Hi Ronnie,

I have an 8000 btu ac/heat unit. I did not have enough room in the
engine compartment for a built in generator, so tried the inverter thing.
Its ok if you are underway and have a 100 amp alternator constantly
charging. At anchor, my 2 group 27 house batteries will run the unit on the
inverter for about one and a half hours. Don't forget besides the a/c you
also have the 115v circulating pump drawing amps.

My solution was to set a Honda EU2000 suitcase genny on the swim platorm
and plug in the shore power (via adapter cord) The unit is very quiet, and
does not shake the boat like a built in diesel genny. It runs the a/c almost
all night without a refill.

The Honda 2000 is a little under powered wattage wise. If I am charging
batteries or cooking I have to shut off the a/c. Since little Honda was
stolen in a break in last month, so I plan to replace it with a larger unit.

EU3000. It is a little heavier and a little quieter, and has an electric
starter. I plan to set it in a "dog box" on the swim platform to keep it out
of the weather.
The EU units put out very stable, spike free, electricity, so you can even
run your lap top or DVD staright off the genny. Thay also have a number of
"user friendly" features like low oil shut off, GFI, and overload
protectors. They are easy to refuel too.

It just depends on your (or your wife's) power needs. My wife likes a/c
and amenities so.....

--
Capt. Frank

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www.home.earthlink.net/~aartworks
"Ronny" wrote in message
8...
Is there anyone here doing this? I have a 26' cruiser with a Mermaid
Marine A/C unit (6500) btu. I only want to use the air on the water for
about 4 to 6 hours a day and maybe an occasional over night stay. I am
looking at a Prosine 2.5 and will probably use 2 or 4 optima batteries.

Any input would be appreciated

Ronny