desalination systems for yachts

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Do You Need a Watermaker for Your Sailboat?

• By Jen Brett
• Updated: October 2, 2019

I remember, in the not too distant past, when having a watermaker aboard a cruising boat seemed to be the ultimate luxury. Plenty of sailors considered them too expensive and complicated. Fortunately times have changed. With improved technology and a range of price points on the market, now even average cruising boats of modest means carry a reverse-osmosis system. And really, is there anything that feels better after a day spent sailing and swimming than a hot shower? The freedom and security that come with full water tanks are also a nice bonus, particularly if you’re cruising in an area where fresh water is difficult to come by and pricey when you do.

Choosing a Watermaker

As with any major system, there are many factors to consider when you choose a watermaker. You’ll need to figure out your freshwater needs, the space you have available for the system and how you’re going to power it . Generally speaking, in a reverse-osmosis desalination system the raw water is run through a series of pre-filters, and then a high-pressure pump moves the water through one or more membrane housings. The wastewater, or brine, is released overboard and the product water goes into your water tanks.

Since all of the watermakers that are currently available for cruising sailboats use this process for desalination, the major differences between the systems are how you power the high-pressure pump and the user interface. Powering options include 120/220-volt AC, 12- or 24-volt DC and engine/belt driven. All have their pros and cons.

“The first question I ask a potential customer is ‘Will your boat have a ship’s generator?’” said Rich Boren of Cruise RO Water. “If they plan to have a generator, then the decision to go with a 120-volt high-output watermaker seems natural. While running the generator for battery charging and other loads two to three times per week, they can keep their water tanks full without having to make generator runs just to make water.”

A 12-volt system, such as the Spectra Catalina 300 Mk II or the Horizon Reverse Osmosis Seafari Quest, makes a lot of sense for smaller cruising boats since they don’t need a generator to run and have fairly miserly power consumption. On a breezy, sunny day, a solar panel and/or a wind generator will likely keep up with the demand. “The only difference between 12-volt DC low-output and 120-volt AC high-output watermakers is how the high-pressure pump brings seawater up to the 800 psi needed to drive fresh water through the reverse-osmosis membrane,” Boren said. “The membrane and support equipment, like pre-filtering and plumbing, are the same.”

These systems typically produce anywhere from about 6 to 16 gallons per hour, and some units can do so for about a 1-amp-per-gallon power draw.

“Many smaller sailboats, under 45 feet or so, often utilize solar panels,” said Berkeley Andrews of Parker Hannifin, which produces Sea Recovery, Horizon Reverse Osmosis and Village Marine watermaker systems. “Their entire electrical backbone consists of 12-volt or 24-volt. So they must have a watermaker that can operate on low voltage. These customers have limited amp hours on their batteries, so all of their equipment must be suited to handling this.”

In choosing a watermaker, Bill Edinger, owner of Spectra Watermakers, said to be realistic about water needs. “When helping customers decide which system is right for them, first we like to determine their approximate water usage with questions like ‘How many people are aboard normally? Are you going to be living on the boat full time? Do you have a washing machine? Any children? Are you going to be cruising full time or leaving the boat for extended periods?”

A common error people make is choosing a watermaker that is too small for their needs. “The most common mistake I see cruisers making in their watermaker purchase decision is underestimating how much water it will take them to cruise comfortably,” Boren says. “I’m not talking about the minimal amount of water it takes for the crew to stay alive, because there is a big difference between staying alive and comfort. Selecting a watermaker that will only meet their minimal drinking-water needs but not keep up with the comfort needs of the crew can lead to crew tensions and feeling like camping rather than cruising.”

Remember that “watermakers are rated in gallons of production in a 24-hour period,” Edinger said. “So a 300-gallon-per-day watermaker system sounds like a lot of water. The important thing is that it produces about 12 gallons per hour. Normally a system like this will be run three to four hours per day if power is not a critical issue, in this case producing 36 to 48 gallons of water. It’s better for a system to run for a few hours every few days than an hour every day.”

Watermakers for Small Boats

If space is at a premium, consider purchasing a modular system instead of an enclosed one. In a modular system, the components, such as the membranes and filters, can be mounted separately. Another power source for the high-pressure pump is the boat’s diesel engine. In these engine-driven setups , the pump and an additional pulley are mounted on a custom bracket next to the engine. The watermaker can then be run while motoring or using the engine to charge the batteries.

While engine-driven watermakers can produce a large amount of water, 20 or more gallons an hour on average, the downside is that the installation can be more complex than for other systems. “Unlike the 12-volt DC or 120-volt AC watermakers, where you simply bolt the high-pressure pump down and then run the wires and plumbing hoses, the hardest installation aspect of an engine-driven watermaker is finding space. Some boats simply have no room in the engine compartment to mount the 5-pound pump with a 7-inch pulley on the engine while still leaving access to other engine parts that need to remain serviceable,” Boren says.

A relative newcomer to the marine market, the portable watermaker is a good solution for cruisers who want the convenience of a watermaker but don’t want to permanently install one. The Rainman is one such system that is available as a self-contained unit driven by a gasoline-powered Honda motor, or as a 115-volt AC-powered unit. “The bulk of our gasoline-powered system customers are sailing yachts between 30 and 50 feet,” said Ron Schroeder of Rainman Desalination. “Our customers seem to prefer to have a simple and somewhat manual system over one that relies on control panels, software and solenoid valves. We are also attractive to those customers who have had bad experiences with the installation process of an installed system.”

The Spectra Passport is another portable system. Edinger said it has already proved popular with offshore race crews and cruisers who need a watermaker for only a limited time.

Maintenance for Watermakers

Watermakers have long had a reputation for being difficult to maintain, but the equipment has improved over the years and overall, routine maintenance isn’t more challenging than with other onboard systems. “The best rule of thumb is to operate the watermaker in water that looks good,” Andrews said. “There are a few factors in the feed-water condition that come into play. Operating a watermaker in dirty harbors will most certainly result in repeated pre-filter changes and a clogged sea strainer. If you have extra filters on board, you can get by, but it’s not recommended. The environment in the open ocean and remote anchorages is much better. Also consider how shallow the water is where you’re anchored. Sometimes there can be a lot of tidal movement, which can kick up fine particulate and sediment. This too can also contribute to more frequent filter changes and even damage other components. A nice option is an automatic freshwater flush, which will rinse the watermaker’s membrane element after use. It helps keep the membrane vessel housing free of any biological growth that could foul the membrane and reduce your ability to produce fresh water.”

Whatever system you choose, with proper use and maintenance you can expect years of service from your watermaker. And plenty of hot showers.

Jen Brett is a CW associate editor. This article first appeared in the February 2015 issue of Cruising World.

Aqua Marine: www.aquamarineinc.net

Blue Water Desalination: www.bluewa​terdesalination.com

Cruise RO: www.cruiserowaterandpower.com

Dometic Marine Sea Xchange: www.do​metic.com

ECHOTec: www.echotecwatermakers.com

FCI Watermakers: www.filtrationconcepts.com

Horizon Reverse Osmosis (HRO): www.hrosystems.com

Katadyn: www.katadyn.com

Rainman: www.rainmandesal.com

Sea Recovery: www.searecovery.com

Schenker Watermakers: www.schenkerwa​termakers.com

SK Watermakers: www.skwatermakers.net

Spectra Watermakers: www.spectrawater​makers.com

Village Marine Tec: www.villagemarine.com

Watermakers Inc.: www.watermakers.com

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Home » Blog » Gear » Watermakers: a guide to marine desalinators and making water on a boat

Watermakers: a guide to marine desalinators and making water on a boat

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: March 23, 2022

There’s something magical about a watermaker—at least that’s how I felt after we installed one on our boat. That may sound overblown, but think about it: watermakers transform salt water into fresh water, providing a near-endless supply of potable water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning! THAT my friends is an amazing piece of technology!

(If you don’t share my enthusiasm, try going without a shower for a few days and you’ll begin to see my point).

Having experienced living on a boat and cruising, both with and without a marine desalinator, I can attest that it’s a game-changing piece of gear. However, you definitely don’t need one to go cruising. There are plenty of low-tech ways to collect and make water on a boat.

Marine desalinators do offer some major benefits: there’s more water for showers, it’s easier to travel farther afield, you can spend more time in a remote location. However, these benefits have to be weighed against the drawbacks: namely a hefty price tag and ongoing maintenance.

Deciding whether a watermaker is right for you will come down to the type of cruising you’re doing, how much water you need, and your budget. Read on to learn about the pros and cons, costs, and key features of marine watermakers.

How does a watermaker work?

A watermaker on a yacht converts seawater into fresh water through a process known as reverse osmosis (RO). A high-pressure pump pushes seawater through a semi-permeable membrane that filters out salt, organics, and bacteria. The fresh water is pumped into your water tanks while the remaining brine bi-product is discharged over the side of the boat, back into the ocean.

Marine watermakers: the benefits and drawbacks

Less water rationing.

When we started our 13,000 mile trip across the Pacific, we didn’t have a watermaker. We were on a tight budget and decided to prioritize other pieces of equipment like a life raft and wind vane.

As a result, we became experts in conserving water on a boat . We would carefully ration out water for washing dishes, taking showers, and even brushing our teeth!

After getting a watermaker we became far less meiserly because we knew we could always make more water if we needed to. It was a relief to not be constantly thinking about how much water we were using over the course of a day.

That being said, we couldn’t relax completely. We had to keep our tanks topped up, so as not to run the pump dry. We also always carried potable water in reserve, in case our watermaker broke in the middle of a long passage.

More luxuries

Can’t live without a proper shower? A boat water maker can make water-intensive luxuries like freshwater deck washdown, freshwater flushing heads, laundry, daily showers, and even baths, a possibility.

As great as this sounds in theory, we were surprised to find that we didn’t indulge in more showers after we got the watermaker.

We continued to use a hand pump pesticide sprayer to shower on deck despite having a watermaker and shower below. While some of this came down to habit, we also disliked running our engine (and consuming diesel) just to run the watermaker.

No hauling water

For us, this was by far the greatest benefit of having a watermaker!

While cruising in the US and Canada, we could refill our water tanks at a dock or marina. This was a minor hassle because it involved pulling up the anchor and docking the boat.

In Mexico, it was more challenging to get water. We would fill 5-gallon jugs at the local water purification plant in town and wheel them back to our boat on a collapsible dolly.

It often took a couple of trips with the dolly and dinghy to fill our water tanks. Oh, and we broke our dolly, twice!

We realized that if we wanted to spend more time exploring, and less time hauling water, we would have to invest in a watermaker. When we reached La Paz, Mexico we bought a refurbished watermaker, and we were so glad we did!

Our sailboat water maker gave us the gift of time, especially in places like Mexico and the South Pacific, where there were limited opportunities to fill water tanks up at the docks. It also saved us paying docking and water fees.

We estimate that our boat water maker saved us anywhere from four to six hours every week, time that we could spend exploring the wonderful places we were visiting.

A clean, safe water source

In places where the drinking water may be suspect, a boat water maker can be a reliable source of safe drinking water (assuming it’s in good working condition!).

