iSpring CU-A4 Under Sink Ultrafitration Water System Installation Guide

June 10, 2024
iSpring

iSpring CU-A4 Under Sink Ultrafiltration Water System

Product Information

  • iSpring has been providing high-quality drinking water to families across the United States since 2005. They offer various residential faucets and water filtration systems that purify water in everyday life and deliver pure, healthy, and tasty water to you and your family. The iSpring products are developed to the highest of standards and aim to make excellent drinking water accessible for all households.
  • The product package includes a pre-assembled system, plumber’s tape, drinking water faucet, feed water adapter (Model: AFW43), tubing and spare parts, and faucet hanger. The product features include an inlet water pressure of 0.56 GPM @ 45 psi, an inlet water temperature, a maximum inlet water TDS value, and a filtered water flow rate.

Product Usage Instructions

Prior to Installation

Before starting the installation process, it is highly recommended that you watch the video “How to Connect and Disconnect Quick Connect Fittings | DIY Installation” on YouTube. Cut the tubing end squarely using a utility knife or scissors. Insert the tubing into the quick-connect fitting for at least 1/2″. Wiggle the tube and apply additional pressure to create a seal.

Installation

Step 1: Install Feed Water Adapter (AFW43)

Turn off the Cold Water Supply Valve (CWSV) under the sink and open the kitchen faucet to install the feed water adapter. It is highly recommended that you watch the video “How to Install a Feed Water Adapter for Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Other Applications | iSpring AFW43″ on YouTube. The included bushing can be threaded on either side of the Feed Water Adapter to fit the configuration of both 3/8″ COMP and 1/2” NPT.

Step 2: Install Drinking Water Faucet

Install the faucet bracket (included) instead of drilling a hole (Optional). Mount the bracket to the sidewall of the cabinet. Insert the faucet stem into the hole on the bracket. Slip on the back rubber washer. Tighten the nut with the plastic wing. Insert the tubing about 1/2″ into the push-in fitting and secure it with the clip. If you need to drill a hole in the sink or countertop, it is highly recommended that you watch the YouTube video “How to Drill Faucet Holes.”

We stand behind our products

  • Since 2005, iSpring has been dedicated to providing high-quality drinking water to families across the United States. We provide various residential faucets and water filtration systems that purify your water in everyday life and deliver pure, healthy, and tasty water to you and your family.
  • At iSpring, we strive to develop products to the highest of standards and aim to make excellent drinking water accessible for all households.With affordable pricing, reliable quality, prompt delivery, and top-notch customer service, we hope to assist in bringing you great water for years to come.

Packing List

Product Features

Parameter Specification
Inlet Water Pressure 20 – 80 psi
Inlet Water Temperature 40 – 100 °F
Maximum Inlet Water TDS Value 1000 ppm
Filtered Water Flow Rate 0.56 GPM @ 45 psi
  • If the inlet water pressure is less than 20 psi, a booster pump is needed. If the inlet water pressure is higher than 80 psi, a pressure regulator (Model: APR70) is required.
  • Do not use this system with microbiologically unsafe water or which has been potentially inadequately disinfected.
  • This system is designed to be used on a cold supply only and kept away from freezing environments.
  • The installation must comply with applicable local plumbing codes and/or regulations.
  • Choking hazard. Small parts are included in the package. Please keep the package out of the reach of small children at ALL times.
  • If you have any questions or concerns during the installation, please contact us at support@123filter.com or visit our help page at 123filter.com/support

Prior to Installation

Before you start the installation

  • Choose a suitable location for the system. Again, it must be placed on a flat surface and make sure this system is to be installed on INDOOR cold-water supply ONLY.
  • Check the packing list to confirm all accessories are included in the package. Contact iSpring customer service if any components are missing.
  • Required tools:
  • Optional tools:
    • Variable speed drill with two bits: 1/4″ (for drilling a hole on PVC drain pipe), 1/2″ hollow diamond (for drilling a hole on the countertop for drinking faucet)
    • 5/8″, 9/16″ open-end wrench, or adjustable wrench, pliers
  • Quick connect instruction
  • It is highly recommended that you watch the video ”How to Connect and Disconnect Quick Connect Fittings | DIY Installation” on YouTube. Cut the tubing end squarely using utility knife or scissors. Insert the tubing into the quick connect fitting for at least 1/2”. You will need to wiggle the tube and apply additional pressure to create a seal.

