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GrowleyMonster · 23-12-2018, 07:03

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0110LT9RC...0668520_dpLink

I don't see a pump there. Surely it does not work off of just water main pressure? Could it work on the boat, with an electric pump? Claims 50gpd so that's 2gph. That is actually enough for me. I just wonder if it will properly desalinate or not. The cost is nothing to worry about. I just don't want to mess with a bunch of plumbing for nothing, or contribute to someone ripping off the public with a stupid idea. Maybe that is harsh language since the vendor never claims that it can be used to process seawater. Then again, he doesn't state that it can't, either.

SteveSails · 23-12-2018, 07:16

That system and others like it are for filtering tap water in a home not for seawater. Seawater requires about 800PSI to push the water molecules through the membrane filter so a costly high pressure pump is needed.
Go to Cruise RO Water & Power: Watermakers for Boats & Yachts for a good explanation of what's involved in a water maker. I have no connection with them just think it's a good resource.

**GordMay** · 23-12-2018, 08:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveSails

That system and others like it are for filtering tap water in a home not for seawater...

Indeed.
It’s a nano filter (0.001 to 0.01 micron).

From the spec’: “Filters particles as small as 1/1000 of a micron” (1/1000 = 0.001)
Salt water reverse osmosis membranes have a pore size around 0.0001 micron.

ronstory · 23-12-2018, 09:54

Yep, this kit is just to clean up tap water.

**Lepke** · 23-12-2018, 10:28

I know people that tried these home ro systems in salt water. They will produce a trickle of water, but far below the rating for fresh water. Maybe 5-10% of the rating. And it has a higher salt level. Also membranes are rated at 77°F, so even in fresh water if it's colder, will make less than rated.
If you're handy, you can make your own watermaker, I did, but I also bought many things that didn't work well or failed early. I would have been way ahead to buy Cruise RO's system. Get a loan or put it on a credit card and it will still be working when you get it paid off.

Others have made systems using a pump from a cheap pressure washer and Chinese parts. I know the pumps don't last too long.

Ivansgarage · 24-12-2018, 16:38

Have heard nothing but good from this guy...

8 TO 12 GPH DC SYSTEM/DESALINATOR – SUN PURE WATER MAKERS

alansmith · 25-12-2018, 14:57

The main questions for me and RO systems has always been DC powered or AC powered. Then the next question is OMG amount of money for the DC system and relatively low output for the mortal man’s money or reasonable amount for the regular man. I believe both systems have their merits. Since I carry gas for outboard and no diesel Rich Boren’s setup is a reasonable amount of money for the product. I can’t think of another guy who supports his product in the RO business any better than he does. He also is a member of CF. Always fields my calls and I don’t even have his system yet. Having 20-30 gph available is transformative technology. Get rid of salt stickiness and clean bodies. Rinse off after swim. Rinse off of equipment. No camping expedition stinginess mind set.