Central Vacuum installation in cruiser

[FrankyB]

I'm currently restoring a 1989 Four Winns 315 Vista and contemplating the installation of a central vacuum unit with two inlets; one in the **** pit and the other in the cabin. Are there "code" requirements for the installation of such?

My concern stems from a conversation I had with a web store tech support person who couldn't tell me if the units they promote as "RV/Marine" are ignition protected or not or, shouldn't be installed anywhere near the engine compartment. Even though these units generally use PVC piping a leak/faulty joint could be a fatal problem. When I was taking classes for my captain's license the Coast Guard told a story of how a man accidentally killed himself. He was using a shop vac to clean out his bilge; there was a small fuel leak in the engine compartment that expelled fumes. The fumes went up the hose and the shop vac blew up like a bomb once the fumes hit the motor.

I'd welcome any input or guidance as to how others have approached this installation.
Thanks,

Frank

 

[JoLin]

Virtually none of the electrical equipment in the cabin area of your boat is ignition protected. Not your cooktop, not your air conditioner, not your microwave, coffeemaker, etc., etc. Common sense is the key. Good wiring, install the electrics in a place where they isn't exposed to bilge fumes, and keep the suction hose out of the bilge. I won't deny that I've used a shop vac in the bilge, but I was careful about doing a thorough sniff test before i fired it up.

That's my opinion.

My .02