Rainman vs Dessalator
Rainman's case is output for the money and the option of lifting the whole thing off the boat. Dessalator's is a DC system that sits between the two camps on energy — better than a conventional pump, short of true energy recovery — in a permanently installed package. The figures we hold for Dessalator are manufacturer-published and not yet confirmed page-in-hand, so treat the comparison as the best available rather than settled.
| Measure | Rainman | Dessalator |
|---|---|---|
| Built in | Sydney, Australia | France |
| Pump technology | Conventional high-pressure pump | Conventional high-pressure pump |
| Systems tabled | 23 | 3 |
| Best efficiency | 9.8 Wh/L | 7.0 Wh/L |
| Worst efficiency | 19.7 Wh/L | 9.2 Wh/L |
| Output range | 31.5–222 L/hr | 60–100 L/hr |
| Indicative price range | $4,402–$15,089 | $∞–$-∞ |
| Verified AU stockists | 20 | 2 |
Highlighted cells mark the better figure on that row alone, which is not the same as the better buy. Read the verdict above.
Rainman in one line
The default in Australian marinas. Portable, modular and framed versions of one pump platform, in AC, DC and petrol. Big output in a short window; efficiency depends entirely on which membrane pack you choose.
Dessalator in one line
A long-established French manufacturer with DC, AC and dual-power ranges. The DUO models switch between the battery bank and mains at a switch, which is unusual and useful on a boat that sometimes has shore power.
Common questions
- Is Rainman or Dessalator more efficient?
- On best-in-range, Dessalator at 7.0 watt-hours per litre against 9.8. Both use energy recovery, so the difference between them is small.
- Which is cheaper, Rainman or Dessalator?
- Entry pricing starts at $4,402 for Rainman. Compare dollars per litre of capacity rather than sticker price, and remember an efficient system can pay for itself in the solar and battery you do not have to fit.
- Which is easier to service in Australia?
- Rainman has more verified stockists in our directory (20 against 2). Check who is local to you rather than the national count, and confirm whether they service or only sell.