aquasana WH-SFWC-S Salt Free Water Conditioner Owner’s Manual

WH-SFWC-S Salt Free Water Conditioner
Owner’s Manual

Meet clean, healthy water. Your new Aquasana® whole house Salt-Free
Water Conditioner system was expertly engineered to protect internal pipes and plumbing from scale buildup without the use of harsh chemicals or salt.
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re protecting your home’s plumbing and extending the life of your washing machine, water heater, dishwasher, and other appliances.

BOX CONTENTS & SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

1 Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank| 9 2.5″ TOE Nipples (7) (4″ for the Tall Salt-Free Water Conditioner (2))
---|---
2 20″ Pre-Filter| 10 3″ Smooth Nipple
3 10″ Post-Filter| 11 Brass Drain Valve
4 Plastic Wrench| 12 PVC Tee
5 Fliter Support Brackets (2) 6 1″ -3 /4″ Reducer Bushings (2)| 13 Rhino® Tank (Optional)
7 Shut-Off Valve| 14 UV Filter (Optional)
8 Slip Unions (3)|

Box contents will be packaged in multiple boxes.
Before beginning installation, please ensure all parts listed are present. If any part is missing or damaged, do not attempt to install the system.
Please contact Customer Support for replacement parts at 866-662-6885.

INSTALLATION STEPS

Click here to view the Salt-Free Water Conditioner installation video.
Precautions

• For all installations: Due to the varieties of home design, not all configurations can be addressed in this guide. Anticipate the need for additional parts and pieces including but not limited to pex tubing, clamps, and mounting screws to install unit properly (available at a local home improvement store or through your plumbing contractor).
• DO NOT install this conditioner where the line pressure may exceed 100 psi. The operating pressure range for this filter is between 20psi – 100psi. In areas with high pressure, a pressure relief valve and a water hammer arrestor may be necessary.
• Install on cold water lines only (40° – 90°F).
• Installation of the system must comply with existing state and local plumbing codes.
• Some local codes may require the use of a licensed plumber or certified installer when disrupting a potable water line.
•  It is recommended your system be installed indoors and out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to light can weaken plastic components, resulting in housing failure. If this is not possible and the system is outdoors or in a sunny area, the unit must be protected from both direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
• Unit must be installed in an area where the main water line enters your home, before connecting to the water heater. DO NOT install after a water heater or on the hot water line.

Precautions (continued)

• DO NOT install the tank on its side. It must be installed upright to maximize contact with media bed.
• Pick an appropriate installation location where if the tank or any connection thereto should leak, the resulting flow of water will not cause damage to the surrounding area. Dimensions of systems vary—always allow an estimated minimum of 46” clearance for height of the Standard Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank, an estimated minimum of 57″ clearance for height of Tall Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank, and a minimum of 44” for floor space.
• Conditioner tank must be flushed before running water from system into house.
• NSF certified plumber’s tape (thread sealing tape) is the only sealer that can be used on threaded fittings. DO NOT use pipe dope or PVC primer/glue on threaded fittings. Exposure to these compounds will damage nipples causing leaks.
• Properly tighten all fittings to ensure a leak-free assembly.
• If installing on metallic plumbing, two grounding clamps and #4 copper wire are essential for safety.
• It is strongly recommended to install a check valve at the end of your system configuration and before the water heater to protect your system from back flow.

Select Location
Lay out system in appropriate configuration. Improper sequencing of equipment will affect performance, and could possibly damage your system.

1. Pick an appropriate installation location. Unit must be installed in an area where the main water line enters your home, and before it connects to the water heater. It is recommended to install after any outdoor hose bibs or irrigation lines to avoid using conditioned water where not needed.
   DO NOT install after the water heater or on the hot water line.

2. Choose the location for a shut-off valve to be able to isolate your system. If installing a check valve, it should be installed after your system but before the water heater.

Prepare Salt-Free Water Conditioner

1. Ensure the Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank sits level. If it looks off-center or unlevel, reference the troubleshooting section.
2. Pre-assemble all parts and dry-fit the entire system to ensure proper spacing and to confirm you have the necessary components for installation. Reference system configuration image on page 3 to understand the system layout and connections.
3. Connect all smooth fitting connections using NSF certified primer and glue. Smooth connections will be on the nipples, unions, shut-off valve, and PVC tee. Once glue is applied, press and hold the connection tight for 10-15 seconds.
4. Carefully remove shipping caps from inlet and outlet ports without damaging valve threads.
5. Wrap threaded nipple ends 3 times with NSF certified plumber’s tape. Insert the nipples and attached unions to the filtration tank’s threaded inlet and outlet. Hand tighten and then tighten again with a pipe wrench (2-2.5 rotations) to seal the connections.

