We are going to install a reverse cylce AC unit in our 1988 Catalina 30 this summer. The feedback I have been getting on the hand carried thru the hatch model (7k btu) is not quite going to do the job down here in the southeast this summer. A permanently installed unit is the way to go. The big issue is which one? I am starting my research on this board to get a concensus on the best unit with the greatest dependability, easiest installation, lowest maintenance, warranty and at the best cost. I realize installation and vent configuration locations can play a factor, but for now, its the actual make and model unit itself that I am seeking information on. I can accomodate a 12K to 16K btu unit for my Catalina 30, located amidships. Any information is always appreciated from you fine folks. Thanks all Bob "Breezin II"
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Mermaid....
especially if you plan to do the install yourself and generally best price. Folks there seem very helpful and most of the word here has been good. link below Once you have perm install, you will never go back.
especially if you plan to do the install yourself and generally best price. Folks there seem very helpful and most of the word here has been good. link below Once you have perm install, you will never go back.
Air Conditioning
For ten years I used a GE window air conditioner, sat it in the companion way. Pulled some towels down to seal it off. It was 11000BTU and did a fine job at night, could go down to 60 degrees without a problem. Didn't do very well during the day when it was 90+ degrees. Yes, it was a pain getting in and out and yes I had to find storage for it. When not in use it sat on the quarter birth. The cost was about $200. My current boat which I bought last spring (it's five years old) has reverses cycle A/C and served me well for three months. I went to the boat one day when it was hot as heck, turned on the ole A/C and it wouldn't cool the boat. Called for repair and the bill was about $200. Just before hauling, I noticed the A/C wasn't working. So one of the first things I must do on relaunch is get that fixed again -- may need to be pulled for repair $$$$. I know many people who have reveses cycle and never have a problem. Just a thought and best of luck.
For ten years I used a GE window air conditioner, sat it in the companion way. Pulled some towels down to seal it off. It was 11000BTU and did a fine job at night, could go down to 60 degrees without a problem. Didn't do very well during the day when it was 90+ degrees. Yes, it was a pain getting in and out and yes I had to find storage for it. When not in use it sat on the quarter birth. The cost was about $200. My current boat which I bought last spring (it's five years old) has reverses cycle A/C and served me well for three months. I went to the boat one day when it was hot as heck, turned on the ole A/C and it wouldn't cool the boat. Called for repair and the bill was about $200. Just before hauling, I noticed the A/C wasn't working. So one of the first things I must do on relaunch is get that fixed again -- may need to be pulled for repair $$$$. I know many people who have reveses cycle and never have a problem. Just a thought and best of luck.
Cruise Air
I think the size for your boat is called the Cabin Mate model for CruisAir. These are constructed of heavier guage stainless in the right places (than other brands) and the exchanger is much larger relative to capacity; also easier to drain the condensate because of the design and certainly worth pricing against the competitors. As I recall from this exercise a few yrs ago, CruisAir was more expensive than the others but not prohibitively so given the advantages and comes with fancier controls and vents too. The thing that really drove my decision was the ease of installation as it was a DIY project which took only 2 weekends. Don Illusion
I think the size for your boat is called the Cabin Mate model for CruisAir. These are constructed of heavier guage stainless in the right places (than other brands) and the exchanger is much larger relative to capacity; also easier to drain the condensate because of the design and certainly worth pricing against the competitors. As I recall from this exercise a few yrs ago, CruisAir was more expensive than the others but not prohibitively so given the advantages and comes with fancier controls and vents too. The thing that really drove my decision was the ease of installation as it was a DIY project which took only 2 weekends. Don Illusion
Tried A Window Unit
I had a window unit on my 35 Coronado and I agree it served us well with the cold air blowing directly into the cabin that provided better and more direct cooling for less money. Although their is some advantage and cost savings in having a window type unit, in my situation with the Catalina, I plan on taking the boat to the coast for some coastal cruising and prefer a central permanently installed system. Regards Bob
