As a sailor, I understand the importance of having a reliable source of fresh water while at sea. One of the best ways to ensure a steady supply of fresh water is to invest in a watermaker for your sailboat. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs.
After conducting extensive research and considering various factors such as efficiency, size, and power consumption, I have compiled a list of the top watermakers for sailboats. Whether you’re a liveaboard sailor or you enjoy weekend cruises, there is a watermaker on this list that will suit your needs.
Types of Watermakers
When it comes to choosing a watermaker for your sailboat, there are several types to consider. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before making a decision.
Manual Watermakers
Manual watermakers are the most basic type of watermaker. They are operated by hand and require no electricity or other power source. These watermakers are typically the most affordable option, but they also require the most effort to operate. Manual watermakers are best suited for small boats or emergency situations where power is not available.
Electric Watermakers
Electric watermakers are the most common type of watermaker. They are powered by electricity and can produce a large amount of fresh water quickly and easily. Electric watermakers are available in both AC and DC models, making them a versatile option for sailboats. However, they do require a power source, which can be a limitation for some boats.
Handheld Watermakers
Handheld watermakers are a newer type of watermaker that are designed for portability and convenience. They are typically small and lightweight, making them easy to store and transport. Handheld watermakers are powered by hand or by a small battery, and can produce a limited amount of fresh water. They are best suited for day trips or emergency situations where a larger watermaker is not available. Each type of watermaker has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a watermaker for your sailboat.
Factors to Consider
Water Output
When choosing a watermaker for your sailboat, the amount of water it can produce is an important factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure the watermaker can produce enough water to meet your needs without being too large or too expensive. Consider factors such as the size of your boat, the number of people on board, and the length of your trips when determining your freshwater needs.
Power Consumption
The power consumption of a watermaker is another important factor to consider. You’ll want to choose a watermaker that is energy efficient and won’t drain your boat’s battery. Look for models that boast about a reduction in power consumption, especially when compared to other models.
Ease of Use
You’ll want to choose a watermaker that is easy to use and operate. Consider factors such as the size and weight of the unit, the ease of installation, and the simplicity of the control panel. Look for models that are user-friendly and don’t require a lot of technical knowledge to operate.
Maintenance
Maintenance is an important consideration when choosing a watermaker for your sailboat. Look for models that are easy to maintain and don’t require a lot of upkeep. Consider factors such as the frequency of filter changes, the ease of replacing parts, and the availability of replacement parts.
Price
Price is always a consideration when choosing a watermaker for your sailboat. Look for models that are within your budget but still meet your freshwater needs. Consider factors such as the initial cost of the unit, the cost of replacement parts, and the cost of maintenance when determining the overall cost of the watermaker.
Top Watermakers for Sailboats
As a sailor, I understand the importance of having a reliable watermaker on board. After researching and comparing various models, I have compiled a list of the top watermakers for sailboats.
Brand 1
The Ultra Whisper by Sea Recovery is a top-of-the-line watermaker that can run on either DC or AC power. It is designed for limited electrical options and is super quiet, making it ideal for sailboats. It can produce up to 600 gallons per day and has a compact design, making it easy to install on board.
Brand 2
The AMPAC USA SeaPro Saltwater Desalination RO Watermaker is a great option for small power boats or sailboats. It is designed for automatic operation and is super quiet. It can produce up to 100 gallons per day and has intuitive controls that make it easy to start and stop the desalination process with the push of a button.
Brand 3
The Rainman Naked 12V Watermaker is a compact and efficient option for producing fresh water on board. It is easy to set up and use, and can produce up to 30 liters of fresh water per hour for a smaller unit or up to 140 liters per hour for a larger one. It is also lightweight and can be easily transported.
Brand 4
The Schenker Smart 30 Watermaker is designed for sailboats and is a great option for those who want a reliable and efficient watermaker on board. It is compact, lightweight, and produces up to 30 liters of fresh water per hour. It is also energy efficient and can run on both AC and DC power.
Brand 5
The Spectra Ventura 150 Watermaker is a high-capacity watermaker that can produce up to 6.3 gallons per hour. It is designed for sailboats and is energy efficient, making it ideal for long trips. It also has a compact design and can be easily installed on board.
Conclusion
In my research for the best watermaker for sailboats, I came across several options that vary in size, efficiency, and price.
The Ventura 150 watermaker is a highly efficient option that can produce over 6 gallons of water an hour, making it perfect for small vessels. It also features a controller that allows you to operate and monitor the device remotely, which is a convenient feature for those who want to keep an eye on their water production.
The Rainman naked 12V watermaker is another great option for anyone looking for a compact, efficient way to produce fresh water. It is simple to set up and use, and it produces up to 30 liters of fresh water per hour for a smaller unit, or up to 140 liters per hour for a larger one. This watermaker is a good choice for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use option.
The AMPAC USA SeaPro Saltwater Desalination RO Watermaker is a powerful option that is designed for use on small power boats or sailboats. It can produce up to 100 gallons of fresh water per day, which is a significant amount for a small vessel. The automatic operation features intuitive controls that let you start and stop the desalination process with the push of a button, making it easy to use.
Overall, the best watermaker for your sailboat will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as size, efficiency, and price when making your decision. I hope this article has provided you with valuable information that will help you make an informed decision when choosing a watermaker for your sailboat.