NOTE: DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. If space does not allow for a pipe wrench to grip the nipples, clamp to the glued union to make final rotations. COPPER PIPES ONLY (proceed to Step 4 for all other pipes)
When installing on metallic plumbing, ensure you take the following precautions. Securely install two (2) grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire (not included) across the location where the system will be installed. Tightly clamp at both ends, as shown in the illustration.  WARNING
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
Prior to installation on metallic plumbing, securely install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire per installation instructions. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or electric shock.
Install Shut-off Valve and Ensure Spacing
NOTE: You may need additional components to connect your system to the main water line where it enters and exits the system. Ensure you have all components needed before proceeding to the next steps.

1. Turn off the main water source. Drain water from lines to relieve pressure by turning on a faucet at the lowest elevation inside your home.
   NOTE: Installation could take 1–4 hours to complete. Plan accordingly as you will be without water throughout the home during this time.

2. Using a pipe cutter, cut into the main water supply line and catch any remaining water in the 5-gallon bucket. Each system includes a 1″ PVC shut-off valve with the option of threaded or smooth connections, as well as reducer bushings to connect to a 3 /4″ main water line.

3. Loosely fit shut-off valve to calculate the proper spacing of components.

4. Measure distance for Pre- and Post-Filter, and optional add-ons and mark pipe accordingly.

NOTE: DO NOT cut more pipe than necessary. You can cut more pipe later if needed. Cut Pipes
Cut pipe along the marked sections from step 4 and clean ends of pipe. Ensure there are no burrs, sharp edges, or deep scratches. NOTE: Cut tubing as straight as possible with a utility knife, or an appropriate pipe cutter for copper, PVC, or PEX tubing.
Configure System

1. Fit Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank and additional optional add-ons into the system at this time.

2. Attach the shut-off valve to your incoming water line.

3. Connect the threaded nipple from the shut-off valve outlet to the 20″ Pre-Filter housing inlet with NSF certified plumber’s tape.

4. Attach the filter wall bracket to the Pre-Filter housing with included screws. Once this is complete, screw the support bracket to the wall.
   NOTE: Additional materials may be needed to ensure Pre-Filter and Post- Filter brackets are supported and properly secured to wall.

5. Ensure all parts are flowing through the “IN” port in the correct direction of water flow.

6.  Connect the threaded nipple from the Pre-Filter outlet to the union that is attached to the Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank inlet.

7. Connect drain valve into 1 /2″ threaded PVC tee with plumber’s tape.

8. Connect the PVC tee to the union attached to the Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank outlet as well as the Post-Filter inlet with included nipples.

9. Attach the Post-Filter bracket and housing to the wall, similar to the Pre-Filter, and ensure all connections are tight.

10. If you have additional attachments, please reference those manuals before the final installation.

11.  Once installation is complete, allow proper time for the glue to dry according to manufacturer instructions.

Flush Your System
NOTE: It’s imperative that this system is flushed properly prior to system water entering your house.

1. Connect a garden hose to the integrated drain valve and ensure the drain valve is in the open position.
2. Ensure the garden hose outlet is directed towards a floor drain or outdoor area.
3. Slowly turn the water on from the initial shut-off valve and inspect for leaks. If any leaks are detected, refer to the troubleshooting section. If no leaks are detected, proceed with the flushing process.
4. Slowly turn the water on and allow discolored water to flow from the drain valve into a suitable drainage area. 
5. After the initial 15-minute flushing, begin a period of “surge flushing” by turning the water supply on for 30 seconds and then off for 30 seconds, repeating the cycle for 15 minutes or until the initial surge of water is completely clear and free from discoloration and cloudiness.
6. Final installation is complete. You may now close off the drain valve.

