Has anyone added helm air conditioning to their dual console? We have a Freedom 275 and find it hard to enjoy the boat in the middle of summer since moving from California to Maryland. With a heat-sensitive wife and new one year baby in the family, the answer is not "suck it up and drink a Gatorade." It's going to either be "yes, you can add an AC unit in the cargo space under the helm" or "sell the GW and get a different boat." There is a Southport 33 DC for sale near me, but that's a $200K upgrade...
Air conditioning a dual console
- Thread starter mr_mbuna
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Fishtales
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I'm sure it can be done in the helm area, but to be honest I think that isn't rational on several levels. The best for an enclosed area is a small AC unit. You can either box one in or if there is space behind a wall you might fit it in. You'll need airflow and return space. I'd probably be selling if it is that important to you. Hanging below deck in an small enclosed area likely isn't a good option either.
Time and money can accomplish just about anything, but it doesn't mean it is time and money we'll spent.
I don't think the 275 was ever offered with a genset. I would find a boat that came from the factory with a genset and add a/c, or just find one with both.
I don't think the 275 was ever offered with a genset. I would find a boat that came from the factory with a genset and add a/c, or just find one with both.
After doing some research on this, I think there is a straightforward solution by installing a Mabru SC12DC 12v air conditioner and lithium battery pack (https://mabrustore.com/products/mps-12dc-btu-12v-with-pump-heating-and-cooling) into the area under the helm. But it's $6K plus installation...
Impressively efficient, expensive, but way cheaper than buying another boat. Keep us posted if you go for it.