Reverse Osmosis System Maintenance
PRE FILTER/POST FILTER MAINTENANCE
The pre-filter and post-filters are replaceable activated carbon cartridges, model number PTL-CB They are located in the 1st and 3rd positions of the 3-stage system. It is recommended to replace the pre-filter
and post-filter cartridges at least every 6 months of product water use. The pre-filter and post-filter ARE BOTH PTL-CB cartridges. You may need to replace these filters more often with a great deal of use or a
high level of incoming sediment. This will protect the RO membrane from being destroyed by chlorine and plugging with sediments. You may notice a slower output of product water as the pre-filter and post-
filters build up with sediments. Replace the pre-filter and post-filter cartridges when this occurs. See below for instructions.
R
RO MEMBRANE CARTRIDGE MAINTENANCE
The Reverse Osmosis membrane is a tightly wound membrane located in the center position of the 3-stage system. The membrane reduces the dissolved solids and organic matter. The life of the Reverse Osmosis mem-
brane depends on the pH and hardness of the supply water. (see specifications). Membrane life is shorter with higher pH. For example, if supply water pH is under 7.5, the cartridge may last up to 18 months. However,
membrane life may be as short as 6 months if the pH is as higher than 8.0. Higher pH weakens the membrane and causes pin-hole leaks. It's time to replace the Reverse Osmosis membrane when the production rate and
the quality of the output water drops. The output water may begin to taste different, indicating solids and organics are passing through the Reverse Osmosis membrane. See Reverse Osmosis membrane replacement.
The Reverse Osmosis membrane output and flow rate is greatly determined by three factors: 1. Temperature of incoming water. The lower the temperature is directly proportional to the slower flow rate. All
Reverse Osmosis membranes are tested at 25
o
C
However, incoming water should not exceed 38
o
C
. You need to ensure that the Reverse Osmosis system is placed in a climate controlled area and does not have
the potential to freeze. 2. TDS (total dissolved solids) present in the incoming water. More TDS requires more time for the membrane to filter and remove. Ensure incoming TDS does not exceed 2000 ppm. 3.
Incoming water pressure is one of the key factors determining the flow rate of the RO membrane. Higher pressure will enable a higher flow rate. Pressure must be above 40 PSI for proper operation. You may
need to install a Booster Pump or Permeate Pump if your pressure is below 40 PSI.
REVERSE OSMOSIS MEMBRANE REPLACEMENT
Complete the following steps to replace the filters.
1. Remove (turn to the left) the Twist-Lock
™
pre-filter cartridge first from the system to relieve pressure on the Reverse Osmosis filter.
2. Turn the Twist-Lock
™
Reverse Osmosis filter to the left and remove the Reverse Osmosis filter.
3. Remove the Twist-Lock
™
post-filter cartridge.
4. Discard all of the Twist-Lock
™
filters in a proper manner.
5. Install new Twist-Lock
™
filters in reverse order: 1) post-filter, 2) Reverse Osmosis, 3) pre-filter. Turn cartridges to the
right to secure them to the system.
6. Purge the Reverse Osmosis System per the instructions in step 8.
PRE-FILTER & POST-FILTER CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT
Complete the following steps to replace the filters.
1. Remove the Twist-Lock
™
pre-filter cartridge, by turning to the left, from the system.
2. Remove the Twist-Lock
™
post-filter cartridge, by turning to the left, from the system.
3. Discard the Twist-Lock
™
filters in a proper manner.
4. Install new Twist-Lock
™
filters in reverse order: 1) post-filter, 2) pre-filter by turning filters to the right to secure them to the system.
5. Purge the Reverse Osmosis System per the instruction in Step 8.
DRAIN FLOW RESTRICTOR
The drain flow restrictor is vital for proper operation of the Reverse Osmosis membrane. The restrictor keeps water flowing through the membrane at the proper rate. This is to ensure the system produces the best
quality product water. Periodically check the restrictor assembly to be sure it is clean and unrestricted. If the drain flow assembly requires service, review Step 6 (4A). Disassemble and assemble as shown.
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