Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

Re: Convert ice box to refrig/freezer

I spent several years researching and contemplating this decision, and finally settled on a Frigoboat water-cooled unit. The deciding factors were energy consumption and noise level. I have been extremely pleased with the decision. The installation was a bit daunting, largely because the compressor cannot be located more than 5 feet from the Keel Cooler, but after experimenting with various configurations, the actual execution wasn't difficult. I don't leave the system running all the time, but have often left it on for a week or two on the mooring, with power supplied by solar panels. I have never seen the batteries reduced below 90% SOC. The compressor is the only component with moving parts. It is installed on a little shelf in a cockpit locker. One has to listen carefully to hear it from inside the cabin. I did my best to upgrade the insulation without tearing the galley apart, but I know it could be a lot better than it is.

Messages In This Thread