On Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:37:01 GMT, "Roger Long"
wrote:

I'd like recommendations or experience with a small, simple, AC only
set up that could be retrofitted into a typical sailboat ice box. If
it had storage cold plates, it would be even cooler, er, neater.

By far the simplest and cheapest refrigeration you can get is a small
"dorm" type fridge. Prices are typically in the $100+ range, and they
can also be run from a small inverter if you have a decent battery
bank.

After that, things get expensive very quickly. An apartment style
"under the counter" unit is typically in the $500 to $1000 range
depending on quality, same for the 12/110 volt Nevercold units.
Holding plate systems are generally $2000+.

I think that if I were in your situation I'd opt for the dorm type
unit with a few bricks of plastic "blue ice" in the freezer space to
act as inexpensive holding plates.

For extended cruising without a generator there is nothing like
holding plates with an engine mounted compressor. Second best is
holding plates with an external 12 volt compressor. Good box
insulation is critical for any of these systems.