Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
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Poll: Do you think a watermaker is needed and worth the expense for cruising the Bahamas and/or Caribbean?
| Yes, it is absolutely needed, DO IT |
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14 | 35% |
| Yes, its a nice option, but not needed |
|
25 | 62.5% |
| No, forget it, you can buy water |
|
1 | 2.5% |
| Total number of voters: 40 | |||
| Only registered users can participate to this poll | |||
- hayden
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13 years 5 months ago - 13 years 4 months ago #523
by hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
Watermaker Needed? (Poll) was created by hayden
Watermakers are expensive, they need to be run weekly, or very often, and they need LOTS of power to make water. If you were going to the Bahamas and maybe the Caribbean Islands where you may cruise 3-6 months a year, would you invest in a watermaker?
Which one?
How would you power it?
How long does it take to pay off, and make it worth it?
Echo Tech:
www.echotecwatermakers.com/seawater_desa...mmercial_vessels.htm
Spectra:
www.spectrawatermakers.com/
Village Marine:
www.villagemarine.com/
Others????
Thanks
Hayden
Which one?
How would you power it?
How long does it take to pay off, and make it worth it?
Echo Tech:
www.echotecwatermakers.com/seawater_desa...mmercial_vessels.htm
Spectra:
www.spectrawatermakers.com/
Village Marine:
www.villagemarine.com/
Others????
Thanks
Hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
Last edit: 13 years 4 months ago by hayden.
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13 years 5 months ago #524
by pxlancaster
Replied by pxlancaster on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
A water-maker is not essential and I would doubt that you'd ever recover your investment but it sure as hell is nice when you see the poor devils on the next boat having to jug it from sure every time you put the hook down.
It's like all things boating, very little is actually essential but there are a whole lot of goodies that are nice to have and WM's come under that heading.
Mine is an old one and works fine but I need to run my generator and probably run it about once a month in the Caribbean, probably more often in the Bahamas. Last year there was a major drought in the Windward's and water was hard to find and then it was subject to rationing so the old WM came in very handy. Also after hurricane Tomas went through St Lucia, we were without water for two weeks so again it was nice to have the option.
If I was to buy a new one my choice would be Spectra as you can make water form sunshine and it's quiet
Peter Lancaster,
Traa Dy Liooar
It's like all things boating, very little is actually essential but there are a whole lot of goodies that are nice to have and WM's come under that heading.
Mine is an old one and works fine but I need to run my generator and probably run it about once a month in the Caribbean, probably more often in the Bahamas. Last year there was a major drought in the Windward's and water was hard to find and then it was subject to rationing so the old WM came in very handy. Also after hurricane Tomas went through St Lucia, we were without water for two weeks so again it was nice to have the option.
If I was to buy a new one my choice would be Spectra as you can make water form sunshine and it's quiet
Peter Lancaster,
Traa Dy Liooar
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13 years 5 months ago #527
by ipsailor
Replied by ipsailor on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
We have a 110 volt Aquamarine watermaker. Got that one because we have a generator and it makes 24 gallons an hour. It is really nice to have when in the keys and we plan on using it in the Bahamas. Along the east coast you really cannot use it because the pre-filters get clogged to easily. We pickled ours when we were half way north in Florida and will start using it again when we get over to the Bahamas.
Jeff
IP380-133
Xperience
Jeff
IP380-133
Xperience
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13 years 5 months ago - 13 years 5 months ago #528
by edkelly
Ed & Sue Kelly on ANGEL LOUISE, Catalac 12 Meter Cat, USCG documented Cruz Bay, USVI, cruising 24/7!
Replied by edkelly on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
We love our Spectra. I was not going to get one due to the Cost being so great. But a cruising friend reasoned with me and pointed out that at some time - especially if you like to anchor in secluded anchorages and not at a dock - you will be low on water and weather won't be good. Then it becomes a safety issue. He had seen several boats make journeys when they otherwise might have stayed, all because of no watermaker.
Best buys on Watermakers is from Barry, a Brit who stays in Curacao in the south Caribbean. He constructs them for a fraction of what commercial ones would cost and those with his all rave by them. We have a Spectra 150 (small size was only one that would fit our earlier vessel) - now wish we had the 300 model! Ed
Best buys on Watermakers is from Barry, a Brit who stays in Curacao in the south Caribbean. He constructs them for a fraction of what commercial ones would cost and those with his all rave by them. We have a Spectra 150 (small size was only one that would fit our earlier vessel) - now wish we had the 300 model! Ed
Ed & Sue Kelly on ANGEL LOUISE, Catalac 12 Meter Cat, USCG documented Cruz Bay, USVI, cruising 24/7!
