Adding Fan Wiring

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mike37909's picture
mike37909
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Posts: 161
Adding Fan Wiring

All,
  My boat didn't come with fans (MK1 1984).  I bought 5 new caframo fans and was looking at how to wire them.  I had hoped to use the wiring for the light but I wired an LED tv into the circuit and I am already noticing a pretty significant voltage drop.
I guess I need to run some new wire so any tips on how to do this?  I am considering buying some bus terminals and mounting them in the main cabin and vberth somewhere?  Should I split it up into two runs (port and starboard) or just do them all on one run like the wiring for the lights.  I am pretty good with electricity but just kind of pondering the logistics.  I was thinking I would use the 2 wires in the  jacket sheathe I have seen used on the boat.  Haven't figured out what gauge to use yet.

I am planning on putting 2 in the vberth and two in the main cabin and one in the aft cabin.

Any tips appreciated.

Catalina 36 MK1
1984 Hull #306

 

Haro's picture
Haro
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Joined: 11/7/14
Posts: 403

What are these fans used for? I installed 4 3-1/2" computer fans with a 12VDC adaptor that plugs in to the 110VAC outlet to provide power to the fans that are mounted on a starboard to circulate fresh air inside the boat when not in use. I leave the head and V-berth hatches slightly cracked for air to escape. When shore power is disconnected the fans go off.
Are you using them to circulate air while at doc?
 

mike37909's picture
mike37909
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Joined: 1/17/13
Posts: 161

The fans are for cooling us down when anchored out.  We dont get much breeze most nights.  Getting ready for summer.
When I am docked I have some AC fans.

Thanks

Catalina 36 MK1
1984 Hull #306

 

pkeyser's picture
pkeyser
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Joined: 5/18/13
Posts: 659

We have a MKII. We use the 12V power outlet in our electrical panel to run our DVD player and other electronics. We have a 12 V fan in the galley and others in the V berth and and the aft berth. All were wired into adjacent 12V lights. Seems to be a simple approach and we've never experienced any issues.

Paul & Wendy Keyser
"First Light"
Rye NH
2005 C36 MKII #2257
Wing, M35B

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Catboat Willy
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Posts: 385

Mike;
The Caframo Fans drawn about about one half amp apiece @12 volts when on higher speeds and you are going to operate five fans. I would not put them all on the same circuit as your existing lights.
There are several factors to consider. You mentioned that you are already seeing a significant voltage drop due to other appliances on these circuits. If it were me and given the age of the wiring in your boat, I'd run new wire from the terminal block behind the control panel to the forward berth using an electrician's fishing tape and 14-16 gauge wire. Should be an easy job.Will all five fans be placed in the forward berth ?? Tell me more......
Bill

Bill Dolan 1990 Catalina C-36 MKI - Hull #1041  'Williwaw'
Std. Rig, Walk Through, Wing Keel
M35, Oberdorfer Conversion,
Home Waters; Charlotte  Harbor & The Gulf Islands of Florida
'You are never out of work if you own a boat'

 

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