HVAC
We installed HVAC two years ago on our H-34. It was worth the trouble. We use the boat more and in an entirely different manner. I did the work myself, and it cost about $2k. Of course, you will pay more if others do the engineering and installation. It will require 12 to 16 thousand BTUs depending on where your boat will be located. If your are staying in the Hudson valley 12k will do the job. For the Chesapeake south, 16k is better. On any boat there is a problem with distribution of the air. Ductwork takes up storage space. I have chosen to install a 12,000 BTU unit in the aft cabin. I plan to add a 5,000 BTU unit in the forward cabin. No ductwork running the length of the boat is necessary. The two units may be run independently and they take up less space than one centrally located unit with ductwork. I have lost no storage space in the aft area of the boat, and when completed, little in the forward. Of course it requires two of everything, but you can run the smaller unit on an inverter. Air while motoring, or from a 1000 W Honda generator. 5000 BTUs is better than nothing on a hot, humid, rainy day. The single 12k unit has been serving us well for the last 2 years with fans helping to circulate the air to the forward cabin. It will be better when the front unit is also installed. Other locations for single units include under the chart table, and next to the water heater, both with duct work running forward and aft to serve the ends of the boat. I have also seen a unit mounted above the port setee.
