Waterdrop 26FEB21 Whole House Filtration Systems Owner’s Manual

FSA Waterdrop 26FEB21 Whole House Filtration Systems

Product Information: Whole House Filtration Systems (Big Blue)
The Whole House Filtration Systems (Big Blue) are designed to remove dirt/sediment and chemicals such as chlorine from drinking water. These systems are certified to WaterMark Standards AS/NZS 3497 under certificate number 23247, which is required by law for a licensed plumber in Australia to install a water filter system. The system is suitable for use in home applications on the Main Water or Tank Water. However, for applications where raw water supplies are used (E.g. Bore, Dam, Creek), the manufacturer should be contacted for technical assistance to determine if your application is suitable for these systems.

Technical Overview

Important Notes
For the correct operation of this appliance, it is essential to observe the manufacturer’s instructions. Installation must be carried out by a qualified plumber or authorized technician to comply with Australian Plumbing Codes.

Before You Purchase/Open
The system requires specific working conditions to be met before installation. If these conditions are not met, the system may not be suitable for the application and may not function as specified.

Before You Begin the Installation
Before beginning the installation process, it is important to ensure that all working conditions are met and that the installation is carried out by a qualified plumber or authorized technician.

What is Standard Filtration

Standard Filtration generally refers to systems designed to remove dirt/sediment & chemicals (such as chlorine) from drinking water. These systems do not remove Fluoride or other dissolved salts or minerals from water. They help improve the taste of the water whilst removing common impurities.

Installation with other Systems
It is common for these systems to be supplied with other additional filtration systems for different applications. For example, an Ultraviolet Sanitation System or a Calcite Filter. The installation order may vary depending on the requirements of the job. It is important to check with the client or supplier as to which type of installation order is required for non- standard installations.

Product Usage Instructions

System Start-Up & Operation
Plumber Commissioning
The installation must be carried out by a qualified plumber or authorized technician to comply with Australian Plumbing Codes. Once the installation is complete, the system should be commissioned by the plumber to ensure correct operation.

Turning the System On/Off
The system can be turned on or off using the on/off switch located on the system. To turn the system on, simply flip the switch to the “on” position. To turn the system off, flip the switch to the “off” position.

Troubleshooting
If there are any issues with the system, it is recommended to contact a qualified plumber or authorized technician for assistance.

Feed Water Conditions
Before installation, it is important to ensure that the feed water conditions meet the minimum and maximum requirements listed in the user manual. This includes inlet pressure, temperature, pH level, TDS, iron, manganese, and hardness.
Note: Always refer to the user manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines before using or installing the product.

Technical Overview

Important Notes
For the correct operation of this appliance, it is essential to observe the manufacturer’s instructions. Installation must be carried out by a qualified plumber or authorized technician to comply with Australian Plumbing Codes. This filter system is certified to WaterMark Standards AS/NZS 3497 Under Certificate number 23247. WaterMark certification is the level of certification required by law for a licensed plumber in Australia to install a water filter system.

Before You Purchase/Open
The system requires specific working conditions to be met before installation, some general guidelines* are listed below. If these conditions are not met, the system may not be suitable for the application and may not function as specified.
These systems are designed for use in home applications on Main Water or Tank Water. For applications where raw water supplies are used (E.g. Bore, Dam, Creek) please contact the manufacturer for technical assistance to determine if your application is suitable for these systems.

Before You Begin the Installation

The Whole House Twin & Triple systems come pre-assembled on the bracket with center joiners installed. These units are batch tested to ensure there are no leaks. Due to transit, fittings and other components may be loosened or damaged ensure the system is inspected for damages prior to employing a plumber for installation.

What is Standard Filtration
Standard Filtration generally refers to systems designed to remove dirt/sediment & chemicals (such as chlorine) from drinking water. These systems are NOT designed to remove Fluoride or other dissolved salts or minerals from water. These units are generally simple to install and run and have a lower cost to maintain. They help improve the taste of the water whilst removing common impurities.

