SpectraPure MAXCAP RO, Maxcap DI Installation And Operating Manual

The MAXCAP RO/DI™ System

Reverse Osmosis/Ion Exchange Water

Purification System

(Single-90 or Dual-180 Membrane Model)

INSTALLATION AND OPERATING

Please read carefully before proceeding with installation. Failure to

follow any attached instructions or operating parameter may lead to

the product’s failure and possible damage to property.

REV 05-11-2009

MANUAL

WARNING

SpectraPure

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

®

Thank You for your purchase of a

installation and maintenance, this system will provide you with high quality
water for years to come. All SpectraPure® products are rigorously tested
by us for safety and reliability. If you have any questions or concerns, please
contact our customer service department at 1.800.685.2783 or refer to our
online troubleshooting at www.spectrapure.com.

Table of Contents.........................................................................................................................2

Systems Information

System Specifications..........................................................................................................3

System Description..............................................................................................................4

Installation

System Initialization.........................................................................................................5-6

Measuring Waste to Product Water Ratio...................................................................7

Flow Restrictor Removal, Adjustment and Replacement.................................8-10

Using your Systems Basic Parts

Metering & Diagnostics...................................................................................................11

Filter Diagnostics

Sediment Filter Diagnostic.............................................................................................12

Carbon Filter Diagnostic.................................................................................................13

RO Membrane Diagnostic.......................................................................................14-18

Deionization Cartridge Diagnostic...............................................................................19

Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Guide...................................................................................................20

Mounting.............................................................................................................................21

Tips & Storage....................................................................................................................22

Warranty.......................................................................................................................................23

Replacement & Optional Parts............................................................................................24

SpectraPure® System. With proper

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or
by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written
permission of SpectraPure Inc.

SpectraPure®Inc.

2

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

COPYRIGHT 2009© BY SPECTRAPURE INC

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS:

Sediment Pre-Filter 0.5 micron MicroTec™ sediment pre-filter
Carbon Filter 0.5 micron carbon block pre-filter
RO Membrane Type Thin-Film Composite (TFC)
DI Cartridges
SilicaBuster™ DI

Rejection Rate Greater than 98% average
Input Water Pressure 60 psi (4.15 bar) line pressure*
Input Water Temp 77°F (25°C)
Recovery Rate 20% (i.e. 20% of the water will be
collected as pure water)

Nominal Membrane Flow Rates @ 60 psi & 77° F :
GPD (lpd) Product Water Flow Rate Concentrate Flow Rate
90 (340) 235ml/min 940 ml/min
180 (340) 235ml/min 940 ml/min

MAXCAP DI

™

Reverse Osmosis Membrane Feed Water Requirements

For the 1 year SpectraSelect TFC membrane pro-rated warranty to be honored, the
following conditions must be met:

Operating Pressure* 40 – 80 psi (2.75 – 5.5 bar)
pH Range 3 – 11
Maximum Temperature 100° F (38° C)
Maximum Turbidity 1.0 NTU
Maximum Silt Density Index 5.0 (based on 15 min. test time)
Maximum Chlorine less than 0.1 ppm
Maximum TDS 2000 ppm
Maximum Hardness 10 grains (170 ppm as CaCO3)
Maximum Iron less than 0.1 ppm
Maximum Manganese less than 0.1 ppm
Maximum Hydrogen Sulfide 0 ppm
Langlier Saturation Index LSI must be negative

*Operating pressure less than 40 psi will require a booster pump:

less than 49 GPD use BPLF-MO-115(-230),

more than 49 GPD use BPHF-MO-115(-230).

*Operating pressure greater than 80 psi will require a pressure reducing valve.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

3

®

SpectraPure

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION:

1. First, the incoming feed water (1/4” Black line) is passed through a 0.5
micron Micro-Tec sediment pre-filter. This filter is required to remove excess
turbidity (particulate matter) that may cause the carbon block filter to plug.

2. The second stage of filtration is a 0.5 micron carbon block pre-filter. This filter
removes organics and chlorine from the feed water that can damage the
membrane.

3. The third filtration stage of the system is a high rejection thin film composite
(TFC) reverse osmosis membrane. It removes over 98% of most inorganic
salts, all micro-organisms and organics above 100 diatoms molecular
weight.

membranes.)

