12/15/2023 0 Comments Inboard boats ventilation system![]() Vents should be arranged to provide as much cross flow inside the cabin as possible. If four passive vents are installed, they will automatically adapt to intake or exhaust mode as needed (with the exception of improperly aligned cowl vents). If using two active vents, they should be matched with two passive vents. Intake volume should equal output, so based on the above we would need a minimum of four similar sized vents (two intake, two exhaust) to provide adequate ventilation. Airflow ratings for passive vents range from 350 to 600 cubic feet per minute (cfm). Let's say you have a mid-sized boat with an interior volume of around 1,400 cubic feet. How Much Is Enough?Ī well-designed ventilation system should exchange the air belowdecks roughly once every hour. The best solution here is a unit that combines the protection of a hatch awning and the functionality of a low-profile wind scoop. A tarp or canvas cover rigged over a partially opened hatch keeps rain out and provides ventilation, although the airflow will be less than that of a fully opened hatch or one using a wind chute (which typically can't be used in conjunction with a tarp). Other airflow challenges occur during rainy or stormy weather, which can prevent boats from leaving hatches and portlights open while in port or underway. Wind chutes can be repositioned to the sides or rear of a hatch to help funnel air belowdecks, while some traditional hatches are hinged or pinned so that they can be opened to face any of their four sides (a boon in this situation). Installing portlights, exhaust vents, or even additional hatches over cooking areas can also make a big difference in air quality belowdecks.īoats at the dock face additional ventilation challenges as they can't orient themselves to the wind. When buying portlights, be sure to match the material of the new units to the remaining deadlights or existing boat hardware to prevent the nautical equivalent of an eyesore. As such, it is typically easy to find units to replace existing deadlights. Portlights (which open to allow airflow) come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and frame materials (e.g., plastic, bronze, aluminum, stainless steel). If your boat has limited or no portlights, consider swapping out some of the “deadlights” (non-opening portlights). The same goes for portlight scoops, which help deflect those cooling breezes down below through vertical portlights. Conversely, an open companionway door or aft-facing hatch acts as an extractor, pulling air from belowdecks as the wind passes over it.Īdding a wind chute to your hatch provides even greater funneling ability. ![]() A single intake can't force air into a boat against pressure any better than a single exhaust can remove it against a vacuum.Īssuming a boat is oriented head-into-the-wind (as is typical while at anchor or on a mooring), it's pretty intuitive that opening a forward-facing hatch channels air belowdecks, much like an air ram. Ventilation BasicsĮfficient airflow requires not only an intake, but also an exhaust. ![]() Many of the solar-powered units contain a rechargeable battery (to facilitate nighttime operation) as well as interchangeable fan blades, which allows them to be used as either an intake or an exhaust. Some are powered by your boat's 12V DC system however, most are solar-powered. While they can move a surprising amount of air on a breezy day, they don't perform well on days with little or no wind.Īctive systems are typically mushroom vents outfitted with a small electric fan installed in the vent body. Passive vents work best when installed in opposing pairs. Examples of passive vents include traditional cowl vents, clamshell or scoop vents, louvered hatch boards, and low-profile discs (aka mushroom vents). ![]() They either direct air inside or exhaust it (depending on their type and orientation to the wind). Passive systems rely on the wind blowing over them to move air belowdecks. There are two types of ventilation systems: passive and active. Here's a look at ventilation basics and how to make them work for you. Good ventilation provides a multitude of benefits including preventing odors, condensation, and mold growth as well as eliminating minor carbon monoxide buildup and its negative effects on crew health (such as headaches and seasickness). Nothing enhances the quality of life belowdecks during the heat of summer, or when cruising hotter latitudes, like plenty of cool, fresh air. ![]()
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