This manual will cover information needed for the proper installation and operation of your Kinetico TQ Series
Commercial Reverse Osmosis System. We have also included information regarding the frequently asked
questions about reverse osmosis systems. This information may be more technical in nature, but provides
further insight to the continued operation of this equipment to its highest standards.
This manual will use various icons to help highlight issues that are relevant to the safe operation of this
equipment. The following icons will be used as described:
General information regarding the application of this product
will be highlighted by this icon. This will include technical
specifications and expected operational results.
Lock out electrical power.
Use appropriate lockout procedures when servicing.
Maintain safe pressure.
This sign indicates the safe operating pressure
range.
Consult Maintenance Section.
Refer to the maintenance section for specific
instructions.
Consult Equipment Specifications Section.
Refer to the equipment specifications section for
specific instructions.
Consult MSDS Sheets.
A caution icon will be used to present any information that
may hold a potential hazard or concern during the
installation, use or maintenance of this product. Should this
information not be followed, it may result in damage of
this equipment and its surroundings.
Electrical shock or electrocution hazard.
Pinch point or crushing hazard.
Chemical hazard.
Page 3General Information9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 4
The warning icon will be used to present any information that
may result in a severe hazard or concern during the
installation, use or maintenance of this product. Should this
information not be followed, it may result in severe
physical harm.
Stay Clear.
Do Not Touch.
No Access.
Only properly trained and authorized persons can
enter area or open panel.
Any tools or materials required during the installation, use or
maintenance of this equipment will be preceded by this icon.
Using these specific tools will minimize time and effort. Not
using the proper tool may result in damage to this
equipment, its surroundings or even physical harm.
TQ Series Technical Manual
If there are any additional questions pertaining to this equipment, please contact your local Kinetico Dealer for
further assistance.
The Kinetico TQ RO Product Line
Kinetico’s TQ product line provides both reverse osmosis and nanofiltration products that include electric and
non-electric models. The reverse osmosis product line is designed to provide high quality reverse osmosis
water using line pressure to operate all system features for the TQ 172 and TQ 173. The TQ 174 and TQ 176
use a pump to boost pressure to the system. Both the electric and non-electric versions are designed to allow
the unit to be installed domestically and internationally, regardless of electrical requirements. The electric
versions have a universal transformer that only requires a plug change to power the unit. The capacity of
Kinetico’s TQ RO Series systems accommodates daily production requirements from 150 to 450 gpd. The
TQ Nanofiltration line is designed to provide a slightly lower quality permeate water than reverse osmosis.
The capacity of Kinetico’s TQ Nano Series accommodates daily production requirements from 200 to 300
gpd.
System features for the TQ Series include:
Corrosion Resistant Aluminum Anodized Bracket
Low Pressure / Low Temperature Production
EverClean Rinse
Compact System Design
Reverse Osmosis or Nanofiltration Membrane Choice TQ 172 and TQ 173
System Features for TQ 172 and TQ 173 (Wall Mount Systems)
Non-Electric Operation / Optional booster pump available
Wall-mountable, Space Saving Design
Choice of RO or Nanofilter membranes
System Features for TQ 174 and TQ 176 (Cabinet Floor Systems)
Integrated Low Voltage Pump
Movable, Rolling Caster Design
A number of accessories are also available with the TQ Series systems including:
For further information regarding these products, please contact your local Kinetico Dealer.
Wall Mount Systems
Model NameTQ 172TQ 173TQ 172nTQ 173n
Part Numbers
Reverse Osmosis System1016210163XXXX
Nanofiltration SystemXXXX1016610167
Rated* Daily Production150 gpd225 gpd200 gpd300 gpd
Rated* Daily Production568 lpd852 lpd757 lpd1,136 lpd
Membrane TypeThin Film Composite
Number of Membranes2323
* Based on feed TDS of 500 mg/l and a water temperature of 77 oF
Floor Mount Systems
Model NameTQ 174TQ 176
Part Numbers
RO System 120v/60 hz (US Plug)1158511560
RO System 230v/50hz (European Plug)1158911588
Rated* Daily Production300 gpd450 gpd
Rated* Daily Production1,136 lpd1,704 lpd
Membrane TypeThin Film Composite
Number of Membranes46
* Based on feed TDS of 500 mg/l and a water temperature of 77 oF
System Sizing TQ 172 / 173
In the application of the TQ 172 / 173 Series wall mount systems, three important site variables must be taken
into account:
Water Temperature
Inlet Pressure
Inlet Water Quality
To determine the output performance of the unit, a compensated inlet pressure must be determined. The
inlet pressure is compensated based on the quality of the inlet water. For each 100 TDS, 1 psi is reduced for
the actual inlet pressure.