(90 gpd Systems have 1 membrane, 180 Systems have 2

4. The fourth and fifth stage filter is our
SpectraPure’s SilicaBuster ™ cartridge.

The

MAXCAP DI

The first monitor shows TDS levels of pre-and post- RO membrane water. The
second monitor helps detect the exhaustion points of the DI stages.

The

MaxCap DI

SilicaBuster™ . For example, if the RO water has 25 ppm TDS (Total Dissolved
Solids) entering a SilicaBuster™ cartridge alone, it may only process about 200
gallons of pure DI water. By placing a
SilicaBuster™ cartridge,
before the Max Cap DI ™ is exhausted. The SilicaBuster™ DI cartridge will be only
one-third exhausted. A second Max Cap DI ™ will process another
and the SilicaBuster™ cartridge will now be two-thirds exhausted. Only after a
third Max Cap DI ™ cartridge processes another
SilicaBuster™ cartridge finally become fully exhausted.

This example illustrates that three Max Cap DI ™ cartridges plus the original
mixed-bed cartridge will process 1800 gallons of pure DI water. It would have
taken nine original mixed-bed cartridges to produce the same amount of pure DI
water.

™ system comes equipped with two Dual Inline TDS monitors.

™ is used as a “roughing” cartridge followed by our original

600 gallons

MAXCAP DI

MaxCap DI

of water will pass through both cartridges

™ cartridge followed by

™ cartridge in front of the

600 gallons

600 gallons

will the

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are starting up this system for the first

time, or replacing either the membrane or DI cartridge(s), it is very

important that you follow the directions on page 5,

SpectraPure®Inc.

4

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

“System Initialization”.

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

SpectraPure

SYSTEM INITIALIZATION:

®

IMPORTANT: During the initial rinse-up of the
sented to the downstream DI cartridges. Be sure to rinse up all new
the downstream cartridge removed as shown below. This rinsing step will ensure that

MAXCAP DI

the
necting your downstream cartridge. Failure to rinse this upstream
may reduce the lifetime of your downstream DI cartridge.

RINSE-UP PROCEDURE:

1. Remove the MaxCap DI™ & Silica-Buster ™ Cartridges and re-install the
empty housing back on the system.

Attach the garden hose adapter to your cold water source. If you want
to permently install the tap water to the system, you will need a Feed Water
Adapter and a Drain Saddle. The Feed Water Adapter connects the cold
water line to the system and the Drain Saddle connects the waste water
(concentrate) to a drain pipe. Never run hot water (greater than 100 F

(38 C)) through system.

2. Place the
restrict flow from these lines.

3. Slowly open the cold water supply valve and allow the housings to fill.
You may use pressure up to 75 psi (5.5 bar). If the pressure is less than 40-PSI,
a booster pump will be required. If the pressure is greater than 80- PSI, a
pressure regulator will be required.

™ cartridge is initially rinsed up to produce high quality water before con-

Yellow (concentrate)

and

MAXCAP RO/DI

Blue (Product)

Let system run for 15-20 min.

™, a large ionic load is pre-

MAXCAP DI

MAXCAP DI

tubing into a drain. Do not

™ with

™ cartridge

4. There are two groups of sensor wires. At the end of the wires, you will find a
white connectors. Just insert it into the receptacle on the top of each TDS
monitor. You will then use the Velcro on the back to mount it where desired.

Turn water off to the system & re-install the MaxCap DI™ into its housing.
Turn the water back on and run for 2-5 min. Turn on both TDS meters. Set
the left-side meter to “OUT” and the right-side meter to “IN”.

5. When the right-side meter reads zero, turn the cold water feed off and place
the SilicaBuster™ DI cartridge back into its housing. Turn the cold water feed
back on and run the system until the “OUT” probe of the rigt-hand meter
reads zero.

This completes the rinse-up procedure.

6. Now follow the instructions for testing the concentrate to purified water
ratio on pages 7-10.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

5

®

SpectraPure

Note: It is recommended that at least 2 gallons (7.57 liters) of purified
water be discarded before collecting purified water for use. If the unit is
not used for several days, run the system for at least 15 minutes before
collecting any water.

Upon start-up, air may be trapped in the DI cartridges (housing may not
appear full), this is a normal condition and it will not affect the operation
of the DI system.

