EXPRESS WATER 300 GPD Light Commercial Reverse Osmosis System Instruction Manual

EXPRESS WATER 300 GPD Light Commercial Reverse Osmosis System

Instruction

Hello!

You’ve taken the first step to having healthier and better from now on thanks to Express Water’s Light Commercial Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System. Your new filtration system protects you and any appliances from contaminants with hundreds of gallons of perfectly pure water every day.

If at any point in the installation process you have questions just give us a call from 10am-5pm (Pacific Time) at 1-800-992-8876 Monday – Friday

Conditions

READ THIS FIRST

Please pay attention to the following installation and safety recommendations:
Read the installation manual before installing this system.
NOTE! Please make sure your installation location has enough room and access to a 110v power supply

Incoming Water
Incoming water pressure must be between 10 PSI and 100 PSI. Test your water occasionally to make sure the system is performing. If your water is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality do not use this system without adequate disinfection before or after the system. Extremely hot or cold incoming water will damage the system and cannot be used. Your Untreated Water Inflow quality will determine your needs for pretreatment and filtration.

Leaks
Inspect all connections after the installation to make sure no leaks occur, wait until after the system is pressurized to inspect again. Check the system occasionally after installation or maintenance to make sure no leaks have developed. Install the system in a location with adequate drainage.

General
This Light Commercial RO System is for climate controlled indoor use only. Exposure to overly high or low temperature ranges will damage the unit. Follow all of your state and local laws and codes regarding plumbing even if they differ from what is stated in this manual. If your state law requires it or you prefer to we recommend using a professional licensed installer or plumber who meets the requirements of this system. All O-Rings, fittings, filter canisters, and teflon tape wears out after a certain period of time. The lifetime of your components are subject to change with the quality of the water supplied. Do not handle an unwrapped filter directly with your bare hands as this can cause early filter failure. Use appropriate eye protection when performing any drilling.

Maintenance
The owner/user is obligated to properly inspect and maintain the Commercial RO System when necessary, at least every 1 year. This includes the following:
Replace the O-Rings on the filter housings, membrane housing, booster pump, fittings, and filter cartridges.
Replace any connectors and filter housings with proper replacement parts. Sanitize your system as often as needed (this changes with the profile of your area’s incoming water). Always use proper replacement filter cartridges with the correct size and length replacements.
Replace the Teflon Tape on all threaded connections and fittings.

Copyright © 2020 by Express Water Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Introduction

You have purchased the finest Light Commercial Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System available for your water purification. When properly maintained this system will provide you with years of great tasting pure drinking water and trouble-free service.

Please read the manual section regarding the proper care and maintenance of your new RO System
before proceeding with your installation. Also, please make sure to inspect the package for any missing components or shipping damages.

Simply read through the manual and complete the steps in order and you’ll have your system up and running in no time. If you find any issues or have questions please contact Express Water from 10am to 5pm (Pacific Time) at: 1-800-992-8876 Monday – Friday

Visit ExpressWater.com for filter replacements.

Replacements Table

| | |

Part

Stage 1 5 Micron Sediment Filter| Stages 2, 3 and 5 Activated Carbon Block Filter| Stage 4 RO Membrane| Booster Pump

Model

FLTWH1025S| FLTWH1025C02| 300GPD Membrane| Custom Order Please contact us for these items

Service Life

6 Months| 6 Months| 6 Months – 1 Year|

Installation Notes

Tools Required

Before you begin, please make sure you have all of the following tools ready to use:

• Box Cutter / Tube Cutter
• Phillips-Head Screwdriver
• Power Drill
• 3/8” Drill Bit (for Drain Saddle)
• Adjustable Wrench
• Teflon Tape

Components List

Your new Elite RO should include the following items. If any item is missing please contact Express Water. Please take a few moments to check all the following components:

