Seaweed in the Head Intake

[Gary Wyngarden]

Hi Peggy,On a weeklong cruise in Canada's Gulf Islands last week our head became temporarily inoperable when we couldn't get any seawater into it. I removed the intake hose and discovered seaweed, eel grass I think though I'm not a marine botanist. When I got rid of that, things returned to normal.My question is, shouldn't their be a screen or filter on the through-hull to keep this stuff out in the first place. If mine has become dislodged or broken, is there a way to repair it without hauling the boat. The boat was hauled and the bottom painted in July. The through hulls were serviced at that time, and everything seemed all right. Any input will be appreciated.Gary WyngardenS/V Shibumi H335

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

A fileter on the head intake can be a good idea

Whether it's necessary depends on the waters you're in. It's not difficult to install one, and Raritan sells 'em. Give a call at 800-352-5630.You've prob'ly got some of the grass trapped in the channel in the rim of your toilet bowl...and if it stays there, it's gonna decay and stink! So when you can, I'd advise removing the bowl, taking it onto the dock and blasting the bejabbers out of it with the hose...and as long as you're doing it, a little detergent wouldn't hurt either.