CHECK:

- Ensure that all fittings are tight and leak-free before leaving the system unattended.

- The concentrate line (yellow) includes a smaller capillary tube (flow restrictor) that is
located “inside” of the tubing. Do not remove or discard this restrictor; the system
will not produce permeate water without the flow restrictor.

Fig. A: System Components

Tap Water
Connection
“Black line”

.5 micron
MicroTec™
Sediment
Pre-Filter
(SF-MT-.5-

10)

.5 micron
Carbon
Block Pre­Filter (CF-.5-

10)

BLACK LINE: Tap Water Input to system. (Comes with garden hose adapter)
BLUE LINE: Product Water. (Automate the product water with Liquid Leve Controllers)
YELLOW LINE: Concentrated Waste Water. (Goes to drain. Use a drain saddle to

connect to drain pipe)

(2) TDS
Monitors

TFC RO Membrane
(MEM-xxxx)

Pressure
Guage

DI Cartridge
#1DI-MC-10
“MaxCap”

DI
Cartridge #2
DI-SB-10
“Silica-Buster”

SpectraPure®Inc.

6

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

CHECKING THE CONCENTRATE TO PURIFIED WATER RATIO

This procedure will assure you of maximum life and reliability of your SpectraPure System.

Failure to perform this procedure can permanently damage the membrane.

In order to maximize the life of your SpectraPure RO Membrane, you may need to adjust
the ratio of the concentrate to purified water. If not enough concentrate is allowed to flow
past the membrane during operation, the impurities will precipitate out on the membrane
surface, clogging the RO Membrane. To keep this from happening, the Concentrate to
Purified Water Ratio must be checked and adjusted in order to compensate for pressure
and temperature variations that exist in all water supplies. The flow rate of the concentrate
must be a minimum of 4X the product flow rate.

rate.

PROCEDURE: (You will need a Stop Watch and Measuring Cup)

1. Open the cold water supply valve and let the system run for 5 minutes. Direct
both tube down the drain.

2. Collect product water from the blue tubing into a measuring cup for one minute.
Measure the collected amount in
the waste water from the yellow line.

4X to 6X is an acceptable concentrate flow

milli-liters (236 mL = 1 cup)

. Do the same with

WASTE (YELLOW) IN MILILITERS______________

DIVIDED BY

PRODUCT (BLUE) IN MILILITERS______________

The resultant is the Concentrate to Product Ratio

(Although not needed in this proceedure, the daily product flow rate in Gallons per Day

(GPD) can be calculated to be equal to the product flow rate times 0.38 ).

3. If your ratio is less than 4:1

membrane housing and then remove flow restrictor as shown on page 8-9
Use the appropriate Flow Restrictor Chart to determine how long to cut the
flow restrictor in order to obtain a 4:1 ratio. ( page 10)

4. If ratio is greater than 6:1, flow restrictor requires replacement (Please contact
SpectraPure Inc).

5. Turn on feed supply and check for leaks.

6. This completes the procedure.

NOTE: WHEN TESTING AND ADJUSTING THE RATIO THE WATER PRESSURE

SHOULD BE BETWEEN 40-80 PSI. IF YOUR PSI IS BELOW 40, YOU WILL

NEED A BOOSTER PUMP.

Disconnect yellow drain line from the

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

7

®

SpectraPure

FLOW RESTRICTOR REMOVAL, ADJUSTMENT & REPLACEMENT

1. Locate the yellow concentrate tubing (Fig. B ). Remove tubing from its push-fitting:
a.) Firmly depress and hold the push-fitting collar down with your thumbnail.
b.) While the push-fitting collar is depressed, pull the tubing straight
out of the push-fitting. Once the tubing is removed, release the collar.

2. Carefully remove the flow restrictor assembly, now visible as a plastic insert In the end
of the yellow tubing (Fig. C). You may use an object such as a dull knife to help pry the
flow restrictor insert from the end of the tubing. The entire flow restrictor (consisting
of the insert coller and thin capillary tubing) may then be gently extracted.

Note: Sometimes, the Flow Restrictor might get stuck in the membrane fitting.
To remove, use needle nose plyers and rock the collar back and forth, while
pulling. Take care not to crush or otherwise damage the delicate capillary tubing.

