling results.

It’s a digitally and remotely programmable thermostat providing ease of operations, monitoring, and noise reduction. I can attest that these boat air systems work as one of the top-tier marine air conditioners in the market.

• Low fuel consumption/maintenance, and solid cooling results
• Well-designed and durable construction for a hassle-free installation
• Affordable and best marine AC system for a quieter operation
• Comes with a chiller unit for an optimized performance
• Excellent velocity rotatable blowers and remote thermostat control
• The square-sized air conditioner system may be difficult to retrofit

Another bestseller on our review is a compact size marine air conditioner and heat pump manufactured by MarinAire. It is really easy to install and provides outstanding cooling and quieter operation like a portable marine air conditioning unit.

I‘ve been using this 110-120 volt and 60-hertz contained marine air conditioner for over 2 years. This Integra model is easy-to-install with built in pressure gauges for better operations using its D smart control system. The digital control features help the configuration and setup of the remote temperature sensor. It is a very good small marine air conditioner unit that works with limited cabin enclosures and tiny boat spaces.

The marine AC unit has a low start-up current or low energy consumption even at higher cooling temperatures. The high-velocity rotatable blower of this boat air system works well when adjusted for any 360-degree cooling position. It comes with a compressor sound cover for noise reduction, stainless steel drain pan, and an environment-friendly R410A refrigerant. Hence, it is great as a 16000 BTU self contained marine air conditioner and heat pump 115v60 system.

• Self-contained marine air conditioner and heat pump with low start-up current
• Easy to install and monitor with rotatable blower and built in pressure gauges
• D-smart control system for better performance monitoring
• Compactly built with stainless steel drain pan and compressor sound cover
• Limited for use on boats and yachts and not designed for vehicles and home use

Check this 12v marine air conditioner review for a compact air conditioning system with a mild cooling capacity you’ll like. It comes with a DC mini-rotary compressor that is ideal for boats, camper vans, vehicle chiller’s, and refrigeration cooling systems.

This portable AC unit has a versatile, compact cycle efficiency and lightweight design for indoor and outdoor uses. It is dubbed the top-rated boat air conditioning system with 450 watts/1,535 BTU cooling power for boats and vehicles.

The compact refrigeration unit comprises of a driver board, condenser, mini-rotary compressor, evaporator, capillary, controller, etc. Its highly-tight direct refrigeration cooling unit features a miniature DC rotary compressor for high performance and vibration cushioning.

I love how this DC air conditioner uses vapor compression technology to chill the air in my boat cabin. Add its microchannel condenser, 1.9-liter compressor, and a 134A refrigerant that removes the heat and circulates chilled air, this is the smartest among boat air handlers I’ve tried for efficient spot cooling in small spaces. It uses a corded electric power source that can be a grid or battery.

• Portable and lightweight AC cycle cooling efficiency for indoor and outdoor uses
• Easy to set up low-cost air handler than most marine air conditioners
• Ideal for spot cooling small rooms and spaces
• Uses vapor compression technology for chilled air of any enclosed spaces.
• Power-saving and works with most 12V batteries, grid, or solar
• To cool larger rooms, it needs to run at full blast for optimal cooling power

Enjoy your boating seasons with this “EnviroCimfort (ECD) Dometic marine air conditioner that packs plumbing and air movement essentials. This retrofit kit is a handy air filter system for mid-sized boats and marine vessel cabins or enclosures.

The Dometic 12,000 BTU marine air conditioner is a dependable upgrade with innovative design, power, and affordable features. I like how it makes an environmentally friendly retrofit solution with useful plumbing and air movement components. This Dometic model is effective in distributing hot air to cool up my boat including the engine room whole year-round. It also comes with an electric box for easy operations, which I enjoyed using since the day I bought it.

Ensure your boat is cool all season with these self contained units of ECD AC kit. It is accompanied by an R-410A refrigerant for ecologically fit cooling performance you’ll surely like. When you purchase it, you will be given a 6 to 12 months of labor and parts warranty. Moreover, you wi;l appreciate that it is a lot more affordable than retrofitting old BTU H self-contained marine ACs.