I had a window unit on my 35 Coronado and I agree it served us well with the cold air blowing directly into the cabin that provided better and more direct cooling for less money. Although their is some advantage and cost savings in having a window type unit, in my situation with the Catalina, I plan on taking the boat to the coast for some coastal cruising and prefer a central permanently installed system. Regards Bob
Mermaid
We installed a Mermaid 6500 btu into our boat. Though we have a 38 foot catamaran it cools our port hull to a very chilly temp. (our Hunter 335 had a 9000 btu Marine Air, nosier but it cooled the whole boat). It is mounted under our bed and is very quiet. It is a 6 amp start and a 4 amp draw. We can actually run it on our battery bank with an inverter and powered by solar. Don't do it often....but. We like the abiltiy to just go. Not worry about pulling the ac down and stowing it then setting up where ever we tie up. I also believe that a permanently mounted unit will last longer and have less abuse from being hauled around. You could actually end up spending as much as an installed one across the years. Though not as cheap as the window units we were able to get it brand new with the full install kit and the digital control for $550 from Defender. Watch the sales. Secondly unless a window unit is permanently install vs just a hood over a hatch or companionway it adds a weak spot in the security of your boat. Especially if the boat is left with the temporay installation in place. (I also don't like the looks, but that is just me)
We installed a Mermaid 6500 btu into our boat. Though we have a 38 foot catamaran it cools our port hull to a very chilly temp. (our Hunter 335 had a 9000 btu Marine Air, nosier but it cooled the whole boat). It is mounted under our bed and is very quiet. It is a 6 amp start and a 4 amp draw. We can actually run it on our battery bank with an inverter and powered by solar. Don't do it often....but. We like the abiltiy to just go. Not worry about pulling the ac down and stowing it then setting up where ever we tie up. I also believe that a permanently mounted unit will last longer and have less abuse from being hauled around. You could actually end up spending as much as an installed one across the years. Though not as cheap as the window units we were able to get it brand new with the full install kit and the digital control for $550 from Defender. Watch the sales. Secondly unless a window unit is permanently install vs just a hood over a hatch or companionway it adds a weak spot in the security of your boat. Especially if the boat is left with the temporay installation in place. (I also don't like the looks, but that is just me)
Mermaid also.
We have five seasons of cooling and heating with our Mermaid 12K. It has never failed to work first time, all the time. The only maintenance is keeping the filters(air and water intakes) clean and winterizing(Lake Erie). I did my research at boat shows where I could listen to them running and see the construction. One important selling feature was factory support. Their help when I was doing my own install was exceptional. My boat is 37' but traditional(1979). So our interior volumes are probably similar. If my boat was south of the Mason-Dixon I would opt for the 16K. The difference in price and very slight difference in size would be worth it. 12K = L-19.75" W-13" H-13.75" 16K = L-19.75" W-13.5" H-13.75" A standard cardboard box with one inch cut off the top was almost a perfect template. Remember that you have to choose a blower direction - right, left, or straight up.
We have five seasons of cooling and heating with our Mermaid 12K. It has never failed to work first time, all the time. The only maintenance is keeping the filters(air and water intakes) clean and winterizing(Lake Erie). I did my research at boat shows where I could listen to them running and see the construction. One important selling feature was factory support. Their help when I was doing my own install was exceptional. My boat is 37' but traditional(1979). So our interior volumes are probably similar. If my boat was south of the Mason-Dixon I would opt for the 16K. The difference in price and very slight difference in size would be worth it. 12K = L-19.75" W-13" H-13.75" 16K = L-19.75" W-13.5" H-13.75" A standard cardboard box with one inch cut off the top was almost a perfect template. Remember that you have to choose a blower direction - right, left, or straight up.
Mermaid
I have a 16,000 for my Hunter 31. Its been perfect, probably could have done fine with a 12,000. Installed it myself easily, also has heat; worth its weight in gold!!
I have a 16,000 for my Hunter 31. Its been perfect, probably could have done fine with a 12,000. Installed it myself easily, also has heat; worth its weight in gold!!
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