T&T: Fw: Watermakers, in general

[Larry N. Brown]

In order to increase our fuel capacity, we converted what had been 400 gal 
water tankage  in Cigano to fuel- doubled our fuel capacity but severely cut 
our water capacity. We installed two 60 gal Ronco water tanks under the 
master stateroom berth. To make up the difference, I am installing an 
Aquamarine 40 gph RO unit in the lazarette. This unit isn't a "box" but  a 
collection of parts that can be installed in the best location. I wouldn't 
have had room to install a  40 gph box. The unit is simple and runs off 
240vac. Can run off an engine pulley or 120, too. If you look at it, there's 
little to go wrong- 2 motors, 2 pumps a little plumbing and the membranes. 
All parts are off the shelf and readily available. If I wanted to make it a 
60 gph unit, all I'd have to do is add another pressure vessel, membrane and 
hoses. With two 42" membranes, if one fails, I can plumb around the other 
and keep on trucking.

Very few hours genset time will yield full water tanks, washed and dried 
clothes, hot showers and charged batteries. How much water one uses is a 
matter of choice and is right up there with how much fuel one uses, to air 
or not to air-condition a boat and other philosophical considerations. If 
being Spartan pleases you, then by all means be Spartan. My personal choice 
is cool air and lot's of fresh water. If you meet me in the Bahamas, I'll 
swap you fresh water and ice for rum. As for the fact that RO water is 
lacking minerals, how do you imagine the native Bahamians survive drinking 
rain water from a cistern? Maybe the rum provides the requisite minerals.

Regards,

Larry & Teri Brown
MV Cigano, 47' Prairie Sundeck
Still glued to the dock in Covington, LA





> We used it continuously for 5 months with Zero maintenance issues.  The 
> only maintenance work was I changed the filters before pickling and 
> winterizing the unit.
> My wife especially enjoyed the availability to have plenty of fresh, 
> sterile water on board at all times.  I installed a modular unit from 
> Aquamarine myself, little effort for a great benefit.
>
> Just my 2 cents worth.
> Cheers
> Al Binnington
> GB36 FALKOR
> Guelph, 
> Ontario________________________________________________________________________
> Check Out