T&T: Choice of Genset

[Jim Ague]

>I cook with propane also, including making coffee at anchor in a 
>percolator.
> I have not installed a system-wide inverter because I really don't need 
> it.
> I have three little ones on board, and 12V outlets everywhere I might need
> them,... I run the nav computer
> off a 300W inverter. I can watch TV, etc. from the same. I just saw no big
> need for a big, expensive inverter installation.

DITTO, except I have thought about locating one of the small inverters near 
the batteries and running 120AC lines from it to a few spots. As I 
understand powerloss on 12VDC lines is greater than powerloss on 120VAC 
lines and increased powerloss means increased battery usage.

Derreen has a 6.5kW Onan Generator, and does not have central air. We pop in 
a pair of Cruisair A/C's when necessary, usually when tied up at a still-air 
marina. I think Derreen is overpowered and would choose a smaller generator, 
~5kW. Our main power draws on the batteries while at anchor are the 
refrigerator and a CPAP medical device, which I use for sleep apnea.

Our ratio of hours on main engine vs. generator are 4 to 1. The main use of 
the gen is to replenish the batteries after a few nights at anchor, and 
provide peace of mind that we will be able to start the main without a dead 
battery being the issue.

-- Jim
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Jim & Rita Ague
M/V Derreen, Monk 36
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