More time in remote locations

A watermaker is a great tool if you’re drawn to remote locations where you might be the only boat in the anchorage.

It wasn’t until we reached Los Frailes, a secluded village on the Baja, that we really began to think about buying a watermaker.

There we were in an idyllic anchorage, surrounded by spectacular hiking and fishing. There was only one problem—every two days we had to walk 10 miles into town with our water jugs and hope that some kind samaritan would give us a lift back to our boat.

Before having a watermaker, we’d often leave a place we loved just because we needed to fill up our tanks. With a watermaker, we were more self-sufficient and could stay an extra few days, or as long as we wanted!

The number one drawback is the cost. We were able to find a refurbished water desalinator for $3,000, which was a great deal but also a considerable slice out of our cruising kitty.

How much does a watermaker cost?

Powered desalination systems for your average recreational cruising boat range from around 3,500 USD to 11,000 USD, with the more expensive options offering higher production (gallons of fresh water per hour).

Ongoing maintenance

Watermakers are yet another piece of boat equipment that needs to be maintained.

The majority of watermaker problems are caused by not using it enough or not using it properly.

If a watermaker is not used for a few weeks, the planktonic organisms in the seawater will die, rot, and clog the membrane and filters. This can eventually damage the reverse osmosis membrane in the watermaker.

For this reason, boat water makers should be used frequently and regularly flushed with fresh water.

Watermaker flushing

Check your manufacturer’s instructions on how to flush.

Rainman recommends flushing the seawater out of the system with fresh water if you are not using the system for more than a day or two. After another week, you need to freshwater flush the system again or pickle it for long-term storage.

Of course, it’s easy to forget, so we made it a rule to freshwater flush our watermaker after every use.

This is one good reason to choose a watermaker with an output that will meet your water consumption needs but not exceed them. If you’re using it every second day, you won’t have to try and remember whether you’ve flushed it or not.

Flushing a watermaker is relatively simple but it does involve a bit of work. We used a system with buckets of fresh water to flush our system and it generally took about 5 minutes.

You can also buy systems that automatically flush your watermaker at pre-determined times—even when you’re away from the boat (more on autoflush systems below).

Whatever you do, don’t use chlorinated water to flush as it will destroy reverse osmosis membranes. It’s possible to buy a carbon filter to remove chlorine from water sources at the dock.

Pickling a watermaker

If you don’t plan on using your watermaker for a while it needs to be “pickled” with a special biocide to prevent growth and buildup which could render your reverse osmosis membrane totally useless.

A watermaker should also be pickled every so often to chemically cleanse the membrane.

In addition to flushing and pickling, you will also need to clean out and replace the raw water pre-filters.

Operating costs

When properly cared for, a membrane should last five to ten years. If you don’t properly flush or pickle your watermaker, it can be a lot sooner and membranes aren’t cheap, generally costing in the range of 200-700 USD.

You’ll also need to purchase pre-filters and pickling solution, which are generally quite affordable. It’s also a good idea to carry spare parts

Power consumption

Watermakers can be real power hogs. When Practical Sailor tested a dozen DC watermakers they found they could draw anywhere from 12 to 48 watts per gallon, a huge range in efficiency!

According to Practical Sailor, “for maximum efficiency none of the systems drawing 15 amps or more should be operated without running the engine at the same time.”

We had to run our engine for hours to fill our tanks, which was annoying (and loud) when we were hanging out at anchor and also used up another finite resource—diesel fuel.

In our view, this was the single largest drawback to having a watermaker aboard.

Keep in mind that your power supply will determine what type of watermaker you buy. You may need to upgrade your electrical panels, get a generator or high-powered alternator, add solar panels, or increase battery capacity to supply the demand.

You can’t make water everywhere

While watermakers offer great flexibility and freedom, you can’t just make water in any old spot. If you make water in a polluted marina or anchorage, you’ll risk clogging up your filter. Most cruisers will head out to open water to ensure the saltwater they’re using is as clean as possible.

Key features to look for

Powered or handpump, handpump watermakers.

Handpump watermakers tend to be small and portable, the perfect thing to keep in your ditch bag in the event of an emergency. They’re less expensive than powered watermakers and produce far less water, usually around one gallon per hour.

Though I do know cruisers who have used a handpump watermaker for everyday use, they typically tend to be kept aboard for survival situations.

Powered watermakers

Powered watermakers run off your electrical supply or engine and can produce tens of gallons of water per hour. They tend to be a lot more expensive, but they’re productive enough to replenish your tanks.

Electric or engine drive

Powered watermakers can be electrically driven, by AC or DC, or run off the boat engine.

AC watermakers

AC models can produce in the range of 20-60 gph and are ideal for cruisers with an AC generator or alternator on board. They can also be used on boats with ample solar or wind sources and an inverter.

DC watermakers

DC watermaker systems typically produce in the range of 10-30 gph and are ideal for boats with solar power or 12V battery power.

Engine-driven watermakers

On an engine-driven watermaker, the high-pressure pump is belt-driven. These can produce a considerable amount of water, even on small engines. For instance, engine-driven units produce between 20-60gph, twice what a DC unit can produce.

Energy recovery watermaker

DC watermakers have become more efficient in recent years thanks to energy recovery systems (ERS). When the water leaves the watermaker it is still under pressure. ERS uses a set of valves to make use of this excess pressure to help drive the pump, which can reduce energy consumption by as much as 80 percent.

Modular, self-contained, and portable watermakers

Watermakers can be bought as modular, self-contained, and portable units. Choosing the right one may depend on your boat size and layout and whether you’re comfortable installing the watermaker yourself.

Modular units

Modular units come as several separate components that you can mount and connect yourself. This obviously offers a lot more flexibility and is particularly useful on smaller vessels where you may not have a lot of space. The downside is that these systems will take longer to install.

Self-contained units

Self-contained units arrive pre-assembled. While easier to install, they’re often bulkier and best suited to a bigger cruising sailboat with a large engine room.

Portable watermakers

Portable watermaker systems, like the Rainman watermakers, are entirely self-contained. Their compact design makes them easy to move and stow and you can completely avoid a permanent installation.

Simply put the intake and brine discharge hoses overboard, the freshwater hose in your water tank and you’ll be making water in no time.

If you race, have multiple boats, or plan on selling your boat, a portable watermaker is a great option because it can be easily moved from boat to boat.

If we were to buy another watermaker, we would probably opt for a portable one.

Automatic flushing systems

Automatic flushing systems use your boat’s freshwater supply to flush the watermaker for several minutes every few days. These systems require additional components (e.g., a timer, carbon filters, and a motorized valve) and installation but they take a lot of the maintenance out of having a watermaker onboard.

Automatic Pressure Regulation and adjustable pump speed

Your watermaker’s efficiency will be affected by the temperature and salinity of the water you’re cruising in. Cold and highly saline waters (e.g., in the high latitudes) will be more work for your watermaker, so it will take longer to purify.

Some units feature Automatic Pressure Regulation (APR) and adjustable pump speed which can help compensate for fluctuations in water temperature and salinity.

Remote control panels

Some watermakers have the option of a control panel which allows for easier access and remote control. Control panels tend to have a fairly simple interface with just a few gauges but may include a salinity sensor—so you can keep tabs on water quality—and auto-flush integration—so you can flush your watermaker with the flip of a switch.

Top watermaker brands

If you’re considering buying a watermaker for a boat, here are some of the top brands to consider.

• Cruise RO Watermaker
• Echotec watermakers
• Horizon Reverse Osmosis (HRO)
• Sea Recovery watermakers
• Schenker watermakers
• Spectra watermakers

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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Desalination Systems For Boats: 7 KEY Points To Consider

This a quote that always got me thinking, partially about the immense challenge involved with sourcing water at sea, but also the technological advances we have had in desalination and more importantly, compact desalination over the last 500 years.

“Water water everywhere and not a drop to drink “ The Rime of the Ancient Mariner – Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Being able to stay offshore for months at a time is something I was always fascinated by, the ability for ships to be largely self-sufficient and to produce fresh water. It did make me wonder though, how do they do it, what is the best option for different boats? Is there a one size fits all approach? How do you make sure the water is ok to drink? All of these questions got me thinking, what do you need to consider when installing or purchasing a desalination system for a boat? To better understand what is involved, I got researching and came up with this guide!

Compact reverse osmosis desalination systems powered manually or with varied electrical sources are suitable for most recreational boat users. For larger vessels with onboard motors, distillation becomes more viable, particularly as engine size increases and the excess heat produced can be utilized effectively.

1. The type of desalination system!

Realistically and practically speaking there are only two types of desalination systems suitable for boats, the most common being reverse osmosis and the alternative being distillation. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages with certain boat types suited to one over the other.

Reverse osmosis (RO)

Reverse osmosis is a popular desalination technology that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove salt and other contaminants from seawater. RO systems work by applying pressure to seawater, forcing it through a membrane that allows only freshwater molecules to pass through, leaving the salt and other impurities behind.

Advantages: RO systems are highly efficient, producing freshwater with a high salt rejection rate. They are also compact, lightweight, and relatively easy to install, making them ideal for boats with limited space. Additionally, RO systems require less energy than other desalination methods, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

Disadvantages: RO systems require regular maintenance, including membrane cleaning and replacement, to prevent fouling and other issues. They also require high-pressure pumps to operate, which can be expensive and may put a strain on the boat’s power supply. Furthermore, RO systems are sensitive to variations in water quality and temperature, which can affect their performance.

Example: Spectra Watermakers is a leading manufacturer of RO desalination systems for boats, offering a range of systems suitable for different boat sizes and water usage levels.

Best suited for .

Reverse-osmosis systems are generally the most common system utilized in marine environments due to their scalability, more compact nature and lower energy requirements. Sailing boats and vessels powered by outboard motors almost exclusively utilize reverse osmosis systems as they do not produce the excess heat required to operate distillation systems at an efficient level.

Distillation desalination systems

Distillation desalination systems use heat to evaporate seawater, leaving behind salt and other contaminants, and then condensing the steam into fresh water.

Advantages: Distillation systems produce high-quality freshwater that is free from most impurities, including bacteria, viruses, and dissolved solids. They are also relatively simple to operate and maintain, with no membranes or filters to replace. Additionally, distillation systems can be powered by a variety of heat sources, including electricity, gas, or diesel, making them suitable for different types of boats.

Disadvantages: Distillation systems are generally less efficient than other desalination methods, requiring more energy to produce the same amount of freshwater. They are also bulkier and heavier than RO systems, which can be a challenge on smaller boats with limited space. Furthermore, distillation systems are more expensive to purchase and install than other desalination methods, and may not be practical for boats with limited budgets.

Example: GEA is a manufacturer of innovative distillation desalination systems for boats where the heat produced by the engine is used in the distillation process , improving the overall efficiency of freshwater production.

Best suited for:

Distillation systems are best suited for large vessels with comprehensive onboard diesel motors. These larger vessels produce excess heat in the engine room which can be utilized in the distillation process, lowering the specific energy required to run the distillation system and thereby lowering the cost of operation.

