Ultrasonic Boat Antifouling - FAQs
Why haven't I heard of the Ultrasonic antifouling system before if it is so good?
This ultrasonic antifouling system has been in development and testing for the past 5 years. Since we introduced it we have sold more than 1,000 units to all corners of the world. We are completely confident in the effectiveness of the system which enables us to fully guarantee the system for two years.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
I understand there has been an analogue version available in the past, but this is digital. Why is digital better than analogue?
There has been an analogue version of this process in the past but it is very different to the new Ultrasonic Antifouling system that we have introduced. The Ultrasonic Antifouling system, we provide uses the very latest digital technology which has a multitude of benefits. The main differences are:
Analogue uses up to 40% more power than digital and when power is at such a premium in the boating world, this is a big issue.
A digital system can use many more frequencies together, which means it can destroy more strains of algae. Algae develop in slightly different ways, so subjecting them to a greater range of frequencies is much more effective.
Digital produces a much clearer ultrasonic sound wave and has a much greater scale of frequency possibilities.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
What happens when technology advances? Will I have to replace my system with a more up-to-date version?
One of the benefits of our Ultrasonic Antifouling system is that it is programmable. As the Ultrasonic Antifouling technology advances, you will be able to simply replace a chip at a nominal postage cost and continue to benefit from the most up to date system.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Can I install the unit myself?
The system is simple to install and full instructions are given. If you have any doubts about your ability to carry out the installation contact us and we can advise you about our installation centres.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
My boat has a skeg hung rudder. Will it keep this clear of fouling?
Yes the Ultrasonic antifouling system has been tested on boats with skeg hung rudders and found to be fully effective but positioning of the transducer is very important.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
My boat has a complex prop arrangement. Will it keep this clear of fouling?
Yes. However it is advisable to clean these prior to setting up the Ultrasonic antifouling system which should keep them free of weed from then on. The positioning of the transducer is very important.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
I have a bilge-keel yacht. Will the Ultrasonic antifouling system keep both fins clear of fouling?
Yes. the Ultra System has been tested on bilge keeled boats and found to be effective.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
What is the life expectancy of the system?
The control unit is fully sealed and the transducer is encapsulated to ensure a long life. Only such things a chafing of cables or poor installation would prevent the system from operating fully and effectively for many years. We confidently and fully guarantee the system for two years from the date of purchase.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Does the system require any maintenance?
There is no actual maintenance required for the operational life of the system. It would be prudent to make periodic checks on cables and connectors to make sure that no chafing or corroding has taken place. It is also a good idea to check the transducer for tightness from time to time.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
My boat is in a mud-berth. Will the Ultrasonic System be effective here?
No! The Ultrasonic antifouling system will keep clear only that part of the hull which is immersed in water. The part that sinks into the mud may attract growth in the usual way since the ultrasound will not penetrate the mud.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Does the system work best when powered from a marina mains electrical system? My boat is on a swinging mooring. Will it work for me?
The Ultrasonic antifouling system is totally effective however it is powered. Our units use very little power and operate in exactly the same way. They are available in 12-32 volt DC and 110 - 240volt AC. And dual voltage. A solar powered package is also available.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
If I buy a larger boat can I transfer the system to my new boat?
The mounting ring which attaches to the inside of the hull is fixed with strong epoxy and not easy to remove. New rings are available from us and you can simply fit new rings to your new boat and transfer the rest of the system to your new boat. Remember that for a larger boat of over 10 metres you will need to buy further transducers.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
I have a motor boat with a deep displacement hull. Will the Ultrasonic antifouling system work for me?
Yes provided that you choose the correct model for your boat it will be completely effective.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
What effect will the Ultrasonic antifouling system have on my fuel consumption?
A growth free hull will have a dramatic effect on the speed and smoothness through the water and will improve fuel consumption considerably. Consumption usually increases dramatically during the season as weed and algae accumulate on conventional anti fouled surfaces. Speed is also affected. This is prevented by your Ultrasonic antifouling system therefore you should save considerable sums on fuel alone and your boat speed should be increased.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
I have a racing yacht without engine or electrics can I still use the Ultrasonic System?
The Ultrasonic antifouling system keeps the hull free from growth and it is ideal for a racing yacht. You will, however, need to fit batteries. We recommend that the system operates on a 12 or 24 volt system. You may wish to consider the optional Solar Charger to keep the battery topped up.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
I have a centre-board yacht will it be effective on this?
Yes, the Ultrasonic antifouling system will work on centre board boats and should keep the board aperture free from barnacles and weed.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
How long does installation take?
Fitting should be carried out over two days. The system unit and the hull rings should be fitted on day one. The epoxy should be left for one day to set. The transducers can be fitted the next day. The total time taken should not be more than a few hours.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
How quickly will I see an effect after installation?
This will depend on a number of factors. If the boat is in the water and heavily polluted when the system is installed the algae and barnacles will begin to die off after only a few days. They will only be shrugged off by passage through the water. If the boat is regularly used then the hull should clean itself in a matter of a few weeks. Ideally though, you should start from a freshly prepared and clean hull for best results.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Is the location of the transducer critical?
Yes, absolutely. In a motor boat, where there is more sterngear to protect, the transducer needs to be as close to this point as possible for best effect. In a sailing yacht the transducer should be sited within a metre of the propshaft and just off the centreline of the boat. Full instructions are supplied with the unit and can be viewed on the website.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
How many transducers do I need?
For boats up to 10 metres a single transducer will suffice. This means an Ultra 10. For boats of 10 to 20 metres you will require two transducers so choose an Ultra 20. Power boats located in warm waters may require additional transducers, please click here for further details. For boats of over 20 metres please ask us and we will advise on particular requirements.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Will the Ultra System work on stern drive units?
Where there are large hull fittings such as stern drives that are acoustically isolated from the hull it is advisable to clean these prior to installing the Ultra system and it will help to keep these clear with correct positioning.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Does the unit need to be turned on all the time?
It is preferable to have the unit in operation 24 hours a day. We advise that it operates during daylight hours to maintain a growth free hull.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Does the system make a noise?
Not that you will hear without your ear very close to the unit. The unit pulses and there are lights to tell you that the unit is on.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
Will the Ultrasonic Antifouling System have any effect on my Anodes?
The Ultrasonic Antifouling System produces sound waves which have no effect on the Galvanic properties of your boat and will not cause any increase in the wear rate of anodes.
Call us on +44 (0) 1202 606185 for more information or visit our online shop.
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