Marine AC Installation
Professional marine air conditioning installation for boats and yachts in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and all of Southwest Florida. From single-zone self-contained units to multi-zone chilled-water systems, with model-specific planning by technicians with 30+ years of marine HVAC experience. We handle everything from initial survey to final commissioning.
Marine AC System Types We Install
We install all three major types of marine air conditioning systems. The right choice depends on your vessel size, number of zones, and cooling requirements.
Self-Contained
Boats 20–45 ft
4,000 – 16,000 BTU
All-in-one units with compressor, evaporator, and controls in a single housing. Easiest to install and maintain. Ideal for single-zone cooling on smaller vessels.
Models We Install:
Dometic DTU Turbo, Turbo GTX, ECD Envirocomfort, MCS
Split Systems
Boats 30–60 ft
4,000 – 60,000 BTU
Separate condensing unit and air handlers connected by refrigerant lines. Allows multi-zone cooling with quieter cabin operation. Flexible placement options.
Models We Install:
Dometic TVE Emerald, DEUX, AU Series, EBLE
Chilled Water
Yachts 50–200+ ft
24,000 – 120,000+ BTU
Central chiller circulates cold water to fan coil units throughout the vessel. Maximum flexibility for large yachts with many zones. Most efficient for high BTU demands.
Models We Install:
Dometic VARCX, EBE, Fan Coil AP Air Handlers
Our Installation Process
Every marine AC installation follows a proven 6-step process to ensure proper sizing, clean installation, and reliable long-term performance.
On-Board Survey
We inspect your vessel, measure cabin volumes, assess insulation, check electrical capacity, and identify the best mounting locations for equipment and ducting.
System Design
Based on the survey, we recommend the right system type and BTU capacity. You receive a detailed proposal with equipment specs, installation plan, and pricing.
Equipment Sourcing
We order the correct Dometic or other brand equipment for your vessel. All units are new, factory-warranted, and matched to your specific requirements.
Installation
Our technicians install the AC unit, seawater plumbing (thru-hull, strainer, pump), ducting, electrical connections, thermostat, and controls. All work meets ABYC standards.
Commissioning
We charge the system, verify refrigerant levels, test all zones, check seawater flow rates, and confirm proper cooling performance before handoff.
Owner Training
We walk you through system operation, thermostat controls, maintenance schedule, and what to watch for. You get our direct line for any questions.
Proper Seawater Plumbing Layout
Correct seawater flow is critical for marine AC performance. Here is the standard installation layout for a self-contained turbo unit.
Standard marine AC seawater plumbing layout. Steady upward flow from scoop-type thru-hull inlet through strainer and seawater pump to the turbo AC unit. All hose connections double-clamped per ABYC standards.
What's Included in Every Installation
Equipment & Installation
- New Dometic (or specified brand) AC unit with factory warranty
- Seawater pump, strainer, and thru-hull fitting
- Marine-grade ducting and supply/return grilles
- Digital thermostat and control panel
- All electrical connections and breaker installation
- Condensate drain plumbing
Quality & Standards
- ABYC-compliant installation practices
- Double-clamped hose connections throughout
- Proper refrigerant charge and leak testing
- Seawater flow rate verification
- Full system commissioning and performance test
- Owner training and maintenance documentation
Marine AC BTU Sizing Guide
Proper BTU sizing is the most important factor in a successful marine AC installation. Undersized systems run constantly and never reach temperature. Oversized systems short-cycle, causing humidity problems and premature wear.
| Boat Size | Typical Cabin Area | Recommended BTU | System Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–28 ft | Small cabin / V-berth | 4,000 – 7,000 | Self-Contained |
| 28–35 ft | Salon + 1 cabin | 7,000 – 12,000 | Self-Contained |
| 35–45 ft | Salon + 2 cabins | 12,000 – 24,000 | Self-Contained or Split |
| 45–55 ft | Multiple zones | 24,000 – 48,000 | Split System |
| 55–80 ft | 4–6 zones | 36,000 – 72,000 | Split or Chilled Water |
| 80+ ft | 6+ zones | 60,000 – 120,000+ | Chilled Water |
These are general guidelines for Southwest Florida conditions. Actual BTU requirements vary based on insulation, window area, sun exposure, and desired temperature. We always perform an on-board survey for accurate sizing.
Marine AC Brands We Install
We primarily install Dometic systems due to their proven reliability, parts availability, and comprehensive warranty. We also work with other brands based on customer preference and vessel requirements.
Marine AC Installation Questions — Southwest Florida
How much does marine AC installation cost?
Marine AC installation costs depend on system type, BTU capacity, vessel size, and complexity of the ducting and seawater plumbing. A single-zone self-contained unit on a 30-foot boat is significantly less than a multi-zone chilled water system on a 70-foot yacht. We provide detailed written estimates after an on-board survey. Call 239-323-9600 for a free consultation.
What size marine AC do I need for my boat?
BTU sizing depends on cabin volume, insulation quality, number of windows, geographic location, and how many zones you need. As a rough guide: 5,000-7,000 BTU for a small cabin, 12,000-16,000 BTU for a mid-size salon, and 24,000+ BTU for large yachts. Our AC System Builder tool can help estimate, and we always verify with an on-board survey before installation.
Self-contained vs split system — which is better for my boat?
Self-contained units (like the Dometic DTU or ECD) combine the compressor, evaporator, and controls in one box — ideal for boats under 40 feet with limited zones. Split systems (like the Dometic DEUX or TVE) separate the condensing unit from the air handler, allowing multiple zones and quieter operation. For boats over 50 feet, chilled water systems offer the most flexibility. We help you choose based on your vessel's layout and cooling needs.
How long does a marine AC installation take?
A straightforward single-unit replacement takes 1-2 days. A new installation with ducting, seawater plumbing, and electrical work typically takes 2-4 days depending on vessel access and complexity. Multi-zone or chilled water systems on larger yachts may take a week or more. We schedule installations to minimize your downtime.
Do you install Dometic marine AC systems?
Yes. We are experienced Dometic installers and work with the full Dometic marine AC lineup — DTU Turbo, Turbo GTX, ECD Envirocomfort, TVE Emerald, AU Series, DEUX, EBLE, and VARCX chilled water systems. We also install Webasto, Marine Air, and other brands.
Can you add AC to a boat that doesn't have it?
Absolutely. We design and install complete marine AC systems on boats that have never had air conditioning. This includes thru-hull installation for seawater intake, seawater pump and strainer, ducting, electrical panel upgrades if needed, and the AC unit itself. We handle everything from initial survey to final commissioning.
Marine AC Installation Service Areas
Professional marine AC installation at your dock, marina, or boatyard throughout Southwest Florida
Ready for a New Marine AC System?
Whether you're replacing an old system or adding AC to your boat for the first time, we handle everything from survey to commissioning. Call today for a free consultation.
Captain's Maintenance Bulletin
Seasonal checklists, diagnostic tips, and marine AC insights from 30+ years in the field. No fluff — just what works.
Tell us what the vessel needs.
Share the vessel, system, symptoms, location, timing, and available photos. We’ll review the details and respond with the right next step.