3. Refer to the Flow Restrictor Tables (Fig. D). Find the table that represents the
Flow Restrictor Assembly for the system that you have. Find the product
flow rate in the left-most column and the length of the flow restrictor in the
right-most column.

Example: If your Flow Restrictor Assembly is for a 90 GPD Membrane and
the product flow rate is 175 mL/min, then the flow restrictor length should
be a total of 6 inches (15.2 cm).

Fig. B: Reverse Osmosis Assembly

Top/Rear View

RO membrane

membrane

feed

push-fitting

black

tubing to

membrane

feed

yellow concentrate tubing

(Waste Water)

blue purified water
tubing

(Good Water)

black feed water
tubing

SpectraPure®Inc.

8

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

(Tap Water)

SpectraPure

®

4. Using a
flow restrictor to the total length indicated.

5. Re-insert the flow restrictor assembly into the yellow tubing and firmly
re-seat the insert into the end of the yellow tubing by carefully pressing on
the insert with your thumbnail.

wise damage the end of the capillary tubing protruding from the end of
the insert.

6. Re-insert the yellow tubing into its push-fitting in the RO membrane as
follows:
a.) Moisten the O-ring seal inside the concentrate outlet fitting by dripping
a few drops of clean water into the fitting.
b.) Grasp the yellow tubing near the flow restrictor end, and insert the
tubing into the push-fitting. Push the tubing into the fitting until
resistance is felt, approximately 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). The tubing is now
resting on the O-ring seal inside the fitting.
c.) Firmly push the tubing approximately an additional 1/4 inch
(6.35 mm) further into the fitting to completely seat the line into
the fitting and O-ring seal.

7. Turn on the system water supply and check for leaks prior to further use or testing.
If a leak is observed, you may not have pushed the yellow tubing into the push-fitting
far enough to seal the tubing against the O-ring. Turn off the system water supply and
re-seat the tubing as described above.

new

single-edge razor blade, carefully measure and then cut the

(Do not cut with scissors)

Care should be taken not to crush or other-

Fig. C: Flow Restrictor Assembly

CAPILLARY TUBE:

YELLOW TUBING:
(Disconnected
from membrane

housing’s fitting.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

)

PLASTIC INSERT: (Insert keeps
capillary tube in the yellow line and
prevents it from washing down the
drain. It also forces waste water to
flow through the capillary tubing to
restrict waste water as it leaves the
housing.)

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

(Specific diameters are
matched for each size
membrane to restrict
the flow of waste
water leaving the RO
membrane’s housing.)

9

SpectraPure

FR-90

Fig. D: Flow Restrictor Tables

(For 4:1 Concentrate to Product Ratio)

(YELLOW or WHITE)

PRODUCT RATE CUT TO LENGTH

ml./min. gpd

269 102 1 2.5
233 88 2 5.1
213 81 3 7.6
198 75 4 10.2
183 69 5 12.7
175 67 6 15.2
164 62 7 17.8
154 58 8 20.3
148 56 9 22.9
141 54 10 25.4
136 52 11 27.9
133 50 12 30.5
129 49 13 33.0
128 48 14 35.6
124 47 15 38.1
124 47 16 40.6

®

in. cm.

SpectraPure®Inc.

10

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

FR-180

PRODUCT RATE CUT TO LENGTH

ml./min. gpd

490 186 1 2.5
460 175 2 5.1
430 163 3 7.6
400 152 4 10.2
379 144 5 12.7
356 135 6 15.2
344 131 7 17.8
326 124 8 20.3
311 118 9 22.9
300 114 10 25.4
289 110 11 27.9
281 107 12 30.5
270 103 13 33.0
263 100 14 35.6
259 98 15 38.1
256 97 16 40.6

(GREEN)

in. cm.

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

METERING AND DIAGNOSTICS:

This SpectraPure purification system has been fully equipped with sufficient instrumentation
to make monitoring and troubleshooting an easy process. The provided pressure gauge is
used to determine the tap water pressure and to evaluate the condition of the sediment
and carbon prefilters.

(The pressure will drop as the pre-filters become clogged by dirt [turbidity] from the tap
water).

The digital TDS meter (left side) will provide a reliable means of evaluating the efficiency of
the RO membrane. This meter will indicate the tap water conductivity and the RO water
conductivity. The difference between the two meter readings will be used to calculate the
percentage of rejection of the (TFC) RO membrane.

