Comparing Watermakers

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Rick D

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Jun 14, 2008
7,186
Hunter Legend 40.5 Shoreline Marina Long Beach CA
When comparing water makers, what should I consider to determine the best value?
 
Jun 22, 2004
41
Catalina 470 Marina del Rey
Rick..before we purchased ours we spoke to every

cruiser we could find. Except for those who put together their own units most use the Little Wonder or Spectra. We went with Spectra mostly because of the auto flush option. We do not need to pickle the watermaker. Instead it flushes itself every 120 hours. It uses 6 gal of fresh water from the tank for each flush. We have had it about a year and are very happy with the unit. We are also in Marina del Rey at the Dolphin Marina. If you would like to see the unit or discuss it further feel free to contact me at DickMckee119@hotmail.com or 702-501-0764 Dick McKee S/V ONE9TEEN
 
R

Russ Neibert

quality in materials

Hi Rick. Russ Neibert here, your so called "expert" in the industry, on water makers (your words, not mine:) I felt it important to point out to potential water maker purchasers that quality in materials and in design (user friendly, field serviceable)units is a key factor in their choice. After all, they will be taking a piece of valuable equipment, for any cruiser, and "throwing it into one of the harshest environments" known to man. Are the materials "impervious to salt water corrosion", or not? Can you repair a pump easily, in the field, if need be? I have been around in the marine industry long enough to know that "nothing last forever" and when the time comes to do a rebuild, I want to know it is as easy and uncomplicated as can possibly be, yet, in a design that does not compromise performance. In addition to these factors, what is the availability of parts, consumables and so on, around the world? Make sure your dealer, supplier, or agent can answer these questions, with solid evidence of the ability to back up those answers. You may want to inquire if the manufacturer makes most, or all of the components in the system, or if they are simply more of an "assembly house", if you will. The more components manufactured in house, by the water maker manufacturer themselves, the better the availability of same, as well as technical support and over all customer service to the buyer/owner of that piece of equipment. This is kind of the "under one roof, one phone call, or email away" theory, when parts and/or assistance become necessary. Lastly, how long has the manufacturer been in business and what sort of customer references can they supply? How many authorized service, parts, sales facilities do they have, for instance, as well. These things will dictate "strength in the industry" and the ability to handle your needs, no matter where you are.
 
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