18
The Importance of Contaminant Removal Prior to the GreenWave Tank
Iron and Manganese
Just as with conventional water softening media, the GreenWave media needs to be protected
from excess levels of certain metals that can easily coat the active surface, reducing its
effectiveness over time. Public water supplies rarely, present a problem, but if the water supply is
from a private well confirm that the levels of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) are less than 0.3 mg/L
and 0.05 mg/L respectively. Copper should be less than 1.3 mg/L.
Copper
Copper usually originates from new copper plumbing upstream of the GreenWave Ultra system. If
this condition exists, we recommend waiting 3-4 weeks before placing the system in operation. This
will allow the copper surfaces to be fully flushed and develop a natural protective surface. To
further minimize any problem with excess copper the installers should be advised to avoid applying
excess flux on the inner surfaces of the pipe and to use a low-corrosivity water soluble flux listed
under the ASTM 8813 standard. Once the plumbing connections are complete, place the
GreenWave Ultra system in bypass prior to following the startup procedure and flush the plumbing
for at least 10 minutes.
Cautions!
Do not let the system freeze. Damage to the tank and pre-filter may result.
The system must be operated in a vertical position. Do not lay it down during operation. The
system may be placed in any position for shipping and installation but must be operated in the
vertical position.
Place the system on a smooth, level surface. Because the system operates in an UP-Flow,
fluidized bed mode, having a level surface is more important than with a softener or media filter.
A bypass valve should be installed on every system to facilitate installation and service
(supplied).
Observe all local plumbing and building codes when installing the system.
Notes to the Installer
The GreenWave Ultra system differs from a conventional softener or media filter in a number of key
respects.
The system is light and only partially filled with media. This is normal. The UP-flow operation of
the system requires a large area of freeboard in the tank to allow the bed to fully fluidize.
The GreenWave tank has no under-bed so you can tip the system over without any fear of
upsetting the media. This makes transportation and installation much easier than conventional
systems. The carbon Superfilter does have under-bedding and should not be moved once
filled.
Because the GreenWave Ultra system operates in the UP-Flow mode, the tank connections are
opposite of what a normal softener will use.
Please see the "important note about iron, manganese and copper" above.
Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
385-GWU-1000, 385-GWU-1500, 385-GWU-2000