2. The size of the desalination system.

When selecting a desalination system for a boat, size is a crucial factor to consider both the physical size of the unit and the production requirements. Factors to consider include the boat’s size, water usage, and budget.

Boat Size: This may seem obvious, but the size of the desalination system should be appropriate for the size of the boat. A large boat will require a larger desalination system to produce enough fresh water for the crew’s needs. A small boat, on the other hand, may only require a compact and lightweight system.

Water Usage: The size of the desalination system also depends on the boat’s water usage. A boat with a large crew or that spends long periods at sea will require a larger system to produce enough fresh water. A boat with a smaller crew or that spends less time at sea may only require a smaller system.

Space Constraints: The size of the desalination system should also consider the available space on the boat. Larger systems may be difficult to install on smaller boats, while smaller systems may be more practical for boats with limited space.

Budget: The size of the desalination system will also affect the cost. Larger systems will generally be more expensive than smaller systems however this is not always the case as some high-performance options can be extremely compact.

3. Testing apparatus & Quality Control.

The quality of water produced by the desalination system on a boat must be monitored to ensure that it falls within the required salinity levels prior to any potential consumption or use. Being in a space-constrained environment, practicality is key and depending on the size of the system both automatic and manual processes should be considered.

The best option for low volumes: Test Strips

Test Strips: Salinity test strips are another practical option for testing salinity levels on a boat. They are small, lightweight, and require minimal space to store. Test strips are easy to use and can produce a result in just a few minutes. They are also relatively inexpensive and can be used to measure salinity levels in both fresh and saltwater. However, test strips may not be as accurate as other testing methods and may not be suitable for scientific or research purposes.

The test strips displayed to the left are available on Amazon for $23 USD , less than 50c per test!

The best option for continuous use: Conductivity Meters.

Conductivity meters are another practical option for testing salinity levels on a boat. They are portable, easy to use, and can measure salinity levels in both fresh and saltwater. Conductivity meters are more accurate than refractometers and test strips and can be automated for continuous monitoring. However, conductivity meters can be more expensive than other testing methods and may require more maintenance.

The third option: Refractometers.

Refractometers: Refractometers are one of the most practical salinity testing methods for use on a boat. They are small, lightweight, and easy to use, requiring only a small sample of water to produce a reading. Refractometers are also relatively inexpensive and can be used to measure salinity levels in both fresh and saltwater. They are ideal for quick and accurate testing and can be easily stowed away when not in use.

For a more in-depth article specifically focussed on salinity levels testing, have a look at How To Check Water Salinity Levels: 4 Potential Methods .

4. The power requirements.

Desalination systems on boats can be powered by different energy sources, including utilizing the excess heat from the ship’s motors, solar power, wind power, and an alternator. Each energy source has unique advantages and disadvantages that make them more suitable for specific desalination systems.

Distillation systems require a significant amount of heat, and therefore utilizing the excess heat from the ship’s motors is the most practical source of energy . The heat produced by the engine can be used to evaporate and condense seawater to produce fresh water.

Reverse osmosis systems , on the other hand, require a significant amount of electrical energy, making solar power, wind power, and an alternator or generator more suitable sources of energy . Solar power, in particular, is a renewable and sustainable energy source that can be harnessed by solar panels mounted on the boat’s deck.

Wind power is another renewable and sustainable energy source that can power desalination systems on boats. The energy from the wind can be harnessed using a wind turbine and used to power the desalination system. However, the amount of energy produced by wind turbines depends on wind speed and can be expensive to install.

Alternators or generators can also be used to power desalination systems on boats, they function by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy and can be used to charge the batteries and power the desalination system. The advantage of using an alternator is its reliability, as it doesn’t depend on the weather conditions. The amount of energy produced by the alternator, however, depends on the engine’s speed and the size of the alternator.

Often, a combination of the above-mentioned energy sources is used , with an alternator or generator providing the base load power (Along with heat energy released from the ship’s motors for distillation). The remaining power demand is then sourced from small wind turbines and solar panels which fluctuate throughout the day depending on the environment. A mixed array of energy sources provides the balance between cost-effectiveness and reliability that is required to run desalination systems on board boats and ships.

5. The location of the system on the boat.

The location of a desalination system on a boat is an important factor to consider, as it can affect the efficiency and safety of the system. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when determining the optimal location for a desalination system on a boat:

• Accessibility: The desalination system should be installed in a location that is easily accessible for maintenance and repair. If the system is installed in a hard-to-reach location, it may be difficult to fix in case of a breakdown.
• Weight distribution: The weight of the desalination system can affect the boat’s balance and stability. The system should be installed in a location that balances the weight of the boat evenly. For example, if the system is heavy, installing it in the centre of the boat may be best.
• Vibration: Desalination systems can produce a significant amount of vibration, which can be uncomfortable for passengers and damage the boat’s structure. To minimize vibration, the system should be installed in a location that is isolated from other equipment and machinery.
• Water source: The location of the desalination system on the boat should be near the water source, such as the sea or a freshwater tank. This will minimize the length of the pipes and hoses required to transport water to the system, which can reduce the risk of leaks and water loss.
• Electrical connections: The desalination system requires electrical power to function, so it should be installed in a location that is close to the boat’s electrical system. This will reduce the length of the electrical cables needed, which can reduce the risk of electrical failure and improve the system’s efficiency.
• Ventilation: The desalination system generates heat and produces water vapour, so it should be installed in a well-ventilated location to prevent overheating and moisture buildup. Adequate ventilation can also prevent the accumulation of harmful fumes and gases.
• Noise: Desalination systems can produce a significant amount of noise, which can be disturbing to passengers and wildlife. To minimize noise, the system should be installed in a location that is isolated from cabins and areas where people congregate.

6. Storage requirements.

Water storage is an important consideration for any boat owner using a desalination system. Four key points to consider when it comes to water storage requirements for a desalination system on a boat are the water demand, available space, water quality and required maintenance:

• Water demand: The amount of water needed by the boat and its passengers will determine how much water storage is required. Boat owners should consider the number of people on board, the length of the trip, and the water needs for cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. This information will help determine the size of the water storage tank needed.
• Available space: The amount of space available on the boat will determine the size and shape of the water storage tank. Boat owners should consider the size and shape of the tank and where it can be located on the boat. This will depend on the boat’s design and layout, as well as the other equipment and storage needs on board.
• Water quality: The quality of the water produced by the desalination system will affect the storage requirements. Some systems produce water with high salt content, which can impact the taste of the water and corrode tanks and pipes over time. Boat owners should consider using tanks made from materials that are resistant to corrosion, such as stainless steel or plastic.
• Maintenance: Proper maintenance of the water storage tank is essential for ensuring the quality of the water and preventing damage to the tank and pipes. Boat owners should consider the maintenance requirements of the tank and the desalination system when selecting a storage tank. Some tanks may require frequent cleaning or flushing to prevent the buildup of bacteria or algae, while others may require regular inspection for cracks or leaks and therefore should be located in an easily accessible location.

7. The price of the system.

The financial cost of a desalination system is a critical consideration for boat owners who want to ensure a reliable source of fresh water on board. There are several costs associated with desalination systems, including the upfront cost of the system, installation costs, and ongoing maintenance costs.

The upfront cost of a desalination system can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the system. Simple systems such as handheld or manual reverse osmosis units can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, while larger and more complex systems can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, the type of system will determine the ongoing costs of replacement filters or membranes, which can add up over time.

Installation costs for desalination systems will also vary depending on the type and size of the system, as well as the boat’s design and layout. Simple systems may require minimal installation work and can be DIY installed, while larger and more complex systems may require professional installation and plumbing work.

Ongoing maintenance costs for desalination systems include the cost of replacement filters or membranes, as well as any required maintenance or repairs. The cost of replacement filters or membranes can vary depending on the type and size of the system, as well as the frequency of use. Maintenance and repair costs may also vary depending on the complexity of the system and any required professional services.

For the average dinghy with an outboard motor, a handheld or manual reverse osmosis unit is likely the most affordable desalination system. These units can be purchased for a few hundred dollars and require no installation costs, making them an ideal option for smaller boats with limited space and budget.

For sailboats , a compact and portable reverse osmosis system that can be easily stored and transported is an excellent option. These systems are typically larger and more expensive than handheld units, but they can provide a reliable source of fresh water for longer trips.

For an extremely compact desalination system suitable as a backup water supply for recreational usage, take a look at Quenchsea , without a doubt the most lightweight manual desalination unit on the market.

For larger boats with onboard motors, a more complex and higher-capacity desalination system may be required. These systems can cost tens of thousands of dollars to purchase and install, and ongoing maintenance costs can be significant. However, they provide a reliable source of fresh water for longer trips and can be an excellent investment for boat owners who spend extended periods at sea.

https://www.spectrawatermakers.com/us/us https://www.gea.com/en/products/liquid-processing/water-treatment-systems/sea-water-distiller.jsp https://waterbornemag.com/watermaker/ https://www.saltwaterpoolandspa.com/salt-water-test-kit.html https://www.xylemanalytics.com/en/parameters/conductivity-and-salinity https://letsdowater.com/how-to-check-water-salinity-levels-4-potential-methods/ https://www.quenchsea.world/

John Wilson

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Compass Articles

• April 18, 2024

Deep Dive into Yacht Desalination Systems: Fresh Water from the Sea

What is desalination on yachts.

Desalination on yachts is a process that turns seawater into fresh water, making long trips on the ocean more manageable. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at sea, having a desalination system onboard means you won’t run out of fresh water. This system can make sea water drinkable by removing the salt and other impurities. Whether you use reverse osmosis or thermal distillation, the goal is the same: to give you access to fresh water anytime during your journey.

Having this system onboard allows for longer and more flexible sea travel. It’s vital for anyone who wants to explore without the limitation of water supply, ensuring you’ve always got enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

How Do These Systems Work?

Reverse osmosis is the most common technology used in yacht desalination. It works by pushing sea water through a special filter that removes salts and dirt, leaving behind clean water. This method is popular because it’s effective and the setup doesn’t take up much space on the yacht. Another method, thermal distillation, involves heating the sea water until it turns into steam and then cooling it back into liquid water, which is salt-free and clean.

Depending on what your yacht can accommodate, you might choose one method over the other. Both have their perks, but reverse osmosis tends to be more energy-efficient and requires less room.

Why Install a Desalination System?

Installing a desalination system on your yacht adds a layer of independence and safety. It lets you travel farther from shore because you won’t need to dock just to refill your water tanks. More than convenience, it’s about making sure you always have access to safe water, which is essential for staying healthy at sea. Additionally, using your own system reduces the need for plastic water bottles, which is better for the ocean environment.

Systems nowadays are easier to manage, with many models featuring automated cleaning and maintenance alerts. They’re an environmentally friendly option that provides peace of mind, knowing that wherever you are, you can have fresh water with just the push of a button.

Picking the Right System for Your Boat

It’s important to choose a system that fits your boat and your travel habits. Think about how much water you usually need and how much space you can dedicate to the system. Getting advice from experienced professionals can make the decision easier. They can help determine the most suitable system based on your specific needs and the size and power setup of your yacht.

