Window A/C through forward hatch
I considered the companionway hatch idea, but didn't want the A/C blocking it, so I put a 5k unit on top, with the face of the A/C against the open forward hatch. I made a canvas cover that snaps to the A/C, and to snaps that I installed around the hatch (using existing screw holes). I sewed lead shot in to the "skirt" of the canvas to keep it against the deck, and keep the wind out (don't drop overboard!). I used a cheap piece of closed cell foam (Wal Mart sleeping bag pad) to form a divider between the cold air outlet, and the return, to make sure the cold air makes it into the cabin. I put cheap hardware store handles on the top case of the A/C unit, for lifting and carrying handles, and I used large white rubber bumpers to make no skid/no mar feet for the A/C. I use the handles as lash points to secure the A/C to the deck, so that it doesn't move around. The canvas makes it bug and rain proof, and it has withstood some very heavy rain storms w/o leaking a drop. When it's time to sail, I set it on the dock, and snap the canvas over it to keep it dry (it will also fit my dock box, or in the cabin). The A/C and lead shot were on hand, and the only cost to me was for the canvas, snaps and closed cell foam for about $25 total cost, plus some labor at the sewing machine. It keeps the cabin very cool, in 95+ heat. I did buy some bilge blower hose, that I can wedge into the cold air vents (sans louvers) to route the cold air wherever I want it, but I found it was unnecessary, as the A/C cools the entire boat. Michael Carter "Windswept" Hunter 26
