Algae growth in AC intake filter

[Driftwoods]

When I get back to the boat on Friday's, the AC intake filter is completely clogged due to some kind of algae growth (very nasty smelling too). I can clean that out easily enough but I am noticing the flow is still a little restricted so I'm thinking the growth is also occurring in the hoses between the filter and overboard discharge. I run it all weekend and see some limited improvement, I assume it's washing the growth out slowly.

Any ideas on how to clear that more quickly? I thought about a little chlorine or bromine but that seems like something that could hurt as much as it helps. I talked to the guy at west Marine and bromine was on his list of things to try but he gave a strong recommendation for using Polident, the denture cleanser. That looks like a pretty weak acid and antibacterial so it might be a gentle solution to the issue. Anyone else ever heard of or tried that?

[Sailmonkey]

I used to keep bromine tablets in the strainer when I worked at a charter company, but the best solution I've found is to turn off the AC or use dehumidify mode when not there. A weeks worth of water brings in a lot of gunk. And yes it is blockage in the hose.

[Driftwoods]

Thanks Sailmonkey. I do keep the AC off during the week (I have a separate dehumidifier). Never any issues with seals or anything degrading when you used a bromine tablet? Sounds like you kept one in there pretty much continuously. When we had a hot tub, we kept bromine in it constantly and never had a problem and it seems like this would be a similar enough thing to use it like that on the AC intake. However, it seems the rules are always slightly different on a boat. lol

[Driftwoods]

By the way, I did find this blog posting. Sounds pretty reasonable.

[dohenyboy]

Great link


Sent from an undisclosed location on the high seas or from the lounge chair by the pool, you decide.