Depending on the inlet characteristics of your water, additional components may be required with your TQ
Series System. The configuration of these accessories along with their functionality has been listed at the
end of this section. Should you require further information regarding this equipment, please contact your local
Kinetico Dealer.
Backwashing Filter
The TQ Series Systems require prefiltered water for adequate TSS (total suspended solids) removal.
Kinetico offers a wide range of backwashing filters using a variety of medias. Depending on the types of solids
in the water, the appropriate media is matched for your application. Kinetico’s laboratory can test for the TSS
content of feed water if it is not known to help determine the type of prefilter required. High levels of TSS can
cause fouling of the TQ System membrane, thus reducing both the quality and quantity of the permeate
water.
The maximum silt density index (SDI) for the influent water is
3.0. Operation above an SDI of 3.0 may damage
membranes, pump or motor. At this point, the only remedy
is to replace the damaged components.
Carbon Filter
A carbon filter is required to protect the TQ System’s membrane from organic fouling or from chlorine
degradation. Both these types of fouling can seriously damage the TQ System’s thin film composite
membrane(s). With chlorine degradation, the membrane is slowly damaged. This type of damage is
irreversible.
Each TQ unit is equipped with a sediment prefilter cartridge. For applications requiring
carbon pretreatment where the actual daily consumption volume is low (< 50 gpd), a carbon
sediment prefilter can be used in its place. One should note that the maximum capacity of
this cartridge is 1,500 gallons at 2 mg/l of free Cl
replacement should be calculated.
The maximum influent level of chlorine to the TQ System is
0.05 mg/l. Prolonged exposure to excessive levels of
chlorine will cause membranes to be destroyed. At this
point, the only remedy is to replace the membranes.
. Based on this capacity, cartridge
2
Softener
For RO systems, a maximum inlet hardness of 4 gpg (68.4 mg/l as CaCO3) is required. Above this level,
scaling will occur within the RO’s membrane(s). Calcium and magnesium are the two primary constituents
leading to scale build up on the RO’s membrane(s). To prevent this scaling, a softener can be used to
remove calcium and magnesium from the water. A chemical descalent may be substituted for pre-softening
the water in some applications. However, some chemical additives may result in a poorer quality of permeate
water from the TQ RO.
For units with nanofiltration membranes, the maximum inlet hardness is 20 gpg. Nanofilter membranes are
less sensitive to hardness fouling than their RO counterparts. A hard water source is preferred when
specifying a nanofiltration unit, as the system’s rejection rate for calcium and magnesium is much greater than
it is for sodium ions.
Page 9Equipment Specifications9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 10
TQ Series Technical Manual
TQ Series Membranes
The TQ Series uses membrane technology to reduce the level of total dissolved solids (TDS) in a feed
stream. The system uses spiral wound membranes for production of permeate water. The permeate water
from the system typically exhibits a 95% or better reduction of TDS from the feed water when using reverse
osmosis style membranes. With nanofiltration
membranes, this rejection is typically on the order of
70% TDS reduction. The reject water contains the
concentrated minerals that have not been permitted to
pass through the membrane. The TQ system also
features EverClean
Rinse which extends the operating
life of the system’s membranes by flushing the entire
feed side of the membrane with high quality permeate
water before its idling mode.
Storage Tanks
Three different types of storage vessels are possible with the TQ Series.
Pressure Storage Tank
These accumulator-type vessels come equipped with a valve, tee fitting and 1/2” tubing fitting. The tanks are
precharged to 7 psi, allowing for the permeate water to remain pressurized during operation.
Feed water Flo w
(High Pressure)
Pe rmeate S pacer
Membrane
Feed water Spac er
Permeate
Concentrate
QuickFlo
Kinetico specially manufactures the QuickFlo
Storage Tank
tank for operation with our membrane systems. The tank’s
special design allows for the unit to be vented to atmosphere while water is being processed to the tank. This
configuration provides no backpressure, and therefore maximizes the output production of the membrane
system. When water is required from the tank, an internal spool valve shifts, and the pressure from the tap
source is now used to drive the water from the tank. During delivery, this configuration will provide a
consistent flow and pressure.