The Digital TDS meter (right side) will be used to determine the condition of the two stages
of the DI system. As the reading on the meter begin to increase, the operator will be alerted
to the possibility that the DI system may have deteriorated past the exhaustion point and
that the DI cartridges may need to be replaced.

USING THE PRESSURE GAUGE

(See page 16 for DI exhaustion details.)

The pressure gauge is used to monitor the condition of the Sediment and Carbon
Pre-Filters. With the Sediment and Carbon filters removed, the gauge will indicate
the “actual” input water tap water pressure. When the prefilters are “new”, the
pressure shown on the gauge will be slightly less than the actual tap water
pressure and as the filters age the pressure will drop due to the dirt that will
collect in the prefilters. When the pressure on the gauge drops below 40-PSI or as
the filters collect particulates and the pressure drop is greater than 15% to 20% of
the normal water pressure, the pre-filters are in need of replacement.

NOTE: When the pressure on the pressure gauge drops below the normal
readings; do not “assume” that the sediment filter is the only cause. In some
geographical areas where the input water contains a high percentage of very
small micron particulates, the carbon filter may become clogged before the
sediment filter. (The filters may look “new” but still cause the water pressure to
drop). Do not judge the condition of the pre-filters by their color, always use the
pressure gauge to determine the condition of the pre-filters.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

11

®

SpectraPure

SEDIMENT PRE-FILTER REPLACEMENT:

A Sediment Filter will usually last approx. 4-6 months, depending on micron
rating and quality of water. (The life span of the filter is determined by the
turbidity, iron content, organics, and total particulate volume in your water
source). The best way to determine when your Sediment Pre-Filter needs
replacement is to use a Pressure Gauge. When you have a drop in pressure
between 15-20% from where your normal house pressure is, replace filter. To
check this, run water through the system without the filter in it’s housing. If the
pressure jumps back to your normal house pressure without the filter, you know
the filter you just took out was plugged up.

**NOTE: A drop in the system’s production is “in most cases” an indication that
the sediment filter has become saturated with contaminants and will need to be
replaced. If you remove the sediment and the pressure does not return to normal,
the carbon filter may be plugged.

Sediment Pre-Filter Replacement

Materials Required: 0.5 micron MicroTec™ Sediment Filter (SF-MT-0.5-10),
Filter Wrench

Procedure:

1. Turn off water supply to the system.

2.
wrench, remove the first housing on the left. Unscrew it
counterclockwise as viewed from the bottom.

3. Remove the old filter and discard.

4. Thoroughly wash the housing with a mixture of hot soapy water
and a few teaspoons of household bleach. Rinse well with clean
hot water.

5. Install the new pre-filter onto the round port in the head of the
housing, Screw the housing back onto the assembly, and hand
tighten only. NOTE: Do not use filter wrench to tighten housings.

Over-tightening will damage housings and void your warranty.

6. Proceed with carbon block filter replacement, if needed.

** If your water contains a great deal of sediment or chlorine, the pre-filters
may require more frequent changes to maintain adequate production rate and

extended membrane life.

Refer to Fig. A (System Pic). Using the provided filter housing

SpectraPure®Inc.

12

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

CARBON BLOCK FILTER REPLACEMENT:

A Carbon Filter will usually lasts approx. 4-6 months ,depending on micron
rating for the filters, usage and the quality of your tap water. The best way to
determine when your Carbon Block Pre-Filter needs replacement is to use a
chlorine test kit.

Any chlorine level above 0.1 ppm will cause damage to the membrane and
indicates that the carbon block filter must be changed. To test for chlorine
breakthrough , collect a 10 ml sample of the concentrate from the yellow
tubing and test the chlorine concentration using test kit TK-CL-25. If the
chlorine concentration is above 0.1ppm, replace the carbon pre-filter.

**NOTE: A drop in the system’s production is “in most cases” an indication that
the sediment filter has become saturated with contaminants, but a carbon filter
can also drop production, if its covered with extremely fine sediment. If the
carbon becomes plugged with sediment, it will no longer be able to remove
chlorine.

