Autohelm AH estimate

[viben]

From the product specs, I know the power consumption of the Raymarine SmartPilot on my sailboat.

However, this number does not seem to be very useful for estimating real life power consumption, since it is stated as continuous, while in reality the autohelm is operating in short intervals to make course corrections.

Anyone having thoughts on estimating amp hours, taking this into account? 10%, 25%, 50% of continuous consumption, or...?

The estmate is for solar installation. In addition to the fridge, the autohelm is the major draw while underway under sail.

[Sailmonkey]

Consumption is dependent on seastate and sail trim.

If it was me, I'd estimate worst case. That means you'll be sure to cover your consumption.

[barnakiel]

Poorly set AP will likely hit at least 80% for a time and then die.

Well chosen, installed and set up AP will run at below 25% except in very rough conditions when 50% is a safer bet.

I have tested AP consumption on a Ray model 4000+ tiller ages ago (about 2010) and it came at nearly 1.6A. Sea condition slight. Boat well balanced but the AP not tuned.

Cheers,
b.