Finally -- AC installed

[Golfman25]

Heck, it only took a year, plus. Last year I came here asking about AC brands and sizes for my 281 Chris Craft. Went and ordered a 16,000 btu Ocean Breeze last July. After many fits and starts, I finally got it installed and running just in time for FALL. Just need to put the outlet thru hull in this winter when she is on dry land. Here is the rundown:

Located under the dinette seat in place of a current drawer. 2 different platforms made. Finally settled on a suspended platform to keep it off the hull bottom. A bitch to get together, but nice and sturdy.

Three vents. Did one the hard way and went accross the cabin. Get a nice air flow thru the cabin.

Probably made 20+ trips to the hardware/boat store. It never failed. I thought I had everything to complete that day's task and opps, I am missing this or didn't think of that. I really suck at planning this stuff.

But boy is it nice to sit in a cool cabin when it is 90+ with humidity. Takes about 1.5 hours to go from 90 to 72. Should allow us more usable days since the Admiral doesn't like the heat so much. Thanks to all who chimmed in on my previous posts.

 

[Planeguy]

Nice job! My 16,000 BTU air conditioner was working overtime today on Lake Erie. It was 98 degrees and the inside of my boat got up to 81 degrees. The air was cold but I think the previous owner installed the unit and didn't do it properly. Good luck with yours, sounds like you did it right the first time.

 

[rduhon]

We have a self contained 15K a/c in our 281. It is located across from the dinette, up high.
It blows good cold air on the V-berth at night. But at times this year, it takes a while to
get cold during the day due to the air and water temperatures. But once it cools down, it
keeps her cold.

 

[rduhon]

 

[rduhon]

Also insulated the top of the boat with 3/4" foam insulation and covered with paneling.
That helps keep the heat from entering thru the fiberglass.