Refridge and freezer

[dehler25]

I have a 450 and the freezer quit. It seems that the pin valve into the evaporator got plugged as I couldn't get a charge, the evaporator inlet tube frosts up but the evaporator doesn't get cold. It is original and I thought to replace as it also needs a thermostat and fan, given its age of 23 years couldn't expect it to survive a lot longer. Anyone know how thick the insulation used was? Should I add interior insulation? Can't see without tearing up everything around it. I am arguing with myself about an evaporator vs cycling holding plate. Conversion thoughts? Sadly it worked perfect until I shut it down for quite a while. I am looking to move aboard shortly so a freezer matters.

 

[Terry Cox]

Different model boat, but our 1991 units have about four inches of insulating foam around the outside of the boxes. Works pretty well. Also, both the freezer and refrigerator use AB (Dometic) air cooled units that work very well. Had to replace the fridge unit a few years ago as the compressor died. Freezer unit still doing its job.

 

[dehler25]

I have Dometic and an Adler Barbour compressors, the fridge had the holding plate replaced with a VitriFrigo evaporator and it has worked well. The boxes are built in quite well and seeing anything on the outsides would require serious effort with unavoidable damage which is why I asked. If less than four inches I would have considered adding interior insulation as a last resort. I could have the existing freezer unit repaired but almost seems like throwing good money after bad although I may call a refrigeration guy and get an expert opinion.

 

[marcham]

Do you have lots of solar to run the evaporator or would you run the engine to cool the holding plate? Honestly, the compressors are so efficient nowdays that evaporators make more sense in 95% of installations, especially if you have enough solar to charge up the batteries by 2pm each day.

As for insulation, my 2001 380 has about 1.5 in of open cell foam. We have no access to any of the sides so adding more is just not an option....

 

[artboas]

I have a 450 and the freezer quit. It seems that the pin valve into the evaporator got plugged as I couldn't get a charge, the evaporator inlet tube frosts up but the evaporator doesn't get cold. It is original and I thought to replace as it also needs a thermostat and fan, given its age of 23 years couldn't expect it to survive a lot longer. Anyone know how thick the insulation used was? Should I add interior insulation? Can't see without tearing up everything around it. I am arguing with myself about an evaporator vs cycling holding plate. Conversion thoughts? Sadly it worked perfect until I shut it down for quite a while. I am looking to move aboard shortly so a freezer matters.

If you have access to a fridge repair pro, that would be my choice. You probably need to change the compressor unit, but then you’ll need to plumb it in. Unless you have the tools & experience, this won’t be simple