One of the great things about Rainman Portable watermakers are that you always have options to install it in the future if your requirements change. While some clients have moved all the way to our fully automated system, here is an example of a minimalist semi-installation.
Franklin, a former merchant mariner and based in the United States, had a Portable AC 140L Rainman and developed a desire to semi-install the watermaker for more convenient use. He wanted it where he could see it. No hiding components under bunks or in lockers. He and his partner Donna wanted to be able to spot leaks quickly and easily. He also wanted to avoid adding new through-hull fittings or cutting into their two 30-gallon fresh water tanks. The result is a clever “semi-permanent” setup on their Gemini 105Mc catamaran that’s practical, accessible, and surprisingly tidy.
Key Points of Installation
The RO membrane case lives on the underside of the cockpit canopy, with two 100W flexible solar panels sitting on top.
Aluminium plates with neoprene rubber backing were epoxied to the canopy for cushioning and load spreading, with extra plates added inside the case.
Bolted through with four 5/16″ stainless steel bolts.
The flow meter would have ended up upside-down in this orientation, so Franklin fabricated a simple custom holder to sort it out.
Hose routing is clean and logical
The 16ft HP hose runs through the cockpit hatch into the aft port berth, cushioned at the hatch to prevent chafing.
Brine hose goes overboard.
Product water hose feeds directly down to the tank fills, six feet below.
The Pressure Supply Unit (PSU) gets its own custom shelf in the aft port berth.
Built from Starboard and aluminium plate, braced with heavy-duty angle brackets.
Neoprene under the mounting plate keeps vibration in check.
A Makita 18V fan blows directly on it during operation for cooling.
Power comes from either a Honda EU2000i generator or a 2000W pure-sine inverter mounted less than three feet away.
Flushing after use is as simple as dropping the intake hose into a bucket of fresh product water.
As a bonus, Franklin also rigged up what he calls an “analog watermaker” — a stainless mesh rain gutter across the back of his 430W solar panel, feeding rainwater straight to the tank fills via RV hose. A very on-brand backup solution for someone who clearly likes to cover all his bases.
Helpful Links
» Product information: Rainman Portable watermaker options
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