Installation with other Systems
It is common for these systems to be supplied with other additional filtration systems for different applications. The most common of these would be an Ultraviolet Sanitation System. Below are some example scenarios. NOTE: These are just guidelines and may be different depending on the requirements of the job. Check with the client or supplier as to which type of installation order is required for not standard installations. UV Systems: Filtration should always be installed as a pre-treatment stage before the water runs through the UV system. This is to ensure the water is adequately filtered to give the UV system a higher transmission of UV into the water. Calcite Filter: Calcite filters are usually installed on Rain Water Systems to counteract the pH of acidic rainwater which usually causes green/blue staining in the water or on fixtures. The calcite filter is usually installed as stage 1 as it is a back washable media vessel, followed by the Big Blue System. Water Softener: Water softeners are common on both mains water and also bore water installations. For bore water installations it is best to check with the supplier as to the installation position and any other requirements such as flow controllers and float switches. The most common bore water installation will go in order of Bore  Softener

Tank  Calcite Filter  Big Blue  UV  House
Aeration (Iron Removal): This method usually is a standalone filter without the use of a Big Blue but the same principle applies as with a water softener (above).

Installation Introduction

Site Preparation
Big Blue systems will need to be installed in close proximity to the incoming cold water into the house (between the mains & house). Ideally, if you can find where the cold water enters the building or tees off to the HWS. Either way, you will need access to modify the pipework to install the system in place. Allow enough room to install a bypass for the filtration system in the event that something goes wrong with the system, or during maintenance you can still get a water supply to the house. Below are some examples of bypass installation.

The Big Blue Systems are UV resistant however where possible it is best for the longevity of the system to install the unit undercover, or construct a simple cover for the system to shield it from direct sunlight and weather extremes such as rain, storms, and frost.

Mounting

The system is supplied with a steel or stainless-steel mounting bracket. This should be affixed to a wall or solid surface to ensure the system has a solid base and reduces stress on plumbing fixtures. The system needs to be installed in an upright position. Ensure that you allow adequate clearance for plumbing fittings & also filter maintenance. You will need at least 200 mm of clearance from the bottom of the housing for ease of maintenance.

Installing Connections
Whole House Systems (4.5” Dia) are supplied usually with 1” BSP ports (Female) for installation. As standard, they are supplied in left-to-right configuration (flow direction) unless otherwise specified. It is important that a suitable fitting is used for the installation into the housing port. DO NOT use any type of liquid thread sealant as this will cause the cap to split shortly after it cures – warranty will not cover this. Thread tape is the only form of sealing material permitted for use on these housings. Alternatively, you can also use a suitable 1” BSP fitting with an O-ring for sealing.

Filter Protection
If there is no Pressure Limiting Device (PLV) installed on the main line in coming to the house to limit the water pressure to 500 kPa, you will need to install one prior to the filtration system to reduce the pressure in compliance with Australian Plumbing Codes & FSA Warranty. Failure to do so may cause excessive pressure & potentially damage the housings. It is recommended that an anti-water hammer device is installed on the house to dampen water hammers commonly caused by washing machines. It is best to install these devices at the point of the hammer such as on the cold-water line at the washing machine or dishwasher.

Pressure Gauge Installation

Kit Contains: Opening Spanner, Pressure Gauges (If applicable), Gauge Port Bungs, O-Rings
Install with Gauge Plugs: The housings are supplied with a thin o-ring in a zip-lock bag. Install this o-ring into the gauge port then screw in the gauge plugs firmly without thread tape.
Install with Pressure Gauges: When installing pressure gauges, use the thin O-ring supplied in the zip-lock bag, the O-ring is to go in the port at the bottom – NOT around the thread of the gauge. Firmly hand tighten the gauge without the use of thread tape – Do not overtighten the gauge.
NOTE: If there is no reading on the pressure gauge, it is likely that the gauge is too tight – causing the o-ring to obstruct the hole on the gauge.
If the o-rings do not provide an adequate seal, you are permitted to remove them and use 6 to 8 wraps of white plumber’s tape. Excess thread tape or thread glue/sealant will cause the port to split.

Cartridge Installation
Cartridges should be installed in order of: Pleated Before Spun, Spun Before Carbon, Highest Micron Before Lowest Micron. As an example, a common filter set would be 5uM Polyspun, 20uM Low-Pressure Carbon, and 0.5uM Chloramine Reduction Carbon. You would install them in that order as per the above guideline. Usually, We will invoice the filter in order of installation (reading down the invoice). Cartridges will need to have the outer plastic shrink wrapping removed before being installed. Maintain minimal contact with the surface of the carbon filter, handle by the end caps only to avoid contamination as carbon will absorb smells and oils from the skin.

