Also note the CO detectors will go off if the 12v supply to them drops below 11v. This to let you know they can no longer monitor the levels since there's no enough power. I believe the LEDs on it light up differently when this happens.
I like to keep a residential CO detector on board as a backup. One that has a LCD readout showing a PPM count. This way you can tell just how much CO is involved. But I wouldn't use one instead of the built-ins, just as a backup.
I've had the residential one go off well before the built-ins. This because the genset was running and the companionway door was open. You have to keep the door closed when engines are running otherwise the fumes will get into the cabin. I've seen it take as long as 15 minutes for the CO level to go down when there wasn't any breeze. This even with all the hatches open.
CO detectors do wear out over time. I believe Xintex has a refurb program for them.
Impellers are easy to replace. And spares are a must-have on board. I keep two of each kind (engine, genset). Yes, I've had a "brand new" one crap out on me within a few days of installing it. Rubber doesn't age well so don't expect to buy spares and have them on the shelf forever. Mine must've been on the shelf too long before I bought it. So much for 'bargains'.
My generator gets used primarily for running the blender, so without it the options on cold refreshments gets limited. But it sure makes the labor worthwhile once it's running again!
_________________ -Bill Kearney, 2005 348 Vista
Last edited by wkearney99 on Thu Aug 04, 2011 2:36 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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