To insure optimum efficiency, certain routine maintenance must be performed on reverse osmosis systems.
The standard reverse osmosis system consists of three stages, pre-filtering, the reverse osmosis process, and post-filtering.
Water flows from the water supply and enters the reverse osmosis system. It is then directed to the pre-filter where the 5-micron cartridge removes sand, silt, dirt, and other sediments that may be in the water supply. From there, the water flows to the reverse osmosis membrane cartridge.
Water is forced by pressure (at least 35 psi) through the semi permeable membrane. The good water passes through the membrane (at two drops per second) to the storage tank while the dissolved and particulate materials are sent down the drain. After leaving the storage tank but before going to the faucet product water goes through post filtering.
The post filter or filters are usually of carbon type which will remove any remaining taste and odor.
Maintenance Guide
Frequency of maintenance depends on a number of factors including condition of water and level of use.
Every 12 to 18 months – Replacement of all filters
24 to 60 months – T.F.C Membrane replacement
Once a year – Sanitation and recharge
Filter Cartridge Replace for Standard System
Shut off water supply valve found underneath the sink. Follow the tube (right side of unit) to the angle stop and shut it off.
Turn the valve on top of the storage tank to the off position.
Open the produce faucet by switching the handle to the upright locking position.
Unscrew each canister clockwise one at a time.
Replace filter cartridge. Handle each replacement filter cartridge by the shipping wrappers for sanitary purposes.
Inspect canister o-rings for placement and proper lubrication.
Tighten canister by hand only.
Close product faucet.
Turn both water valves back on and check for leaks.
After you are certain there are no leaks in the system, drain the storage tank. It will then take from 2 to 6 hours to fill back up.
Drain tank a second time and let refill.
Note: Additional point-of-use systems (i.e., ice makers) may use additional filters along their cold water supply line that will need to be maintained separately. Refer to appropriate owners’ manuals for full instructions.
Trouble Shooting
The following are three most common concerns.
| Symptom | Probable Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water has an offensive taste/odor | Carbon post filter is depleted Membrane depleted or fouled | Drain storage tank and replace carbon post filter Drain storage tank, replace membrane, sanitize system |
| Not enough water | Low water pressure Storage tank is depleted Storage tank air pressure charge is low | Check feed water psi. Unit will not operate at less than 35 psi Consider increase in storage capacity or production rate (higher GPD membrane) Empty water from storage tank and adjust air pressure to 8 psi |
| Excessive Noise | Excessive drain tubing or drain tube is blocked | Realign drain saddle, remove any debris and cut off excessive tubing |