Adding AC/Heat to a 2004 - 28’ Albin TE mid engine model

[MakoMatt]

I recently purchased a 2004, 28’ Albin TE, softback, mid engine.

I am thinking about adding AC with reverse cycle heat. Maybe an onboard built in generator too. Or maybe a portable inverter, and dockside power in either case.

I have a lot of questions about, locations, sizing, pumps, ducting, etc. etc……. So to start, has anyone done this before? On vessels that came factory equipped, what kind of equipment do you have, where is it all located, etc., etc.

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[Nancy]

Hi MakoMatt (you might have to change your name to AlbinMatt )

Have you had a chance to search/read existing threads? You can use the built-in forum search tool. Or use Google: enter "albinowners.net: air conditioning" without the quotes.
Here's a great thread to start with: viewtopic.php?t=3254

[catalina_mike]

Our 28 had A/C and I could run it off my Honda EU2000. I didn't bother with trying to fit a below deck generator in.

Nancy love your first sentence....

[Jkraft]

Congrats on the new to you boat! My 28 had a 12,000 BTU automatic from the factory. Even on the hottest days it would make it an icebox if I let it. A Honda 2000 runs it just fine. Make sure you add a smart start or a soft start to it. I can’t quite remember the correct terminology, but it will slow down the compressor and fan speed to reduce power draw so you can run it from a small generator. You can install a generator in a 28 but service is tight and the project’s gonna cost you about $12,000 just for the generator

[Mike Monte]

My '01 28TE has a Dometic 10k reverse cycle AC/Heat unit.
The unit itself is mounted under the V birth, digital panel on port side of cabin, air outflow vent on starboard side (just forward of the closet), return vent located under the pop-up table, raw water pump midship (next to the hot water tank), raw water exits portside, condensation is plumbed to the shower sump.
I've owned the boat since new.
AC is probably the best upgrade I have made.
EasyStart installed so we are able to run it using a Honda 2200 generator while on a mooring otherwise we use shore power.

[SaltyDogNY]

Where do you all leave the generator when underway? I have a Honda 2200, but am weary of putting in on the swim platform while cruising for obvious reasons. Would love to be able to run it for AC when fishing during the summer.

[catalina_mike]

Where do you all leave the generator when underway? I have a Honda 2200, but am weary of putting in on the swim platform while cruising for obvious reasons. Would love to be able to run it for AC when fishing during the summer.

I just sat it in the cockpit and put it up on the transom to run it. I was never comfortable putting it on the transom.

[Jrosen007]

My '01 28TE has a Dometic 10k reverse cycle AC/Heat unit.
The unit itself is mounted under the V birth, digital panel on port side of cabin, air outflow vent on starboard side (just forward of the closet), return vent located under the pop-up table, raw water pump midship (next to the hot water tank), raw water exits portside, condensation is plumbed to the shower sump.
I've owned the boat since new.
AC is probably the best upgrade I have made.
EasyStart installed so we are able to run it using a Honda 2200 generator while on a mooring otherwise we use shore power.

I’m shopping for a 28TE and thinking the same thing…. Some boats have AC but a generator is rare. How do you set up and where do you keep your generator?

[Nancy]

On our 28TE, we stored the Honda generator on the floor in front of the passenger seat. When in use, it sat in the cockpit near the transom. We didn't end up carrying it on board very often, but being in Vermont, we rarely need air conditioning at anchor. MD is a different story!

[Jrosen007]

In Maryland we hit 102 yesterday with a heat index of 120. Today and tomorrow similar. Would be great to take it out for a July 4th fireworks (supported by AC). Having AC in this area definitely necessary for about 4 months to take the edge off the heat. Hoping to find one and have many years of fun cruising and fishing.