Best way to arrange power gear

[Pure-Perception-1153]

I'm thinking of adding an inverter and expanding the battery bank to run systems like AC, fridge, and more in my Catalina. Still undecided but I was checking out Blue Sea Systems gear recently and maybe an AIMS inverter, but I'm trying to figure out how to keep things organized in one area for easier service. What do you think? Would love to hear how your systems are set up onboard.

 

[SonOfAPreacher]

AIMS is good if you're on a tighter budget, but if you want some flexibility and functionality and naturally if your budget allows for it, the Victron Multiplus is a far better choice. You can pair it with something like a 400 ah battery and cover most of your needs nicely. Ideally, you'd want to have everything near the existing electrical just to have everything in one place which can help with maintenance and serviceability.

 

[CptCtln110]

I'm thinking of adding an inverter and expanding the battery bank to run systems like AC, fridge, and more in my Catalina. Still undecided but I was checking out Blue Sea Systems gear recently and maybe an AIMS inverter, but I'm trying to figure out how to keep things organized in one area for easier service. What do you think? Would love to hear how your systems are set up onboard.

For organization, what I did was create a power center panel.
So my inverter's close to the new battery bank with super short heavy-gauge cables.
Then I built a dedicated power zone right there with the Blue Sea main disconnects and the inverter's remote.
For the AC and fridge, I ran new dedicated lines from the inverter output to a small sub-panel near the galley.
Keeping those high-draw items on their own clearly labeled circuits makes a huge difference for both performance and troubleshooting.
Personally, I think it's a fantastic upgrade!

 

[Amber_]

If you need to run AC on a sailboat, you're kind of missing the point of sailing. It's supposed to be about simplicity, self-reliance, and working with nature not recreating a floating apartment. Once you start chasing shore-life comfort, where does it stop? Flat-screen TVs and a dishwasher next?