Accessories and Connections

• 19ft of 3/8” Tubing

• Drain Saddle Package

• Filter Housing Wrench

Membrane Housing Wrench

• Feed Water Adapter Valve

System Components

1. Feed Water Adapter Valve
2. Solenoid
3. Stage 1 Sediment Filter
4. Stage 2 Carbon Block Filter
5. Stage 3 Carbon Block Filter
6. Male Tee (3/8”)
7. Male Elbow (3/8”)
8. Low Pressure Switch
9. Flow Splitter (3/8”)
10. Adapter (3/8” to 1/4” QC)
11. Adapter (3/8” male to 3/8” QC)
12. Incoming Pressure Gauge
13. Operating Pressure Gauge
14. Male Membrane Elbow
15. Check Valve (3/8”)
16. High Pressure Switch
17. Flow Restrictor
18. Union Tee (3/8” 3/8” 1/4”)
19. Post Carbon Filter
20. RO Membrane Housing
21. Booster Pump

System Guide

Tubing Quick Connect Guide

The tubing in your RO System uses a Quick Connect locking mechanism to lock the Color Coded Tubing in place. Be careful not to damage your tubing as you unpack it.
NOTE! Make sure to remove any plugs before attempting to insert tubing.

Release Tubing / Plugs

Push and hold the Collet in to release the lock while pulling out on the Tube / Plug.
NOTE! Collet must be held down while pulling up on the tube to release the tube.

Attach Tubing

Push Tubing in straight and level with the Collet. The Tubing will go 13/16ths of an inch into the Collet before the lock is activated. Pull out on the Tube to make sure the lock has activated and the Tubing is secure.
NOTE! Once connected, make sure to check tubing is secure.

To Cut Tubing

Make your cuts against a flat cutting surface with a razor blade, or use a handheld tube cutter. Any cuts to your Tubing must be perfectly straight.

NOTE! Improperly cut Tubing may leak water or fail to lock into Fittings.

Wait until all elements of your RO System are in their final locations before cutting your Tubing.
Make sure you measure the length you will need before cutting. Please avoid unnecessary additional tubing as it will affect the efficiency of your water production and delivery.

Feed Water Adapter Valve

CAUTION!
The water supply to the unit MUST be from the COLD WATER LINE. Using HOT WATER will severely damage your RO System.

1. First you will assemble the feed water adapter. Wrap the threading of the smaller portion of the adapter (with the red handle) with 10-14 wraps of teflon tape. Then screw the smaller portion of the adapter into the side of the larger portion as shown.
   
   NOTE!
   If your Cold Water Valve is too old or weak to connect to directly Option A you can connect at the top of the line where the faucet connects Option B (if applicable, some sinks do not have this connection point).

2. Locate the Cold Water Valve underneath the sink and turn it off completely. Next, open the cold water handle on your sink to release pressure by expelling any existing water. Check to make sure the water has stopped flowing completely before proceeding.
   Do Not Connect To Hot Water Line!
   NOTE!
   On single-handle faucets the hot water may have to be turned off to prevent hot water crossover (only during your first installation).
   If water still continues to come out of the faucet with the Cold Water Valve turned off, then the main water supply must be turned off as well.
   

3. The Feed Water Adapter Valve can be used 1/2” feed line plumbing. If your feed line is another size you will need an adapter for setup.

Next, use an adjustable wrench to secure the Adapter Valve either directly to the Cold Water Valve Option A or further up in the line before the faucet Option B (if applicable).
Make sure your Adapter Valve is in the closed position when installing.

NOTE!
Do Not Use Teflon Tape!
Use your wrench to tighten the connection, be careful not to over tighten.

WARNING!
INCOMING WATER PRESSURE SHOULD NOT EXCEED 100 PS!

Using the Feed Water Adapter Valve

During installation leave your Feed Water Adapter Valve in the CLOSED position until System Startup.
The Feed Water Adapter Valve controls all water coming into your RO System. If for any reason you need to stop incoming water turn the Feed Water Adapter Valve to the CLOSED position. Always turn this valve off before replacing filters, if a leak is discovered, or when shutting down the system.