Remember, professional installation and regular maintenance are key. This ensures that the system works well and lasts a long time. It saves you money down the line by avoiding major repairs caused by improper use or neglect.

When it comes to staying hydrated and safe on your ocean adventures, a reliable desalination system is crucial. For expert advice on choosing and installing the right system, feel free to contact a team member from Fly Yachts, who can guide you through the process and ensure you make the best choice for your sea-going lifestyle.

Considering buying a yacht?  Fly Yachts  showcases a broad array of  yachts for sale . For those desiring a personalized yacht, their  build a yacht  service allows you to tailor a yacht perfectly suited to your needs. Learn about their commitment to quality by visiting the  About Us  page. Adventure lovers can check out the  charter destinations  page for stunning places to sail. If you’re thinking about  selling your yacht , they offer guidance to ensure a smooth process. Aviation buffs might be interested in  aircraft for sale . Stay updated with the latest yachting news by following  Gulfstream News . Any questions? The  Contact  page has all the information you need. For those interested in the yachting experience without the full commitment of ownership, their  yachts charter  options are excellent. Additionally, for more compelling stories and insights about yachting, be sure to read their  Compass Articles .

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A Guide to Marine Desalinations Units and Making Water on a Boat

Introduction.

Welcome to our guide on watermakers, also known as marine desalinators. If you own a boat or are planning a long voyage, access to fresh, clean water is essential. While it is possible to carry a limited supply of water with you, a watermaker allows you to produce your own water as needed, giving you greater independence and flexibility.

In this article, we will provide an overview of how watermakers work and the different types available. We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using a watermaker, as well as some tips for maintaining and troubleshooting your system.

What are Watermakers?

Marine watermakers , also known as seawater desalination systems or reverse osmosis watermakers, are devices that are used to produce freshwater from seawater for use on boats and ships. These systems work by using a process called reverse osmosis to filter salt and other impurities out of seawater, producing clean, drinkable freshwater.

Marine watermakers are typically used on boats and ships that are sailing in areas where freshwater is scarce or not readily available, such as in the open ocean or in remote locations. They are an essential piece of equipment for any vessel that will be out at sea for an extended period of time, as they provide a reliable source of fresh water for drinking, cooking, and other purposes.

How do Watermakers Function?

Marine watermakers, also known as seawater desalination systems , are devices that are used to convert seawater into fresh drinking water on board ships and boats. They are particularly useful in situations where there is no access to freshwater sources, such as during long voyages or in remote locations. There are several different types of marine watermakers, but most operate using a process called reverse osmosis.

In this process, seawater is pressurized and forced through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes the salt and other impurities from the water. The resulting fresh water is then collected and stored for use on board the vessel. Marine watermakers typically consist of several main components, including a high-pressure pump, a reverse osmosis membrane, and a control system. The pump is used to pressurize the seawater, while the membrane is responsible for removing the impurities.

The control system monitors and regulates the water maker’s operation, ensuring that it is functioning properly and producing high-quality drinking water. Marine watermakers require a consistent source of electricity to operate and can be powered by the vessel’s battery system or a separate generator. They also require regular maintenance to ensure that they are operating efficiently and producing high-quality water.

Types of Marine Watermakers

There are several different types of marine watermakers available, each with its own set of features and benefits.

· Reverse Osmosis Watermakers

Reverse osmosis (RO) watermakers are the most common type of marine watermaker. These systems use a semi-permeable membrane to filter out salt and other impurities from seawater. RO watermakers are known for their high efficiency and ability to produce large quantities of fresh water. However, they require a significant amount of pressure to operate and can be quite expensive to maintain.

· Thermal Watermakers

Thermal watermakers use heat to evaporate seawater, leaving the salt and other impurities behind. The water vapor is then cooled and condensed into fresh water. Thermal watermakers are relatively simple and easy to maintain, but they are not as efficient as RO watermakers and tend to produce smaller quantities of water.

· Solar-Powered Watermakers

Solar-powered watermakers use energy from the sun to power the desalination process. These systems are environmentally friendly and can be used in areas where access to electricity is limited. However, they are not as efficient as other types of watermakers and may not produce enough water to meet the needs of larger boats or ships.

· Hand-Pump Watermakers

Hand-pump watermakers are small, portable systems that can be used to produce fresh water in emergency situations. These systems use manual labor to power the desalination process, making them suitable for use in areas where electricity is not available. However, hand-pump watermakers are not suitable for long-term use and can be quite labor-intensive.

Which is the Best Watermaker for You?

There are a few different types of boat watermakers available, including reverse osmosis systems and vacuum distillation systems. Reverse osmosis systems use a high-pressure pump to force seawater through a membrane, which removes salt and other impurities to produce fresh water. Vacuum distillation systems use heat to vaporize seawater, which is then cooled and condensed to produce fresh water. Both types of watermakers are effective at producing fresh water, but reverse osmosis systems tend to be more popular because they are generally more efficient and require less maintenance.

The Importance of Using Watermakers

Watermakers allow boaters to turn seawater into fresh, potable water, which is vital for maintaining adequate hydration and for cooking and cleaning onboard. Underneath, we’ll explore the importance of using boat watermakers and how they can benefit boaters.

· Adequate Supply of Fresh Water

One of the primary reasons for using boat watermakers is to ensure an adequate supply of fresh water. While it’s possible to carry a limited amount of fresh water onboard, it can be difficult to predict how much water you’ll need for a given voyage. Factors such as the number of people on board, the length of the trip, and the weather can all impact your water usage. A watermaker allows you to produce as much fresh water as you need, ensuring that you have enough to meet your needs while at sea.

· Self-Sufficient

Another important benefit of boat watermakers is that they allow you to be more self-sufficient while on the water. Instead of relying on shore-based sources of water, you can produce your own fresh water onboard, which can be especially useful in remote or isolated areas. This can give you greater peace of mind and allow you to explore more remote destinations without worrying about running out of water.

· Environmentally Sound

In addition to their practical benefits, boat watermakers also have environmental advantages. By producing your own fresh water onboard, you can reduce your reliance on single-use plastic water bottles, which can help to reduce plastic pollution in the oceans. Watermakers also allow you to minimize your impact on shore-based water sources, which can be especially important in areas where water is a limited resource.

Proper Maintenance Practices for Your Marine Desalinator

Marine desalinators are an important part of many boats and ships, providing a reliable source of fresh water for drinking, cooking, and other purposes. However, like any other piece of equipment, they require proper maintenance to ensure they continue to function properly and efficiently. Below, we will discuss some key maintenance practices for marine desalinators that will help keep them in good working order.

· Follow the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule

Most marine desalinators come with a recommended maintenance schedule that outlines the specific tasks that need to be completed at regular intervals. This may include things like changing the filters, cleaning the membranes, and inspecting the unit for signs of wear or damage. It’s important to follow this schedule carefully to ensure that your desalinator is always in top condition.

· Change the Filters Regularly

Desalinators use filters to remove impurities from the seawater before it is processed into freshwater. These filters can become clogged over time, which can reduce the efficiency of the unit and even cause it to fail. It’s important to change the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the unit is operating at peak performance.

· Clean the Membranes Regularly

Desalinators use a special type of membrane to filter salt and other impurities from seawater. These membranes can become fouled over time, which can reduce the unit’s efficiency and lead to poor water quality. To keep your desalinator functioning properly, it’s important to clean the membranes according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This may involve using a specialized cleaning solution or simply flushing the membrane with fresh water.

· Inspect the Unit Regularly

Regular inspections of your desalinator can help you catch small problems before they turn into bigger ones. Look for signs of wear or damage, such as leaks, cracks, or worn seals. If you notice any problems, address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the unit.

· Store the Unit Properly

When not in use, it’s important to store your desalinator properly to prevent damage or deterioration. Keep it in a dry, well-ventilated area, and cover it to protect it from dust and debris.

By following these maintenance practices, you can help ensure that your marine desalinator continues to provide reliable, high-quality freshwater for your boat or ship.

In conclusion, boat watermakers are an essential piece of equipment for any boat that spends extended periods of time on the water. They allow you to produce your own fresh water onboard, which is vital for maintaining adequate hydration and for cooking and cleaning.

Watermakers also allow you to be more self-sufficient while on the water and can help to reduce plastic pollution and minimize your impact on shore-based water sources. If you’re planning on taking your boat on extended voyages, a NEWater watermaker is an investment worth considering.

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Fresh water anywhere

AC ELECTRIC, PETROL (GASOLINE), and 12VDC ELECTRIC WATERMAKERS. PORTABLE and INSTALLED MODELS AVAILABLE.

AC ELECTRIC , PETROL (GASOLINE) , and 12VDC ELECTRIC WATERMAKERS . PORTABLE and INSTALLED MODELS AVAILABLE.

no power source required

Petrol (gasoline) watermakers.

230V/50HZ or 115v/60hz

Ac electric watermakers.

12VDC power source

12vdc watermakers, rainman watermakers, a fresh approach to saltwater desalination. .

The Rainman Advantage

VERSATILITY

Rainman watermakers can be easily transferred between boats or used in remote land based applications. Keep your watermaker when you change your boat.

RELIABILITY

Partnering with the best companies for components, Rainman watermakers have a very high quality build, ensuring reliability and longevity of your investment.

LIFE CYCLE COST

With modest initial investment and components designed for durability and easy maintenance, the overall life cycle cost of a Rainman watermaker is kept to a minimum.

Portable Watermakers

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Enjoy the purest water without limitations - easy and reliable. Purchase your modular, portable, or compact boat salt water desalinator today!

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Mini Portable Watermaker AC Powered

AC Watermaker Systems

Available in 17 to 40 GPH - Best for medium to large size vessels.

Watermaker: AC 110/220 Volt 970 Watts, 40 GPH Dual Membrane

DC Watermaker Systems

Available in 17 to 40 GPH - Best for small to medium size vessels.

Watermaker: DC 12 Volt, 600 Watts, 17 GPH Single Membrane

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SWP Modular & Portable Watermakers

Welcome to SeaWater Pro, the premier provider of high-quality watermakers for boats and portable watermakers for all your marine adventures. Our cutting-edge technology and reliable products will ensure that you have access to clean, purified seawater wherever you go. With our easy-to-use and reliable watermakers, you can say goodbye to bulky storage tanks or worry about running out of fresh water. Our compact and efficient systems are designed specifically for marine use, making them perfect for boats of all sizes. Whether you're cruising the open seas or anchored in a secluded cove, our watermakers will provide you with a steady supply of fresh, drinkable water. At SeaWater Pro, we understand the importance of safe and clean drinking water while at sea. That's why our portable watermakers are equipped with advanced filtration systems that remove harmful contaminants and bacteria. Look no further than SeaWater Pro for your next, most reliable boating adventure investment!

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Watermakers vs. traditional water storage: a comparative analysis, demystify desalination, charting your course: your first steps into the exciting world of the sea industry, how do i know which seawater pro watermaker i'll need for my boat.

