FAQ: Can we add an optional engine-drive pump to an existing 240V AC system?
Absolutely. We can configure or retrofit a dual high-pressure pump system to give you the ultimate setup for redundancy and flexibility. We frequently design dual-pump setups for blue-water cruisers who want complete peace of mind while away from port. For instance, if an exhaust leak douses your electric motor while cruising remote waters, a backup pump ensures you never run out of fresh water.
The Dual-Drive Advantage
Combining an Engine Drive and an AC system allows you to take advantage of whatever power source is most efficient at the time:
- While Motoring: Run the Engine Drive pump to utilize the mechanical energy your engine is already producing. You can arrive at your anchorage with completely full water tanks without touching your fuel or battery reserves.
- At Anchor: Run the AC pump via your generator or a large inverter setup to keep your tanks topped up without needing to turn the main engine on.
How the Retrofit Works
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The installation is straightforward. We install a feed-water switching valve, a high-pressure switching valve, and a 12V dash switch to engage the engine pump's electromagnetic clutch.
On many vessels, we can consolidate a dual-alternator setup into a single high-output alternator, freeing up the second alternator bracket to mount your new engine-drive pump perfectly. Simple mechanical controls Because Open Ocean systems are manually operated and mechanically regulated, they remain incredibly simple to understand and operate—even with two pumps inline. Before starting the system, you simply switch the source water, high pressure, and electrical power to your chosen pump, and start the system like normal. 
High pressure and Low Pressure switching panel
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Looking for pure AC redundancy?
We also build custom dual-pump systems for high-end luxury launches, featuring twin AC high-pressure pumps running into a high-output dual-membrane array for a truly bulletproof commercial-grade system.
We also build custom dual-pump systems for high-end luxury launches, featuring twin AC high-pressure pumps running into a high-output dual-membrane array for a truly bulletproof commercial-grade system.
Pachoud Yachts 20m power cat, Lola - We toured this vessel at the Auckland Boatshow. We were very impressed with the first rate fit and finish
The filters, pumps, and switching panel are fitted in the port engine room. The Pachoud crew did an excellent job fitting the system
Some customisation was done with the plumbing on the filters for fit and to be consistent with the rest of the boat's plumbing. Every installation is unique. Part of the reason we use pipe-thread fittings is that they can easily be reconfigured to meet the needs of the installation.