Drain Saddle

The Drain Saddle is used to connect the Drain Line to a drain pipe under the sink, or other drain plumbing. The Drain Saddle is designed to fit around a standard 1.5 inch OD (outer diameter) drain pipe.
NOTE! Adjustable drain saddles are available upon request if the saddle does not fit your pipe.
The Drain Saddle should always be installed above (before) the P-Trap and on a straight vertical or horizontal section of pipe. To avoid clogging the drain line with debris do not install the Drain Saddle after the drain pipe meets a garbage disposal or dishwasher drain. The image below shows ideal Drain Saddle locations.

*Adjustable drain saddles are available if the saddle does not fit your pipe

1. Once you have found where your Drain Saddle will go on the Drain Pipe make a mark for the opening there with a marker or pencil.

2. Use your drill and 3/8 inch (9.525mm) drill bit to drill a hole at your mark. Be careful to drill through one side of the pipe only and stabilize your pipes while drilling to avoid damaging them.

3. Find the half of the Drain Clamp with a hole in its center. Then remove the backing from the Foam Gasket (the foam circle at the center of the Gasket is disposable). Make sure to align the Foam Gasket hole with the Drain Clamp hole and stick the adhesive side of the Gasket to the inner wall of the Drain Clamp half.

4. Take the half of the Drain Clamp without the Foam Gasket and insert a nut into the recess on each side.

5. Position both halves of the Drain Clamp on the drain pipe with the clamp’s opening aligned over the drilled hole.
   The Foam Gasket will be between the drain clamp and the drilled hole. Push your 3/8 inch drill bit through both holes (the Drain Clamp hole and the hole in the Drain Pipe) and remove to verify that the clamp is properly aligned with the hole you drilled.

6. Secure the Drain Clamp halves together in place on the Drain Pipe. Screw the bolts through the Drain Clamp half with the Foam Gasket and into the half you installed the nuts. Do not over tighten. When tightening bolts make sure there is equal space on both sides between the Drain Clamp halves.

Filter Housing Assembly

NOTE!
The Sediment Filter will be on the far right
The 3 Carbon Block Filters will be on the opposite side

Tighten Filter Housings

The housings may need little or no tightening. You can expect to make a quarter turn at most. The majority of systems will need no tightening. Be careful not to overtighten.

1. Finish tightening each prefilter housing using the (larger) filter housing wrench.
   

2. The RO Membrane cap is already on the system.
   To make sure the cap is secure, tighten the RO Membrane Housing Cap with the (smaller) membrane housing wrench. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN!
   

Water Storage Tank

If you are using a water storage tank with this system you will connect it here. If not you can skip this page.

1. Identify the stem tee on the inflow side of the PAC filter and remove the plug from the quick connect arm of the tee. (refer to the Quick Connect Guide on Page 9).
2. Use 3/8” tubing to connect this fitting to your water tank.
3. Keep the Tank Valve in the Closed Position until System Startup.
   
   

NOTE! The Tank Valve only controls water leaving the Water Storage Tank. To stop all incoming water use the Feed Water Adapter Valve.

System Connections

You may have already completed some or all of these connections in previous steps. Make sure to remove any plugs before installing Tubing. Use the provided Locking Clips to secure any Tubing connections.

A to B Connect the 3/8” tubing to the Feed Water Adapter Valve (point A), remove plug then connect to the open inlet of the branch tee on the sediment filter (point B).

To connect tubing to the Feed Water Adapter Valve, first remove the Lock Nut by unscrewing it from the valve. You will then push the tubing over the ridge on the end of the valve. Then the lock nut will go through the other end of the tube until you can screw it back onto the valve.

Drain

The drain line is this piece coming off of the Membrane Housing at the back of the system.
Use the provided tubing to direct your drain flow to your desired location.
You can direct the drainage into a drain saddle on a sink pipe, into a floor drain, or another option. that will allow for unrestricted water flow.

Output

The outgoing flow line is this elbow coming off of the PAC. This delivers Pure Water Outflow to your desired source.
This can be connected to a faucet or any point of use to supply with your pure RO water.
NOTE! If you are using a tank, this is not where you connect the tank.