• Identifying which power source you'd like to run the system. AC or DC power?
• Determine how many gallons per hour will you need to maintain your lifestyle, 17 or 40 GPH.

How much does each SeaWater Pro System weigh?

Every modular watermaker system ships in 3 boxes.

• Box 1: Components (tubing, filters, boost pump, comet pump, fittings, etc.) - 40 lbs.
• Box 2: Motor - 40-48 lbs. (varies by motor option)
• Box 3: Membrane Vessels 15 lbs. per vessel, 30 lbs. each for stainless steal option.

Can I install a SeaWater Pro system myself?

Yes! We have videos and instructions for our customers on the resources page .

Do I need a control panel?

Do I need a control panel? Click to watch video

How do I rinse my system after I use it?

Rinse Timer Setup Guide Click to learn more about using your system's rinse timer!

How often do I need to pickle my watermaker?

How to pickle my SeaWater Pro system! Click to watch our short video guide.

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Horizontal Small Desalination Watermakers：Making Clean Water on Your Boat

Our portable and modular water generators are easily programmable and installable, converting seawater into fresh drinking water while lowering fuel consumption and maximizing energy efficiency.

NEWater: Desalination of Water Expert

Do your ships/yachts have desalination plants? If you are a sailor, working in the nautical industry, owning your own fishing boat/yacht, then you must be troubled by one thing: How to get potable water on board in an easy way? Marine desalinators can turn seawater into freshwater with one button. We have a wide range of high-quality desalination systems for boats that can support your business. Send us an inquiry today for professional desalination advice based on your vessel type and size!

NEWater Horizontal Small Desalination Watermakers

Compact and lightweight, easy to install and transport. Utilizes RO technology with 0.0001um pore size to remove 99.99% of contaminants. Features a high-quality RO membrane with a 98% desalination rate, meeting WHO drinking water standards—ideal for marine applications.

Compact, durable, and lightweight. Equipped with PLC+ relay dual-mode control for reliable operation. Features a high-quality RO membrane with a 98% desalination rate, meeting WHO drinking water standards—perfect for boat use.

Split design for easy mobility and assembly. Ideal for yachts and ships with automatic PLC control and curved panel design. Uses seawater RO membrane with over 98% desalination rate, with SS316L parts for durability and safety. Produces water that meets WHO standards.

• Fully Automated Operation : The system features fully automated operation with an automatic cleaning system, ensuring long-term performance with minimal manual intervention.
• Emergency Stop & Safety Design : Equipped with an emergency stop button and a professional electrical control cabinet, the design separates water and electricity, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
• Compact & Sturdy Design : Constructed with a fully polished stainless steel frame, the system is lightweight, space-saving, and robust, making it ideal for installation on ships or in other confined spaces.
• High-Efficiency Desalination RO Membrane : Fitted with imported high-quality RO membranes that effectively remove salts, organics, bacteria, and microorganisms, producing water that meets drinking water standards—perfect for clear seawater that doesn’t require additional filtration.
• High-Pressure Metal Components : All high-pressure metal parts are made from SS316 material, capable of withstanding pressures up to 7MPA, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance.

NEWater RO Technology

Reverse osmosis is a membrane separation technology driven by pressure difference, with high separation, no phase change, simple and efficient characteristics.NEWater adopts the world’s advanced and energy-saving and effective RO membrane separation technology, filtration precision 0.0001 microns. It can thoroughly filter out all particles of sediment, colloid, rust, bacteria and viruses, limescale, heavy metals, etc., with a removal rate of 97-98%, effectively avoiding secondary pollution. The water produced can be directly consumed, sweet and delicious.

Why You Should Invest a Marine Water Maker?

NEWater’s desalination system for boats is designed to transform seawater into clean, healthy water suitable for direct human consumption. It is used in islands, individuals, sailing, yachting, fishing, disaster relief, etc. The equipment is small, easy to carry, less weight, and at the same time less costly to invest in.

We also offer suitcase desalination units that can be customized to your needs. Solar energy supply is optional, and the equipment uses energy recovery devices to fully reduce energy consumption.

About NEWater

NEWater is a Chinese water treatment equipment company with nearly 20 years of experience, specializing in the field of seawater desalination. We have extensive technical expertise, with our engineers each having over 15 years of industry experience, understanding deeply the water treatment needs of our customers and specific usage scenarios.

All our water treatment systems, including our marine watermakers, come with a one-year quality guarantee. With our own manufacturing facility, we ensure prompt delivery and significantly shorten lead times. NEWater serves global customers, providing support even for individual marine desalination units. Our equipment conforms to ISO 9001 quality management system certification.

NEWater Desalination Machines Applications

During long-term fishing operations, brackish seawater can be troublesome. Whether for drinking, washing clothes, cooking, or bathing, the experience is subpar, and carrying large amounts of bottled water is neither economical nor convenient. A small watermaker can solve this issue with the push of a button.

Large cargo ships or logistics companies on international voyages may be at sea for several days to weeks. Without adequate fresh water supply, long-term navigation and operations are impossible. Equipping the ship with a high-capacity desalination unit ensures a plentiful supply of clean water, avoiding business interruptions.

For restaurant operations, high-quality water is necessary for cooking, beverage preparation, showers, and swimming pools. A reliable unit can convert seawater into smooth drinking water, supporting your business, maintaining brand reputation, and improving customer experience.

Whether operating a resort or owning a vacation villa, a continuous and stable supply of clean water is a worthwhile investment. Even with low usage frequency, it is more convenient than continuously purchasing bottled and mineral water.

 Coastal or off-grid households surrounded by seawater often struggle to obtain potable tap water. Installing a desalination system can continuously convert seawater into clean water, enhancing household water use. The system can use solar power and diesel generators to address power supply issues.

NEWater Mission：Bring New Life for Water

• Product Parameters
• Manufacturing
• What You Care About
• Optional Components

NEWater has an independent large-scale production workshop, which is convenient for the control and supervision of product production quality. Strictly abide by production standards and provide detailed guarantees for all projects.

NEWater establishes SOP standardized operation process and strictly implements the work process. The professional project installation team, implement 5S on-site management. Equipped with standard safety facilities, investigating access conditions, and short construction time.

The safe transportation process does not have to worry about product damage and extends the construction period. NEWater has provided system equipment to thousands of companies around the world, which guarantees absolute product transportation.

1）How to Install Marine Water Maker on My Boat? 

NEWater’s high-capacity and low-capacity marine desalination equipment are both designed with a compact footprint and are fully tested before leaving the factory. Upon receiving the equipment, all you need to do is install it on your vessel following the provided product manual and perform simple pipeline connections. Once everything is set up, simply press a button, and the equipment will start producing pure water from the outlet. You can initially test the water quality of the produced water to ensure it meets your standards.

If there are any issues with water quality or installation, our customer support team will provide online technical guidance and assistance within one day.

2）How to Maintain My Boat Water Maker?

To minimize environmental damage to the equipment, it is recommended to place it in an area away from strong sunlight and rain exposure. When using the equipment, try to choose areas with better water quality, as the quality of raw water affects the lifespan and filtering efficiency of the RO membrane. Additionally, cleaning the RO membrane every 6 months to a year can extend its lifespan and reduce the frequency of replacements. Filters should have their cartridges replaced every 3 to 6 months to maintain system efficiency and water quality.

Marine desalination systems can be equipped with various optional components to meet the specific needs and operating conditions of different vessels.

• Transformer
• Diesel generator
• Solar panels
• Freshwater tank
• Pre-treatment filter
• Automatic cleaning system
• Control system
• Disinfection device

How Long does the General Production Cycle Need to Wait?

NEWater’s treatment types of equipment are divided into a large system and a small system according to the water volume. The equipment is divided into portable water-making equipment, small modular equipment, skid-mounted equipment, and container-type equipment. According to different water volumes and customer requirements, we provide customized services.

Conventional small equipment takes 3-7 days, and large equipment takes 2-3 months. This is based on your requirements and water volume.

If I Need to Customize Equipment, What Data Need to be Provided?

• As the voltage and frequency of different countries are different, we first need the local voltage and frequency of electricity.
• How many gallons the water requirement per hour is
• The water quality of the source water and what requirements need to be met
• If you need to provide on-site installation services

Does the Equipment Need to be Installed On-site?

• Portable and small equipment — This is plug and play, it doesn’t need to be provided installation services. According to our instructions, you can install by yourself.
• Small modular equipment, skid-mounted equipment, and container equipment-we will reserve the interface for docking. If there are installation workers, we will provide installation instructions and installation instructions. If necessary, we can also send someone to install it.
• How to provide installation instructions —— We have installation instructions and installation videos. If necessary, we can provide free remote software to help you with remote video installation instructions.

How to Charge for Installation Service ？

• We provide free installation instructions, with instruction manuals and installation videos
• Remote video installation guidance. If it is a large piece of equipment and the customer needs to install it by himself, then we will also provide free remote installation guidance service, but we need to plan a good time, within our working hours. Our working hours are from 9 o’clock to 18 o’clock Beijing time
• We send workers to install it. This needs to be based on the size of the project. If we have been designated to install it in the early stage, the installation service abroad will belong to our scope of work, and no additional charge is required.
• If we need to send someone to install it temporarily, we need to provide different charges according to different countries, installation technical requirements, and different types of technical work. Welcome to inquire.

How to Transport the Equipment?

There are several types of transportation, sea, air, and express

• If it is a small device and requires fast speed, we can provide door-to-door service by air and express, the normal transportation cycle is 5-10 days.
• If it is skid-mounted or container equipment, it is more appropriate to use the shipping method. The normal transportation cycle is 20-40 days.

What ’ s Your Payment Method ?

Small equipment needs payment to delivery

For skid-mounted equipment and container equipment, 50% is prepaid, 30% is charged after video inspection, and 20% is charged before shipment.

Of course, we provide you with flexible ways of cooperation. Become our agents, and have more flexible support. Welcome to contact us.

D o You Provide Maintenance Services ?

Absolutely.

• NEWater provides free installation guidance and a one-year product warranty service. During the warranty service period, if there is an equipment problem, we provide free equipment repair or replacement services. If it is a manual operation, a fee will be charged. We can provide the required equipment replacement.
• We provide life-long after-sales service. NEWater has a full set of equipment and accessories, which can be replaced. Don’t worry about the failure of after-sales and maintenance.
• During the warranty period, NEWater provides all kinds of professional technical support, and if necessary. We also provide remote video guidance services.
• After the warranty period, NEWater also provides life-long after-sales maintenance, which requires a certain amount of manual service. There are also many matching accessories that can be replaced, so there is no need to worry about the later operation of the equipment.

Do You Provide Design Services?

Yes, we do.

For conventional small equipment, NEWater has standardized equipment. For large-scale skid-mounted and container equipment, we can design a process that meets the needs according to different water quality requirements.

At the same time, we carry out three-dimensional drawing designs according to different requirements and then communicate with customers to confirm.

After the design confirmation is completed, we then proceed to custom processing. So you don’t have to worry about our design and production capacity. We will provide you with the most professional technical support.

