Considering Install of Refridgeration Unit

[canavap]

Has anyone installed the Waeco self contained ice box conversion unit? The way the admiral goes through ice, it will pay for itself in a couple years!

http://www.defender.com/product.jsp?path=-1|406|10789|86418&id=323775

If you have, I'd be curious what issues you ran into and how the unit performs.

 

[wise4]

Interesting unit.... According to the spec sheet, it should have no problem cooling the catalina icebox... I didn't see the power draw though.... Looks easy to install... In really warm areas, a fresh air supply might be needed since the compressor cant be moved away from the icebox area.... also wonder how loud it is....

let us know what you find out.

 

[dj2210]

I like the idea of it being a compact, all in one unit but wonder if there is enough clearance between the icebox and the cockpit lazarette wall. I actually already have a dc fridge unit with the compressor in the aft lazarette but it doesn't work so was thinking of installing this one. I should probably contact the manufacturer of mine and see about getting it repaired first. An internet search reveils a couple good reviews as long as the box isn't too big.

 

[Stu Jackson]

The linked website also mentions an INSULATED box.

 

[jrowan]

"Cool" unit but I would also wonder about the voltage draw. Make sure you have enough amp hours in the batteries to handle the draw.

 

[wise4]

I recently went with the norcold unit ... the first unit was DOA. Defender was initially hesitant to exchange the new unit... wanting me to work with norcold instead. Of course, norcold just wanted me to take it to a service center... That would be fine for warranty work, not for an out of box failure. A second call to defender and they exchanged the unit.

A bit of a pain... but the 2nd unit works great... The power draw for the newer norcold units is 2.5A... Not too bad

 

[Sanfelice]

Which model did you use and how did you configure the cold plate? Thanks

 

[wise4]

Which model did you use and how did you configure the cold plate? Thanks

Not sure if your question was directed to me .... If it was... I used the 4408 with the L shaped evap plate. Mounted up high in the aft end of the icebox. The long side of the evap fit just fine running side to side even with the extra rigid insulation inside the icebox.
Compressor was mounted in the port sail locker.

 

[Sanfelice]

Refrigerator

Thanks for the reply Wise4. Were you able to mount the cooling plate on its' edge so the "L" shape was vertical or did you have to mount it so part of plate laid flat on the bottom of the box. Hopefully you understand what I mean. Thanks.

 

[wise4]

Thanks for the reply Wise4. Were you able to mount the cooling plate on its' edge so the "L" shape was vertical or did you have to mount it so part of plate laid flat on the bottom of the box. Hopefully you understand what I mean. Thanks.

Ohh... Nope ... no problem mounting it vertical as is recommended...