• Affordable high-capacity marine AC for the best value of money
• Easy-to-install BTU H self-contained marine air conditioning kit
• Power-saving stellar reverse cycle heating and air filter system for mid-sized sailboats and larger boats
• Effective air distribution for boat enclosures any season of the year
• Environmentally-friendly retrofit kit with plumbing and air movement solutions
• Needs a sound shield for quieter operation

The final product on our list is a white BLACK+DECKER portable air conditioner with remote control. This corded electric-powered AC is a solidly powerful cooling and dehumidifying unit that can work well during emergencies.

It provides an unrivaled air conditioning output g to beat the heat. This versatile cooling unit can serve as a main and backup AC unit for midsize cabins while at sea. It has an optimal cooling output at about 10,000 BTU ASHRAE exhaust system. I love its easy-plug-and-play features: a window adaptor, main power cord, and other useful components for each trip.

I bought two units of these small compact AC systems, which helped me complete a great sailboating escapade. The sudden temperature issues while using them as a cooler and dehumidifier are within control. They can be used alternately as primary and secondary units for over 30 days sailboating period. Their environment-friendly R410A refrigerants and LED control panels made them safer and fully remote-controlled.

• Easy to install and assemble portable AC and dehumidifying system
• Quick remote control access and LED control panel for ease of use
• Affordable boat air handler with strong cooling output that beats the heat
• Best to work as a primary and secondary AC unit for all sizes of enclosures
• Power saving with 24-hour timer, sleep mode, and 3-fan level control
• Its cooling strength causes bothersome noise

Understanding how the marine air conditioner works needs a basic awareness of the brands available in the market. The brands in these reviews offer the AC types and components you need to operate them in your boat.

All three main types and functionalities for an effective refrigerant system are simplified below for your guide. Remember that they all have AC components comprising of a compressor, condenser, and evaporator to ease your needed air movement.

These components cool the air circulation with the help of a refrigerant flow, push the airflow cooling process, and transfer it to an evaporator component and then to the air handlers.

The distribution process also includes fans and air handlers to get cooled or chilled air into your boat cabin. You need to know these factors to judge affordable brands, heavy-duty types, among other essentials for quality boat air circulation.

What Are the Three Main Types of Boat Air Conditioning Systems

Many variants of air conditioning kits are offered in the market but boat lovers consider only a few of them. Choose among these three high-quality marine air conditioner types based on your boat size and layout:

• Self Contained Direct Expansion Systems or DX Type AC systems are loved by most boaters for their budget efficiency features. What’s more lovable about these boat AC units is that they are easy-to-install, maintain, move, and restore. They usually work for small-sized to mid-sized boat or marine vessels within about 40 feet vessel length. But they produce a bit of.
• Remote Systems or Split Gas Types are widely used in mid-sized and large marine vessels like yachts and sailboats. Split gas AC units feature a centralized condenser connected by a copper wire to a number of air coolers. Aside from being For their quieter and more space-saving perks, however, you will need to shell out a bit more money.
• Tempered Water Systems or Chilled Water Types are your best option when needing versatile boat AC systems. These systems use a refrigerant in cooling the desired areas of your boat enclosure. But you need to customize an adequate housing for its pipes, low pressure gauges, ducting, and air handlers.

Benefits and Drawbacks of a Marine Ac Unit

Go over the advantages and disadvantages to clear any second thoughts about getting your best choice from this series of reviews

• Has hybrid refrigerant system combining cooler, dehumidifier, and heater functions
• Uses environment-friendly refrigerants for chilled water AC systems and low power consumption
• Packs safety, comfort, and versatility that you may not have enjoyed before
• Makes a cooling difference that beats the heat even at the highest temperatures
• Specially designed AC kits to cool or heat specific areas of your boat
• Portable AC units requiring effortless installation, movement, and maintenance
• Power saving AC models with useful components to extend for longer uses
• Fully remote AC system with LED monitors for less space and quieter operations
• Effective single or self contained AC unit that can cool multiple boat enclosures
• Manual or auto-controlled temperature levels for effective airflow and flexible cooling of multiple areas

Disadvantages

• Expensive models like split gas types having special components and systems
• Larger AC systems can create bothersome noise while cooling wider boat areas
• AC units with larger compressors and cooling, and air handlers consume high amounts of energy from a boat’s battery

Use these marine AC benefits and drawbacks to choose the right one for the layout and size of your boat.

