| When
choosing the Docksider, primary consideration should be given to
calculated BTU loads and available power supply. Any special
requirements (number of boxes and/or controls, refrigerant line
lengths, wiring sizes, etc.) should be determined prior to
installation. The location of the Docksider condensing unit should
be dry and accessible for service. The location of the unit should
provide for proper air flow through the air cooled condenser so as
not to overheat the system. If air flow is restricted, the water
cooled condenser must be connected as described in the following
paragraph. The unit should be installed with the fasteners provided
and secured to a horizontal or vertical surface sufficient to
support the weight and torsion load from the vessel’s movement.
The optional sea water system must be installed below the water line
and routed on a continuous incline from a dedicated thru-hull intake
to the pump inlet, up to the condensing unit to prevent air locks in
the sea water pump. Reinforced marine grade hose should be used for
the sea water circuit, and all fittings should be double-clamped.
The refrigeration lines connecting the evaporators to the condensing
unit must be constructed with refrigeration grade, dehydrated copper
and must be properly insulated (suction line only, or both lines
together). Flare connections are to be made using proper flaring
tools and techniques during installation. The condensing unit has
quick-disconnect fittings. |
A
non-leak compound may be used on flare connections, if desired, to
prevent refrigerant leaks (due to vibration or loosening of suction
side connections due to frost). This compound should be applied
sparingly to the male threads of the fitting, and great care must be
taken to prevent contact with the flare seat. Flare connections must
be adequately tightened - usually as tight as possible, with the
exception of 1/4” lines which can be crushed if the flare is
over-tightened. All associated mechanical components (solenoid
valves, check valves and expansion valves), must be located and
secured properly. Thermostats are to be located and properly secured
in the box(es) or on bulkheads with sensing bulbs properly secured
into the sensing wells located on the holding plates. Circuit
breakers and wire gauges must be sized according to ABYC marine
design standards. Only stranded tinned copper wire should be used.
All equipment must be properly grounded. Refrigerant line sets and
holding plates must be thoroughly evacuated (recommended to 200
microns) and leak checked prior to releasing refrigerant from the
condensing unit into the system and start-up of the equipment. The
refrigerant charge may require adjustment once the entire system is
operational. In keeping with regulations set forth by the EPA, only
certified technicians should perform service on, or make adjustments
to, the refrigerant circuit. |
