Installation Guidelines for AC Voltage/Hermetic Models - Passagemaker

When choosing the proper model Passagemaker, primary consideration should be given to calculated BTU loads and available power supply. Any special requirements (box capacity, air condensor exhaust, wiring sizes, etc.) should be determined prior ro installation.

The location of the Passagemaker condensing unit should be dry and accessible for service. The location of the unit should provide for porper air flow through the air cooled condenser (for air/water models) so as not to overheat the system. 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 surface sufficcient to support the weight and torsion load from the vessel's movement. The remote electrical box may contain position-sensitive compone nts (labeled as such on the outside of the box). Fastened in the appropriate position using the mounting hardware provided.

The seawater system must be installed below the water line and routed on a continous incline from a dedicated thru-hull intake to the sea strainer then to the pump inlet and up to the condensing unit to prevent air locks in the seawater pump. Reinforced marine grade hose should be used for the seawater circuit, and all fittings should be double /reversed hose clamped.

The refrigeration lines connecting the holding plate(s) to the condensing unit must be constructed from refrigeration grade, dehydrated copper and must be properly insulated. All fittings are designed for flare connections, and these connections are to be made using proper flaring tools and techniques during installation. 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 1/4" lines which can be crushed if the flare is over tightened. All associated mechanical coponents (solenoid valves, check valves and expansion valves) must be mounted in the correct position 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 holdover plates or to box wall on flat plate applications.

Circuit breakers and wire guages must be sized according to ABYC marine desing standards. Only stranded tinned copper should be used. All equipment must be properly grounded and bonded.

Refrigerant line sets and holdover 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.