Last edit: 13 years 5 months ago by edkelly. Reason: typo
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13 years 5 months ago #531
by cnelson
Replied by cnelson on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
With our aluminum tanks what better way to ensure nothing bad gets in them.
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13 years 5 months ago #535
by paulb
Paul Bragg
IP 380-163 Jennie B
Replied by paulb on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
We put in our 240 volt watermaker at the same time as we installed a generator. We've found them both very useful as we cruised the west coast of Ireland and Scotland. We spend a lot of time at anchor and it's great not to have to worry about how much water we use. It's not essential but it is a real nice to have.
We installed a D60 Dessalator CRUISE Watermaker and a Paguro 300 compact generator. Both have performed well over the last 3 years.
Paul Bragg
Jennie B IP 380-163
We installed a D60 Dessalator CRUISE Watermaker and a Paguro 300 compact generator. Both have performed well over the last 3 years.
Paul Bragg
Jennie B IP 380-163
Paul Bragg
IP 380-163 Jennie B
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13 years 5 months ago #536
by dkain01
Dan Kain
Replied by dkain01 on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
I recently installed a Spectra Catalina 300 on our IP37 Wind Dancer. We are cruising the Caribbean now and will expand our cruising season when hurricane season starts, but we're not sure where. We really appreciate having the water available and it is very clean. We drink the water from our tank. For us it seemed reasonable, as we don't trust water sources everywhere, and trying to keep ourselves and the boat clean also requires fresh water.
Dan Kain
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13 years 5 months ago #537
by hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
Replied by hayden on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
Everyone is making me rethink the values of having a watermaker. I never thought about the point Ed made of having to move in bad weather just to go get water. Then the topic of the Caribbean drought also brings up a great point. Yes, I have been one of those "poor crew" that hauls jugs back to the boat while on anchor. We tend to use a lot of water, and have our usage at 10-15 gallons US per day for both of us. We shower everyday via the 5 gallon solar shower, then the rest is for the dishes, and washing the boat salt off. When it rains, we do catch water, but maybe I should seriously look into a good watermaker for cruising.
Can we discuss the output?
What size do you think is best for two people?
8 GPH
10 GPH
15 GPH
20 GPH
???? more?
Then we have the issue of power to run these. The EcoTech guys at the Annapolis Boat show recommended simply using your spare power form the 125 AMP alternator to provide the 20-40 amps needed to run their system.
This could make sense and would prevent the need for a genset and save money. But then you have to run your engine to make water and that's not good for your engine.
My view point is....save the space and cost buy NOT adding a genset....then run the engine till it needs rebuilt or replaced. Make power via the 125 amp alt for powering the watermaker. Live off the solar (3 120 watt panels) for house power.
Does this make sense????
Thanks for the discussion...
Hayden
Can we discuss the output?
What size do you think is best for two people?
8 GPH
10 GPH
15 GPH
20 GPH
???? more?
Then we have the issue of power to run these. The EcoTech guys at the Annapolis Boat show recommended simply using your spare power form the 125 AMP alternator to provide the 20-40 amps needed to run their system.
This could make sense and would prevent the need for a genset and save money. But then you have to run your engine to make water and that's not good for your engine.
My view point is....save the space and cost buy NOT adding a genset....then run the engine till it needs rebuilt or replaced. Make power via the 125 amp alt for powering the watermaker. Live off the solar (3 120 watt panels) for house power.
Does this make sense????
Thanks for the discussion...
Hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
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13 years 5 months ago #538
by dkain01
Dan Kain
Replied by dkain01 on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
Hayden,
We purchased a Spectra Catalina 300 unit not because we needed 300 gallons a day, but because it seemed the stingiest in terms of AH/Gal. We try to make water when the engine is running because it produces 16 gal/hr under power compared to 14 gal/hr drawing from battery alone. We also try to run it when the tank is almost empty and fill the tank. It uses fresh water created to flush the filter when it stops whether you've run it for 6 hours or an hour. It also saves on filter changes.
Dan Kain
Wind Dancer
IP37-09
We purchased a Spectra Catalina 300 unit not because we needed 300 gallons a day, but because it seemed the stingiest in terms of AH/Gal. We try to make water when the engine is running because it produces 16 gal/hr under power compared to 14 gal/hr drawing from battery alone. We also try to run it when the tank is almost empty and fill the tank. It uses fresh water created to flush the filter when it stops whether you've run it for 6 hours or an hour. It also saves on filter changes.