“This marine desalination unit has truly resolved our water issues. Its compact and lightweight design makes installation and operation a breeze on the boat. Even in rough seas, maintenance is straightforward, and we no longer worry about water supply problems.”

“This desalination system is a fantastic addition to our yacht. Its portable design is ideal for our space, and installation is straightforward. The easy maintenance ensures we have a reliable fresh water supply while cruising.”

“We’re veed wit ry pleas h this seawater desalination device. It’s highly effective at processing seawater, and its simple installation and operation make it perfect for our needs. The portability and ease of maintenance let us focus on enjoying our time at sea.”

NEWater – Your Best Manufacturer of Desalination Systems for Boats

NEWater is your trusted marine water desalination systems manufacturer in China. We manufacture a complete range of desalination systems for boats for continuous services or heavy-duty within off and onshore applications.

Our desalination system for boats is manufactured with a compact design. It makes them suitable not just for boats but also for cruise ships, yachts, and resorts. The NEWater sailboat desalination is designed to produce fresh, clean drinking water from seawater. It also eliminates frequent marina stops in order to refill water tanks.

Our team uses reverse osmosis (RO) technology in the desalination machine for boats to treat any seawater source into safe, fresh water. As a result, it can be used for bathing, drinking, deck and exterior wash-downs, food preparation, and a wide variety of other uses.

There are many benefits of desalination systems for the boat could bring for marine applications. Some of the benefits are:

• great tasting water and beverages, high-quality
• carry less weight
• improve the quality of onboard
• improve boat maintenance

Whether you need a full-automatic or semi-automatic marine desalination system, NEWater desalination system manufacturer got you covered! We have a wide range of different varieties of desalination for boats that carry capacities ranging from 380 to 10,000 GPD.

The Ultimate FAQ for Desalination System for Boats.

Water travel is presently conducive and boundless thanks to desalination systems for boats. Carrying large water containers is a thing of the past as boat desalinators supply high-grade potable water on a need-basis. Their exploitation of seawater as the basic raw material translates to cost efficiency.

At present, they are the dominant freshwater source for yachts, fishing boats, cargo ships, and passenger ships. Underneath, we provide answers to your burning questions on boat desalination systems.

• What is a Desalination System for Boats?
• What are the Primary Features of Boat Desalination Systems?
• Which Processes are Used in Desalination Machines for Boats?
• What are the Benefits of Boat Desalination Machines?
• Where are Boat Watermakers Mainly Used?
• Are There Different Types of Boat Desalination Systems?
• What Considerations Should I Look at When Buying a Boat Desalination Machine?
• How Much Does It Cost to Desalinate Water Using Boat Watermakers?
• Do Desalination Machines for Boats Consume Much Power?
• What is the Maximum TDS Level of Boat Desalination Systems?
• What are the Advantages of Using Solar Boat Desalination Units?
• Is it Possible to Have a Personalized Boat Desalination System?
• What is the Production Capacity for Desalination Machines for Boats?
• What Percentage of Dissolved Salts is Eliminated by Boat Watermakers?
• What is the Role of Pretreatment in Boat Desalination Systems?
• Do Boat Desalination Systems Provide Drinking Water?
• Can Boat Desalination Machines Satisfy the Water Demands for Large Ships?
• What is a Turnkey Boat Desalination System?
• Where Should I Purchase Boat Desalination Systems?
• Do You Offer Delivery Services on Water Treatment Systems?
• Do Desalination Systems for Boats Have Warranty Protection?
• Does the Operation of a Boat Desalination System Require Skilled Labor?
• What Processes Can be Used to Polish the Product Water From Boat Watermakers?
• What Happens to The Brine Produced by Reverse Osmosis Boat Desalination Systems?
• How Durable are Desalination Machines for Boats?
• Where Can I Access Repair Services for Defective Boat Desalination Systems?
• What are the Limitations of Desalination Machines for Boats?
• Do You Offer Feed Water Testing Services?
• Which Payment Terms Apply to Boat Desalination Systems?
• Do You Provide Other Desalination Systems?

➣ What is a Desalination System for Boats?

A boat desalination system is a specialized water treatment unit deployed in water vessels to provide fresh water by desalting seawater. These systems make use of distinct desalination technologies to eliminate dissolved solids and other undesired elements from seawater. Consequently, a stream of high-quality water is generated to support distinct boat operations.

Boat desalination systems provide boat operators with a continuous supply of product water while consuming relatively lesser space. Customary boat watermakers are reliant on reverse osmosis technology, which is revered for its proficiency in seawater desalination.

➣ What are the Primary Features of Boat Desalination Systems?

The different types of marine desalination systems have distinctive attributes. Reverse osmosis watermakers , which are the chief desalination systems for boats, are characteristically dependent on semi-permeable membranes and pressure. Their maximum TDS level (often 35,000ppm) reflects the high salinity levels of seawater.

RO boat desalination equipment typically can operate unceasingly without diluting product water quality. For conventional water vessels, boat watermakers with a production capacity of 50 gallons per hour are employed.

➣ Which Processes are Used in Desalination Systems for Boats?

There are numerous desalination technologies for marine water desalination systems to exploit. Ideally, desalination is a multi-stage process that can utilize up to three different technologies. However, certain desalination processes are more suited to specific seawaters. Here we look at the distinct desalination technologies prevalently used in boat desalination systems.

Evaporation/distillation

By mirroring the natural course of rain formation, distillation water makers are able to provide fresh water for onshore and offshore applications. This process initiates the evaporation of water molecules through heating consequently condensing the vapor to generate potable water. Distillation takes advantage of water’s low boiling point to alienate freshwater molecules from dissolved salts and other impurities synonymous with seawater.

Reverse osmosis

Reverse osmosis is inarguably the most utilized and productive seawater desalination technology in existence. It is a membrane filtration process driven by pressure to enforce salt removal. The presence of pretreatment units in RO boat desalinators elevates their productivity scores.

Click on this link to watch a very informative video demonstrating the desalination processes employed by boats and ships.

➣ What are the Benefits of Boat Desalination Machines?

There has been a recent rise in the application of desalination systems for boats as water vessel operators seek alternative sources of product water. To users, the deployment of boat watermakers  has been a pleasant revelation with nothing but positive implications. Underneath, we explore the rewards boat desalinator users are continually earning.

• They lessen the weight of the ship and create more space for vital use.
• With a boat watermaker, the voyage range is boundless.
• They consistently eradicate huge chunks of salt (up to 99.4%).
• The product water generated maintains the aesthetic value of the water vessel when used for cleaning.

➣ Where are Boat Watermakers Mainly Used?

The use of desalination machines for boats transcends various offshore and onshore applications. As the name suggests, boat watermakers are desalination systems specialized to gratify the potable water demands of water vessels.

However, their centralized and mobile nature permits their application in onshore applications such as homesteads and beach resorts. Their application in water vessels cuts across passenger ships, cargo ships, fishing boats, and naval ships.

➣ Are There Different Types of Boat Desalination Systems?

Thanks to innovation and customization, you have a variety of boat desalination systems to choose your ideal solution from. The differences in boat marine desalination systems are compounded by variations in designs, dimensions, and desalination technologies. NEWater’s comprehensive list of boat watermakers includes:

Reverse osmosis boat desalination units

This classification of boat desalination units is principled on the inherent desalination technology (reverse osmosis). RO boat desalinators employ membrane filtration to eradicate up to 99.4% of seawater-dissolved solids. They are massively prominent because of their high rejection rates and efficient energy use.

Evaporator boat watermakers

These units majorly rely on the process of evaporation to convert seawater to usable product water. They necessitate a heating source, which can be a solar panel, boat engine, or generator to initiate the evaporation process. Evaporator watermakers remove dissolved salts and are quite affordable to operate.

Additional types of desalination systems for boats are;

• Boat desalination skids.
• Solar boat watermakers .
• Modular boat desalination units.

Back to the guide  ⇪

➣ What Considerations Should I Look at When Buying a Boat Desalination Machine?

We have discussed the distinct types of boat desalination systems and you are probably wondering, “How do I determine the perfect boat watermaker for my water vessel?” To make an informed purchase, you definitely need to grasp the technical aspects of boat desalinators or have a trusted expert to guide you.

At NEWater, we provide valuable information and technical assistance to aid potential clients to make the right purchase. Below is a summary of what you need to consider before buying a desalination machine for boat.

• The appropriate flow rate that matches the scale of your application.
• The configuration and concentration of your feed water.
• The quality of the product water your application desires.
• The desalination technology in use and power supply alternatives.

➣ How Much Does It Cost to Desalinate Water Using Boat Watermakers?

The collective cost of generating fresh water using marine water desalination systems encompasses numerous factors. Purchasing a boat watermaker is the first expense incurred. The different boat desalination systems command different prices given they bear varying specializations. For accuracy reasons, price quotations are provided upon inquiry.

The second variable in water desalination costs takes note of the operational expenses, which entail labor, energy consumption, consumables, installation, and maintenance. Although these variables keep wavering, the cumulative cost of desalinating seawater using an RO watermaker ranges from $0.70 to $1 per m3.

➣ Do Desalination Machines for Boats Consume Much Power?

Reverse osmosis machines  in general, have had a reputation that depicted them as high-energy systems. However, the incorporation of energy recovery technologies is contributing to the development of comparatively power-efficient RO machines.

The magnitude and quality of the output from boat desalination systems is the primary determinant of power consumption. Customary reverse osmosis watermakers use 2.9 kWh/m3 to 3.6 kWh/m3 to desalinate seawater.

➣ What is the Maximum TDS Level of Boat Desalination Systems?

A TDS score is an indication of the total dissolved solids harbored by the seawater. Typical seawater exhibits TDS levels ranging from 17,000ppm to 35,000ppm hence boat desalination systems are specialized to accommodate the high TDS concentrations. Our boat watermakers normally have a maximum TDS of 45,000ppm and support upgrades of up to 50,000ppm given certain seas and oceans have very saline water.

➣ What are the Advantages of Using Solar Boat Desalination Units?

The adverse climatic change that has resulted in water scarcity and aridification is partly a consequence of fossil fuels. The universal adoption of solar energy is inspired by environmental conservation efforts and solar desalination has emerged as a cost-efficient solution to water shortage. NEWater provides both evaporative and reverse osmosis solar desalination systems  for water vessels. The utilization of solar boat desalination units bears the following advantages.

• They are eco-friendly.
• The lower operational costs are given that solar energy is free.
• They are compact, lightweight, and portable.

➣ Is it Possible to Have a Personalized Boat Desalination System?

NEWater will provide you with a unique boat desalination system tailored to optimally gratify your unique demands. Whether you want a personalized power supply option, design, flow rate, or capacity, our engineers will deliver a precise solution.

Our proficiency in customized water treatment systems is evidenced by the over 2000 sales of customized systems we have made in the past 2 decades. Our customized boat watermakers are tailored to generate your desired product water quality and optimally desalinate your respective feed water.

➣ What is the Production Capacity for Desalination Machines for Boats?