Atmospheric Storage Tank
These tanks offer the greatest storage volume. For applications that require a large volume of water, during a
very small period of time, an atmospheric tank offers the best cost value.
Pressurized Storage Tanks
Model NumberRated SizeDiameterHeightWeightCapacity to low level
The chart below shows the storage capacity for pressurized storage tanks at various precharges.
To determine this volume:
Pressurized Storage Tank Capacity
1) Find the point on the
horizontal axis at the bottom of
the graph that represents the
total pressure (air plus water)
in the tank. Move vertically to
70
60
50
the air pre-charge line found in
step 1.
2) Move horizontally to the left
axis and read the percent of
“maximum total volume” in the
tank under the above
40
30
20
10
% of Maximum Capacity
7 psi Precharge
conditions. Multiply this
percentage by the maximum
total water volume to
determine the volume of water
0
0 10203040506070
Total Tank Pressure (air & wate r) PSI
in the tank.
Repressurizer Pump
If an atmospheric-type holding tank is used, then the water must be repressurized for use throughout the
facility.
Atmospheric Storage Tank Accessories
Part Numbe
7527Level Control Assembly Atmospheric Tank
9837Bulkhead Kit, CRO
10208Repressurizer, TS 115 Volt
10209Repressurizer, TS 230 Volt
8736*
* If an atmospheric tank is used with the level control, an accumulator tank must be added to shut off the
unit properly.
Description
3 Gallon EverClean Rinse Accumulato
The following fittings should be added:
#8939 Conn, Tube 3/8T x 1/2 Stem
#8308 Tee, 1/2 Union
#9336 Valve, Ball 3/8 Stem
Filter Accessories
Part Numbe
9046Filter Asy, Single 20" Housing w/Bracket
9047Filter Asy, Double 20" Housing w/Bracket
7474Cartridge, Carbon Matrix for 20" Housing
367Cartridge, Prefilter 5 Micron for 20" Housing
7477Cartridge, Sediment/Declor 5 Micron for 20" Housing
Description
Miscellaneous
Part Numbe
3814W rench, Filter Sump
Page 11Equipment Specifications9.9.04
Description
Rev. 5
Page 12
TQ Series Technical Manual
Operating Specifications
General operating parameters for the TQ product line have been listed in the table below. These
specifications have been provided to express the required conditions for the operation of this system. If there
are other parameters that you may be concerned about, please contact your local Kinetico Dealer for further
operating or performance data.
Exceeding the conditions in the table below may inhibit
performance or could cause the system to be permanently
damaged.
To assure that these factors are being met, a yearly water analysis is recommended to keep track of your
influent water quality. This can be a beneficial tool in recognizing changes in your inlet water supply. If the
inlet supply does change, please contact your area Kinetico Dealer. Modifications to the system or additional
equipment may be required to maintain peak operation efficiency of your system.
* Based on 77 degree F water, 500 TDS feed, Permeate to Atmospheric Tank, 70psi operating pressure
2SO4
TQ 172TQ 173TQ 172n TQ 173nTQ 174TQ 176
Sediment Cartridge
Low Energy RO or Nanoflitration
Thin Film Composite
1.75" x 11"
2
1.6 Ft
Parallel
Capillary Tube
5 oz reservoir
Internal Pressure
Hydraulic
None
3/8" Tubing
3/8" Tubing
3/8" Tubing
Internal/Automatic
40 - 100 psi
< 0.05 mg/l as Cl
< 10 mg/l as SiO
< 0.1 mg/l as Fe
< 2,500 mg/l as NaCl
40 - 100 psi
70 psi
> 99%> 99%> 85%>85 %> 99%> 99%
10 oz.15 oz.10 oz.15 oz.20 oz.30 oz.
18"
6"
18"
101621016310166101671158511560
40 - 95
4-11 SU
o
F
2
2
None
Low Energy
120/60 or 230/50
20 - 80 psi
20 - 80 psi
70 - 90 psi
8.5"
18.75
20.5
9.9.04Equipment SpecificationsPage 12
Rev. 5
Page 13
TQ Series Technical Manual
Component Functionality TQ 172 - 173
The TQ System is comprised of various components. A brief description has been provided for each of these
major components. The illustration helps depict the physical location of these components on the TS system,
while the flow schematic shows the flow path through the system.
Inlet The inlet to the system is located on the
left side of the TQ System. This connection is
designed for 3/8” O.D. tubing.
