Water System On Board

Water Pressure System On Board – The Key to Consistent Water Supply 🚰

A water pressure system, also known as the group d'eau, is a crucial component for ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply throughout your boat. It plays an essential role in:

  • Drinking Water Supply: Ensures you have running water at your faucets.

  • Showers: Provides sufficient pressure for a comfortable shower experience.

  • Cleaning: Facilitates onboard cleaning tasks.

  • Appliance Efficiency: Essential for the proper functioning of appliances like dishwashers or marine washing machines.

Groupe d'eau 24V 20LGroupe d'eau 24V 8L

🔹 Key Criteria for Choosing a Water Pressure System

  1. Flow Rate (Débit)

Flow rate refers to the amount of water the system can provide per minute (L/min). This is crucial to meet all your water needs without interruptions.

  • Small Boats: For small vessels with one or two outlets, a flow rate of 5 to 10 L/min is typically sufficient.

  • Medium Boats: For boats with multiple faucets or a shower, opt for a system with a flow rate of 10 to 20 L/min.

  • Large Boats: For vessels with multiple outlets and higher water demands, choose a system with a flow rate greater than 20 L/min.

Tip: Avoid over-sizing your water system, as this could drain your tank too quickly and lead to excessive power consumption.

  1. Pressure

Pressure, measured in bars, is another key factor. It must be sufficient to ensure proper water circulation, especially if the tank is located in the lower part of the hull or if the water outlets are far apart.

  • Recommended Pressure: A pressure of 2 to 4 bars is generally adequate for most maritime installations.

  1. Compatibility with the Tank

The water system must be compatible with the capacity of your tank to prevent rapid depletion and maintain effective water management.

  • Flow-Tank Compatibility: Ensure that the flow rate of the system does not exceed the tank’s fill rate over a given period.

🔹 Installation of the Water Pressure System

Positioning

The placement of the water system is crucial for its efficiency:

  • Near the Tank: Install the system as close as possible to the tank to minimize pressure loss and ensure optimal water flow.

  • Near the Outlets: Place the system near the water outlets to reduce response time and improve pressure.

Protection and Filtration

To protect your water system and ensure the quality of the water supplied, it is recommended to install a filter between the tank and the water system.

  • Water Filter: Prevents debris and impurities from entering the system, extending its lifespan.

  • Integrated Filters: Many water systems come with built-in filters, but always verify their presence when purchasing.

🔹 Types of Water Pressure Systems

  1. Electric Water Systems

Electric water pressure systems are the most commonly used on modern boats. They are efficient, easy to use, and come in a wide range of flow rates and pressures.

  • Power Supply: Typically run on 12V or 24V, depending on your boat’s electrical system.

  • Advantages: Provides consistent pressure and automatic operation.

  1. Manual or Foot Pumps

For situations where electricity is unavailable or as a backup solution, manual or foot pumps are highly useful.

  • Hand Pump: Requires manual effort to pump water. They are durable and ideal as a backup solution.

  • Foot Pump: Operated by foot, allowing hands-free operation, commonly used in smaller vessels.

🔹 Maintenance of the Water Pressure System

Cleaning and Replacing Filters

  • Regular Cleaning: Check and clean the filters regularly to prevent blockages.

  • Replacement: Replace filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain optimal performance.

Inspecting the Connections

  • Sealing: Ensure that all connections are properly sealed to avoid leaks.

  • Hose Wear: Inspect hoses for any signs of wear or damage.

🔹 Conclusion

The water pressure system is a vital component for ensuring comfort and functionality in your onboard water circuit. By considering the flow rate, pressure, and tank compatibility, you can choose the water system that best suits your needs. Careful installation and regular maintenance will ensure a reliable water supply for all your maritime adventures.

For more information on different types of water pressure systems and personalized advice, feel free to consult our website or contact our experts.