Installation

Step 1. Install Feed Water Adapter (AFW43)

  • It is highly recommended that you watch the video ”How to Install a Feed Water Adapter for Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Other Applications | iSpring AFW43” on YouTube.
  • A. Turn off the Cold Water Supply Valve (CWSV) under the sink and open the kitchen faucet to release pressure. Prepare a towel or bucket to catch any water drips.
  • Disconnect the kitchen faucet connector pipe from the CWSV.
  • B. Install the Feed Water Adapter onto the CWSV and tighten it using a wrench or pliers. Make sure the O-ring is seated inside the adaptor.
  • C. Re-install the kitchen faucet connector pipe onto the male end of the Feed Water Adapter. Turn the handle of the Feed Water Adapter to the perpendicular OFF position. Turn on the CWSV slowly, and ensure you are getting a proper seal.
  • D. Connect the 1/4” tubing to the Feed Water Adapter.
  • The included bushing can be threaded on either side of the Feed Water Adapter to fit the configuration of both 3/8” COMP and 1/2” NPT.

Step 2. Install Drinking Water Faucet

  • A. Drill a hole to install the faucet
  • a. If your kitchen sink does not have an existing 1/2″ faucet hole, drill a hole under the guidance of How to drill a Hole on Sink or Countertop section on page 5. Wipe clean and dry the area.
  • b. Slip the front plate on the faucet stem, followed by the front washer. Insert the faucet stem into the hole on the countertop. Under the sink, slip on the back washer, and tighten the nut with the lock washer wing nut.
  • c. Slide the quick fitting up to the push-in adapter on the base so that it seats securely into the faucet stem, then lock it in place by sliding the blue clip under the collet of the quick fitting.
  • d. Insert the tubing about 1/2″ into the push-in fitting, and again, secure it with the clip.
  • B. Install a faucet bracket (included) instead of drilling a hole (Optional)
  • a. Mount the bracket to the sidewall of the cabinet.
  • b. Insert the faucet stem into the hole on the bracket. Slip on the back rubber washer.
  • c. Tighten the nut with the plastic wing.
  • d. Insert the tubing about 1/2″ into the push-in fitting and secure it with the clip.

How to Drill a Hole in Sink or Counter-top

  1. It is highly recommended that you watch the YouTube video “How to Drill Faucet Holes.”
  2. Choose a 1/2″ Diamond Core Bit for granite and a titanium drill bit for steel. Do NOT use a hammer drill on natural stone, glass, and ceramic.
  3. An indent should be made with a punch on steel before drilling to help guide the bit.
  4. Use caution when drilling on a Porcelain sink, as it could be easily chipped – set drill speed on slow. Press the bit down firmly until it breaks through the slippery surface.
  5. Use a coolant to disperse heat. Choose water for granite and oil for steel. Use the Water Suction Cup to hold the coolant inside and prevent the drill bit from slipping.
  6. Hold the drill firmly and vertically at the slowest speed to prevent the drill bit from slipping on the counter.
  7. Once you break through the smooth surface, swirl the drill a little to evenly apply pressure in a circle. Be patient and deliberate.
    • It can take 20 – 40 minutes to drill through 1″.

Step 3: Install the System

  • A. Place the system on a flat surface.
  • *B. (** Optional) Match the stage labels and twist filter cartridges counterclockwise into the machine head in order.
  • C. *(Optional) Use the included screws to hang the system on the wall.

Step 4. Tubing Connection

  • Install the tubings onto the inlet and outlet of the system. Follow the quick connect instruction to properly connect the system.
  • Note: Make sure that water flows in the correct direction from the 1st stage to the 4th stage.

Step 5. System Start-up

  • A. Make sure no tubing is kinked. Place a towel under the system to catch any possible water leaks.
  • B. Open the drinking water faucet. Slowly turn on the Feed Water Adapter (AFW43) and check for leaks. The top 3 causes of leaks are 1) The tubing is not fully inserted into the quick-connect fitting. 2) The O-ring is not in the correct place or is kinked. 3) The Housing/Cap is not tightened properly or is misaligned with the threads.
  • C. Rinse the system for 5-15 minutes. It is normal to see residual carbon and fine air bubbles in the water when flushing the system for the first time.
  • D. Check for leaks daily for the first two weeks after installation to ensure the system is functioning properly.