Do not use smaller than 3/8” tubing on
the inlet connection.
Bracket
An aluminum anodized bracket is used to
support the multi-membrane structure. The
frame allows for quick and convenient
installation in a wall-mounted configuration.
Pre-filter Cartridge
A sediment prefilter is included standard with
each TQ system. If the daily water usage is
low (<50 gpd), then a carbon prefilter could
possibly be substituted for the sediment filter.
Careful attention must be made to assure
timely replacement of the carbon prefilter,
due to its capacity for chlorine removal.
System Cover
A decorative cover is used to shield the feed,
permeate and drain plumbing manifolds.
This cover can be removed should
maintenance be required on any of the
internal components.
Membrane Housing/Membrane
Three membrane housings are used on the
TQ Series. With the 172 configuration, only
two of the housings include the membranes.
This allows for a quick upgrade to a third
membrane should the customer require the
additional capacity. Membranes used are
thin film composite. The operating efficiency
of this membrane is affected by operating
pressure, inlet water quality, water
temperature and storage tank choice.
Page 13Equipment Specifications9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 14
TQ Series Technical Manual
Permeate Manifold The permeate manifold
(Blue) uses 3/8” tubing to connect water from the
permeate to a common bulkhead.
Inlet Manifold The inlet manifold (Black) uses
3/8” tubing to connect water from the outlet of the
filter cartridge to each membrane housing.
Drain Manifold The drain manifold (Green) uses
3/8” tubing to connect water from the drain outlet
of the membrane housings to the bulkhead.
Permeate Outlet The permeate outlet uses 3/8”
tubing connection and is located at the back of
the unit.
Drain Outlet The drain outlet uses 3/8” tubing
connection and is located at the front of the unit.
EverClean Rinse Each housing internally
contains a permeate reservoir. During shut down
modes, this water is used to flush the
membranes, keeping them in optimal condition.
9.9.04Equipment SpecificationsPage 14
Rev. 5
Page 15
TQ Series Technical Manual
Component Functionality TQ 174 - 176
The TQ System is comprised of various components. A brief description has been provided for each of these
major components. The illustration helps depict the physical location of these components on the TS system,
while the flow schematic shows the flow path through the system.
Connections: All connections are located on the
back of the system.
Do not use smaller than 3/8” tubing on any
connection.
Power cord plug – 24 vdc
Drain Bulkhead 3/8” Push fit
Permeate Bulkhead 3/8” Push fit
Inlet Bulkhead 3/8” Push fit
Bracket An aluminum anodized bracket is used to
support the multi-membrane structure and the system
pump.
System Cover A decorative cover is used to shield the
feed, permeate and drain plumbing manifolds. This
cover can be removed should maintenance be required
on any of the internal components.
Page 15Equipment Specifications9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 16
TQ Series Technical Manual
Membrane Housing/Membrane The cabinet
houses four or six membrane housings. Four
housings are used on the 174 and six on the 176.
This allows a 174 to be upgraded to a 176 should
the customer require the additional capacity.
Membranes used are thin film composite. The
operating efficiency of this membrane is affected by
operating pressure, inlet water quality, water
temperature and storage tank choice.
Drain Manifold The drain manifold (Green) uses
3/8” tubing to connect water from the drain outlet of
the membrane housings to the bulkhead.
Permeate Manifold The permeate manifold (Blue)
uses 3/8” tubing to connect water from the
permeate to a common bulkhead.
Inlet Manifold The inlet manifold (Black) uses 3/8”
tubing to connect water from the outlet of the filter
cartridge to each membrane housing.
System Booster Pump The pump is located
inside the cabinet on the bracket. It is used to
boost the system pressure on the feed to the
membranes.
9.9.04Equipment SpecificationsPage 16
Rev. 5
Page 17
TQ Series Technical Manual
Pressure Switch The inlet pressure switch is
used to start the booster pump. It is preset and
does not need to be adjusted.
EverClean Rinse Each housing internally
contains a permeate reservoir. During shut down
modes, this water is used to flush the
membranes, keeping them in optimal condition.
Page 17Equipment Specifications9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 18
TQ Series Technical Manual
9.9.04Equipment SpecificationsPage 18
Rev. 5
Page 19
TQ Series Technical Manual
INSTALLATION
Getting Started
The following procedures have been developed to assist during the installation of your TQ System.