Gently lower the cartridge into the blue sump and locate the filter so the stem in the bottom of the sump inserts into the center hole of the cartridge. Do not drop the filter in as this centre stem may break the plastic caps of the filters. Once the filter is located, screw the sump into the cap (in a vertical position). It can help to wobble the sump to help the filter locate into the guide lugs at the top of the cap. The caps should screw up rather smoothly with little resistance so it is usually suitable to firmly hand- tighten the housings. If you encounter resistance before the housing is more than ¾ tightened you may not have the cartridge aligned with the guide lugs; remove the sump and line it up correctly before tightening. An opening spanner if provided with these systems and is only required for installation if hand tightening is not easily achieved or if slight leaking occurs. It is important not to overtighten the housing as this can lead to excessive stress on the cap thread which may cause damage to the housing long term. The spanner can be used to help unscrew the housing when filter changes are required as the housings are usually more difficult to unscrew over time being installed.

System Start-Up & Operation

Plumber Commissioning
When you are confident that the system is correctly installed, do the following steps to start up the system and commence the flushing procedure.

1. Open a tap downstream from the system to allow air to bleed from the plumbing – if this is not easily achievable disregard it, just note that sputtering may occur more prevalently in the house until the air has vented from the lines.
2. Close off the bypass and open the system valves to allow water to flow through the system, depress the red button on top of the 1st housing until water comes out (to bleed the air), and repeat for each housing inline.
3. The water coming out of the system will likely run cloudy or discolored temporarily which is normal as this is the fines coming off the carbon filter.
4. Shut off the tap and allow the system to hold under static pressure and check for any leaks.
5. While the filter is new, there may be some slight taste issues with the water (such as a metallic or ‘chemical-like’ taste. This is normal and is the reaction that activated carbon has with water when the filters are new. Flushing the filters will help reduce the time until the water is back to normal taste. The metallic taste is usually due to the high pH that is created due to this reaction, it is only temporary and is usually gone within 1 week from installation if not sooner.

Turning the System On/Off
This will depend on the style of bypass that is installed on the system. Refer to the above diagrams of a bypass in service and bypass position.
If the water to the house in not going to be used for over 48 hours it is recommended to turn the system into bypass mode to avoid static pressure build-up in the system. For periods of time over 1 week, the above also applies, however, we would suggest briefly flushing the system before use (allow the first few minutes to run down the drain) specifically for drinking water.

Maintenance

Replacement Parts
There are generally no parts (excluding consumables) on the system that will require periodic replacement at regular intervals. Below is a list of parts that may be applicable:

• GT8-11G 10” x 4.5” Housing (Includes Cap)
• GT8-13G 20” x 4.5” Housing (Includes Cap)
• GT8-11G-CAP BB Cap 1” Ports Suit
• GT8-11G + GT8-13G GT8-1311/2-CAP BB Cap 1.5”  Ports Suit
• GT8-11G + GT8-13G GT19-35SC 1” PE Nipple Joiner with O-Rings GT35-
• 8 1” SS Nipple Joiner GT16-3S 60mm Bottom Mount Pressure Gauge GT19-127 ¼”
• Gauge Port Stopper GT23-1LS BB O-Ring GT17-2LS BB Opening Spanner

Replacement Cartridges
Cartridges have a varying life span but generally can be replaced under the following guidelines under normal working conditions; For clean water supplies (commonly found in Metro locations on the E & SE coast of Australia the filters should generally last up to 12 months. For harsher water conditions commonly found in rural areas or the North, West, and South parts of Australia, filters may need to be changed every 6 months. NOTE: Usage will also be a factor for filter changes – if your pressure begins to slow down through the filters it can be an indication that the filters are blocking and may be due for a replacement. These guidelines are based on appropriately sized/quoted systems for the intended application. Systems purchased without recommendation by the supplier may not perform to the above expectations.

Testing Filters
Simple Free Chlorine testing can be done after the filters to determine if the filters are still removing chlorine adequately from your drinking water. These types of tests are generally inexpensive however for best results, lab tests are recommended. The filters we use for our Whole House Systems are generally high in volume capacity so you will usually either end up with a blocked filter (from sediment) or at the 12-month mark. You will not normally get to a point that the filter will no longer remove chlorine*

Troubleshooting

be dismantled to fix the leak. A plumber should be capable of fixing this; however, it is best to contact the supplier

immediately.

Leaking from in/out Ports| 1.  Insufficient Thread Tape

2.  Crack/Split

3.  Incorrect Fitting

| 1.  Remove existing tape and apply slightly more tape – do not apply excessive amounts to avoid damage to port.

2.  Check the port for a hairline crack or split – if there is one, the cap will need to be replaced, it is not reparable.

