Let’s Talk About ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer promises to be a game-changer for dinghy sailors tired of constantly battling water accumulation. Made by ANDERSEN, a brand renowned for its reliable sailing hardware, this bailer aims to offer an effective and worry-free automatic bailing solution. Its stainless steel construction and simple design hint at longevity, but does it live up to the hype?
My journey to finding the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer started with a soaking wet Laser. Bailing by hand during a race is a constant distraction, and electric pumps are overkill for a small boat. I needed a passive, reliable solution that could keep the cockpit dry without constant attention.
Upon unboxing, the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer felt solid and well-made. The stainless steel flange and internal mechanism inspire confidence, and the compact size seems perfect for a dinghy. It’s certainly more robust than the cheap plastic bailers I’ve used in the past, which often clogged or broke.
Compared to simple flap-valve bailers, the ANDERSEN offers a more sophisticated design intended for higher efficiency. While a manually operated lever bailer offers immediate, powerful drainage, it requires constant attention, unlike the automatic function of the ANDERSEN. I chose this model hoping for a “set it and forget it” solution that wouldn’t require any intervention during sailing.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality is undeniable, and the mechanism appears straightforward. Whether it translates to effective and reliable performance on the water remains to be seen, a key factor that will make or break this device.
Real-World Testing: Putting ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer on my Laser during a weekend regatta on a gusty lake. Conditions ranged from light winds with small chop to stronger breezes that routinely swamped the cockpit. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a correctly sized hole and sealant.
The bailer performed admirably, keeping the cockpit noticeably drier than without it. In lighter conditions, it effectively removed splash and rain. During heavier gusts and waves, it quickly bailed out the cockpit, preventing the boat from feeling sluggish and maintaining performance.
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer requires no real “getting used to,” which is a major plus. Once installed, it operates silently and without any input. My only initial concern was the potential for weeds or debris to clog the mechanism, but this didn’t occur during my first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sailing in various conditions, the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer continues to impress. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of corrosion or wear. It’s clearly built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
I’ve sailed through weed beds and shallow water, and the bailer hasn’t clogged once. A quick rinse with fresh water after each sailing session is all the maintenance it needs. This is significantly less maintenance than the electric bilge pump on my larger sailboat, which requires frequent cleaning.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper bailers, the ANDERSEN is in a different league. It’s far more effective at removing water, and its durability ensures it will last for years, making the higher upfront cost worthwhile. The improved sailing performance due to the drier cockpit justifies the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer
Specifications
- The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer boasts a flange size of 67 x 135mm (2-11/16 x 5-5/16″). This size is suitable for most dinghies and small sailboats, offering a good balance between bailing capacity and ease of installation.
- ANDERSEN manufactures the bailer using stainless steel. This material ensures corrosion resistance and long-term durability in harsh marine environments.
- The bailer’s length is listed as 18mm. This compact size minimizes protrusion into the cockpit.
- The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer features a black color. This is likely the color of the internal components or a gasket, as the primary visible part is stainless steel.
These specifications are crucial for the bailer’s performance and longevity. The stainless steel construction guarantees years of trouble-free service. Its efficient design ensures rapid water removal.
Performance & Functionality
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer excels at its primary function: automatically bailing water from a dinghy’s cockpit. Its design relies on the boat’s movement to create a suction effect, drawing water out through the valve. This passive operation is a significant advantage over manual or electric alternatives.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. There are no moving parts to break down or batteries to fail. The bailer works consistently as long as the boat is moving, keeping the cockpit dry and improving sailing performance.
One potential weakness is its reliance on boat speed. It may not be as effective at bailing in very light winds or when the boat is stationary. However, under normal sailing conditions, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer features a low-profile design. Its stainless steel construction is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The interior-mount design minimizes any external protrusions, reducing the risk of snagging lines or clothing.
The flange size ensures a secure and watertight fit. The simple design means there is no learning curve. Installation is straightforward and operation is entirely passive.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from stainless steel, the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer is built to last. It will withstand constant exposure to saltwater and sunlight. With minimal maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning requires only a freshwater rinse after each use. The simple design makes it easy to inspect and clear any debris that may accumulate inside the valve. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer is a self-contained unit. It does not require any additional accessories for basic operation. Installation requires sealant to ensure a watertight seal between the bailer flange and the hull.
There are no customization options in the traditional sense. However, the flange could be painted to match the boat’s color scheme. The key is ensuring the internal mechanism remains free of paint.
Pros and Cons of ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer
Pros
- Effective Automatic Bailing: Keeps the cockpit dry without any manual intervention.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
- Simple and Reliable Design: Minimizes the risk of failure and requires minimal maintenance.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward to install with basic tools and sealant.
- Improved Sailing Performance: By keeping the boat lighter and more responsive.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than basic plastic bailers.
- Requires Boat Movement: Less effective at bailing when the boat is stationary or moving very slowly.
Who Should Buy ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer?
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer is perfect for dinghy sailors, small sailboat owners, and racers seeking a reliable and hands-free bailing solution. It particularly benefits those who frequently sail in conditions where water accumulation is a problem. This could include racing, coastal cruising, or simply sailing in choppy waters.
Those who should skip this product are casual sailors who only occasionally experience water accumulation. Those operating larger vessels or prioritizing immediate, powerful bailing (even if manual) may consider other solutions. Cheap, manually operated lever bailers may be sufficient for them.
A must-have is a good quality marine sealant. This is necessary to ensure a watertight installation. Regular inspection and cleaning of the valve mechanism may also be beneficial in areas with heavy weed growth.
Conclusion on ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer
The ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about dinghy sailing or small boat ownership. It offers a reliable, effective, and hands-free solution to water accumulation, improving sailing performance and overall enjoyment. The initial cost is higher than basic bailers, but the durability and performance justify the price.
I wholeheartedly recommend the ANDERSEN Super Medium Automatic Bailer. If you are tired of manually bailing your dinghy or dealing with unreliable pumps, this bailer will make your sailing experience much more enjoyable. Upgrade your sailing experience today!