Water maker in the marina?

[Lennie]

I have been making water in the marina here in LaPaz and have had no problems so far. My prefilters look great and the intake water is clear.
My neighbors tell me I shouldn't make water here because o f possible oil or fuel contamination.
What do you think?

[mikereed100]

Originally Posted by Lennie

What do you think?

I think oil floats on water and you should be fine. If I recall, diesel fuel and gasoline evaporate from the surface before they can break down and mix with water. I don't know about engine oil mixing with water over time, but if you are really concerned you could time your water making on a rising tide when the water coming into La Paz is relatively clean.

[Paul L]

Certainly don't make water if you see an oil sheen. While your intake is below the surface, oil can still get down there in some cases. Large continuously run watermakers on ships have oil separators on their intake.