General Care and Maintenance Tips

Follow the essential factors in getting the right ones and know how to maintain and care for them effectively. Taking into consideration the ease of installation, AC efficiency, boat layout and size, and quieter operation are some key aspects. Include as well these general tips for proper care and maintenance:

• Safe and Comfort of Use: Any AC system onboard a vessel is aimed towards cooler air for each boat area. Maintain the AC unit to provide desired temperature levels for the safety and comfort of the people aboard the boat. Include in the preventive checks and care servicing the condenser, compressor, evaporator, air filter, air handlers, and cooling components.
• Quality of Material and Boat Equipment: Amidst extremely hot and humid weather, the soundness of your boating emanates from regular maintenance activities. Ensure preventive servicing is done to prevent rust and corrosion from endangering the quality of the boat and equipment.
• Discharge, Ducting, and Wye Provisions: Ensure that there is sufficient space around the unit to do the maintenance servicing. Remove the unit if necessary, especially the split gas types to include visual checks of the surrounding containment.

These maintenance and care factors are within the functionalities of all the AC brands in this series of reviews. Performing these basic care and maintenance servicing will help prevent enery-consumption and smooth operation issues.

Adding a boat AC onboard may require a generator set aside from the usual battery-powered supply. Ensure around 120-volts/2500-watts AC power to enjoy a 10,000 BTU AC unit, among other electric-powered appliances .

While being docked, a 5,000 BTU AC draws around 5 amperes/1,250 watts with 120-volt power. Generator sets could be an option to supply consistent power to you boat and AC equipment. Inverter-type power sets can also allow you the use electronic equipment, computers, and power tools instead of noisy generators.

These marine AC systems can serve for about 10 to 15 or more years when properly cared for. Various factors affect the life expectancy of a boat air conditioning system. AC models that complete the manufacturer’s recommended repairs, regular checks, and preventive measures can reach about 20 years. Always refer to the manufacturer’s product specifications and care sheet for the appropriate servicing and use.

Do the general maintenance of the boat airconditioning system in a regular and timely manner. Cleaning and declogging dirty air filters ease out the refrigeration system by freeing the airflow passage for the system’s efficiency.

Do the same cleaning of the interior and outdoor AC systems to visually check, clear debris, and rinse condenser coils. Ensure to check the thermostat, clean filters, declog drain lines, and switch-off humidifiers when not in use. Use a small brush, a vacuum, and blowers to dry wet parts before the next operation. Test the drain line by pouring some water for declogging and schedule the next maintenance or tune-up.

The basic tip in sizing your boat air conditioning system is to get the area of the room you need cooling. Get adequate room cooling by multiplying 25 BTU to the total area in square feet. So, for a 200 square feet area dimension, you would need about 5,000 BTU airconditioning systems. Divide the total BTU, say 12,000 by 12,000 to get the 1-ton capability for the new cooling system.

The larger the area to get cooled, the higher capacity and pump connectivity to get on your boat. The use of a pump manifold and pump relay also helps your boat AC unit using a common heat pump.

Ensure to get the needed cooling for the boat room considering various weather conditions and factors mentioned in these reviews. Correctly measure your marine vessel’s AC tonnage to get the heat you need to remove, especially when used for 24 hours.

The essential factors, AC types, and FAQs for the best marine air conditioner units are in these reviews. These top portable air conditioner for boat units and other marine vessels are your premium choices.

Whether a large or a small AC unit for boats or enclosures, they make spaces efficiently cool, providing efficient trips despite fluctuating temperatures or heat levels. Choose from the largest to the smallest boat air conditioner from this unbiased guide. Decide on getting a marine air conditioner 16,000 BTU cooling units or other premium choices that boat owners love.

“My intention from the first day establishing Boating Basics Online is to provide as much help as possible for boaters who want to experience a first safe and convenient trip. So feel free to join us and share your beautiful journeys to the sea!”

EcoPeak roof concept

Webasto unveils the "EcoPeak," a sustainable roof made from bio-mass balanced materials with integrated solar cells, cutting CO2 emissions by 50% and boosting efficiency.

Roof Sensor Modules for autonomous driving

Roof sensor modules: from trucks to robot taxis Expansion of automated and innovative sensor technologies for autonomous driving.

Sustainable roof concept

Webasto presents the "EcoPeak" roof concept, a sustainable solution that reduces CO2 emissions and increases the vehicle's range by combining recyclability, functionality and aesthetic design.