The installation of this TQ Membrane System should be
performed by a qualified service person with an
understanding of local and regional codes that may affect
the installation requirements.
Pre-installation Review
Should there be any visible shipping damage to the TQ System, please contact your freight company for
coverage information. Before beginning the installation of the TQ System, confirm system configuration to be
installed, and components that have been ordered. Please review TQ System specification sheet that
includes required components.
Review of the customer’s facility is also recommended, especially critical operating data that could effect the
operation of the system:
Water Pressure
Water pressure to the TQ System will effect maximum flow
permitted by the system. The TQ 172 – 173 systems will not
operate if the inlet pressure fluctuates below a dynamic
pressure of 40 psi. This minimum pressure must be
maintained to the system at all times. Should the pressure
fluctuate below this level, a booster pump may be required.
The TQ 174 – 176 require 20 psi. inlet pressure.
Temperature
Ambient temperature must be maintained above 32°F (0°C).
Freezing temperatures will cause breakage of equipment
and void all warranties.
Water Temperature
Inlet water temperature must be maintained between 40°F
(4.4 °C) and 95°F (35 °C) to prevent damage to the system’s
membranes.
System Location
The unit must be installed indoors. Failure to comply with
this requirement can cause significant damage to the system
and will create a safety concern.
TS RO Installation
Tools and Installation Materials
Since the TQ System process high quality water, plumbing
runs on the process, purge and drain outlets should all be
completed with High Density P.P or P.E. tubing. Copper and
galvanized pipe will be chemically attacked by the permeate
water.
TM
Teflon
Fitting Sealant
3/8” Tubing Wall Mount
Page 19Installation9.9.04
Tape
Rev. 5
Page 20
Plastic Tube Cutter
Phillips head screwdriver (medium and small)
Additional 316 SS pressure gauges
Unpacking
Remove the TQ System and components from the
shipping carton and check for damage.
When handling the wall unit, pick it up by the metal frame.
Lift the cabinet unit by lifting the cabinet. Lifting the
system by any other component may damage the unit.
Check all tube fitting connections and make sure they are tight.
Cover
Install the cover to the top of the unit.
System Hook-ups
1. The wall mount system should securely mounted to the wall. Two 1/4” diameter
mounting holes, 8” on center, are provided on the back of the system. The cabinet
unit sits on the floor. Rolling casters can be added to the bottom as an option.
TQ Series Technical Manual
2. Connect the water supply to the feed port on the left side of the wall mount unit
(when facing the unit). One 3/8” O.D. tubing will be needed for this connection. The
cabinet unit feed port is located on the back side of the cabinet. One 3/8” O.D.
tubing will be needed for this connection. Be sure to install a shutoff valve on the
inlet supply.
3. To avoid excessive pressure drop to the system, be sure the inlet tubing run is kept
to a minimum. (Recommended less than 10’.) If a longer plumbing run is required,
use a large size plumbing, then reduce the size when the line gets to the TQ
System.
4. Connect the permeate outlet to the storage tank. This connection is made with 3/8”
tubing. A relief valve may be required between this connection.
5. Connect the drain port to a suitable drain outlet. Be sure to follow applicable
plumbing codes when making the drain connection. Use 3/8” tubing for the connection.
6. Open the feed water supply valve slowly. Check the system for leaks.
7. Disconnect the permeate line from the storage vessel and temporarily
connect to a drain or five gallon bucket so the preservative can be flushed
out of the system.
8. Plug the cabinet unit into a standard 115 / 60hz or 230 / 50hz electrical
outlet. Use the power cord supplied with the unit.
Tubing
Connections
Mounting
Holes
9.9.04InstallationPage 20
Rev. 9
Page 21
TQ Series Technical Manual
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
Normal Operating Procedures
During the normal operation of the TQ System, a few items are required to be checked daily. Routine upkeep
with these items will maintain the operation of the TQ to its highest standards.
Daily Start-up/Shutdown
The equipment will run in an automatic mode, shutting itself off when the storage tank is full. Each time the
unit shuts down, the EverClean Rinse is set to flush each membrane with permeate water.
Daily Log
On the back page of this manual, a daily log has been provided. Photocopy this template and use it for
recording the system’s daily performance. By recording various system characteristics each day, this will help
in any future troubleshooting of the equipment. It is also necessary to keep a daily performance log to show
changing performance characteristics of the TQ System. These changes may be the result of membrane
fouling. With accurate logs kept on performance, timely cleaning of the membranes will insure maximum
membrane life.
