- The cool way to save space on board -
Compressor coolers are ideal for use on sailboats or motorboats, but can also be used in cars or trucks or in motorhomes or caravans. These plastic boxes have well insulated side walls that keep food cool for long periods of time. Most compressor coolers have an integrated carrying handle and are easy to transport.
Compressor coolers can be connected to the on-board power supply via a 12 or 24-volt cigarette lighter. Many models can also be used with 230 volt shore power.
To achieve the cooling function, these coolers use their compressor to put pressure on a refrigerant gas that turns into liquid at very high temperatures. The gas is heated and the resulting heat is released into the environment. Because it is under pressure, the gas changes into a liquid as it cools. By lowering the pressure, the coolant evaporates and the gas withdraws the ambient heat, cooling the interior of the compressor cooler. The closed cooling circuit returns the coolant to the compressor and the cycle starts again. Compressor coolers can be operated regardless of their ambient temperature.