Icebox

[Mike]

I have a 1977 )'Day 27 with a four cubic foot icebox. I'm thinking about converting to a refirigerator. What's involved? I think I could set up a dedicated battery with a solar panel. Is it worth it? What kind of unit do I buy? How much? Can I do it myself, or is it a major hassle?

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Another forum

You should also ask this question in the Marine Refrigeration Forum on this site. As far as whether it's "worth" it or not, you need to take into account how much time you spend on the boat. Day sail? You might be better off with a cooler. Weekend? Maybe check out those nifty AC/DC Coleman cool/warm boxes. I have one and love it. You could add a solar panel to help charge the battery for that and no installation. I use my extraordinarily under-insulated icebox as dry storage and use one of those Coleman boxes for a fridge. It's perfect.You should also look at the value of a fridge. Will it enhance the value of your boat enough to justify the cost & time? I know it certainly wouldn't be justifiable for mine.LaDonna

 

[david lewis]

solar panel for fridge?

A solar panel will not provide the amount of energy you need. You will need a wind generator or running your engine to keep the batteries up to level. If you are plugged in at the dock you will be ok but on cruises I wouldn't waste my time, Use our advice and use well insulated ice box, very cold ice, frozen foods, and keep drinks separately...drink warm drinks instead of cold (room temp).

 

[lnranch]

I have a O'Day 28 and I added a norcold unit to the icebox. It was a simple installation and I have had excellent results. This unit is both ac/dc and will switch over when you plug in shore power; however, I installed so it an be turned off from DC when needed. I use it for overnight without a battery problem. For longer cruises I would place block ice in and use the DC side only when I am using the engine.Good Luck