3.  The caps are 1” BSP and will require preferable a 1” BSPT male fitting.

Pressure Gauges Not Showing A Reading| 1. Obstruction| 1. If there is no reading on the pressure gauge, it is likely that the flat washer was not removed, or the gauge is too tight – causing the washer to obstruct the hole on the gauge. Loosen the gauge to correct

this.

Leaking from Gauge Port| 1.  Not tight enough

2.  Missing O-Ring

3.  Cracked port

| 1.  There can be a fine line for these gauges to seal, if required, remove the seals and use thread tape as directed previously.

2.  Install the washer into the port and try again

3.  If there are any signs of damage to the port it may need replacing with a new cap.

No Water Flow| 1.  Valve Position

2.  Insufficient pressure

3.  Damaged or Blocked Filter

4.  Filter Wrapping

| 1.  Check that the bypass and service valves are in the correct position. Ensure the mains is also turned on.

2.  Check the incoming water pressure and ensure it meets the requirements of the selected filters. NOTE: some filters require higher pressure to operate (carbon filters).

3.  Isolate each filter by process of elimination to determine which filter is not allowing water to pass. Check for damages. The filter may also need replacing due to being blocked by some form of contamination.

4.  Ensure the filters are unwrapped before installation.

High pH Reading| 1.  Carbon Filter

2.  Insufficient Testing Equipment

| 1.  If you have a GAC or Block filter (Carbon), this will naturally increase the pH of the water. pH is the measure of Hydrogen in the water and this hydrogen will vent off the water if you leave it to stand and the pH will then drop back down to the normal level.

2.  pH testing equipment can range from a cheap test pen right up to lab grade equipment. Before coming to a conclusion on pH issues, it is best to

ensure the equipment used to measure the pH of

 |  | the filtered water is of high standards and suitable for reading pH levels in lower EC water (i.e. The guy at the pool shop is not going to cut it). We have access to high quality testing equipment and frequently test our units and conduct research. If you feel that there is an issue with your pH, please

contact us.

---|---|---
Strange taste to the water (New System)| 1.  Residue

2.  pH Alteration

3.  Contamination

| 1.  The filters are dry packed, the carbons, alkaline filters will have ‘fines’ on them.

2.  As previously stated, Activated Coconut carbon will react with the water when new and will increase the pH. People who are not accustomed to higher pH water may notice a strange taste/sensation due to the large variance of pH. Flushing the system will help stabilise the pH from the system and also allowing the water to stand before drinking can also help allowing the water to ‘vent’ the pH

3.  Bacterial contamination is highly unlikely, but not impossible. If there is a strong ‘foul smell’ or organic taste to the water, it is possible that there is some form of contamination. Contact us straight away so we can rectify (or diagnose) the problem if

there is one present.

Cloudy Water| 1. Air in water| 1. Air is common whenever the system is opened.

This will dissipate over time as the air flushes from the system/plumbing.

Slimy Feeling Water| 1. Activated Carbon Reaction| 1. This is a common symptom with activated coconut carbon. It gives the feeling of ultra- softened water and can feel slimy and also cause soaps to have an increased lather making it harder to rinse off. This is only temporary and does not

happen with every installation.

Caravan & Whole House Water Filter Systems

General Warranty
Water Filter Systems¹ (Excluding consumables) Manufactured or Assembled² by Filter Systems Australia (FSA) are covered under a 12-month Warranty Against Defects (Manufacturer’s Warranty). This warrants the water filter system to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of sale. If applicable, FSA may cover the return freight in the form of a reimbursement after the system has been inspected and confirmed it is a valid warranty claim. FSA will not cover any labor charge incurred by the consumer for the replacement or repair of a product. The warranty is strictly for parts only for the parts supplied by FSA. This warranty only applies to the original consumer of the product and is non-transferable. If you have purchased the system through a re-seller, please contact them to facilitate the warranty on your behalf. All replaced or exchanged parts become the property of FSA. FSA does not cover the workmanship of the plumber who originally installed the system. Responsibility for damages that occur during installation fall on the plumber.

