What A/C unit to buy?

[Jim Wharton]

Hi Hunter Owners,I'm looking to install an A/C on my boat this season. I have been looking at Mermaid, Marineair, Cruisair, and Flagship. I hear alot of folks talk about Mermaid, half say their great, half say their not marine grade equipment. I have been looking at Flagship Marine, and the unit look real good. What's your thoughts.Thanks

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

All the major brands are a good choice

Just make sure you buy a big enough system for the size of your boat. Too many boat owners skimp on the size to save money, only to be disappointed when the system they chose can't make enough difference in cabin comfort to be more than barely noticeable....and then blame it on the brand they chose.

 

[John K Kudera]

I chose Mermaid

Hi Jim,I chose a Mermaid, several reasons,Size, Their unit fit my space.5 year garanteeall components are std a/c and are available everywhere.The tray and mounting platform are stainless steel.Cost.I am sure several others also have the same features.I am about 90%complete on my installation, so far there have been few headaches. Don't hesitate to e-mail me if you have questions.jkksail@tidalwave.comJohns/v 50-50 H34 1984

 

[Clyde Lichtenwalner]

Marine Air

Two years ago I was going the same decision-making process. Mermaid was good, but I found that everything you wanted to know was published on the Marine Air site - installation manuals and all. Found that the Marine Air units have fairly sophisticated control system that allows many blower speeds and many other programmable features. Really quite an interesting control system. I was told that Mermaid (by Mermaid distributor at the Annaplois Boat Show)uses a digital thermostat availble at Home Depot. Quite a difference in features. Mermaid was a bit less expensive, appeared to have a quality unit, but because of my installation, lost to more blower speeds and more features.One tip. WIth the Marine Air unit, and maybe others, condensate collects in the drip pan under the evaporator. The drip pan drain holes on my unit could be lower. Too much water is left to slosh around in the drip pan and wet the surroundings when under way. Mechanically, the Marine Air installation is working well.

 

[Ed Schenck]

Also Mermaid.

Compared units at the boat show. Warranty, stainless, and size were main features. Mermaid also comes with a very good digital thermostat. The installation kit is very complete and the company has been very helpful at their -800 number. There is an optional T-type valve that pulls the condensate out of the tray and pumps it out with the outlet water.