Split system: Marine Air Conditioning Definition
Compressor in one place — engine room or lazarette — and an air handler in the cabin, joined by refrigerant lines.
Split system in a Boat Air Conditioning System
Splits exist to solve the noise problem. Moving the compressor out of the accommodation takes the cabin from 58 dB to about 46 dB, which is the difference between sleeping through it and not. The cost is money and licensed work: running and charging refrigerant lines needs an ARCtick technician however handy you are.
Using Split system Specifications in Quotes and Manuals
Use this definition to understand a quote, manual or fault report—not as an instruction to modify the boat. Before buying, compare the wording against the current manufacturer documentation. For refrigerant, fixed 240 V wiring or below-waterline work, use the official licensing and standards sources and an appropriately qualified tradesperson.
Start with the complete system guide for context, or check the owner questions for plain-language answers. Technical information can change or be wrong; the disclaimer explains the limits.