NOTE: Do not drink flushed water.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

866-662-6885 option 1, and then option 2, and then option 1. Please have order number, model number, and pictures of damaged packaging and/or damaged unit.
Tank leans to one side or is not level| Lift the tank straight up and tap down on the ground until the tank stands vertically. The bottom of the tank is round and the boot allows the tank to stand upright.
Water leak at seam of tank divider| Valve o-ring may not be placed properly or the top or bottom tank may have loosened during shipping. Use rubber strap wrench to tighten tanks. If leak continues, contact customer service with a pre-recorded video of leak.
Water leak from Aquafauna fittings| •Ensure tight connection – do not overtighten as that could cause cracks and further leaking.
•Close the shut-off valve before the leak. Unscrew the closest union and the threaded connection. Remove the previous sealing tape from the fitting and place more sealing tape and or tighten the connection properly.
•Ensure all connections are properly tightened with a wrench – do not over- tighten! If the problem persists, contact customer service with pre-recorded video.
Water leak from pre/post filter housing| •Ensure tight connection – do not overtighten as that could cause cracks and further leaking.
•Tighten the housing further with the included wrench.
•If leak persists, close the shut-off valve before the leak. Remove housing and filter. Clean o-ring, inside the housing, and all threaded connections. Re-lubricate the o-ring and reassemble it with a new filter.
•If a crack is visible and/or other methods do not stop the leak, contact customer service.
Reduced water pressure after installation| It is recommended that the sediment pre-filter be replaced every 2 months depending on the amount of sediment in your water supply. If the system has been working properly and the pressure is slowing, it may be time to change the sediment filter. Check the sediment filter and replace if necessary.
Water appears gray or cloudy| Let air flush from water lines. Cloudy water will dissipate over time (can take a week to a month) and is completely harmless.
Taste/odor of water did not improve| Ensure bypass loop is turned off and system shut-off valves are open.

MAINTENANCE

Cleaning

• The exterior of your filtration system can be cleaned with warm, soapy water.
  Do not use any abrasive solution.

•  Rinse well with clean water.

NOTE: Never use chemical cleaning products on the system’s exterior surface as they may damage the housing.

FILTER REPLACEMENTS

Pre/Post-Filter Replacements
Whole House 20″ Pre-Filter Cartridge Replacement
Replace every 2 months. Replace sooner if there is a not cable decrease in water flow through the filter system.
Whole House 10″ Post-Filter Cartridge Replacement
Replace every 6 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow through the filter system.
Pre/Post-Housing Replacement
Replace every 5 years. To replace, call Customer Support.
How to change the Pre/Post-Filters:

1. Shut the filter system off at the shut-off valve A . Place a 5 gallon bucket under the system drain valve and open valve. This will relieve water pressure and drain excess water. NOTE: You must relieve the pressure in your system before attempting to change any Pre-Filter or Post-Filter.

2. Remove the blue filter housing by turning the lower ring to the right, using the wrench supplied with your filter system. Remove the used filter.

3. If necessary, clean the inside of the blue filter housing with mild soapy water, rinse and dry.

4. Place new filter in the center of the blue filter housing.

5. Clean the housing o-ring and relubricate it with silicone grease. Set the o-ring into the proper groove and reattach the housing by screwing it back onto the top piece.
   NOTE: DO NOT USE PETROLEUM JELLY as lubrication on the system or o-rings.

6. After reassembly, turn the system back on at the shut-off valve.

7. Run water, with the bucket still under the Pre-Filter. Check for leaks.

Specifications
This system is designed and tested for use with genuine Aquafauna parts including replacement filters and all hardware. Use of parts from other manufacturers may result in loss of contaminant reduction performance, system damage, or failure. Use of parts from other manufacturers will also void your warranty. For replacement parts, please visit aquasana.com.
Model: WH-SFWC-S and WH-SFWC-T System Replacements

• 20″ Pre-Filter: EQ-303-20
• 10″ Post-Filter: EQ-PFC.35
• Standard Salt-Free Conditioner: WH-SFWC-SR
• Tall Salt-Free Water Conditioner: WH-SFWC-TR

Salt-Free Water Conditioner Tank Replacement
Shut Off Water Supply

1. Turn off the main water source prior to tank replacement or turn off the shut-off valve.
2. Place a 5 gallon bucket under the system drain valve and open valve. This will relieve water pressure and drain excess water.

