Reverse Osmosis Watermakers

A reverse osmosis watermaker is a device that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove salt and other impurities from seawater, producing fresh water. The process of reverse osmosis works by applying pressure to the seawater, forcing it through the membrane. The membrane allows water molecules to pass through, but it blocks the passage of salt molecules. The result is fresh water that is 95-99% pure. 

Reverse osmosis watermakers are the most common type of watermaker used on boats and in other remote areas where there is no access to fresh water. They are also used in some homes and businesses.

Advantage:

• They are very effective at removing salt and other impurities from water.
• They are relatively easy to install and maintain.
• They can be powered by a variety of sources, including electricity, solar power, and diesel generators.

Disadvantages:

Overall, reverse osmosis watermakers are a reliable and effective way to produce fresh water from seawater. They are a good choice for boats, homes, and businesses that need a reliable source of fresh water. The amount of water they produce depends on the size of the unit and the pressure applied to the seawater. They need to be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent the membranes from becoming clogged. 

Here's a the best brands known for their maritime use:

GpH = Gallon per hour

Which brings us to the next step: Independent power sources. One of the most annoying things about crossing an ocean is the generator. Not only is it a complete antithesis of sailing and using natural resources to travel, but it also burns money, literally.

How Much Solar Power Do You Need?

The answer is simple: as many as possible! However, the generation is restricted to installing Solar Panels safely and securely. Keep in mind that when you’re out on the water, you’ll face squalls and strong winds. You may even find yourself stuck in marinas during storms and hurricanes, and you don’t want your solar panels to be ripped out by the wind, damaging your other boats.

The amount of solar power you need depends on your power consumption. Start by calculating the daily power consumption of all your electrical devices. Then, factor in the efficiency of your solar panels and batteries. As a rule of thumb, you should have enough solar power to generate 1.5 times your daily power consumption.

Solar Panel Types

There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and expensive, while polycrystalline panels are slightly less efficient but more affordable. Thin-film panels are the least efficient and cheapest option, but they are flexible and lightweight.

Here's a list of well performing solar panels:

Solar Panel Placement

The placement of your solar panels is crucial for maximizing their efficiency. Ideally, they should be placed in a location that receives direct sunlight throughout the day. On a catamaran, the best places to install solar panels are on the bimini, hardtop, or davits. We've seen even solar foil across the hulls, but they are expensive.