Installation Guide
Tools Needed:
- Marine-grade sealant
- Hole saw kit
- Wire crimpers
- Multimeter
- Marine-grade wiring
- Through-hull fittings
Step-by-Step Installation
- Select Installation Location: Choose a location with proper ventilation, away from direct seawater spray and engine exhaust.
- Prepare Mounting Surface: Ensure the mounting surface is flat, sturdy, and can support the unit's weight plus vibration.
- Install Through-Hull Fittings: Install seawater intake and discharge through-hulls below the waterline with proper seacocks.
- Mount the Unit: Secure the air conditioner unit using marine-grade fasteners and vibration dampeners.
- Connect Seawater System: Install strainer on intake line, connect to pump, and route discharge line with anti-siphon loop.
- Electrical Connections: Connect to boat's DC and AC electrical systems following ABYC standards. Install proper circuit protection.
- Ductwork Installation: Install insulated marine-grade ducting to distribute air throughout cabin spaces.
- System Testing: Test for leaks, proper water flow, electrical operation, and cooling performance.
Specifications
| Model Series | Dometic VT Series |
| Type | Marine Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner |
| Cooling Capacity | 16,000 BTU |
| Heating Capacity | 18,000 BTU |
| Power Consumption | 15A @ 115V AC |
| Water Flow Rate | 4.5 GPM |
| Control Type | Digital Touchpad with Wireless Remote |
| Refrigerant | R-410A |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 22 x 18 x 14 inches |
| Weight | 85 lbs |
| Operating Voltage | 115V AC, 60Hz / 12V DC |
| Max Ambient Temperature | 115°F (46°C) |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 2 years parts and labor
- Compressor Warranty: 5 years on marine-grade compressor
- Corrosion Warranty: 3 years on corrosion-related failures
- Additional Coverage: Optional extended marine warranty available
For warranty service, contact Dometic Marine Customer Service at 1-800-542-8666 or visit DometicMarine.com
Key Features
Marine-Grade Construction
Specially designed with corrosion-resistant materials, epoxy-coated components, and saltwater protection for harsh marine environments.
Reverse Cycle Heating
Provides efficient heating capability using seawater heat exchange, eliminating the need for separate heating systems on board.
Variable Speed Compressor
Advanced inverter technology adjusts cooling output to match demand, reducing power consumption and extending component life.
Self-Cleaning Condenser
Automatically reverses water flow to flush debris from the seawater system, preventing clogging and maintaining efficiency.
Smart Control System
Wi-Fi enabled for remote monitoring and control via smartphone app, with programmable schedules and energy usage tracking.
Dehumidification Mode
Special mode removes excess humidity from cabin air without overcooling, perfect for marine environments.
Operating Modes Explained
Cooling Mode
Standard air conditioning operation with adjustable temperature and fan speed settings
Heating Mode
Reverse cycle heating using seawater as heat source for efficient cabin warming
Dehumidify Mode
Removes moisture from cabin air while maintaining comfortable temperature
Fan Only Mode
Circulates air without cooling or heating, perfect for ventilation
Auto Mode
Automatically switches between cooling and heating to maintain set temperature
Sleep Mode
Gradually adjusts temperature overnight for comfortable sleeping conditions
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit won't start | Power issue, tripped breaker, low voltage | Check shore power, reset breakers, verify voltage above 105V |
| Poor cooling performance | Clogged seawater strainer, low refrigerant, dirty filter | Clean strainer, check refrigerant charge, clean/replace air filter |
| Water not flowing | Clogged strainer, failed pump, air in system | Clean strainer, check pump operation, bleed air from system |
| Water leakage in cabin | Clogged drain line, cracked condensate pan | Clear drain line, inspect and repair condensate system |
| Unusual noises | Debris in pump, loose mounting, failing compressor | Clean pump impeller, tighten mounts, check compressor |
| Error code displayed | System fault, sensor failure, communication error | Refer to error code chart, check sensors and wiring |
Error Codes
- E1: High pressure fault - Check seawater flow and condenser
- E2: Low pressure fault - Check refrigerant charge and for restrictions
- E3: Water flow fault - Check pump and seawater system
- E4: Temperature sensor fault - Check sensor connections
- E5: Communication error - Check control wiring and connections
- E6: Compressor fault - Contact service technician
- E7: Fan motor fault - Check fan motor and wiring
Manual Downloads
Current Marine Series
VT Series
16K BTU Marine AC
VT Series
12K BTU Marine AC
VT Series
24K BTU Marine AC
VT Series
32K BTU Marine AC
Popular Previous Models
Vector Series
16K BTU Compact AC
Turbo Series
18K BTU High Output
Panda Series
12K BTU Quiet AC
Penguin Series
10K BTU Low Profile