Solar Vents

[Jim and Jackie]

I’m planning on adding Nicro solar vents to my R 29. Has anyone else added them and if so where were they located.

Jim Demerest
R 29 Chessie

 

[Brian B]

On my 25SC I have two that were installed by the previous owner. One is mounted starboard side of V-Berth hatch, this one brings air in. The second is mounted on the cabin roof forward of the entrance door, this one exhausts the air. I would recommend buying from West Marine and purchase their replacement insurance. I have had to replace mine due to motor noise and failure to charge the battery. Other than that they are pretty nice, whisper quiet. They work under shrinkwrap which keeps air moving during the off season.

 

[rpmerrill]

I've often thought of getting one or two of these and installing them in the hatch itself. One in the v-berth (intake) and one in the head (exhaust). The idea being that it is easier to replace the hatch than it is to repair a hole on the roof.

Comments?

Also, how rain-proof and splash-proof are they?

Thanks

 

[Brian B]

I've often thought of getting one or two of these and installing them in the hatch itself. One in the v-berth (intake) and one in the head (exhaust). The idea being that it is easier to replace the hatch than it is to repair a hole on the roof.

Comments?

Also, how rain-proof and splash-proof are they?

Thanks

They are very weatherproof, never had a drop of water inside and the one on the bow has seen a lot of white water.
Might want to check with the MFG if it is feasible to install on a hatch.

 

[stwendl]

I dare to differ, I had two of them installed on my larger catamaran. Unless you close them you WILL get water inside in the event of a wash over, unless they are installed on some form of pedestal raising them above the deck.

 

[Jim and Jackie]

They can be mounted in a hatch. They will leak if you take white water over them. However, they can be closed from the inside. I have 2 in my 38' sailboat, one in the head and one over the galley. Never had leaks and have been in rough water. Plan is to put one in the head and another in the aft part of the main cabin. will keep the head door open when the boat is in its slip to have a decent flow of air. Haven't decided wether to uses the hatches or go through the deck. On the sailboat they go through the deck. We are on the Chesapeake where it get hot and humid in the summer and the solar vents along with two dorade vents kept the sailboat mildew free.

Jim Demerest
R29 Chessie

 

[rpmerrill]

I'm just on the other side of the Bay... I know "hot and humid" too.
Still considering....
Thanks