Why is the Ventura 200T better suited for a "tropical" climate? How is this different from a Ventura 150?
The Shurflo feed pump we use on all Ventura systems has a pressure cut off setpoint of 125 psi. The Ventura 200T has a nominal operation pressure of 80-90 psi. With ~14VDC charging voltage, it is not uncommon to see operating pressure at 95 psi. If cruising in an area with higher salinity, we might even see pressures at 100 psi (higher salinity = higher pressure). The tropical aspect of the Ventura 200T is because if we start to introduce very cold water into the above scenario (cold water = more increase in feed pressure) you can imagine that we will be getting close to the max pressure of the feed pump. Not only does this wear the pump faster than normal, but the system may cut out on high pressure at every stroke as it reaches the 125 psi mark. If desired, the pressure cut off point can be increased as high was 150 psi on the Shurflo pressure switch with the proper sized hex key, but be advised this will make the pump wear at a faster rate.
Since the Ventura 150 operates normally at 60-70 psi, it allows for more wiggle room with the above scenario. Colder temps that influence the above scenario refer to places like the Pacific Northwest and Arctic waters where water temp is much colder. 45-50 degrees F is right around the cut off where you can still use the 200T with no problem. The 150 allows for a bit more flexibility with travels should you want to operate in a colder climate.