System Startup

NOTE! Do not drink water from your new system until you have completed System Startup. The flushing process is needed for your filters to begin working.
NOTE! Do not send water through any appliance until flushing is complete, carbon fines flushed during startup will clog appliances.

1. [SKIP IF NOT USING A TANK] Turn the Tank Valve to the Closed position.

2. Open the water supply to the RO System (use Cold Water Supply and Feed Water Adapter Valve refer to pages 10 and 11) (Make sure the main water supply is also on)

3. Open your system’s pure water outflow and wait up to 10 minutes for water to start flowing. Let the water flow for 30 minutes. [if your outflow is connected to an appliance instead of a faucet remove the line from the appliance and allow water to flow into a bucket or drain]

4. Stop your outflow (by either closing the faucet handle or closing the outflow line) and wait 10-15 minutes for pressure to build. Then carefully check your RO System for any leaks. Feel or visually inspect every connection point for leaks. If a leak occurs, turn the Feed Water Adapter Valve OFF.
   [If not using a tank simply let pure water flow for 30 minutes, then proceed to step 12] [SKIP 5-11 IF NOT USING A TANK]

5. Turn the Tank Valve to the Open position.

6. Allow the Water Storage Tank to fill completely (the time will vary depending on the size of your tank and your incoming water quality).

7. Flush the system by opening pure water outflow until the water in your water storage tank is completely emptied and the flow is reduced to a trickle or stops (about 1-5 minutes).

8. Stop your pure water outflow and allow the Tank to fill again.

9. Repeat steps 6-8 again. Occasionally check for leaks during this time

10. After the 2nd tank is filled you may drink the water.

11. Check for leaks daily during the 1st week of use and periodically thereafter.
    NOTE! You may notice that the water has a milky color during the 1st week. This is an indication of air bubbles in the water. This is normal during this period and the water is safe to drink.

System Maintenance

These recommendations are intended for maximum efficiency of your Light Commercial RO System.

Filter and RO Membrane Storage

Store unopened filters in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing air. This prolongs the shelf life of the filters and avoids any possible odors or contamination from the air.
Store in a cool, dry, dark place (avoid heat and moisture contamination).Using this method it is okay to store filters for several years.

Extended System Non-Use

If you will not be using the RO System for two weeks or more you will need to follow the “Vacation Mode” guide on page 20.

Filter Change Instructions

This Commercial RO System contains Filters that must be replaced at regular intervals to maintain proper performance. Use only authentic Express Water filters.

How to Change the SED and 2 ACB’s (Refilters)

(Recommended about every 6 months, depending on water use)

1. You will need a clean cloth, dish soap, and appropriate Sediment and Carbon Block Filters. (We also recommend a bin large enough for the system to sit in. The system will release water when it is disassembled.)
2. Turn off the Cold Water Supply connected to the RO System (refer to page 10), the Feed Water Adapter Valve (page 11), and the Tank Valve [if you are using a tank].
3. Place the RO System in the bin and unscrew the 3 Prefilter Housings using the Filter Housing Wrench. Remove old filters and dispose of them.
4. Wash the Prefilter Housings with dish soap then proceed to rinse until all soap is removed.
5. Ensure that your hands are washed clean before unwrapping the new filters. After unwrapping, place the new filters inside their correct housings (refer to page 13). Make sure each Housing has an O Ring firmly in place in the Housing’s lower groove (just below the threading).
6. Tighten the Prefilter Housings using the Filter Housing Wrench. Do not overtighten. If these are the only filters you are replacing continue to the Restarting the System section on Page 18.

How to Change the RO Membrane

(Recommended about every 6 months to 1 year. Lifespan varies based on quality of incoming water.)

**NOTE! Make sure you have shut down the RO System (Step 2 in the above section).

**

1. Open the RO Membrane Housing by unscrewing the cap. Pull out the RO Membrane with a pair of pliers. Be sure to note which side is the front and which side is the back.
2. Wash out the RO Membrane Housing. Install the new RO Membrane in the Housing in the correct direction you noted earlier. Make sure to push the Membrane in firmly, then close the Housing by tightening the cap with your hand. If this is the only/last filter you are replacing continue to the Restarting the System section on Page 18.

