Bob will examine the latest refrigerant technologies for climate control and refrigeration systems design best suited for today’s cruising boater. Considerations will given for methods of refrigerating and freezing food with the most efficient power consumption without generator reliance. Refrigeration typically represents the single biggest daily power consumption. For this reason we will focus on energy management with good box design and condenser efficiencies. Examples of efficient box design and types of DYI construction material will be covered, as well as possible improvements that could be made to existing boxes. AC, DC, propane and engine driven condensers will be reviewed, including the latest variable speed control units. A general explanation will be given of a typical refrigeration circuit as it pertains to troubleshooting and diagnostics. This program should provide a good foundation for optimizing box design, choosing a refrigeration system and basic troubleshooting.
