Long term layup of the water maker

[Jeva]

We want to lay the boat up for the next 12 months, so what's the best solution for the water maker? Is 'pickling' sufficient - my manual says that the process should be repeated every 6 months which is not an option.

 

[sailaboutvic]

sodium metabisulfite Is what we use , mix 2 table spoon per gal or product water . Six months is about right

 

[jdc]

For a long lay up (>6 months) it's normal to change from metabisuphite (or the manufacturer's recommendation; Spectra for instance have different chemicals) to Propylene Glycol. This is cheap enough and not toxic (unlike ethylene Glycol). It has the added benefit, if needed, of being an antifreeze thereby making it suitable for northern winters also. Aim for a 25% mix in the machine (pump, pipes and membrane) so perhaps a 50% solution in the initial bucket-full before circulating it. On no account try to run the membrane under pressure when the 'pickling' solution is in it.