How to Change the Post Activated Carbon Filter

(Recommended about once a year)

NOTE! Make sure you have shut down the RO System (Step 2 in the Prefilters section).

1. Unscrew the filter housing and remove the old filter.
2. Wash the housing, unwrap the ACB filter and place it in the filter housing.
3. Making sure the O-ring is in place, tighten the housing.

Restarting The System

1. Fully open the Feed Water Adapter Valve, Cold Water Supply, and the Tank Valve [if you are using a tank].
   [If not using a tank simply let pure water flow for 15 minutes]
   [SKIP 2-5 IF NOT USING A TANK]

2. Open the Pure Water Outflow and fully empty the tank before turning your outflow off.

3. Let the system refill with water (the time will vary depending on the size of your tank and your incoming water  quality). You can open your Pure Water Outflow briefly to release any air trapped inside the system while it’s filling. (Be sure to check for new leaks during the first 24 hours after restarting)

4. After the Water Storage Tank has filled CLOSE the Feed Water Adapter Valve and drain the entire system by opening your Pure Water Outflow until water flow stops. Then stop your outflow.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 again to fully flush the system.

NOTE! If the RO System is connected to an appliance do not drain the system through these devices. The excess carbon fines from the new carbon filter can clog or damage your appliance.

How to Sanitize your RO System

(Recommended Once a Year)

1. Before you begin you will need a new Sediment Filter, 2 Carbon Block Filters, RO Membrane, Post Activated Carbon
   Filter, Filter Housing Wrench, and a container to mix water and bleach. We also suggest using a bin large enough for the system to sit in (the system will release a lot of water when it is disassembled).

2. Close any incoming water (Feed Water Adapter Valve page 11).

3. Open pure water outflow and drain the system completely (wait until water flow stops completely), then close the outflow.

4. Use the Filter Housing Wrench to open the Filter Housings, then remove and dispose of ALL filter cartridges.

5. Mix 1 gallon of water with 2 tbsp of household bleach. Do not add bleach directly to the filter housing.

6. Fill up the Prefilter Housings (Sediment and the 2 Carbon Block Housings) with your mixed solution and close the housings using your Filter Housing Wrench.

7. Open the incoming water to the system (Feed Water Adapter Valve page 14) and let it run for 10 minutes.

8. Open your Pure Water Outflow and let it drain for 10 minutes.

9. Close the Pure Water Outflow and wait for 10 minutes then open the Outflow again and wait for it to drain completely.
   (If you smell bleach from your pure water outflow repeat steps 7-9)

10. You are now ready to replace all filters and restart your system. Please refer to page 13 for detailed instructions, ignore any additional sanitation steps therein.

Vacation Mode

When you plan to not use your Commercial RO System for 2 weeks to 1 month it should be Turned Off. Locate the red
Feed Water Adapter Valve connected to your Cold Water Supply (refer to page 10).
Turn Off System: Turn the red Feed Water Adapter Valve to point away from the Tubing connection (in the Closed position, page 11) to close the water supply to the system.
Turn On System: Turn the red Feed Water Adapter Valve to point towards the Tubing connection (in the Open position, page 11) to open the water supply to the system.

For deactivation of 1 month or more:

1. Shut the incoming water supply and drain the entire system of water through your Pure Water Outflow.
2. Remove each filter and place vertically on a clean surface until dry.
3. Place each filter individually in a sealed air tight plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for the duration (if filter is reusable and less than 3 months old).
4. You may leave the System and Filter Housings disassembled to ensure it stays dry to prevent bacteria growth.
5. You should wash the filter housings before replacing the filters, when you are ready to restart the system.
   NOTE! Depending on your area’s water you may not be able to reuse some or all of your filters. Please contact us if you need more information.

1 Year Limited Warranty

We Cover
This warranty covers any defects in the parts or manufacturing of your Express Water Reverse Osmosis Water
Filtration System. We will give you new replacement parts in exchange for any defective parts.