Maintenance

All iSpring Water Filter Systems are designed with ease of use and low maintenance in mind. If the filter cartridges are changed on schedule as suggested, the system will work properly for years to come. See the chart below for the filter pack model numbers for your system. The filter packs can be found on 123filter.com, Amazon, or HomeDepot.com.

Filter Set Model Content
F3-CUA4 (Stage 1)1+(Stage 3)1+(Stage 4)*1
F4-CUA4 (Stage 1)1+(Stage 2)1+( (Stage 3)1+(Stage 4)1
F5-CUA4 (Stage 1)2+(Stage 3)1+(Stage 4)*2
F7-CUA4 (Stage 1)2+(Stage 2)1+( (Stage 3)2+(Stage 4)2

When to change the filter?
The filters are highly suggested to be replaced when they reached their recommended replacement cycle. However, the actual lifespan of filters may vary depending on the source water quality and daily usage. If you notice a great decrease in the tap water flow, or detect a unpleasant smell, taste, and odor, it would be a good time to get your filters changed.

Stage No. Filter Method Filter Lifespan
1 PP Sediment, 5 micron 6-12 months
2 Ultrafiltration Semi-permeable Membrane 12 months
3 KDF + Activated Carbon 6-12 months
4 Post Activated Carbon 6-12 months

How to change the filters?

  • A. Turn off the inlet cold water valve. Open the drinking faucet to release pressure.
  • B. With a towel or bucket underneath, twist the used filter cartridge clockwise to take it off.
  • C. Twist the new filter cartridge counterclockwise into the machine head.
  • D. Check the tubing connection. Rinse the system for 5-15 minutes. The filter replacement is now finished.

O-rings: Replace every 3 years or sooner if leak happens at O-rings.

What should I do with the system when going out of town?

  • When you are leaving for an extended time, you will want to shut off the water supply to the system and empty the water inside the system. To do this, close the knob on the feed water adapter, and open the drinking water faucet until it stops running. This will signify that the system is empty of water. The filters should be replaced if the system is not used for over a week as they will be sitting in stagnant water.

Optional Add-on

Ice Maker Connection Kit (Model# ICEK)

  • The iSpring ICEK can be purchased separately to feed water to your refrigerator for crystal clear ice cubes and great tasting water. It can be easily installed to connect the  CU-A4 system to the ice maker or water dispenser of your fridge.

Tubing (Model# T14B or T14W)

  • 1/4” food-grade tubing in a 50′ roll, which is good to use for tubing replacement and extension as needed.

Top Mount Faucet Installation Kit (Model# AIG1)

  • A US patent tool-free product for countertop drinking water faucet installation. It works great for countertops with 1” – 1 ½” (D) holes and also fits standard 7/16” drinking faucet stem. It is highly recommended that you watch the video ”How to install a drinking water faucet WITHOUT reaching under sink | iSpring AIG1
  • Installation Kit” on YouTube.

Troubleshooting

Symptom Reason Resolution

No water from the faucet

| 1.  No water or water pressure < 20 psi.

2.  Incorrect tubing connection.

3.  Drinking faucet is closed.

| 1.   Check water source. Use a booster pump if needed.

2.   Check the tubing connection.

3.   Open the faucet.


Slow water flow

| 1.  Water pressure lower than 20 psi.

2.  Filters are due for replacement.

3.  1st stage is clogged by sediments.

4.  Water supply is not fully opened.

| 1.  Use a booster pump if needed.

2.  Replace the filters if needed.

3.  An additional pre-filter is needed.

4.  Open the water supply to the system.

Cloudy water after installation| There are tiny air bubbles in the treated water, causing water to appear cloudy.| The bubbles are harmless and will disappear as the system clears itself.


Leaking from the system

| 1.   Tubing is not fully push into the quick fitting

2.   The O-ring on the fitting is not creating a seal.

| 1.   Make sure the tubing is pushed in a full 1/2″ into the fitting.

