davisr
Member III
I'm thinking of using my starboard side cockpit locker as a compartment for two 6V golf-cart batteries wired in a series. Knowing that these flooded cells will release hydrogen during charging, I want to provide some passive ventilation for this locker so as to avoid the build up of this potentially explosive gas. I have read in various places that only a small hole is needed in a battery compartment and that it should be placed as high as possible in the compartment, since hydrogen is lighter than air.
A local West Marine employee (who is also a liveaboard) suggested that I install a clamshell vent or possibly even a cowl vent on the cockpit coaming. I told him my only worry was that this would provide a point of entry for water into the cockpit locker in the event that the cockpit itself took on some water in a following sea, etc. Told him I'd like to consult the Forum.
Would be grateful for some voices of experience on how I should approach this ventilation issue.
Thanks,
Roscoe
E25, cb, Hull 226
A local West Marine employee (who is also a liveaboard) suggested that I install a clamshell vent or possibly even a cowl vent on the cockpit coaming. I told him my only worry was that this would provide a point of entry for water into the cockpit locker in the event that the cockpit itself took on some water in a following sea, etc. Told him I'd like to consult the Forum.
Would be grateful for some voices of experience on how I should approach this ventilation issue.
Thanks,
Roscoe
E25, cb, Hull 226