We’re highlighting the pros and cons of both units below:
Dometic Turbo Unit – DTU
Powerful, Quiet & Compact With No Drain Pan Worries
The Dometic Turbo series completely revolutionized self-contained boat air conditioning with patented innovations in marine air conditioning system design, winning the IBEX Innovation Award. The rust-free molded composite drain pan has three drains for the rapid removal of condensate water. The drain pan has a small footprint for installation flexibility. A vibration-isolation mounting system results in significantly quieter, virtually vibration-free performance. The enclosed blower motor eliminates overhang for reduced depth.
Available in 6,000, 8,000, 10,000, 12,000 and 16,000 BTU/hr..
These new and updated versions of the self contained unit also have the dual capability of heating and cooling. Through its reversing valve, the unit can be used as a heater and air conditioner.
DTU PROS
Turbo blower has 30% more capacity
Compact, lightweight
Composite drain pan will not rust
Optional sound cover further reduces compressor noise by up to 50%
More modern design
Reverse cycle = cooling and heating
Slightly further rotation allowed on blower
New “U-Board” Universal control Board
DTU CONS
Higher price point
Doesn’t come with control / display or cable because it’s intended to be replacement for previous Dometic models (Stowaway Turbo STX, Vector Turbo Unit VTD)
*Dometic Turbo Units (DTU) are direct replacements for all VT and ST units. All units include temperature sensor. Display cable not included.
Dometic EnviroComfort – ECD
Enjoy Year-Round Comfort with EnviroComfort
Dometic’s EnviroComfort Units (ECDs) are available in 6,000, 10,000, and 16,000 BTU/hr cooling and reverse-cycle heating capacities, so you can size the system to suit your boat for ultimate comfort in DTU a range of climates.
All units have blowers with internal motors for a more compact installation footprint. The blower can be rotated to a horizontal or vertical position for greater installation flexibility. ECD units are built on an easy-to-plumb stainless-steel drain pan, and the pre-installed return-air filter is removable for cleaning.
ECD units are operated by a compact digital control/display (included) that features a bright green LED and large buttons. For added installation convenience, the plastic electrical box can be mounted remotely.
ECD kits are ideal for replacing an existing air conditioning system or for a new air conditioning installation. The Retrofit Kit includes the ECD self-contained air conditioning unit and digital control with bezel and is intended to replace an older self-contained air conditioner of comparable capacity. The ECD6K will replace a 5,000 to 7,000 BTU/hr unit; the ECD10K will replace an 8,000 to 11,000 BTU/hr unit; and the ECD16K will replace a 12,000 to 16,000 BTU/hr unit.
ECD PROS
More economic price point
High-velocity blower provides powerful cooling
Compact, lightweight design
Control / display and cables included
New “U-Board” Universal control Board
ECD CONS
Pans are stainless but not stainfree – therefore some rusting may occur over time
No sound cover option
Summary
Key Benefits of DTU’s Compared to ECD’s units:
Up to 27% more energy efficient
Up to 21% increased capacity
Compact design uses less space
Rust-free composite drain pan
Up to 85% less standing water in the drain pan
Vibration-isolation mounts reduce noise and vibration
Designed from the inside out with multiple patented innovations
Optional sound cover further reduces compressor noise by up to 50%