2.   Replace the O-ring.

Warranty

  • This Limited Warranty extends to the original purchaser of the system only. This warranty covers all Manufacturer-supplied items only that prove to be defective in material, workmanship, or factory preparation. This warranty covers parts only; all labor is excluded from this warranty, including, but not limited to, services related to the removal, replacement, installation, adjustment, maintenance, and/or repair of the unit or its components items. Excludes all non-Manufacturer labor required for any servicing of the unit, including, but not limited to, servicing related to installation, adjustment, maintenance, and repair of the unit. This warranty applies only for the first full calendar year from the date of purchase. The following items are excluded from this warranty: membranes, filters, O-rings, and all other parts or components that require regular replacement as a result of ordinary usage.
  • Disclaimers: This Limited Warranty applies only if the system is installed, used, and maintained in compliance with all instructions and requirements enclosed with the system. This warranty will be void for failure to observe the following conditions:
  1. The system is to be used with a potable water supply only.
  2. Feed water pressure to the unit is no less than 20 psi and no greater than 80 psi.
  3. Feed water temperature to the unit must be no less than 40°F and no more than 100°F.
  4. Total dissolved solids (TDS) in feed water must be less than 1000 mg/L (ppm).
  • While the testing was performed under standard laboratory conditions, actual performance may vary. The Manufacturer does not know the characteristics of your water supply. The quality of water supplies may vary seasonally or over a while. Your water usage may differ as well. Water characteristics can also change if the drinking water appliance is moved to a new location. The Manufacturer assumes no liability for determining the proper equipment necessary to meet your requirements, and we do not authorize others to take such obligation on our behalf.
  • This Limited Warranty does not cover any Manufacturer-supplied items that are defective as a result of the use of improper parts, equipment or materials. This warranty does not cover alterations or modifications of the unit or failure of a unit caused by such alterations and modifications.
  • This Limited Warranty does not cover malfunctions of the unit due to tampering, misuse, alteration, lack of regular maintenance, or misapplication. In addition, damage to the unit due to fire, accident, negligence, the act of God, or events beyond the Manufacturer’s control is not covered by this warranty.
  • Incidental and Consequential Damages Limitation: The Manufacturer will not be responsible for any incidental or consequential damages as a result of the failure of this unit to comply with express or implied warranties or any defect in the unit, including but not limited to, lost time, inconvenience, damage to personal property, loss of revenue, commercial losses, postage, travel, telephone expenditures, or other losses of this nature. In case some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, you may choose to return the system. If you choose to keep it, you insist this exclusion STILL apply to you.
  • Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities : As a condition of this Limited Warranty, the owner must ensure that periodic maintenance of the system is performed as described in the literature enclosed with the system. Neglect, improper maintenance, abuse, modification, or alteration of the unit will invalidate this Warranty. Should your unit develop a defect or otherwise fail to perform by this warranty, you should contact the retailer from whom the product was originally purchased.
  • Implied Warranties: The implied at-law warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose shall terminate on the date one year after the date of purchase.
  • NOTE: IN CASE SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, YOU MAY CHOOSE TO RETURN THE SYSTEM. IF YOU CHOOSE TO KEEP IT, YOU AGREE THAT THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS STILL APPLY TO YOU.

Warranty Registration

  • To register your product for the warranty, visit our website at 123filter.com and go to the “Warranty” tab.
  • We provide a 30-day money back guarantee, a 1-year manufacturer warranty, and lifetime tech support for all of our products. However, we do not have the order information from websites other than 123Filter.com (Amazon, Home Depot, etc.), so please be sure to fill in that information upon registration of your system. If you have any questions or concerns about your product, please do not hesitate to call or email us, or put it in the notes/comments upon your warranty registration.
  • Your satisfaction is our business!
  • If you are happy with our products and service, please show your support by writing a product review on Amazon, even just a single line. It takes you just a minute but means a lot to us. Thank you!
  • Like our products? Please show your support by writing a product review on the marketplace where you make your purchase. Even just a quick statement means a lot to us. Thank you! I SpringFilter.com For questions, comments, or technical support, please contact us at: ~ s upport@123filter.com ( 678-261-7611 470-560-0012 Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. EST Water’s Good ™M
  • www.123filter.com
  • 678-261-7611
  • support@123filter.com
  • Copyright ©2005-2022 ISPRING WATER SYSTEMS, LLC. All rights reserved.

Documents / Resources

| iSpring CU-A4 Under Sink Ultrafitration Water System [pdf] Installation Guide
AFW43, CU-A4, CU-A4 Under Sink Ultrafitration Water System, Under Sink Ultrafitration Water System, Ultrafitration Water System, Water System, System
---|---

References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Loading......

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>

iSpring User Manuals

Related Manuals