Blown Circuit Braker

[Pitman]

I have a Cool Mate 12,000 BTU A/C unit on my hunter 31. It works fine as long as I do not try to use the thermostat (leave it running constantly). If I raise the temp setting on the thermostat and the unit shuts off, when it tries to come on again the circuit braker blows. I would like to be able to set the unit to cycle off and on so I can stop freezing in the cabin. This is my first year owning the boat, but the unit is only 2 years old.Help!

 

[Guest]

New Thermostat!

Try a new thermostat. I think that may be your problem.

 

[Eric Lorgus]

Could be the motor is drawing too much

I'm not familiar with this air conditioner, but most use an electric motor to run the compressor. When motors start they will draw more current at first than they draw just to keep running. The question here is, is your motor drawing too much when it starts because it's worn (unlikely for a 2 yr old unit), or is your breaker too small for the load? Are there other devices on the same circuit as this breaker? Who installed it, professional or do-it-yourselfer? The solution isn't as simple as putting in a bigger breaker; that depends on size (gauge)of wiring and length of circuit.This may be one best handled by a professional marine electrician. Breakers that trip constantly may be signs of serious trouble.Eric LorgusS/V Explorer