Dan Kain
Wind Dancer
IP37-09
Dan Kain
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13 years 5 months ago #539
by pxlancaster
Replied by pxlancaster on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
Hayden,
As far as capacity goes, I would suggest the 15 gph and that allows for it not producing at 100% all the time. The math would basically mean you needed to run it for an hour everyday to maintain your water level.
I would strongly advocate getting a system that runs off 12v. That way you have several choices as to how you replenish you electrical consumption. If you happen to be on engine underway, why not make water at the same time? If you're at anchor use solar panels to provide the power. The beauty of what I'm saying is that you don't need to put up with any extra noise which is a bonus.
I have a buddy with a Hunter 42 and he pretty much has what I'm proposing and also has a genset. When we are anchored close together and I'm having to run my genset, he tilts his solar panels to maximize the the power he gets from the rays and sits there quietly. His genset hardly ever has to run.
Peter
As far as capacity goes, I would suggest the 15 gph and that allows for it not producing at 100% all the time. The math would basically mean you needed to run it for an hour everyday to maintain your water level.
I would strongly advocate getting a system that runs off 12v. That way you have several choices as to how you replenish you electrical consumption. If you happen to be on engine underway, why not make water at the same time? If you're at anchor use solar panels to provide the power. The beauty of what I'm saying is that you don't need to put up with any extra noise which is a bonus.
I have a buddy with a Hunter 42 and he pretty much has what I'm proposing and also has a genset. When we are anchored close together and I'm having to run my genset, he tilts his solar panels to maximize the the power he gets from the rays and sits there quietly. His genset hardly ever has to run.
Peter
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13 years 5 months ago - 13 years 5 months ago #541
by a Guest
Replied by a Guest on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
We have a village Marine Little Wonder Modular 8gph unit that works well and is easy to install in our sized sailboats. I have some issues with the cost of membranes and parts (all VMT proprietary). Had looked at the EchoTech as an option at this years US Sailboat show and they kept talking about "non-proprietary" in their speil. When I visited the Florida distributor near St Petersburg I found out that they to use proprietary parts, special "high Rejection membranes, etc.
After spending 4 winters cruising the Caribbean I feel that a watermaker is definitely the way to go. Water may be available if you want to lug it in your dinghy every day or so. But having a limitless supply of water makes cruising so much easier.
Size the unit based on your ability to provide power for it. We have a single cylinder diesel genset and run the watermaker every 3 days or anytime that we end up motorsailing. If I had an AC genset I would go with an AC powered unit as you can get a whole lot higher production from the AC powered units.
I prefer the basic manual watermakers - see to many of the all automatic types out of commission here.
FWIW we made 1650 gallons of water during the winter of 2009.
After spending 4 winters cruising the Caribbean I feel that a watermaker is definitely the way to go. Water may be available if you want to lug it in your dinghy every day or so. But having a limitless supply of water makes cruising so much easier.
Size the unit based on your ability to provide power for it. We have a single cylinder diesel genset and run the watermaker every 3 days or anytime that we end up motorsailing. If I had an AC genset I would go with an AC powered unit as you can get a whole lot higher production from the AC powered units.
I prefer the basic manual watermakers - see to many of the all automatic types out of commission here.
FWIW we made 1650 gallons of water during the winter of 2009.
Last edit: 13 years 5 months ago by a Guest.
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13 years 4 months ago - 13 years 4 months ago #547
by Galileo
Replied by Galileo on topic Re: Watermaker Needed?
Hayden,
If and when we get our WM am leaning toward the Katadyne PowerSurvivor 160E May be considered more expensive than others, but looks simpler to install and operate.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
If and when we get our WM am leaning toward the Katadyne PowerSurvivor 160E May be considered more expensive than others, but looks simpler to install and operate.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
Last edit: 13 years 4 months ago by Galileo. Reason: more info
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13 years 4 months ago #566
by shawnee
Replied by shawnee on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
We have a Spectra and it's been great! Cruising NE we make water every day. Otherwise it's backflush with fresh RO water and it's good for a week, til we are back on board. RO water is wonderful! Also makes the water tank corrosion issues, much less of a problem - no chlorine! Spectra was on the boat, and I think is lowest Ahr per gallon of RO water.
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- Moondance - IP440 #35
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13 years 4 months ago #581
by rhpike
Randy
S/V Moondance
IP440 #35
Houston, TX
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Replied by rhpike on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
Great topic, Hayden. I don't have one on Moondance, but will now add it to my list before I retire and go cruising.
