Project Description#
A cold beer on board is the epitome of comfort after a long day of sailing. However, traditional coolers often provide limited cooling performance, and absorption fridges are inefficient. This project relies on a compressor fridge that reliably and efficiently keeps drinks cold on board – even on longer trips or in warmer waters.
Previously, a Peltier cooler was used, which basically worked, but had some major downsides. First, it took a long time for drinks to actually get cold, since Peltier elements are better at maintaining temperature than actively cooling. The power consumption was also high, which posed problems especially on extended journeys. Another downside was the lack of permanent installation: as a portable cooler, it was often in the way, became a safety hazard in rough seas, and tipped over multiple times – resulting in chaos on board. These experiences led to the decision to switch to a permanently installed, energy-efficient compressor fridge that ensures reliable cooling over the long term.
Project Goal#
The goal is to assemble and install a powerful and energy-efficient cooling system for use on a sailboat. The following aspects should be considered:
- Energy efficiency: Optimal use of onboard power supply (12V/24V DC).
- Compact design: Space-saving integration into the available storage.
- Autonomous cooling: Operation with solar panels or batteries for extended independence, integration into modern yacht electronics.
- Robustness: The system should operate reliably on board without user intervention for as long as possible.
- Cold beverages: The primary goal of the project is, of course, cold beer — and naturally, chilled food as well.
Technical Implementation#
The project is based on a DC compressor fridge specifically designed for marine or camping use.
- Compressor cooling technology from brands like Isotherm
- Improved insulation of the cooling box
- Control and regulation for optimal energy efficiency
- Integration with solar panel and battery system
Next Steps#
- Select components and plan the installation
- Prepare the boat
- Mount and connect the components
- Test run on land with power consumption/temperature measurement
- Integration into the boat and optimization for long-term operation
This project is aimed at DIY enthusiasts, sailors, and tech lovers who want to equip their boat with a reliable cooling system. 🚀⚓🍻
It’s not a complete how-to guide, but I aim to provide as much insight as possible into the planning, component selection, and installation process.