The number of freshwater gallons produced in an hour or day (GPD) is the grading system used to grade the production capacity of boat desalination systems. The standard marine desalination systems have capacity ranges accommodative of small boats and high-volume water vessels.

Typically, regular boat watermakers have a production capacity of 50 gallons per hour. However, larger capacities are equally available. For larger water vessels, we manufacture boat desalination equipment with capacities of up to 3000 GPD.

➣ What Percentage of Dissolved Salts is Eliminated by Boat Watermakers?

Distillation and reverse osmosis processes are the primary desalination techniques utilized by boat watermakers. With reverse osmosis boat watermakers, 95-99.4% of the dissolved salts are removed. This is in addition to the vast amounts of bacteria, viruses, colloids, arsenic, and metals eliminated by the RO membrane filters .

Evaporator watermakers are equally proficient in removing dissolved salts. The desalinated water often depicts TDS levels of 1000ppm and below, which means the water is characteristically fresh.

➣ What is the Role of Pretreatment in Boat Desalination Systems?

Pretreatment is a preconditioning process used to reduce the corrosion threat and scaling effects of feed water. Reverse osmosis marine water desalination systems employ sediment and multi-media filters to eradicate seaweed, dust, and particulates big enough to clog the RO membranes.

A chemical dosing system is often utilized in boat desalination units to regulate the feed water’s pH, temperature, and turbidity. When water softeners are deployed, they eliminate water hardness hence mitigating the accumulation of scale on distribution pipes and the desalination equipment.

➣ Do Boat Desalination Systems Provide Drinking Water?

The quality of water derived from boat desalination systems customarily qualifies for use as drinking water for passengers and crew members aboard water vessels. The salinity concentration of desalinated water ranges from 300-1000 ppm, which is in alignment with recommended drinking water.

The deployment of a polishing procedure such as UV sterilization makes certain the product water is purified and fit for drinking. When remineralizing potable water destined for human consumption, the calcium and magnesium levels should be 30 mg/L and 10 mg/L respectively.

➣ Can Boat Desalination Systems Satisfy the Water Demands of Large Ships?

For large cargo ships and passenger ships, there are high-volume marine desalination systems, with daily capacity ranges of up to 3000 gallons per day. This is not the upper limit given that large reverse osmosis systems  for boats are manufactured upon request.

Boat watermakers are assured to gratify the demands of large ships given they can run continually and desalinate water when the need arises. In addition, they generate water suitable for customary boat operations, human consumption, and utility applications.

➣ What is a Turnkey Boat Desalination System?

Turnkey boat desalination systems are automatic desalination units that are delivered to the point of use ready for instantaneous use. These boat watermakers are assembled and their primary components are interconnected at the point of production.

They rarely oblige installation and their ingenious design permits immediate application. NEWater’s turnkey boat desalinators are preprogrammed thereby reducing the demand for skilled labor. They have a small footprint and facilitate cost-saving.

➣ Where Should I Purchase Boat Desalination Systems?

In addition to quality products, buyers are ordinarily attracted to credible and transparent manufacturers/ suppliers. NEWater is one of the rare manufacturers that tick all the good boxes when it comes to the provision of boat desalination systems. Having manufactured and supplied over 9000 water treatment plants , we are a tried and tested manufacturer with a verifiable past.

We possess first-rate manufacturing equipment and exploit cutting-edge technologies to make certain our boat watermakers are resourceful, dependable, and cost-efficient. We have also adopted customer-centered services to elevate our clients’ shopping experiences. Use the contact details provided on our website to place your order today and enjoy exclusive discounts.

➣ Do You Offer Delivery Services on Water Treatment Systems?

Shopping from NEWater saves you the hassle of shipping your water treatment equipment thanks to our universal delivery service. As a renowned manufacturer of marine water desalination systems with a multinational clientele, we amply satisfy our customers’ demands by supplying our systems to over 200 countries.

By utilizing leading courier services, we manage to safely and promptly deliver your orders locally and abroad. The delivery of conventional boat watermakers averages 3-7 days when air transport is used while larger seawater systems average 2-3 months.

➣ Do Desalination Systems for Boats Have Warranty Protection?

Customers’ queries on product quality are often settled by trusted warranty policies. NEWater’s warranty protection policy is solely designed to reassure our clients of our boat desalination systems’ impeccable quality.

For a year after you have procured your boat watermaker, you can rest assured that any sort of mechanical mishap will be adequately catered for by the manufacturer. Ordinarily, our warranty policy does not provide for the mending of fabricated mishaps.

➣ Does the Operation of a Boat Desalination System Require Skilled Labor?

The operation of boat desalination systems is quite stress-free thanks to the use of uncomplicated user manuals. You can operate the boat watermaker by essentially understanding the attached user manual.

Turnkey marine desalination systems take a few minutes to prepare and get running. You can also request remote guidance from NEWater’s specialists. However, large seawater systems may necessitate a level of human input to oversee the continuous desalination process.

➣ What Processes Can be Used to Polish the Product Water From Boat Watermakers?

Although the grade of potable water generated by boat watermakers is ordinarily sufficient for numerous boat operations, an improvement in the quality is possible. For elevated microbial removal rates, ultraviolet sterilization can be incorporated as a post-treatment procedure of the RO permeate.

Post-activated carbon filters are also commonly utilized to polish product water from boat desalinators. They help reduce the chlorine concentrations in the permeate as well as eradicate VOCs, pesticides, and other objectionable chemicals.

The presence of CO2 and other dissolved gasses in the product water from boat watermakers results in elevated pH levels. Electrodeionization helps eradicate dissolved gasses as well as objectionable ionic pollutants.

➣ What Happens to The Brine Produced by Reverse Osmosis Boat Desalination Systems?

In desalination, the ejected contaminants are emitted as a concentrated solution referred to as brine in RO systems and concentrate in distillation systems. Special attention has to be accorded to this wastewater given reckless disposal could lead to water pollution and the destruction of marine life.

Recently, an efficient brine disposal method centered on reuse/recycling has been introduced. Due to the high salt concentrations, brine is utilized to produce useful chemicals such as hydrochloric acid. In other settings, the brine is first pretreated using wastewater treatment technologies before being discarded.

➣ How Durable are Desalination Systems for Boats?

Similar to typical desalination systems, boat desalination systems have life spans ranging from 15 to 20 years. In most cases, the difference between an underwhelming lifespan and an optimum one is attributed to maintenance and pretreatment practices.

The incorporation of a functional pretreatment process prevents premature damage of the RO membranes and also averts corrosion of equipment. Maintenance practices such as adequate cleansing thwart the accumulation of scales and contaminants on membrane surfaces. Consequently, this translates to extended lifespans and sustained optimal performances.

➣ Where Can I Access Repair Services for Defective Boat Desalination Systems?

NEWater is your all-inclusive manufacturer of boat desalination systems, repair components, and related products. We have a state-of-the-art production facility that empowers us to manufacture first-rate repair components for all our water treatment equipment.

In addition, we provide repair services to warranted boat watermakers and those that have expired warranty protection. In case of a malfunction, do not falter to reach out to NEWater for instantaneous action.

➣ What are the Limitations of Desalination Systems for Boats?

Boat desalination systems and other desalination systems at large have received criticism for emitting highly concentrated wastewater, which threatens marine life and the ecosystem. Additionally, boat watermakers discharge most of the seawater as waste. Only a small percentage of the intake water is converted into product water.

Investment and operational costs have perennially inhibited the widespread adoption of desalination units but recent innovations in energy recovery and membrane technologies have delivered solutions that are more economical.

➣ Do You Offer Feed Water Testing Services?

Prior to developing a water treatment solution for your project, our engineers need to comprehend the imminent feed water characteristics. To facilitate this, we have developed outstanding laboratories from which we undertake rigorous feed water testing.

Our water treatment systems are designed to offer unique solutions exclusive to the respective feed water and destined product water application. In instances where you are unable to access our feedwater testing services, we provide free technical consultations.

➣ Which Payment Terms Apply to Boat Desalination Systems?

Our payment conditions regulating payments for marine water desalination systems are constituted with the client in mind. You can settle the invoice on boat watermakers by making advance payments or opt for our installment plan. Typically, advance payments are obliged when the order is from a conventional small-sized boat watermaker.

Our favorable installment plan applies to high-volume water treatment plants. Essentially, you can make a 50% advanced payment, 30% post-inspection, and 20% before shipment. Moreover, we are open to discussing more flexible payment structures. For consultations on our payment terms, email our customer support team at [email protected] .

➣ Do You Provide Other Desalination Systems?

As a global manufacturer of water treatment systems with clients transcending various industries, we provide numerous desalination devices . Typically, we manufacture marine desalination systems suitable for distinct sources of feed water and varying application fields. Our desalination systems exploit different desalination technologies and often exhibit high desalination rates. Beneath is our diverse and high-efficient desalination systems.

• Seawater desalination systems.
• Desalination systems for homes .
• Industrial desalination systems.
• Commercial desalination systems.
• Brackish water desalination system.

There are many things to consider when choosing the right desalination for your boat. Nevertheless, our team, NEWater can help you find the right desalination system for your boat. Whether your boat is small or large, with a generator or without a generator, NEWater can handle the desalination system needed for your boat.

NEWater offers you a high-class desalination machine for boats guaranteed 100% high quality. We make sure that all of our desalination systems for the boat are delivered with reliable, durable, and long-life service. With NEWater, you rest assured that your desalination system for boats has the qualities to fulfill your market demands.

At NEWater, you can get a durable and compact design desalination machine for your boat. It allows easy installation in any size area. As a leading desalination system for boat manufacturers and suppliers in China, our team focused on designing marine desalination systems with many premium components. Our marine water desalination systems consists of the following:

• duplex SS centrifugal-type high-pressure pump (for corrosion resistance and high-performance)
• programmable computer controller
• 1000 psi fiberglass membrane housing
• High-quality seawater membranes

If your application requires commercial-grade water making or continuous-duty, the solution is very clear – NEWater! We are your efficient, extremely reliable, and budget-friendly desalination system for boat manufacturers and providers, based in China.

Let NEWater skyrocket your business! Contact us now!

Watermakers for Yachts

If you are an owner of a yacht, you may be wondering if owning a desalinator or watermaker is right for you. You may be surprised to discover that there are many reasons why a yacht may need a watermaker. A yacht may need a watermaker because it can be difficult to carry enough fresh water on board for extended periods of time, especially when traveling long distances or in areas where freshwater is scarce. A watermaker is a device that can convert salt water or brackish water into fresh water suitable for drinking, cooking, and other uses. By using a watermaker, a yacht can generate its own supply of fresh water, which can be more cost-effective and convenient than constantly restocking bottled water or filling up at marinas. Additionally, having a reliable source of fresh water can be essential for the comfort and safety of the crew and passengers on a yacht, especially during extended voyages or in remote locations. To learn more about our watermakers for yachts , continue reading below. 

Is a Yacht Desalination Machine for Me?