Carbon Block Filter Replacement

Materials Required: 0.5 micron Carbon Block Filter (CF-0.5-10),
Filter Wrench, Chlorine Test Kit (TK-CL-25)

Procedure:

1. Turn off water supply to the system.

2.

Refer to Fig. A (System Pic). Using the provided filter housing
wrench, remove the second housing from the left.
Unscrew it counterclockwise as viewed from the bottom.

3. Remove the old filter and discard.

4. Thoroughly wash the housing with a mixture of hot
soapy water and a few teaspoons of household bleach.
Rinse well with clean hot water.

5. Install the new carbon block filter, making sure that
the black gaskets on both ends of the filter are firmly
seated in the gasket recesses.

6. Screw the housing back onto the assembly, and hand
tighten only. NOTE: Do not use filter wrench to tighten housings.

Over-tightening will damage housings and void your warranty.

7. Turn on system water supply and check for leaks.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

13

®

SpectraPure

RO MEMBRANE DIAGNOSTIC:

Although RO membranes are capable of maintaining high water quality
over extended periods of time they eventually will begin to deteriorate.
Normally, the conductivity of the permeate water will increase as the
membranes age. By comparing the difference in TDS readings between
the Tap water conductivity and the RO water conductivity, the per­centage of rejection of the RO membrane may be calculated and the
resultant number may then be used to determine the condition of the
membrane and thus the operator will know when the membrane needs
to be replaced. Membrane failure will be indicated by a reduction of the
percentage of rejection which will be determined by calculating the
differential between the input and output numbers.

In order to accurately determine the condition of the RO Membrane, a
conductivity tester (TDS meter) capable of reading the tap water

conductivity and the permeate water conductivity has been provided
with this system. With the assistance of the TDS meter you will be able to
easily determine the RO membrane’s condition.

Before performing the diagnostic test on the RO membrane, make sure
that the RO system has been “ON” and producing pure water for a
minimum of 10 minutes. Also check the brine (yellow) line to make sure
that water is flowing and that the flow ratio between the permeate
water and the brine water is at a ratio that is > 4 to 1. (NOTE: The
pressure gauge should indicate a pressure reading of > 40 PSI during this
15-20 minute test period.

Procedure:

1. Turn on the meter 1 ( left meter) by depressing the on switch.

2. Locate the meter slide switch on the front of the DM-1 TDS meter.

3. Slide the switch to the Left “IN” and read the Tap water conductivity
then record the reading ________ .

4. Next, slide the switch the to Right “OUT” and read the RO water
conductivity then record the reading ________.

5. See page 15 on “TESTING THE RO MEMBRANE REJECTION RATE ”

SpectraPure®Inc.

14

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

TESTING THE RO MEMBRANE REJECTION RATE USING THE
TDS METER ON THE LEFT SIDE

PROCEEDURE:

1. First, make sure that the system has been turned on and producing
water (filling the tank) for 5-10 minutes.

2. Turn the left meter on by depressing the “ON” switch then locate
the slide switch on the front of the meter.

A. Measure the tap water conductivity by sliding the switch to
the Left “IN”. (Call it X)
B. Measure RO water conductivity by sliding the switch to the
Right “OUT”. (Call it Y).

C. Subtract RO water conductivity from tap water conductivity.
(X - Y)
D. Divide this quantity by tap water conductivity. (X - Y) ÷ X
E. Rejection = [(X - Y) ÷ X ] ×100

* Conductivity in the above procedure could be caused by hardness,
alkalinity, nitrate, phosphate, silica etc. (The measurement is in ppm
or mg/l).

Rejection of the RO Membrane Calculation Example

1. Tap water hardness = 150 ppm (X)

2. RO water hardness = 7 ppm (Y)

3. X - Y = 143 ppm

4. (X - Y) ÷ X = 143 ÷ 150 = 0.953

5. Rejection = [ ( X - Y) ÷ X ] ×100 = 0.953 ×100 = 95.3

Membrane Hardness Rejection = 95.3 % : Rejection rates less than 95%

may indicate that the membrane should be replaced.

As a general rule; the RO membrane would be considered in good
condition when the rejection rate is = to or > 95%.

NOTE: There are many variables in the input (Tap) water chemistry that may
affect the rejection rate of the RO membrane. (If, after testing the membrane,
there are questions regarding its condition, please call our Technical Support
staff for assistance).