NOTE: You must relieve the pressure in your system before attempting to change the Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank.
WARNING
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
If you have copper pipes – leave your grounding clamps installed. Do not disconnect at any time while changing the tank. Failure to follow this instruction can result in death or electric shock.
Remove Tank from System

1. Loosen the unions on both sides of the Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank. Slide the entire tank (pipe nipples and halves of unions included) away from the system.
2. Unscrew the pipe nipples from the tank.
3. Dispose of the old Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank properly.

Reconnect Fittings

1. Clean the threads on the pipe nipples and re-apply new NSF certified plumbers tape.
2. Connect pipe nipples to your new Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank.

Plumb In New Salt-Free Water Conditioner Tank
Slide the new tank back into the system and re-attach the unions. NOTE: It’s imperative that this system is flushed properly prior to system water entering your house. The granular carbon used in the filtration tank contains fines that must be flushed out prior to use.
Flushing New Salt-Free Water Conditioner Tank

1. Connect a garden hose to the integrated drain valve and ensure the drain valve is in the open position.
2. Ensure the garden hose outlet is directed towards a floor drain or outdoor area. If a bypass loop is installed, ensure each shut-off valve is in a closed position.
3. Slowly turn the water on from the initial shut-off valve and inspect for leaks. If any leaks are detected, refer to the troubleshooting guide on page 13. If no leaks are detected, proceed with the flushing process.
4. Slowly turn the water on and allow discolored water to flow from the drain valve into a suitable drainage area. The first few gallons will appear black and cloudy due to carbon fines. 
5. After the initial 15-minute flushing, begin a period of “surge flushing” by turning the water supply on for 30 seconds and then off for 30 seconds, repeating the cycle for 15 minutes or until the initial surge of water is completely clear and free from discoloration and cloudiness.
6. Final installation is complete. You may now close off the drain valve and enjoy filtered water throughout your home.

NOTE: Do not drink flushed water.

Manufactured by: Aquafauna, Inc.
6310 Midway Road · Haltom City, Texas 76117866-662-6885

Manufactured by: Aquasana, Inc.
6310 Midway Road · Haltom City, Texas 76117 866-662-6885
Salt-Free Water Conditioner Limited Warranty
WHO IS COVERED
AQUASANA AND ITS SUPPLIERS, (herein collectively referred to as “Manufacturer”) warrants to the owner of the home where the water conditioner is initially installed (hereinafter “Owner”). The warranty is restricted to the water conditioner used in a single-family residence in the United States of America and is void if moved from the original installation location.
WHAT IS COVERED
This Limited Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship during the limited warranty period of your of your Aquasana SaltFree Water Conditioner including sub-components purchased with original system, except as provided below. The water conditioner is warranted only when it is installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the instructions accompanying the water conditioner found on Aquasana.com. A water conditioner should be installed in such a manner that, if the tank or any connection thereto should leak, the resulting flow of water will not cause damage to the area in which it is installed. For detailed instructions read the manual accompanying the water conditioner and review drawings in the manual.
FOR HOW LONG
This warranty runs for months specified in chart below from the date of purchase by a consumer (herinafter “Warranty Period”). No warranty coverage will be provided if the claimant is unable to provide proof of purchase. Water conditions and use rates may limit the functional lifespan of your conditioner. This Limited Warranty does not extend to the full estimated life span of the conditioner.

WHAT AQUASANA WILL  DO

1. If necessary, the Manufacturer will provide a replacement that fulfills the remaining estimated lifespan/capacity (see chart) of your original purchase and send it to you with installation instructions.
   If industry standards, product improvements or productn obsolescence prohibit Manufacturer from furnishing an identical model replacement water conditioner under this warranty, the Owner will be furnished with a new water conditioner of comparable remaining capacity and functionality; however, the Owner will be charged for the additional value of the item(s) which Manufacturer has incorporated in the replacement water conditioner.

2. Component Part – If any component part proves to Manufacturer’s satisfaction to be defective in material or workmanship within the warranty period listed on the data
   plate label, the Manufacturer will furnish the Owner with a replacement for the defective part(s).

3. Return of Defective Water Conditioner and Component Parts – Manufacturer reserves the right to examine the alleged defect in the water conditioner or component part(s), and it will be the Owner’s obligation to return the water conditioner and/or component part(s) to the Manufacturer at the Manufacturers request.
   a. When returning a water conditioner, it must include all component parts.
   b. When returning component part(s), they must be individually tagged and identified with the water conditioner’s model number, date of purchase, and date of installation.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

1.  This Limited Warranty does not cover any systems that were not installed in compliance with the instructions or that have been abused or operated incorrectly.