While desalination is certainly an advantageous aspect of modern boating, it may not be for every yacht owner. In fact, using marine desalination systems depends greatly on the individual needs and circumstances of the person that owns the yacht. Installing any watermakers for yachts is a huge decision. There are many factors to consider when you are weighing the possibilities of getting water desalination systems installed on your yacht. These include the following: 

• Usage: If you are going to be using your yacht or boat for an extended period, then a desalinator will be a good purchase for you because of the time you save from having to restock water on shore. 
• Budget: While they do save yacht owners some money in the long run, they could be expensive at first, so you will need to factor in this cost when you are making a decision on whether or not to purchase them.  
• Maintenance: Like any other marine appliance, a boat water desalination system will require a degree of maintenance that could be time-consuming. This includes cleaning and replacing filters, and periodic professional servicing.
• Space: Marine desalination systems take up space on board the yacht, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough room to accommodate the machine.

How Big of a Watermaker Do I Need?

The size of the yacht watermaker that you will need depends on a variety of different factors. These include your daily water usage, your desired output, and how likely you are to consider getting a backup machine. To determine the amount of water that you will need, you will need to consider how many people will be on your yacht. A good rule of thumb is to assume 2-3 gallons per person per day, plus an additional amount for other uses like showering. Also, when it comes to determining your desired output, you will need to determine how many dishes you will need to wash and other activities that you will do that require fresh water. 

How Long Do Watermakers Last? 

The lifespan of a watermaker can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the equipment, maintenance practices, and usage. The longevity of a watermaker largely depends on the quality and durability of the components used in its construction. High-quality watermakers made with corrosion-resistant materials and reliable components tend to last longer than cheaper, less durable alternatives. Our watermakers for yachts are some of the best in the industry and are designed to operate at peak capability.

Is Water From a Watermaker Safe to Drink If It Comes From an AC System?

Is desalination a good way to get fresh water? Water produced by a properly functioning and well-maintained watermaker can be safe to drink. Watermakers are designed to convert various water sources, such as seawater or moisture in the air, into potable (drinkable) water. The process by which our yacht and sailboat desalination systems produce clean water from saltwater is reverse osmosis, which is a proven method of producing top-quality drinking water. 

Can Desalination Be Environmentally Friendly? 

 Desalination through a watermaker, which is often designed for smaller-scale and more localized water production, can be considered environmentally friendly for several reasons. One of the most popular reasons includes the integration into renewable energy that many watermakers have. For example, integrating solar energy into watermakers makes them more sustainable and less reliant on fossil fuels. Also, having drinkable water easily accessible reduces the need for bottled water, which is detrimental to the environment.

How Often Should I Run My Watermaker? 

Running your watermaker on a large boat during long voyages is a great way to ensure a consistent supply of fresh water. But how long should you run it? It is important to note that you will most likely not need to run your watermaker 24/7. Our professionals would like to point out that you should run your watermaker a few hours a day or at least once a week for optimal results. 

Can You Run a Watermaker While Sailing?

Yes, it is possible to run a watermaker while sailing . However, there are some considerations that could impact its performance. For example, operating a watermaker while sailing is generally more effective when the boat is moving at a consistent and stable speed. Slow speeds or constant changes in direction can affect the watermaker’s performance and efficiency.

What Energy Is Required for Water Desalination?

Any kind of electrical energy is required to run a watermaker. One of the most popular kinds of power is AC power. AC power on a power system refers to the use of alternating current (AC) electrical power for various applications and devices on the boat or land. AC power is typically generated by an onboard generator, shore power connection, or an inverter that converts DC (direct current) power from batteries into AC power. 

What Size Generator Do I Need for My Watermaker? 

The size of the generator you need for your yacht’s watermaker depends on several factors, including the capacity of the watermaker, the power requirements of the watermaker system, and the other electrical loads on your yacht or home that use one of these machines. We recommend that you check the specifications of your yacht’s watermaker to determine its power requirements, typically measured in kilowatts (kW) or amps (A). Watermakers can vary widely in terms of power consumption. Our product listings have this information present on the website. 

More About ECHOTec Watermakers

ECHOTec Watermakers is a top supplier of watermakers for boats of all kinds. We have more than just watermakers for yachts; we also have a varied selection of boat desalinators for sale that could result in a variety of different uses and advantages for our customers, including home desalination systems and solar-powered watermakers. Contact us today to learn more about what we could offer you today.

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AMI Seawater Desalination RO Watermakers convert seawater to drinking water. Their compact design makes them ideal for use on yachts, boats, cruise ships, and resorts.

Enjoy the freedom of producing clean, fresh drinking water from seawater and eliminating frequent marina stops to refill water tanks. Watermaker seawater desalination systems use reverse osmosis technology to treat virtually any seawater source into fresh, safe water which can be used for drinking, bathing, food preparation, deck and exterior wash-downs, and a variety of other uses.

Land based installations can be used to supply freshwater to marinas, hotels, resorts, military operations, off-shore platforms, and a large variety of other applications.

Benefits of Seawater Desalination Systems for Marine Applications

• Enjoy High Quality, Great-Tasting Water and Beverages. AMI Watermakers use the same technology as most bottled water facilities.
• Carry Less Weight by producing water as you need it instead of stocking over a thousand pounds of water from a marina stop, allowing you to cruise faster and use less fuel.
• Improve the Quality of Onboard life by producing enough water for hot showers and grooming.
• Avoid Frequent Marina Stops to Refill Water Tanks
• Improve yacht maintenance with frequent fresh water wash downs.

Product Lines

Maritime Series Watermaker Seawater

Maritime Series Watermakers convert seawater to drinking water. Their compact design makes them ideal for use on yachts, boats, cruise ships, and resorts.

Seawater Reverse Osmosis Systems

Designed to convert seawater to drinking water, these systems use high quality RO reverse osmosis seawater desalination membranes.

AMI Seawater Reverse Osmosis Membranes

These high rejection and high productivity seawater reverse osmosis membranes are specially designed for marine applications.

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Contact us for a quote or for any additional information or call us at 1.800.321.9321

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Applied Membranes, Inc. is committed to customer service that exceeds your expectations. For prompt, courteous and reliable service, contact us today!

Address 2450 Business Park Dr. Vista, CA 92081-8847 Get Directions

Toll Free 1.800.321.9321 Local 760.727.3711 Contact Us

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Echotec Watermakers, Desalinators & Reverse Osmosis Water Systems for the Marine & Yachting Industry

Octo Marine stocks a wide range of Echotec Reverse Osmosis Watermakers, Desalinators, Filters and compatible accessories.

ECHOTec Watermakers / Desalinators – Reverse Osmosis Desalination Systems

ECHOTec manufactures some of the most rugged and easy to operate watermakers / desalinators or desalination systems for yachts, marine and for land-based applications.

The wide product range covers modular AC, DC and belt driven watermakers from 8.4 GPH / 32 LPH to self-contained desalination systems with a production of 14.000 GPD or 53,000 LPD per unit.

More than 5,000 ECHOTec desalination systems operate dependably and cost-effective throughout the world, many of them on continuous duty. Only highest quality components, proven to withstand continuous operation in the harsh marine environment and comply to industry standards including: NEMA, ASTM, API, NSF and BSI are selected for safe operation and extended product life cycle.

The list below shows the range of Echotec branded and compatible products currently available on our website. For more information contact us at +33 (0)4 93 65 04 84 or by email at [email protected] .

ECHOTec Watermakers & Supplies

Octo Marine MC12 Duplex Yacht Water Maker

Featured Products , Water Makers

Octo Marine MC5 Duplex Yacht Water Maker

Water Makers

Octo Marine MC3J Yacht Water Maker

Water Maker Membrane

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call +1 (714) 432-9996

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Reverse osmosis & water treatment systems

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Desalination System for Boats

Access to continuous production of freshwater while on a boat by means of a desalination system like reverse osmosis is a prime solution to many of the inconveniences water tanks impose. This process is one of the most effective methods of supplying freshwater onboard. A desalinator will save the weight and space of water tanks while producing freshwater on a boat or yacht on demand. As the weight on the ship decreases, the ship will simultaneously save energy and fuel during the venture. Additionally, the space that is normally used by water tanks and can be occupied for other purposes like added cargo or maybe more room for comfort. Having an unlimited amount of water supply also removes the restraining boundary of travel that freshwater supply requires. With a desalination system, there is no range that can possibly bind a travel venture as the need to refill water tanks or worrying about a limited amount of water supply would not exist. The freshwater that is produced can also be used for maintaining the boat itself. The usage of freshwater on the exterior leaves a much more flawless finish and will result in an immaculate exterior.

Since the majority of people utilize their watermakers for at least 5 hours per day, you will need one that produces a sufficient amount of fresh water by the hour. The conventional thought is that if your watermaker is running for 2 hours a day, then it should be generating more than 50 gallons of fresh water per hour.

Summary The desalination process  has been used in some form for thousands of years with the first seawater reverse osmosis plant being constructed and running in the 1970’s. As further advancements in desalination systems for boats continue to enhance production capabilities, it has become the primary water treatment solution in many developing countries near the ocean. Reverse osmosis has even made the use of a deslinator a realistic option for users of small to large ocean vessels. It is imperative that the right desalinator is chosen for your boat, which can be done through simple questioning. The process will be easier if you are aware of the right questions to ask. Our engineers at Pure Aqua will be more than happy to answer any questions regarding the right desalination system to use on boats. 

[custom-specifications]

Seawater is the most abundant source of water available for purification. Within the boat industry, freshwater is a major necessity. It is required for almost everything in terms of preparation, washdowns, and general water usage while onboard. Although freshwater is carried aboard for general applications, it also takes up quite a bit of space and inevitably weight that can be easily replaced with a water filtration system to additionally prevent the necessity of refill water tanks. A desalinator for boat would make an efficient alternative to water tanks for freshwater supply aboard. [/custom-specifications]

[custom-features]

Seawater Reverse Osmosis System:

Seawater Reverse Osmosis system is a desalinator that can produce freshwater from the seawater source. Through the process of reverse osmosis, water is pressurized via semi permeable membrane filters that only allow water molecules to pass; leaving behind all contaminants including salts. This process generates a permeate stream of freshwater and a reject stream of concentrated salts and contaminants that are disposed of overboard. Since the feed source of the system is seawater, the system is able to function continuously and produce fresh drinking water throughout transit. RO systems are comprised of advanced technologies that enable seawater to be not only suitable, but one of the most purified forms of water quality.

Related Projects:

• Commercial Watermaker Systems 8 X 4,700 GPD - Mexico
• Commercial Seawater Reverse Osmosis Filters 2 x 2,100 GPD - Peru
• Commercial SWRO Kit 3,000 GPD - Saudi   Arabia [/custom-features]

[custom-usage]

• Mobilized desalination system for boats
• Lighten weight  on board
• Saves energy + fuel
• Saves money in foreign ports
• Extends travel range
• Saves space
• Continuous production of freshwater
• Improves maintenance by using freshwater for  wash downs
• 99.4% Stabilized Salt Rejection

Visit our benefits of desalination page for more information. [/custom-usage]

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Posted by Jonathan B. on Apr 10th 2020

This was a fun read.