Marinco solar vent alternative.

[Uncle Bob]

Hi, I have three marinco solar vents fitted, two of which are failing. I've replaced the motor in two, extending the life of them marginally but the time has come to find an alternative, so I am asking all if they have any suggestions for a RELIABLE and DURABLE alternative. (Yes I know that I am asking a lot )
Ideally one that fulfils the same criteria, and mabee fits the same hole in the deck.
Cheers, Bob.

[coopec43]

I fitted a solar vent and now I'm regretting it as it will have a definite life and I'll have to replace it.

I have a "Marine 8" Boat Round Non Slip Inspection Hatch" under the solar vent to stop water ingress when the decks are awash. I'm thinking of a cover to switch it off when not needed.

Now for your query: is this any help?

"Replaces NICRO 3″ and 4″ snap-in deck plates (fits existing holes once snap-in deck plates are removed) and Day/Night Plus models"

https://www.boatingcentral.com.au/pr...c&gad_source=1

[Toccata]

I reckon they're noisy rotten things. Mine are being removed and being replaced with either a cowl vent (on the anchor locker hatch) or just a plain (no motor) similarly shaped vent where a sheet can drag across it.

[coopec43]

Originally Posted by Toccata

I reckon they're noisy rotten things. Mine are being removed and being replaced with either a cowl vent (on the anchor locker hatch) or just a plain (no motor) similarly shaped vent where a sheet can drag across it.

I have no problems at all with that.

[JBP]

Dorade box/vents, if you have the deck space.

[massnspace]

You can buy brushless computer fans that are super cheap and will run forever. They are 12v so they will work. You can buy them in different CFM ratings….different flow amounts.

Then a thin wire/switch to your battery.

If you not able to keep your battery charged, you can just install a very small solar panel on your boat top, to recharge the small amount the fan will eat.

And a simple “mushroom” type vent above the fan to let the air in (out).

Yes, you will have to look at the small wire going to the fan (hide with a wood strip). But that fan will last for years/decades. The new Nicro 24 hour vents are VERY expensive and cheaply made (in my opinion), and don’t even work all night if you live in lower sun areas like I do, in Seattle.

[wrwakefield]

I have been keeping an eye on alternatives to solar vents and was recently told about these Air Only ventilator products in use on a sister-ship.

I have not seen or used them yet, but they are first on my list next time I need to add a through-deck ventilator.

FWIW

Cheers, Bill

[wholybee]

Originally Posted by JBP

Dorade box/vents, if you have the deck space.

Absolutely. I had Marinco vents and they were terrible.