Hi,

I have the option to buy a thermoelectric cooling element from the local classifieds so I am considering building a coolbox in my P27. Is there anyone who has done this who could share any tips? From another thread I have understood that the P275 is fitted with a coolbox from the start? Maybe som P27 also?

Regards,

Ola

P27 / 144

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Hi Ola. I fitted a complete refrigeration unit into the coolbox of my 275 last year. There was plenty of room for the unit and motor on the shelf underneath the sink on the port side of the companionway, although it was fiddle getting acess to the final wiring and connection to the cold-plate . I'm not sure whether a 27 has room for a coolboz in the same place as a 275. The insulation was greatly improved by squirting lots of builders foam round the box - cheap and easy to do. I leave the fridge on whenever the engine is running, and it is not too power greedy Good luck!

Tim Howard

Have a look on Google! None of them quote a current consumption! For the picnic-box type for use in cars it says use when driving; car battery should run it for "a couple of hours" - sounds like about 15A!

Efficiency "5-10%" compared to about 50% for compressor system.

Geoff Harwood P21/30

Yes, I know a compressor system is much more efficient. But I had the oppurtunity to pick up a 2nd hand thermoelectric unit for cheap. Unfortunately somebody beat me to it. The problem with the cheap boxes you buy to use in your car is that they are poorly isolated and lack a thermostat. So they just run at full power constantly. With a well isolated coolbox and thermostat control you can get reasonable power consumption. But not as good as a compressor.

Regards,

Ola

P27 / 144

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Hi

I fitted a WAECO Unit approx 8 years ago in my Parker 27 with the refridgeration unit in the dead space under the cockpit sole. It has been very useful and reliable. It does tend to flatten the batteries in the hot weather but you can make ice.

Regards

Richard

Hi Richard,

Did you put extra isolation around the coolbox or is it properly isolated as it is? As I understand it you put the compressor unit under the cockpit and from there tubes to the evaporator mounted in the coolbox? It does seem like the best solution.

Regards,

Ola

P27 / 144

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Hi Ola

Apologies for the delay in replying we have been away on a Seal rally for the week.

I did not add any extra insulation to the cool box as I did not want to take the boat apart to much. It is not very well insulated, just pieces of polystyrene in the gap. I did however lag the pipes from the compressor to the cooling plate with pipe lagging from the DIY Store. I intend to improve the insulation one day.

Regards

Richard