Randy
S/V Moondance
IP440 #35
Houston, TX
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13 years 4 months ago #585
by hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
Replied by hayden on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
So far, my research is leading to SPECTRA CATALINA 300 as mentioned. That unit produces 12.5 gallons/hr at 15 amps DC!
www.spectrawatermakers.com/catalina/index.html
The problem is, it looks like it is about $9,500.00 that is if you can find a price.
I am still trying to validate this need. If going to the Bahamas or Caribbean or ocean passages, this is an obvious need.
But Maine to Florida, and a 2-3 month trip to the Bahamas maybe not.
Thanks for all the feedback.
Hayden
www.spectrawatermakers.com/catalina/index.html
The problem is, it looks like it is about $9,500.00 that is if you can find a price.
I am still trying to validate this need. If going to the Bahamas or Caribbean or ocean passages, this is an obvious need.
But Maine to Florida, and a 2-3 month trip to the Bahamas maybe not.
Thanks for all the feedback.
Hayden
Hayden Cochran
IP35-165 Island Spirit
IslandSpirit35.blogspot.com
Rock Hall, MD
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13 years 4 months ago #586
by Galileo
Replied by Galileo on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
Hayden,
Don't forget to take into consideration the current drain for the pump that draws the water into boat to feed watermaker. That has to run the whole time you run water maker. Find out about noise levels of both also.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
Don't forget to take into consideration the current drain for the pump that draws the water into boat to feed watermaker. That has to run the whole time you run water maker. Find out about noise levels of both also.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
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13 years 1 month ago #701
by Galileo
Replied by Galileo on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
Hello All,
I am now leaning heavily in the direction of the Spectra Ventura 150 if that is still available. Looks like it would be quieter and consume less power. Also looks like it will be easier to mount the main unit (Clarke Pump and Membrane) since they come as a complete package on their own mounting plate.
We should get a group purchase together to see if we could get a discount.
Larry Rossi
I am now leaning heavily in the direction of the Spectra Ventura 150 if that is still available. Looks like it would be quieter and consume less power. Also looks like it will be easier to mount the main unit (Clarke Pump and Membrane) since they come as a complete package on their own mounting plate.
We should get a group purchase together to see if we could get a discount.
Larry Rossi
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13 years 1 month ago #705
by Galileo
Replied by Galileo on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
Hello All,
In researching Spectra Watermakers, which I said a couple of days ago I now am heavily favoring, I came across the following article that may influence one against buying an older used unit.
www.spectrawatermakers.com/support/REPAIR_BULLETINS.pdf
Somewhere inside this article, it does address the Ventura 150 and 180 models which I have been trying to locate on the used market through a variety of sources. I haven't done a detailed analysis of everything this article discusses, but maybe someone (owner, technician) more familiar with the Spectra Watermaker can make a more educated comment.
Has anyone experienced the kind of issues that this Repair Bulletin refers?
Might speak in favor of buying a new or newer unit which should have resolved the type of difficulties that this article refers.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
In researching Spectra Watermakers, which I said a couple of days ago I now am heavily favoring, I came across the following article that may influence one against buying an older used unit.
www.spectrawatermakers.com/support/REPAIR_BULLETINS.pdf
Somewhere inside this article, it does address the Ventura 150 and 180 models which I have been trying to locate on the used market through a variety of sources. I haven't done a detailed analysis of everything this article discusses, but maybe someone (owner, technician) more familiar with the Spectra Watermaker can make a more educated comment.
Has anyone experienced the kind of issues that this Repair Bulletin refers?
Might speak in favor of buying a new or newer unit which should have resolved the type of difficulties that this article refers.
Larry Rossi
Galileo
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13 years 1 month ago #707
by largostar
Replied by largostar on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
We have had a Spectra Ventura 150 for 7 years.Don't even think about getting one. It's been unreliable, dealer service hopeless and cost of parts and storage solulution prohibative.Ours now has intermittent fault which can't seem to be fixed. We have pickled it and as far as we are concerned it can stay that way-its more trouble than its worth.
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13 years 1 month ago #708
by Galileo
Replied by Galileo on topic Re: Watermaker Needed? (Poll)
Largostar,
That would make it about a 2003 unit. Might be related to the Repair Bulletin Info that I refer to above. If you would like to part with it in the future let me know.
Thanks,
Larry
That would make it about a 2003 unit. Might be related to the Repair Bulletin Info that I refer to above. If you would like to part with it in the future let me know.
Thanks,
Larry
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