The parameters included on the daily log sheet are:
Date
Feed Pressure (if an extra gauge is added)
Permeate Flow Rate
Water Temperature
Water Quality
Comments
Routine Maintenance
Filter Maintenance (Optional)
The inlet filter should be change at least twice per year. If
the filter becomes blocked, the dynamic pressure to the
membranes will be reduced, and the system’s performance
will be diminished. The system will not operate properly if
the inlet pressure drops below 40 psi for the wall-mount unit
(20 psi for cabinet unit). The cabinet unit does not have a
prefilter standard, so one must be added.
Check the daily log for changes in the inlet pressure if an
optional gauge is added. One can predict the life of the filter
before its use has become over-exhausted by using the daily
log as a preventative maintenance tool.
If a carbon cartridge is used with the system, then cartridge
replacement will become more frequent. The capacity of the
carbon cartridge is 1500 gallons, based on 2 mg/l of free Cl
Cartridge replacement must occur before exhaustion, or the
membrane will be damaged.
System Commissioning (Initial Start-up)
The start-up procedures for the equipment should be followed if:
-It is the first time the unit is being put into operation.
-The equipment has been moved.
.
2
Page 21Operation and Maintenance9.9.04
Rev. 5
Page 22
TQ Series Technical Manual
-The unit has been shut down for an extended period of time
(a few weeks).
After completing these start-up procedures, the normal operating procedure should be followed.
1. Make sure the unit has been properly installed by reviewing the
installation section.
2. Temporarily connect the permeate line to a drain or a bucket.
IMPORTANT
The membrane sanitizing solution must be properly rinsed from the
membrane during installation. DO NOT drink the water from the system
during this rinsing procedure.
3. Open the feed water valve slowly to pressurize the system. (For
TQ 174 & TQ 176 plug unit into electrical connection.)
4. Check the unit for leaks.
5. Tighten any connections exhibiting leaks.
6. Do not exceed 100 psi on system. Excessive pressure will
damage the system.
7. After 1/2 hour of operation, the membranes should be
adequately flushed of any preservatives.
8. Shut the system down by closing the inlet water valve.
9. Connect the permeate line to the storage tank.
10. Restart the system by opening the inlet water valve.
11. At this time, permeate water should begin filling the storage tank.
Sanitization Procedure for Standard storage tank
a. Shut off the inlet water supply to the TQ system.
b. Drain any remaining water from the storage tank.
c. Connect a sanitization cartridge in the line feeding the storage tank. The sanitization cartridge is a
separate device that must be plumbed in and removed after the sanitization is complete. Connect a line
from the inlet water supply to the inlet of the sanitation cartridge. Connect a line from the outlet of the
sanitation cartridge to the storage tank.
d. Fill the sanitization cartridge 3/4 full with clean water. Add (2 ml) of regular, unscented household bleach
(5-1/4% sodium hypochlorite) to the center of the cartridge for every gallon the storage tank holds
(example a 20 gallon tank would have 40ml added). (If a sanitization cartridge is not avaliable, household
bleach may be added directly into the tubing feeding the storage tank.)
e. Be sure the storage tank valve is open and the outlet valve is closed. Slowly open the cold water supply
valve and allow chlorinated water to fill the storage tank (fill time may vary based on the size of the
storage tank).
f. Close the cold water supply valve and the storage tank valve. Open the outlet valve to depressurize the
system, then close the valve. Remove the sanitization cartridge and discard the water it contains. Be
9.9.04Operation and Maintenance Page 22
Rev. 5
Page 23
TQ Series Technical Manual
prepared to catch accidental spills from this cartridge. Install the protective cap back on the sanitization
cartridge, and save it for future use.
g. Reconnect the tubing to the storage tank.
h. Open cold water supply valve and open ball valve on the storage tank. This will allow the system to fill the
storage tank with water. After the storage tank has filled, discard the water in the tank. When the tank
refills for the second time the system is ready for use.
Sanitization Procedure when using QuickFlo Storage Tank
The following steps outline the sanitizing and/or pre-filling procedure of a QuickFlo tank prior to installation.
NOTE: It is recommended that this procedure be performed off site.
Requirements:
• Two pressurized feed lines.
• One line that can introduce chlorinated water to the product side of the tank.
