Most likely the DI Resin needs to be changed. After enough filtration, the Resin loses efficiency and requires a change once the system shows signs of TDS.

• If the DI resin has already been changed, then ensure the cartridge is packed tight and seated properly inside the housing with the O-ring facing upward. Apply lubrication to the O-ring for a more effective seal.
• If the issue persists or worsens and the system has been used for a period of time, the issue may be the RO Membrane which requires a change after about 80-85% efficiency (solids removed from the water). This can be further prevented with frequent pre-filter changes.
• If the issue persists with brand new filters, further troubleshooting may be required to determine the source of the issue. Reach out to us so we can help.

There are many reasons for this to occur. This can range from source-water conditions, temperatures, hose sizing, and filter conditions to name a few.

SOURCE WATER CONDITIONS

This refers to any factors that are  affected by the hose spigot used to provide water to the machine. The system is at the mercy of how much water pressure the spigot can create. Commercial buildings have stronger water sources than typical residential well jobs, a difference may be noticed depending on job location. 

If insufficient water pressure is present, a booster pump may be used to boost incoming pressure to the system.

***Ensure proper hose size is used for the incoming water (¾” or ⅝”) for efficient system flow. ⅜” is not sufficient.***

WATER TEMPERATURE

The temperature of water has an effect on water flow. Colder water will result in slowed flow, warmer water will do the opposite. In transitional seasons (Spring / Fall) you may notice changes in flow compared to the Summer time.

Ground water temperatures take time to adjust to the season. During the Spring, water flow may be noticeably lower than the Summer (especially during residential work) as the ground is still warming up. It may be wise to boost source flow during these conditions.

Freezing Conditions are no condition to use this system.

These systems are not designed for Winter use. When exposed to freezing temperatures, the filters and housings are susceptible to cracking & internal damage. RO Membranes are layered fiberglass that can expand and contract with temperatures, much like wood. Freezing temperatures will result in constriction, and ultimately damage the internal structure, resulting in poor performance. Proper storage in a heated environment will prevent damage. It is best to change all filters if the system has frozen. 

FILTER CONDITIONS

When a noticeable change in flow is observed (with the factors mentioned above taken into consideration) it may be time for a pre-filter change. Some systems use more than one pre-filter combination, which we advise changing both simultaneously for consistent and efficient filtration. 

With any filter, ensure proper fitment of cartridges is achieved. Poor seals / placement can affect system performance. Filter O-ring seals face upward and require lubrication for maximum efficiency. 

If the pre-filter has been changed and the system is newer, the issue may be attributed to the source conditions. If the system has had usage, consider the following: 

• Has the system sat unused for a period longer than 2 weeks? Microbial growth could be the issue, which occurs from bacterial growth in the membrane from stagnant water. Microbial growth clogs the membrane with bacteria resulting in poor flow / performance. This can be prevented with the provided RO Guardian, which is an antimicrobial powder intended for longer storage preparation and winter preparation. 
• Was my system properly winterized? RO Guardian will help properly winterize the system to maximize membrane health during these longer periods of non-usage, as well as a heated storage environment.
• Has my system been used enough for a membrane change? Membranes will eventually lose efficiency and flow after enough usage. (Typically after 1 year depending on usage,  maintenance & storage, and harshness of water)

NO! Waste-water should always be discharged from any RO Housing. If no flow is present, the flow-restrictor may have become clogged with debris. The fitting may need replacement if no flow is present.

RO Membranes require back-pressure and waste discharge to properly purify and perform. If no waste flow is present, the membrane will “choke” with nowhere for the dissolved salts to travel, eventually resulting in undesired TDS results and membrane failure. 

A flow restrictor may fail, resulting in an over-abundance of waste-water, usually associated with poor system output. Ensure a desired ratio of pure-water to waste-water is achieved (this can be measured with two measuring cups, measuring the flow of pure vs. waste for 1 minute and comparing the results).

If the system puts out more waste water than pure water, the flow restrictor might require a change.

There could be a few factors at play here. These issues are usually attributed to the amount of resin used to refill a cartridge, the quality of resin used, or an indication that there may be an issue with the RO membrane.

• Proper refilling and placement of a DI cartridge is key to resin performance. A half filled cartridge will not properly filter and will result in undesired TDS and another resin change. Pack as much resin into the cartridge so that it is nice and tight to ensure the proper resin level is achieved.
• Resin age and quality is an important consideration. Resin from 3rd parties may not be the right fit for the system. It may cause TDS issues and more resin changes that could have been avoided. Make sure your resin is properly stored in a temperature controlled environment to avoid any premature expiration. 
• Remember, this is a multi stage unit, meaning the issue can sometimes be located before the affected area. The resin chamber is the final step in filtration. If you are using a system with a poorly performing RO, the resin chamber is going to be hit with higher levels of TDS resulting in the resin being burnt through, which would prompt the need for more changes. This can be diagnosed with proper troubleshooting.

We have replacement parts available for warranties involving damaged fittings and systems. Fill out a warranty form and we will assist you with what you need. Filters and items damaged by freezing conditions are not covered by warranty.

A common cause of leakage at the inlet connection point of the system is due to the internal gasket on the hose fitting. Be sure that it is snuggly in place, isn't damaged, and is the correct size. If any of those aren't true, pick up a replacement and you'll have a leak free system again.