6
« on: November 26, 2013, 11:20:55 am »
I'm on my second unit since '96. Installed under the forward shower seat and plumbed to the original through-hull under the sink on a 44 WO. When it works, it beats a holding tank by far. Unfortunately, my experience is that it needs a new electrode pack about every 2 years at a cost of $400. We live aboard so the usage rate is high. That means we need to clean it at least 1-2 times a year which is simply adding muriatic acid manually, let it sit for 30 minutes and manually pump it out.
You can buy a re-built one from the Raritan shop in Ft. Lauderdale for bout $700.00, but you have to go there to make sure the fittings installed match your planned installation. They refuse to sell them to you unless you go to the store. I bought both units there. Had to ship the second one back as checked baggage since I now live in Galveston.
Would I do it again? Probably, but recognize they are not maintenance free and repair is expensive and not pleasant.
When it's working right, expect a power draw of 10 amps in the macerating phase (1-2 min.) and around 25-30 amps in the treatment cycle (2-3 min.) Beats emptying a holding tank!
By the way, the original model name was Lectra-san. They've upgraded to a new and improved version , the Electro-scan. It's supposed to draw slightly less current, but still has the problematic electrode pack.