Residential RO Systems/Membranes Questions
Can I use Copper Tubing for the RO Product Water?
No. Due to RO product water being very pure, it can leach the minerals from
copper tubing which will cause a metallic taste in the water or ice, and cause
the copper tubing to develop pinhole leaks over time.
How Far Can A Line Be Run From the RO System?
If using 1/4" Poly tubing: Approximately 20-25 Feet.
Use 3/8" Poly tubing for longer distances.
Tubing for RO product water should always be POLY tubing, not copper.
What does each filter do in a residential RO System?
Our AAA series residential reverse osmosis systems are 5-stage systems.
Stage 1 is a 5 Micron Sediment filter, to remove suspended solids such as dirt,
dust and rust from the water. This helps to extend the life of the membrane and
filters downstream by removing any particles which can clog and damage them.
Stage 2 & 3 are GAC (granular activated carbon) filters to remove chlorine,
taste and odor from the water. It is important to have these upstream from the
RO membrane in a system, as they remove the chlorine which will damage the
membrane if it comes into contact.
Stage 4 is the RO (reverse osmosis) Membrane which removes 98% of the total
dissolved solids in the water. This is where the purification takes place.
Stage 5 is a GAC (granular activated carbon) "polishing filter" which the water
passes through right before going to the faucet. This helps to improve the
flavor of the water, and to remove any taste or odor that the water may have
developed while in the storage tank.
Do I need a booster pump for my residential RO system?
Water pressure is necessary to force the water through the membrane and to
flush the rejected solids out of the element, and is directly related to
production and quality of filtration. Low pressure can result in low production,
low rejection, and premature fouling of the membrane.
The ideal pressure for an RO System is approximately 60 PSI. Generally anything
between 40 PSI and 60 PSI is considered acceptable. If your water pressure is
below 40 PSI, a booster pump is required to boost the water pressure.
Can I use the RO water for my icemaker or refrigerator?
Yes. The RO treated water can be run to an icemaker. This can be done by
installing a 1/4" tee in the line between the final polishing filter and the
faucet. 1/4" POLY tubing should be run to the icemaker.
All tubing for RO water should be POLY tubing. Copper tubing should not be used.
Why am I getting very little output from my RO?
Please check the following:
- If the water pressure is below 40 psi, a booster pump may be necessary.
- If the water pressure is above 40 psi, first try to re-tap the tap
supply
line. This can be done by tightening the self-piercing valve clockwise until
it is fully turned, then turn it counterclockwise until it stops. There
should
open enough space in the line for proper water flow.
- Straighten or repair the tubing
- Check that pre-filters are not clogged. If they are, they will need to
be
replaced. If membrane is fouled, it will need to be replaced.
How often do I need to change my filters?
There is no definite answer to this question, as the feed water conditions
and system maintenance will affect filter life. Below is a guideline:
| Sediment and Carbon Prefilters: |
Every 3-6 Months |
| Carbon Post Filter: |
Every 3-6 Months |
Membrane Element: |
Every 12 Months |
Why
is there no water in my storage tank?
| Possible Cause |
Remedy |
| Filter cartridges have failed |
Replace filter cartridges as indicated |
| Cartridges upside down |
Install carbon block filter right side up as indicated
on the filter. |
| No pressure in storage tank |
Check pressure with gauge. Refill or reduce pressure to
max. 8 psi. |
| Automatic shut-off malfunctioning |
Check lines to valve for correct hook-up and check for
water running into drain. Replace if necessary |
| Kinked lines |
Straighten lines if necessary |
Why
is the water backing up to the air gap faucet?
|
Possible Cause |
Remedy |
| Line is clogged |
Clean out the line |
| Line is too long |
Must be as short and straight as possible |
| Drain is clogged |
Disconnect the drain line and clean out
with probe or by flushing |
Why
is my faucet spout dripping?
Possible Cause: The hande is sticking or worn.
Remedy: Replace the faucet.
Why
is Water Leaking from the Filter Housings?
| Possible
Cause |
Remedy |
| Filter sumps are loose |
Retighten the filter sumps to the caps |
| Burr on edge of filter housing |
Remove burr with emory cloth or sand paper |
| O-Ring in filter bowl is missing, damaged, or not seated
properly |
Replace or position correction |
| 
