[C320-list] Head Fresh Water Plumb

[Warren Updike]

Don, I guess by now you gather that just using FW from the sink is the
simplest approach. That is what we have been doing for years. It's not a
hassle.  
>From what I've heard and read, it is a definite no-no to plumb fresh water
to your head, even if you use a check valve.  If using the head sink/shower
doesn't appeal to you, look into a separate flex tank dedicated to the head.
As for plumbing city water into your boat, I believe the necessary approach
is to use a pressure reducing valve at the inlet with a line led to a
manifold with three valves: one in from city, one to boat use (bypassing
pump,) and one to fill tanks. Or, even one valve for each tank.  The reason
for the reducer being that boat FW systems are rated for 30-40 lbs pressure
and you can never know what pressure the city lines have.  The manifold
insures a positive selection of source.  Simple bronze manifolds are readily
available at low cost. Use a std unit with hose barbs or proper pex
adapters. (I think city water supplies run pressures of 60 lbs and more as
they have to supply water to multiple stories.)

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"


-----Original Message-----
From: Donald Lawson [mailto:dnclaws at aol.com] 
Sent: Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:34 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Head Fresh Water Plumb

I am going to plumb my head for fresh water at the slip. I also want the
option of using saltwater when cruising. I assume I will have to tie into
the fresh water line under the sink. I expect I will also have to turn on
the water pump for use. Is this what is done or am I missing something?  I
think the Whale fittings are the same as some PEX fittings I have seen at
Lowes but haven't looked closely yet. Anybody else done this and what did
you use?
Don #1005