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

15

®

SpectraPure

Membrane Output Calculation

Membranes produce the rated gallons per day (GPD) at 60 psi (4.1 bars)
operating pressure, 77°F (25°C) operating temperature and 500 ppm total
dissolved solids.

Membrane output gallons per day (GPD) depends on operating pressure, water
temperature and the ppm TDS in the feed water.

Expected GPD = Rated GPD × PCF × TCF

PCF is the pressure correction factor
TCF is the temperature correction factor

Calculation of Pressure Correction Factor (PCF): The output (GPD) from

the membrane is directly proportional to the applied pressure.

Note: The membrane is rated to produce the rated GPD at 60 psi. For any pres­sure other than 60 psi the output GPD is multipled by the PCF.

PCF = Line Pressure (in psi) ÷ 60

Calculation of Temperature Correction Factor (TCF): The output (GPD)

also decreases with decrease in temperature. This is because water viscosity
increases with decrease in water temperature.

Temperature Correction Factor Table (TCF)

°F /°C TCF °F \°C TCF °F \°C TCF

41.0 /5 0.521 59.0 /15 0.730 77.0 /25 1.000

42.8 /6 0.540 60.8 /16 0.754 78.8 /26 1.031

44.6 /7 0.560 62.6 /17 0.779 80.6 /27 1.063

46.4 /8 0.578 64.4 /18 0.804 82.4 /28 1.094

48.2 /9 0.598 66.2 /19 0.830 84.2 /29 1.127

50.0 /10 0.620 68.0 /20 0.857 86.0 /30 1.161

51.8 /11 0.640 69.8 /21 0.884 87.8 /31 1.196

53.6 /12 0.661 71.6 /22 0.912 89.6 /32 1.232

55.4 /13 0.684 73.4 /23 0.941 91.4 /33 1.267

57.2/14 0.707 75.2 /24 0.970 93.2 /34 1.304

SpectraPure®Inc.

16

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

RO MEMBRANE REPLACEMENT

1. Turn off the water supply to the RO system. Place the system
where the membrane housing is easily accessible.

2. Remove the black tubing from the membrane feed push-fitting
by depressing the collar on the fitting with your thumb and pulling
the tubing from the push-fitting (Page 8).

3. Lift the membrane housing from the retention clips.

4. Unscrew the membrane housing lid. This may require two people.

5. Use a pair of pliers to grasp the membrane stem and pull the
membrane from the housing (Fig. E).

Fig. E: Removing the Membrane Element

black
membrane
housing O­ring

black

membrane

brine seal

6.

Remove the black housing O-ring (Fig. E). Wash the empty housing

with soapy water. Rinse thoroughly with hot, clean water.

7. Insert new membrane into the housing, with the double
O-ring end first (Fig. F). The tube must fit into the recess at the
bottom of the membrane housing. When the membrane is aligned
with the hole, firmly push the membrane into the hole until it
bottoms out.

membrane
product
water tube

Fig. F: Inserting the New Membrane Element

double O-ring
end of membrane
product water
stem tube

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

17

®

SpectraPure

8. Place the black housing O-ring on the housing rim and carefully
screw the lid back on to the base.

Housing O-Ring

9. Reconnect the black tubing to the membrane feed push-fitting.

Note: If you have a dual-membrane system, perform steps 2 thru 9 on
the second membrane now.

* If the new replacement membrane is rated differently in gallons
per day than the original membrane, you will need to remove the
old flow restrictor, replace it with the correctly matched one and
follow this procedure for adjustment:

1. Disconnect the yellow concentrate tubing (page 9) from the
membrane housing. Remove and discard the flow restrictor
(Fig. C).

2. Reconnect yellow concentrate tubing back to membrane
housing and run water through system for at least 2 gallons.
(This step will flush out membrane preservatives.)

3. Insert the new flow restrictor and follow procedure on page 7
for measuring waste to product water ratio.

4. Check for leaks. Allow at least 2 gallons of water to run through
the system before using water.

* If the replacement membrane is rated identical in gallons per day
than the original membrane:

1. Disconnect the yellow concentrate tubing (page 9) from the
membrane housing. Remove flow restrictor and set aside.

2. Reconnect yellow concentrate tubing back to membrane
housing and run water through system for at least 2 gallons.
(This step will flush out membrane preservatives.)