Qualification for Warranty
As per Australian Plumbing Codes, all filter systems must be installed by a qualified plumber. The consumer is responsible for keeping records and proof of installation in the form of an invoice and/or receipt. Filter systems must be maintained as per FSA recommendations³ including the use of replacement filters, fittings, and components supplied by FSA. Failure to maintain the filtration systems using FSA-supplied/approved products may void the warranty. The warranty only applies if the product was used and/or installed in accordance with the user guide and/or installation instructions. This warranty is given in lieu of all other express or implied warranties and the manufacturer shall in no circumstance be held liable for damages consequential or otherwise or delays caused or faulty manufacturing except as excluded by law. Warranties need to be approved by FSA to ensure the product was not incorrectly used, installed or claimed. False and incorrect claims will be pursued at FSA’s discretion including chargeable inspection and transit costs incurred. FSA does not take responsibility for retaining customer records, it is the consumer’s responsibility to retain all invoices or proof of purchase from the original sale and ongoing maintenance records as proof of upkeep.

Warranty Exclusions
FSA Standard Warranty shall be void if the product sustains damage or failure resulting from any of the following:

•  If your system(s) fails to be maintained in accordance with recommended servicing and as per the manufacturers operating instructions.
•  Unauthorized or abnormal use or operation.
•  Exposure to unsuitable environmental conditions*.

FSA does not cover the work of the plumber who originally installed the system.

Warranty – Australia

• This warranty is given by Filter Systems Australia (Jacknel Pty Ltd ATF The J & N Family Trust). ABN 64 855 305 562
• Located at 1/38 Jade Drive, Molendinar QLD 4214. Ph 07 5597 4585 & email info@filtersystemsaustralia.com.au
• This warranty is provided in addition to other rights and remedies you have under the law. Our products come with guarantees which cannot be excluded under the Consumer Guarantees Act.

Definitions

1. Water Filter Systems are defined as systems designed for drinking water under our Water filter Systems, Reverse Osmosis Systems & Ultraviolet Sanitation Categories – Excluding Cartridges and Shower Filters.
2. Other products not manufactured or assembled by FSA are covered under the applicable manufacturer’s warranty.
3. FSA specifies recommended or required filter maintenance – see product information for further details. If a maintenance schedule is not specified, filter maintenance is required at least once per 12-month period.
4. Unsuitable environmental conditions include but are not limited to; Excessive hot or cold, Weather extremes.

Extended Warranty
Filter Systems Australia Outdoor ‘Caravan’ & ‘Whole House’ Filter Systems are eligible for an extended 4-year warranty (commencing no later than 12 months from the sale date), to provide a total warranty of 5 years. This extended warranty is subject to the terms and conditions outlined below. This extended warranty covers the below parts of the system.

• GT8-4G10” x 2.5” Filter Housings
• GT8-34S10” x 2.5” Filter Housings
• GT8-11G10” x 4.5” Filter Housings
• GT8-13G20” x 4.5” Filter Housings
• GT8-19G20” x 2.5” Filter Housings
• GT35-11 + GT19-33SC½” NPT Nipple Joiner (If Applicable)
• GT35-10 + GT19-34SC¾” NPT Nipple Joiner (If Applicable)
• GT35-8 + GT19-35SC1” BSP Nipple Joiner (If Applicable)

The following components are also eligible for an extended 12-month warranty (commencing no later than 12 months from the sale date), to provide a total warranty of 2 years. This extended warranty covers the below parts of the system. NOTE: This cover is for structural integrity only and does not cover any aesthetic or cosmetic issues such as rust. Structural integrity only applies to units that are fixed in place (such as a house) or unmounted & stored during transit (caravans). Caravan units are not designed for fixed installation as transit can damage the system due to vibration.

• GT0-Mounting Bracket
• GT22-SS Screws

Extended Warranty Qualification
Extended Warranty is valid only if the following conditions are met in addition to General Warranty Qualification:

• The System was installed by a licensed plumber – proof of installation is required in the form of a receipt or invoice for works. NOT Applicable for portable Caravan Systems
• The system was maintained in accordance with our recommendations in Maintenance – Section II. Replacement Cartridges.
• Cartridges must be purchased through FSA or participating supplier/reseller of FSA products
• Proof of purchase for replacement filters is required.

Definitions

1. Water Filter Systems are defined as systems designed for drinking water under our Water filter Systems, Reverse Osmosis Systems & Ultraviolet Sanitation Categories – Excluding Cartridges and Shower Filters.
2.  Other products not manufactured or assembled by FSA are covered under the applicable manufacturer’s warranty.
3.  FSA specifies recommended or required filter maintenance – see product information for further details. If a maintenance schedule is not specified, filter maintenance is required at least once per 12-month period.
4. Unsuitable environmental conditions include but are not limited to; Excessive hot or cold, Weather extremes.

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