Valve or
Faucet
Temp Drain To Bucket
Feed Line “A” Inlet
Feed Line Inlet
Drain To Bucket
Valve
Membrane Sanitization
a. Shut off the inlet water supply to the TQ system.
b. Drain any remaining water from the storage tank.
c. Remove the prefilter cartridge. Be prepared to catch accidental water spills when removing the
cartridge.
d. Use a sanitization cartridge to sanitize the membrane. Add 1 cup of clean water with 3 teaspoons of
Iron Out or sodium meta bisulfite to the center of the sanitization cartridge. It may be best to premix
the solution first to get an adaquate dilution before adding it to the sanitization cartridge. A small,
plastic, household funnel or the dropper provided in Kinetico’s sanitization kit may aid in adding
solution to the cartridge. After adding solution to the cartridge, install cartridge to the prefilter head.
e. Disconnect the tubing from the storage tank ball valve, and put the tubing end into a bucket or drain.
Open the cold water supply valve, and allow the product water to discharge from the tubing into the
bucket or drain for 15 to 20 minutes. Close the cold water supply valve, and reconnect the tubing to
the storage tank ball valve. If the tubing end is scarred or scratched, cut away the damaged end
before connecting it to the tank.
f. Remove the sanitization prefilter cartridge, and replace it with a new prefilter cartridge.
g. Open ball valve on the tank and the cold water feed line. Allow the system to fill the storage tank for
several hours. Discard the water in the tank after this time. When tank refills, the system is ready to
use.
Page 23Operation and Maintenance9.9.04
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TQ Series Technical Manual
Troubleshooting
Poor Quality
Inlet TDS too highCheck inlet TDS. TQ RO is designed to operate with a ~
98% rejection. The TQ Nano is designed to operate with
a ~ 85% rejection.
Permeate flush not operatingCycle system through permeate flush by allowing the
storage tank to fill and go through a normal flush cycle.
Check flush time and volume to reject during flush.
Check reject quality at the end of the flush; it should be
RO quality.
System not operating within specificationsConfirm system operating parameters see Operating
Specifications table. The system should run at provided
permeate and reject flow rates. Also check the system
pressure.
Brine seal leakCheck permeate conductivity for each housing. If one
or some show poor readings, service the membranes.
Chlorine/Oxidizer damage to membranesCheck inlet chlorine or ozone levels. Residual less than
0.05 mg/l is required to prevent thin film composite
membrane deterioration. Check downstream of the
prefilter.
Pressure too low (<40psi)Check and add booster pump if pressure is too low.
Membrane plugged or fouledCheck, clean or replace.
System Not Consistently Running
Low permeate flowWater temperature is low. Plugged prefilter or low feed
psi.
Membranes are fouled.
Membranes fouledCheck system log for history. If consistent declining
production is found, clean membranes. Consult your
Kinetico dealer for appropriate cleaning procedures and
chemicals.
9.9.04Operation and Maintenance Page 24
Rev. 5
Confirm proper system operating parameters.
Page 25
TQ Series Technical Manual
No accumulator tankA stable pressure signal is required for the unit to shut
off properly. In some cases, only using tubing to
connect the TQ unit to an atmospheric storage tank may
not provide enough volume in the line to hold the
pressure signal. The addition of an accumulator tank
(less than 1 gallon) will resolve this issue.
Accumulator tank lost air prechargePump up tank air pressure to 7 psi. Check for cause of
failure.
Prefilter fouledReplace.
Frequent Membrane Cleaning Required
Ineffective cleaning solutionSilica treatment requires caustic cleaners that are
heated to 90
o
F for maximum effectiveness. Hardness
contamination is cleaned with acid chemistries.
Improper cleaning proceduresTemperature, flow rate, time and chemistry must all be
matched to the specific foulant being cleaned. Improper
procedure will result in poor cleaning cycles.
Damaged membranesReplace membranes.
Poor Production Volume
System not operating within specificationsConfirm system operating parameters. See Operating
Specifications table. The system should run at provided
permeate, and reject flow rates. Also check the system
pressure.
Cold TemperatureInlet temperature is less than 77
o
F. Cold water will have
a lower production rate. See sizing charts for different
temperatures.
Fouled membranesCheck permeate quality with a hand-held meter. Also
check permeate flow rate.
Inlet quality changesAnalyze the TQ Systems’ feed for chlorine, hardness,
temperature and SDI.
Tank precharge pressure too highRelieve to 7 psi. Check pressure while system is empty.
Tank lost air prechargePump up air precharge to 7 psi and check for cause of