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A physical air gap of at least 3 inches
(76 mm) between the end of the
drain line and the wastewater level
in the drain pipe should be used to
avoid contamination of the line. An
additional gap of 3/4 inch (19 mm)
between the drain pipe and drain line is recommended
to prevent any problems in the case of a pipe overflow. Using a simple
P-trap as shown (Img Right) is ideal as well, but a stand pipe with a
diameter of at least 1.5 inches (38 mm) is adequate.
If hooking up multiple systems, each system needs a separate, inde-
pendent drain line to ensure proper operation and
prevent damage. Systems can all be run to the same
standpipe/sump/outside drain, but the drain line from
each system needs to be separate. To ensure proper
operation, ensure that the drain line will not collapse
or kink, and avoid installing any additional fittings (check valves, ball/gate valves, etc.) as
this can prevent proper flow down the drain, which can lead to poor performance and prema-
ture system failure.
Initial Startup
Section 8: Place System in Service
Once all plumbing is done and plumbing connections have been checked for leaks you can
place the system in service.
Step 8a: Open bypass valve
Open a COLD water faucet that is near the system, a laundry sink or outside faucet (if it will
be treated by the system) is ideal, this will allow the air to bleed out of the system. Slowly
open up the bypass valve just to the point of allowing water to enter the system at a trickle,
and leave it like that until the tank is full of water. If you prefilled the system it should only
take a minute or two. Once the tank is full, slowly open the bypass valve the rest of the way.
Allow water to run out of the faucet until no more air comes out, then close the faucet.
Step 8b: Check for leaks
Check the system for any leaks, paying attention to the seal between the tank and control
head as well as the connections between the bypass valve and control head. Open a nearby
COLD faucet and check to ensure there are no leaks that show up when water is running.
Step 8c: Flush the system
Open a nearby COLD faucet. The water may be discolored at first, this is normal. Let water
run out of the faucet at least 20 minutes (this cleans out the system and ensures everything
Drain water comes out under
line pressure, so it can be run ver-
tically to connect to an overhead
drain pipe.
Since it is under pressure, make
sure to secure the drain line to keep
it from moving and making a mess.
DO NOT allow the system to be used without running it through a complete regenera-
tion cycle to ensure there are no leaks during any cycle and to ensure the drain is properly
connected. Failure to do so can lead to flooding and water damage.
Bypass any other systems before beginning.
