Watermakers

[Ed Ellis]

I'm shopping for a watermaker and would like some advice about capasity (gallons per day). Typically, it's just my wife and I cruising with an occasional couple joining us for a few days. We like to go where fresh water is scarce. We typically shower once a day --sailor style (wet down, soap down, rinse off). Linda has shoulder length hair, so she requires more water to rinse soap out of her hair. Do you think 200 gpd will suffice?

Any particular brand of watermaker to avoid?

[SecondWind]

Ed.

We have a 35 gpd-not nearly big enough. I'd figure on one that will make at least 15 gph. That way you'll make enough in an hour of electric production to be generous for a whole day. Spectra seems to be popular. Ask Roger Ford on Kokomo about them.

Terry Green
Second Wind 36040

[next exit]

I use a Little Wonder 150 and it is a power hog. If I was to change, it would probably be to a Spectra. I do cruise in the no water places.

Don Wilson

[Kokomo]

We're using the Spectra "Santa Cruz" (I think???). It makes 6 to 7 gph but the trade off is that it's less expensive and, more importantly, it has a 40 inch membrane versus the normal 80 inch - much easier to find a place to install. If that's not enough water, Spectra has larger models. Most Spectra's are about 1 ah / gallon.

Roger Ford
s/v Kokomo

[Leadfree]

I agree with the Fords that the Spectra is great and the service is very good which can be important.
Sharon

[Allezcat]

We use a Spectra Ventura 150 the same as the Fords. The company support has been good. It makes about 7GPH using about 10amp/hrs. I also installed a Zeta guard by Spectra. This electrically charges the feedwater eliminating the need to ever pickle the unit.