Installation Guidelines for Polar Mate

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

The location of the Polar Mate condensing unit should be dry and accessible for service. The location of the air cooled unit should provide for porper air flow through the condenser to avoid overheating the system. If the air/water cooled unit is used, the condenser must be connected as described in the following paragraph. The unit should be installed with the fasteners provided and secured in an upright position to a horizontal(shelf) or vertical (bulkhead) surface sufficient to support the weight and torsion load from the vessel's movement. Bulkhead mounting requires an addtional kit.

The seawater pump must be mounted do that it is always at least one foot below the water line regardless of which tack the vessel is on. The pump head may be rotated horizontally or vertically; however the discharge must always be above the inlet. The pump head should be rotated toward the direction of water flow. Install the seawater speed scoop intake as far below the water line and as close to the keel as possible in any application, but especially on a sail boat, to keep the intake in the water do that air dows no get into the system when the boat heels over. The speed scoop intake must face forward abd not be shared with any other pump. A sea cock (shut off valve) must be installed directly on the speed scoop outlet. A seawater strainer is mandatory between the sea cock and pump. The sea water system should be istalled with an upward incline from the speed scoop and sea cock, through the strainer, to the inlet of the pump and then up to the inlet of the condenser coil. Use only reinforced marine grade hose. All hose connections shall use double / reversed stainless steel hose clamps. Seal all thru-hull fittings with a marine sealant designed for underwater use.

The refrigeration lines connecting the evaporator unit to the condensing unit are constructed of refrigeration grade, dehydrated copper, insulated, precharged and fitted with quick disconnect style fitttings for eay installation. Any excess refrigerant lines should be coiled in a horizontal plane.

Thermostats are to be located and properly secure in the box(es) or on bulkheads with sensing bulbs properly secured into the mounting plates on the evaporator.

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.

In keeping with regulations set forth by the EPA, only certified technicians should perform service on, or make adjustments to, the refrigerant circuit.