Watermaker Update

[weston]

I posted photos of a watermaker I installed back in July of this year. The system produces approx. 13 gallons per hour and has been a great addition to my boat. No longer do I need to dangle from midship, remove fill cap, insert hose all the while hoping I don't slip into the drink procedure. You know what I mean? I just push a button.

I added a "soft start " capacitor which allows me to run the watermaker on a small portable Yamaha 2kw generator that stores easily and weighs just 40 pounds. Or simply run it on shore power while at the dock. Never have to worry about dock side water again.

 

[stwendl]

When I played in water maker toyland a few years ago I read one should not run a water maker in a marina. Frequently there are oil and fuel residues around that destroy or shorten the life of the membrane. Perhaps technology has advanced since then but you want to look into that

 

[weston]

As a general rule,If you see oil, or lots of debris near your boat you would not want to run your watermaker . Having said that your raw water intake is well below the surface , not at the top , which is where oil generally sits. The chance of fouling a membrane is very low. In fact after thirty years plus in the watermaker business, I have seen one membrane failure attributed to hydrocarbons.

 

[Red Raven]

Nice setup! What does a system like that run in $?

 

[weston]

About $ 5995.00 for the unit. Installation can be done by the owner, or another $ 1500 - $ 2500 depending on the vessel

 

[Red Raven]

Thanks! It will have to stay on my wish list for now!