Better Water LLC; rev. Apr 2015
Page 16 of 22
4” x 40” Ultra Filter System Operator Manual
TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
The information in this document is intended to serve as a guide only for qualified operators. It is
not all inclusive of the problems that may be encountered. This guide should aid operators with
reminders and routine trouble-shooting tasks.
For any problem outside the confines of this guide, call for technical assistance.
Problem
Possible Causes
Possible Solutions
The recovery rate is
less than 90%
1. Reject shut-off valve needs
adjusting
1.
Adjust the reject shut-off valve
to establish a recovery rate of
90-95%.
The product
(permeate) flow has
decreased by 10% or
greater
1. Membranes are fouled
2. Membranes exceed
recommended change out time
1.
Check the inlet pressure to the
filter system. If the inlet pressure
has decreased below the design
specification, then adjust the
pressure regulator at the loop
return at the reservoir (
typically
20-30 psi, for tank-feed systems
with no demand
).
2.
Perform a disinfect
If the Delta P is lower
than the initial
qualification
1. Loop return pressure
regulator could be out of
adjustment
2. Membrane ruptured
3. Missing or damaged o-rings
4. Oxidized membrane
1.
Adjust the pressure regulator
at the loop return at the reservoir
(
typically 20-30 psi, for tank-feed
systems with no demand
).
2.
If the above step does not
correct the problem, replace the
membranes and/or o-rings.
The product
(permeate) water is
contaminated with
microbiological
contaminants
(bacteria and/or
endotoxins)
1. Membranes are fouled
2. Improper disinfection
3. Membranes exceed
recommended change out time
1.
Perform a disinfect
2.
If disinfection does not correct
the problem, the membranes
must be replaced
The pressure drop is
greater than 15 psi
Delta P at the initial
qualification with zero
demand
1. Loop return pressure
regulator could be out of
adjustment
2. Membranes are fouled
3. Membranes exceed
recommended change out time
1.
Adjust the pressure regulator
at the loop return at the reservoir
(
typically 20-30 psi, for tank-feed
systems with no demand
).
2.
Perform a disinfect