2. The Limited Warranty stated herein is in lieu of any and all warranties, express or implied (whether written or oral), including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

3. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special, or contingent damages or expenses, arising, directly or indirectly, from any defect in the water  conditioner or the use of the water conditioner.

4.  Manufacturer shall not be liable for any water damage arising, directly or indirectly, from any defect in the water conditioner or component part(s) or from its use.

5. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any damage or product failures caused by any of the following:
   • The water conditioner or any of its component parts have been subject to misuse, alteration, neglect or accident.
   • The water conditioner has not been installed in accordance with the applicable local plumbing and/or building code(s) and/or regulations or in their absence.
   • The water conditioner is not installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the printed Manufacturer’s instructions, including if the water conditioner has any additional aftermarket equipment introduced into the sealed system not approved by the manufacturer.
   •The water conditioner is exposed to highly corrosive conditions.
   • The water conditioner is not continuously supplied with potable water.
   • The water conditioner is not operated within the factory calibrated temperature limits.
   • The water conditioner is removed from its original installation location.
   • The water conditioner is installed in direct sunlight or exposed to freezing temperatures.
   • The water conditioner or any of its component parts fail due to iron or sediment build-up.
   • Clogging due to purchaser’s failure to replace the Pre-Conditioner cartridge.
   • Damage caused by fire, flood or acts of God.
   • Damage caused by over-pressurization in the water line.

6. This warranty does not cover damage caused by the use of parts that are not genuine Aquafauna parts. This includes, but is not limited to replacement conditioners, faucets, and/or diverter valves.

7. Except when specifically prohibited by the applicable state law, the Owner, and not the Manufacturer, shall be liable for and shall pay for all charges for labor or other expenses incurred in the removal, repair or replacement of the water conditioner or any component part(s) claimed to be defective or any expense incurred to remedy any defect in the product. Such charges may include, but are not necessarily limited to:
   a. All freight, shipping, handling and delivery costs of forwarding a new water conditioner or replacement part(s) to the owner.
   b. All costs necessary or incidental in removing the defective water conditioner or component part(s) and installing a new water conditioner or component part(s).
   c. Any material required to complete, and/or permits required for, installation of a new water conditioner or replacement part(s), and
   d. All costs necessary or incidental in returning the water conditioner or component part(s) to a location designated by the manufacturer.

HOW TO GET SERVICE
To receive service under this Warranty, you must contact Aquafauna (A. O. Smith Water Treatment (North America), Inc.) at 1-866-6626885 or warranty@aquasana.com within the Warranty Period to describe the problem to a customer service representative who will verify that the product is under warranty and determine whether a part or the system will be replaced and whether you must send back the unit. You will be required to provide proof of purchase and proof of proper installation.
Salt-Free Water Conditioner System Warranty Coverage

This warranty only covers the products listed in the table above. If your system includes additional components, please refer to those components’ warranties.
Water for life
Protect your investment and save money with Water for Life®. Our Water for Life® program helps you protect the investment you’ve made in your family’s health with an extended limited warranty on your new filtration system, a 15% discount on replacement filters, and free shipping.
Extended Limited Warranty
Our performance promise to you – free replacement parts when needed.*
Discounted Replacements
The only way to lock in a 15% discount on replacement filters.
Free Shipping
Replacements shipped to you right when you need them – at no extra cost.
No Contract
Free to join and cancel anytime – no long-term commitment required.
CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE
****866-662-6885
waterforlife@aquasana.com

• Exclusions apply. Limited Warranty details are available at aquasana.com. Benefits are for the term of Water for Life membership.
  LOVE IT?
  Please let us know with a review on Aquafauna or your retailer’s website.
  NEED HELP?
  Give us a call at 866-662-6885 and tell us what’s going on.

Aquafauna , Inc.
6310 Midway Road
Haltom City, Texas 76117
866.662.6885 USA
877.332.7873 Canada
www.aquasana.com

References

• Aquasana Water Filters | Whole House Water Filtration Systems
• Aquasana Water Filters | Whole House Water Filtration Systems

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