The Power of Variable Capacity Chillers

Explore how Dometic’s VARCX variable capacity chiller delivers efficient, quiet, and scalable air conditioning for all types of marine vessels - from new builds to refits.

Boats are changing. And the way we manage onboard comfort needs to change with them.

Across the marine world, boat owners and builders are facing new realities: longer voyages, more demanding electrical loads, tighter spaces, and rising expectations for comfort, efficiency and control. Whether you’re managing a custom yacht build or upgrading an older cruiser, the role of the climate control system has never been more essential, or more complex.

That’s where the Dometic VARCX Series comes in. A new generation of marine air conditioning that doesn’t just cool - it adapts, it scales, and it simplifies. Engineered for performance and built for flexibility, the VARCX gives you powerful, quiet and efficient cooling that fits right into the way you boat today.

The Cooling System That Adapts to You

At the core of the VARCX is a variable capacity compressor - a technology that allows the unit to automatically adjust its output to match the cooling demand onboard.

Instead of traditional fixed-speed systems that constantly cycle on and off, the VARCX runs longer, quieter cycles at lower speeds. This steady performance helps maintain consistent chilled water temperatures, reduces electrical load fluctuations, and ultimately extends the life of your onboard systems. This helps reduce loads on your generator and results in reduced fuel consumption.  For boats with sensitive or heavily used power management setups, that stability is a major asset.

With its titanium condenser coil, meanwhile, resists erosion and corrosion - ensuring durability in real-world marine environments, even with high salinity or warm seawater conditions.

Flexible, Scalable Cooling - from 45 to 100 Feet and Beyond

With four base models ranging from 48,000 to 120,000 BTU, the VARCX Series covers a wide range of boat types. But its true strength is in its flexibility. For larger vessels or more demanding installations, the system can be supplied with up to six units staged together in a single bank, making it ideal for multi-zone or high-capacity configurations.

This modularity opens the door to a wide variety of use cases, from compact refit applications to full custom builds, all with a consistent foundation of smart, efficient cooling.  It also allows for simplistic redundancy and facilitates the availability of service parts world-wide.

Control and Visibility, Wherever You Are

Performance is only half the story. With the VARCX, control is just as advanced.

Each system includes a display for easy setup and real-time monitoring.  Through its intuitive controls, service professionals can monitor refrigeration performance without the hassle of connecting service gauges which can leak refrigerant.

For captains, owners, and crew alike, this level of visibility offers peace of mind and proactive maintenance planning.

Built for Installers. Trusted by Owners.

From its compact footprint to remote-mountable electrical boxes, the VARCX has been designed with installation, service, and long-term use in mind. Its integrated handles make handling and positioning easier, and the layout is optimised for fast access during commissioning or servicing.

Advanced features like Eco Mode, ramp start, and load-shedding support help manage startup currents and keep overall power draw smoother and more predictable - making the VARCX a favourite among marine electrical engineers and OEM partners.

Marine Comfort, Without Compromise

The Dometic VARCX isn’t just another marine chiller. It’s a smarter, more adaptable way to stay cool, whether you’re cruising in tropical heat or retrofitting a refit-bound vessel.

For owners who demand comfort, for builders who need flexibility, and for marine professionals who value reliability, VARCX is the future of onboard climate control.

Explore the range. Configure your system. Or speak to a marine specialist today.