Power Consumtion

[richie30]

We are trying to determine our power consumption, and any help would be great! We have our 1999 C36, with factory fridge, lights, etc. Not sure where we can find the amp draw for our Icomm radio, GPS 520, Autohelm 4000.

We are going cruising with our 2-4D batteries, which need replacing, and I may go the golf cart route. Also thinking about a solar panel.

Thanks!!
Rich

[TomSoko]

Rich,
One of the first pieces of advice that just about every electrical expert suggests is to install a battery monitor. With a monitor installed, you can precisely see exactly what YOU consume, and not have to rely on someone else's estimates. Every owner uses their boat differently from every other owner, which is the way it should be. Several very good ones are available from Ample Power and Xantrex. One of the more popular monitors is the Link 10. (Also known as the XBM, and now sold as the LinkPRO). When my 15 year old Ample Power monitor bit the dust, I installed the XBM two years ago, and have been very happy with it. Hope this helps.

[deising]

I completely agree with Tom that a battery monitor should be the first thing you add. In the meantime, here is a link I found by googling "sailboat power consumption." Check page 32.

http://books.google.com/books?id=KzfnP_2ys2UC&pg=PA33&lpg=PA33&dq=sailboat+power+consumption&source=bl&ots=PHw8FEEt5z&sig=qpWoOVise2Gd2cJ1oc9rJXJ0sr8&hl=en&ei=tZDPSfJXobG2B9qi5OEJ&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=7&ct=result#PPA27,M1