Commercial and Working Boat HVAC Services

Richard Gray

Eric is a consummate professional, incredibly knowledgeable about his craft and the systems. His communications were prompt, detailed and educational. He arrived a day early and quickly had our new system operational and in fine form. He even took the time to explain some of his techniques and equipment not only to me, but to one of the boatyard employees who works on air conditioners. He did what he said he would do, on time and within his estimate. He has our unqualified endorsement. Thank you, Eric.

Pierre Holstein

Eric is knowledgable, fast, and effective. He did exactly what he promised to do, and the unit he installed was as quiet and effective as he said that it was going to be. In the process of installing a new unit, he cleaned all our raw water lines without charging extra. 🙂 Highly recommend.

Ramaz Metreveli

Exceptionally well done work. It was very easy to communicate and discuss all the details. Quality of work was absolutely top notch. Overall I am very happy with the results.

Jean-Pierre Guay

I recently bought a 2005 Hunter 38 without air conditioning/ heat pump installed. I contacted BoatAC thru e-mail and Eric called me the same day! We were in November and I was expecting a slow process considering the season was over and all the boats had been winterized in Vermont, so I had figured a spring install potential at best… He gave me a ton of explanations and we have talked about the various possibilities, AC Vs DC etc. To my surprise he offered to install early December and that he was fully equipped to do the work without marina power or water! He came all the way to Northern Vermont and him and Matt performed an amazing job on the boat, with top quality components. I highly recommend Eric and BoatAC, without compromise. I can’t wait for next season but in the meantime he has cut short the in between seasons wait period with sailing discussions at the marina, in December! Thank you greatly Eric, have a wonderful Christmas! Jean-Pierre

Stuart Smolen

We called on a Sunday on the hottest day of the year with our AC not working. Eric answered and walked me through some diagnostics. He came out to our boat the next day, showed me my set up, made sure everything was working as expected, and brainstormed on improvements. I couldn't have asked for better service. Definitely five stars!

John Newman

Eric and Matt showed when they said they would. Got rid of the old and installed the new. We’re cool. Thanks guys!

Scott Obici

My AC unit went out Tuesday afternoon last week. The boat is in intrical part of my son’s wedding starting Friday and through the weekend. I called Eric and within 10 minutes he called me back. He happen to be in Annapolis and said he would take a look to see what could be done. He decided we need a new unit and by some miracle showed up Thursday afternoon and installed it in three hours. This is absolutely unheard of in the marine industry. Incredible service!

dennis shelly

If you want to stay cool, call Eric. His knowledge of marine ac units is very extensive but he's also a good guy willing to share that knowledge.

Morris Kliger

I have a 2006 Tartan 3400 sailboat I purchased 2 years ago. I sail on the Chesapeake which is notoriously brutally hot in the summers. The AC unit that came with the boat was struggling and finally quit on me at the end of last season. The resources for Marine AC repair/sales in the Upper Chesapeake are scarce. The top guy at my marina recommended I contact Eric Brown of BoatAC.net. Although I have sailed off and on all my life this was my first boat purchase. In the short time I’ve owned the boat I’ve adjusted my expectations from low to almost nonexistent when dealing with anyone in the marine industry. I wasn’t sure I would get a call back from Eric and if I did I figured it would be several weeks or months to resolve my AC issue. Short story: I reached out at 5 pm one evening to Eric via his website. At 7pm that evening Eric called me back, explained his business, discussed probable issues with my system and within a few days was out to the boat after which time I got another call discussing the problem and proposed solution which in my case was to replace the 16 year old unit which failed. Surprisingly due to a cancellation a new unit was installed the following day. A few days later I was out at the boat. The cabin was clean. Instillation seemed seamless and the AC works great all in time for the season. Great response time. Great explanation. Great installation. Highly recommend

matt sheldrick

We needed help replacing our boats air conditioning system. I called Boat AC.net and Eric called me right back. I cannot speak highly enough of the level of expertise, professionalism and quality of work. I expected to have to wait for the work to be done, but we had a new system within several weeks. Eric gave us great advice and made significant improvements to how our system works. I am recommending Boat AC.net to all my friends.

How to use marine air conditioning to defog and defrost your boat's windshield while staying comfortable

When you're out on the water, fogged or frosted windshields can seriously impede your vision and safety. Marine air conditioning is not just for keeping cool; it can also be an effective tool for defogging and defrosting your boat's windshield. This guide will show you how to use marine air conditioning systems to maintain clear visibility and comfort aboard your vessel. The best new marine air conditioning units are very cost effective and powerful enough to both keep your windshield clear and your crew comfortable.

Understanding Marine Water Cooled Air Conditioning

Marine water-cooled air conditioning systems are a popular choice for boat owners due to their efficiency and effectiveness. These systems utilize the surrounding water to cool (or heat) the refrigerant, making them particularly suitable for marine settings. Available in 12-volt options, they can run on a boat's battery, offering convenience and reliability when you're far from shore power. Many of today's units are efficient enough to run for hours or even overnight on a few AGM or Lithium batteries.

Navy Lifeboat Air Conditioning — Eric, owner of BoatAC.net, onsite with a Navy contractor helping install 12v marine heating and AC on lifeboats for a new Navy vessel

How to Remove Fog from Boat Windscreen

Fog on your boat's windscreen is typically caused by a temperature difference between the interior and exterior of the boat, combined with high humidity levels. To clear this fog using marine air conditioning:

Set your marine Air Conditioning to Dehumidify: Most marine AC units have a dehumidify setting. By reducing the humidity inside your cabin, you can prevent condensation from forming on the windscreen.
Direct Airflow Towards the Windshield: Adjust the vents of the air conditioning system to direct airflow towards the windshield. This air movement helps to balance the temperature and evaporate any existing condensation. BoatAC can help install dashboard vents if your vessel doesn't currently have these.
One of the shipyards we've visited when working on marine air for the U.S. military.

Staying Comfortable

While defogging and defrosting are critical, comfort should not be overlooked. Here are some tips to maintain a comfortable environment:

Temperature Settings: Balance the temperature settings to ensure both visibility and comfort. Avoid setting the temperature too high, which can lead to discomfort.

Ventilation: Keep the cabin ventilated to prevent stuffiness and maintain air quality.
We replaced the air handlers and made some upgrades on the chillers for this Corp of Engineers boat.

By employing these techniques and utilizing your marine water-cooled air conditioning system effectively, you can ensure a clear, safe view from your boat's windshield while enjoying a comfortable journey.

In conclusion, understanding how to leverage your marine air conditioning system for defogging and defrosting not only enhances safety but also adds to the overall boating experience. Enjoy the open waters with confidence and clarity.

BoatAC.net supports many types of commercial vessels including:

Tugboats
Fishing boats
Sightseeing boats
Pilot Boats
Police / Coast Guard / Fire Boats
Towing Boats
Other working vessels

Pilot Boat in Harbor in Southern California

We installed very efficient defrost, heat and air conditioning on this pilot boat in the Los Angeles area