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Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
Digital Frig/Freezer Thermostat
posted 07-24-2019 by Jim_H42
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I was unhappy with the analog (original) frig and freezer thermostats. The temperatures couldnt be set accurately, causing the compressor to run excessively and using valuable amps.
My solution was to buy a couple of inexpensive digital thermostats and mount them under the galley sink. The existing thermostat wires run thru this area so it was easy to leverage them and not have to pull new wires. Since I left the original thermostats in the units, this approach also allows the system to easily revert back to the original set up.
Another advantage is that I can now set the temperature in the freezer so it functions like a fridge.
My solution was to buy a couple of inexpensive digital thermostats and mount them under the galley sink. The existing thermostat wires run thru this area so it was easy to leverage them and not have to pull new wires. Since I left the original thermostats in the units, this approach also allows the system to easily revert back to the original set up.
Another advantage is that I can now set the temperature in the freezer so it functions like a fridge.
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I got these units on Amazon (make sure you get the 12 volt version).
The included instructions are a little difficult to understand. You have the ability to set the desired temperature range as well as the cycle delay. Once programmed, they will not lose the settings even if power is shutoff.
Theyve been installed for 18 months and thus far very reliable.
The included instructions are a little difficult to understand. You have the ability to set the desired temperature range as well as the cycle delay. Once programmed, they will not lose the settings even if power is shutoff.
Theyve been installed for 18 months and thus far very reliable.
Click for larger view
I installed the digital control in the middle of the existing wire run and hooked the new digital sensors to the existing wires within the analog thermostat housing.
The entire project took a couple hours, costing $35 ($30 for the thermostats and a few dollars for the electrical box to mount them in) and has resulted in much more efficient refrigeration/freezing.
2/17/2023 Update - this system is still working great. Im very please with the inexpensive controllers.
The entire project took a couple hours, costing $35 ($30 for the thermostats and a few dollars for the electrical box to mount them in) and has resulted in much more efficient refrigeration/freezing.
2/17/2023 Update - this system is still working great. Im very please with the inexpensive controllers.