Leaking Windows Causing Electrical Shorts

[ProjMan]

Leaking Windows Causing Electrical Shorts


I tried posting this on the Catalina 30 group but did not get any response!

I am new to sailing and new to 120V power on the water. I have traced down some problems that all point to the need for 120V power updates on my 1980 Catalina 30. Great boat but no breaker system. I live in the New Orleans area. It rains a lot. Water has made it way into two critical spaces: Panel area over desk and the A/C unit across from the bathroom. I understand that windows leak but when the water finds its way to electrical connections, well, let's just say I have learned to sniff out problems and repalce wires and connections as necessary.

I want to install a main breaker and system breakers as necessary. I have looked online and see multiple brands that all should be sufficient. Defender.com has two products that I am considering: Sea Dog, Paneltronics and Sea Dog. Should I eliminate any of these brands?

I am also looking at installing Galvanic Isolator. Brands under consideration:
Yandina and Nemar.

Looking for recommendations:
Should I consider replacing all windows?
Am I heading in the right direction with adding a breaker system?
Is installation of Galvanic Isolator recommended?

Thanks in advance for your response!

NewBe ProjMan

 

[Stu Jackson]

ProjMan

Take it a step at a time. Before you start talking about what manufacturers are the best for your needs, figure out what you need first. I could say "Blue Seas" as an added vendor, but what will that do to help you?

You need to plan what you need first. Most boat AC systems of your vintage have the shorepower inlet wired to a main AC breaker and then one, two or three AC circuits: water heater, 120 V outlets (receptacles) and a spare for maybe an added microwave. My 1986 boat has only the main AC breaker and the water heater and the receptacles are "live" once AC is plugged in, depending therefore on the main breaker for protection. That's simply the way they built them in 1986 and was street legal back then.

We have no idea what else you may have on your boat that requires AC, or even if, indeed, you have a water heater or outlets. So start with the basics of how many circuits you want or need.

Then realize that newer boats have newer Codes to apply, so new boats have the shorepower inlet, then a circuit breaker right next to it, then the wiring to the panel's AC main breaker, and then the circuits.

There are many books on the subject of boat AC wiring, and most likely lots of internet resources, too. Try BoatUS, Google Don Casey, etc.

You're heading in the right direction. A galvanic isolator is not "required", could be considered "helpful" for stray current corrosion, but you can always add it later when you learn more about AC current and can make your own informed decision.

And for goodness sake, fix the fixed ports. Immediately --- DC power shorts are dangerous, too, very dangerous. Catalina Direct has good port repair kits.

 

[biggio]

Hey Albert I have couple of books that may help. I will try to be onboard my boat this weekend. You might want to post this on the ask all sailor forums.
Nick

 

[ProjMan]

I have determined and purchased a breaker panel and found another one that I prefer. I plan to buy the one listed on this web site http://shop.catalinaowners.com/detail.htm?group=1001&cat=3327

I have reviewed my power equipment and determined the best location to be in the galley close to my ladder. There are currently 3 electric swiches that can be replaced in that same area. The panel will have a main breaker and (5)15 amp breakers: Air condition, Water Heater, Refrigerator (Not Working and will probably need to be replaced eventually), a breaker for standard receptacles on either side. I plan to install a GFCI receptable on each of the receptacle runs.

I am also giving serious consideration to replacing the windows. http://shop.catalinaowners.com/detail.htm?group=1256

Thanks for the input!