800 Volt High Voltage Heater

Powerful heating solution for electric vehicles The new generation of electric 800-volt High Voltage Heater is extremely compact, powerful and efficient.

Webasto Newsroom Texts, images, stories - in this area Webasto provides media professionals with information and material for their reporting. The communications team is happy to support you in your work.

Webasto is a manufacturer of vehicle roofs and solutions for e-mobility (batteries and heaters). The automotive supplier has an international production and sales network.

Marine air-conditioning systems

The wide range of cooling systems from Webasto for boats and yachts guarantees suitable solutions for different requirements - with or without heating function, for one or more cabins, with fresh outside air, modular or a compact unit.

Benefits of marine air-conditioning systems

Cooling for every need.

Webasto systems offer different cooling and heating capacities for every type of boat and every destination.

Modular or compact

Thanks to the various modules, the systems can be customized or made simple and compact.

Quiet and efficient

All systems have been developed with a focus on the on-board environment and are as quiet and efficient as possible.

Product overview marine air-conditioning systems

BlueCool VX-Series

Bluecool s-series self-contained units.

BlueCool V-Series Chiller Systems

BlueCool C-Series Chiller Systems

BlueCool V-PRO Series Chiller Systems

BlueCool F-Series Fresh Air Makeup unit

BlueCool A-Series Air handler

Breeze by Webasto

BlueComfort Premium

Accessories and control elements for marine air-conditioning systems

BlueCool Connect

BlueCool MyTouch

Find your dealer

Find your nearest Webasto dealer quickly and easily or arrange your consultation appointment directly.

More solutions

Marine heaters.

Marine roofs & shades

The new Self Contained Unit DC 24/48 V

The first 24 /48 volt dc self contained unit. small, light and powerful. variable speed technology for everyone<.

from Megayachts to Small Boats

Frigomar offers a full range of marine air conditioning and refrigeration systems. everything you need to be in absolute comfort on your boat..

The first Inverter system on board a boat

FRIGOMAR: 50TH ANNIVERSARY

HIGH PERFORMANCE SELF CONTAINED UNIT 24V/48V DC WITH VARIABLE SPEED – THE FIRST IN THE MARKET

UVA/UVC LED Air Sterilizer

Air conditioning systems.

Centralised

• Chiller INVERTER Three Phase
• Chiller INVERTER Mono Phase
• Chiller ON/OFF
• Air handling units
• Air extraction unit

Independent

• Self Contained Unit INVERTER AC
• Self Contained Unit INVERTER DC

Accessories

• Switchboards
• Room Thermostats
• Air Conditioning Accessories

Innovation at the highest levels

With our new generation of BLDC Inverter technology Chillers and SCU Frigomar has a complete and technologically advanced system.

Independent or centralized systems allow an application suitable for any type of boat.

We have every component necessary for the air conditioning system, from the chiller to the fancoil, up to the electrical panel.

Only the best of air conditioning:

• very compact and low weight
• greater energy efficiency
• modularity and simplicity of installation
• special materials that ensure greater resistance to corrosion
• thermostats with touch screen
• communication via WI-FI and dedicated APP (only about Self Contained Inverter)

BLDC INVERTER

FRIGOMAR was the first to apply BLDC Inverter technology to the air conditioning and marine refrigeration sector.

Download our information material in digital format: datasheets, catalogs and brochures to learn more about our products.

FRIGOMAR USA Exclusive Marine Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

FRIGOMAR © All rights reserved | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy The Company reserves the right to make changes to product information without prior notice.

Made by CPLWEB.IT

Are you looking for the best marine air conditioning, yacht air conditioning, micro air products or dometic air conditioning parts? Are you also experiencing problem in keeping your yacht cool? What are you waiting for? Check our other available items and get your 10% DISCOUNT now!

Due to global parts shortage the unity board is $500 but it ships immediately.

Be sure to get the right parts with a free consultation from a marine air conditioning expert. Drop your concerns by sending an e-mail at [email protected] .

Product Categories

Dometic self contained​, dometic split gas system​​, dometic marine chilled-water​, air quality, miscellaneous products, marine air conditioning & refrigeration.

Please be informed that prices and production times are affected by global supply crisis. Thank you for your understanding.

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