What to Do
Give us a call at 1-800-992-8876 or send an email to [email protected] and describe the problem to our support. Be sure to have a copy of your purchase confirmation email or receipt. Our support will verify that the product and problem are under warranty and help you arrange to send your defective part back to Express Water with your receipt and contact information (name, address, phone number, email address). Support will help arrange sending of the defective part, the delivery of your replacement part, as well as guiding you through the installation.

Time Covered
This warranty is effective for 1 full year from the date of original purchase.

Not Covered
This warranty does not cover labor for removal or installation, accumulation of dirt or grime (you are responsible for your own cleaning), systems with the serial number removed or altered, damage from improper storage (high or low temperature, sun damage, etc), damage from a system not installed as instructions directed, anyone other than original purchaser, damage from system abuse or unintended operation of system, acts of God, improper water source, modification, negligence, commercial use of the system, Filters, RO Membrane, incidental damages from system failure, systems used with parts not provided by Express Water (including tanks, filters, faucets, pumps, diverter valves), or cosmetic damages.

Your State
Some states has further regulation on damages and warranty coverage.
You may have other rights depending on your state.

Customer Support

For warranty questions, service, or help give us a call
Monday – Friday 10 am to 5 pm PST:
1-800-992-8876

Email us:
[email protected]
Express Water Inc. 12730 Raymer St, Unit 1, North Hollywood, CA 91605
Express Water Inc. 12730 Raymer St, Unit 1, North Hollywood, CA 91605
1-800-992-8876 • [email protected] • www.expresswater.com

FAQ’s

Do you need a tank?****

No, you can directly use water as the Commercial RO system produces it, however, for immediacy you may wish to use a tank as this will increase your supply of instantly available water.

Does this system filter Fluoride, Lead, Pharmaceuticals, and Arsenic?****

Yes, as well as Cyanide, Phosphate, Pesticides, Sodium, Cadmium, Sulfates, and many other contaminants up to certain levels. You may need other changes to media for high levels of these substances.

What PSI do I need? What is the operating pressure?****

The minimum PSI for the system is 10 and the maximum PSI is 100. If your PSI is too high you can purchase a Pressure Regulator to reduce your pressure to acceptable levels. Let us walk you through these options; call us at 1-800-992 8876 or visit expresswater.com

Does this unit soften water?****

Your Commercial RO System will soften water. However, hard water does reduce the lifespan of your Filters.

Can I install this system in the basement? If so, will it affect the efficiency of the RO System?****

Yes, the Commercial RO System can be installed in a basement or other locations that are indoors with adequate water pressure, drainage, and power supply

What is the discharge rate?****

The typical discharge range is one to three gallons for every one gallon produced. Your water pressure, incoming water  quality, and water temperature will affect your RO System’s discharge rate.

How often do I change Filters? Is there an indicator?****

The Sediment and Carbon Block Filters should be changed every 6 months. The RO Membrane and Post Activated Carbon Filter should be changed every one year at the same time as the second change of the 6 month filters. There is no direct indicator for filter changes. However, if you notice a drop in water quality before the 6 months or 1 year mark this may mean that due to your water quality your filter has degraded. If you reach 6 months or 1 year without noticing a change in taste you should still change your filter at this point as they are no longer viable.

Can I reuse discharge water?****

Never consume discharge water. With proper installation it is possible to utilize your discharge water. Contact Express Water to speak with a qualified representative who can give you more information based on your situation.

Why do I need to flush the system?****

New filters (or filters that have experienced extended disuse) can develop carbon residue. One hour of direct Pure Water Outflow or two Water Storage Tank empties are recommended to release any extra carbon before the water is safe to drink.

What if I need to produce more water?****

There are a lot of solutions to this problem, it’s possible to upgrade your water system with some specialty equipment or we can help you with other solutions. Just contact us and we can help you find the solution that best fits your project.

References

• Express Water | Reverse Osmosis & Whole House Water Filtration Systems
• Express Water | Reverse Osmosis & Whole House Water Filtration Systems

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