3. Re-insert flow restrictor and check for leaks. Allow at least 2
gallons of water to run through the system before using water.

SpectraPure®Inc.

18

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

MAXCAP DI MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT:

Procedure:

1. When the reading on the right-hand TDS meter (set to “IN”) displays 75%
of the reading on the left-hand TDS meter (set to “OUT”), it is time to

MAXC

AP

DI

replace the

™ cartridge.

2. Follow the directions on page 5 to rinse up the

cartridge.

MAXC

AP

DI

™

3. Make sure the DI cartridge is installed in the correct direction as marked
on the cartridge shell and be sure that the top seal is securely attached to
the top of the cartridge.

4. Tighten the cartridge housing by rotating it clockwise and hand tighten.

5. Turn on system and check for leaks.

SILICA-BUSTER MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT:

Procedure:

1. When the reading on the right-hand TDS meter (set to “OUT”) displays
“001”, it is time to replace the SilicaBuster

2. Follow the directions on page 5 to rinse up the SilicaBuster

3. Make sure the DI cartridge is installed in the correct direction as marked
on the cartridge shell and be sure that the top seal is securely attached to
the top of the cartridge.

4. Tighten the cartridge housing by rotating it clockwise and hand tighten.

™

DI cartridge.

™

DI cartridge.

5. Turn on system and check for leaks.

DM-1 METER Specifications:
Range 0-1999 PPM Resolution 1PPM (1-999 PPM)
Accuracy 2% Probe ¼’’
Power Source (2) 1.5V button batteries Battery life Approx 1000 hours

For service or repair of these monitors, please send to:

HM DIGITAL, INC
5819 Uplander Way
Culver City, CA 90230

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

19

®

SpectraPure

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE:

1. Low production rate:
a. plugged pre-filters. i. Replace pre-filters.
b. low water temperature. ii. Heat feed water OR use higher GPD membrane.
c. low line pressure. iii. Use booster pump OR use higher GPD membrane.
d. high TDS content. iv. Use booster pump OR use higher GPD membrane.
e. fouled membrane. v. Clean or replace membrane to restore flux.
f. plugged flow restrictor. vi. Replace flow restrictor & membrane.

2. Zero production rate:
a. Missing flow restrictor. i. Put flow restrictor in the yellow line.
b. Dried RO membrane. ii. Try to restore flux by soaking in rubbing alcohol
OR replace the membrane.
c. Plugged flow restrictor. iii. Replace flow restrictor and replace
the membrane.

3. Extremely high production rate:
a. Ruptured membrane. i. Replace
b. Very high line pressure (> 80 psi). ii. Use a pressure reducing valve.

4. Pressure gauge does not register pressure when the system is “ON”:
a. Missing flow restrictor. i. Put flow restrictor in the yellow
line.
b. Pressure gauge screwed in too far. ii. Unscrew pressure gauge one
turn and retest.
c. Plugged pressure gauge orifice. iii. Clean orifice with a needle.
d. Defective pressure gauge. iv. Replace it.

5. Low deionization cartridge life:
a. Defective membrane. i. Replace it.
b. Low pressure (< 40 psi). ii. Use booster pump.
c. High CO2 levels in water (> 5 ppm). iii. Aerate RO product water or use a
straight anion cartridge ahead of
DI cartridge. (Call Technical
Support)
d. High TDS in feed water (> 1000 ppm). iv. NO EASY SOLUTION.
e. High levels of silica, nitrates, v. Use straight anion cartridge
ahead of mixed-bed for
phosphates etc. in tap water.
f. Bad or faulty DI cartridge.
g. High pH tap water (> 9.0). vi. Acidify feed water to the RO
membrane to improve its
rejection.
h. Faulty monitor/probe. Test and Replace if required.

SpectraPure®Inc.

20

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

®

SpectraPure

MAINTENANCE:

- SANITIZING SYSTEM ­ ( It is recommended that you sanitize the system once a year.)

1. Turn tap water source off and remove all filters from the
system, including the RO membrane

2. Mix together hot water, soap and a little bleach.

3. Scrub filter housings and rinse with clean tap water to
remove soap and bleach.

4. Place filters back into housings and reconnect lines.

- TIPS FOR LONG MEMBRANE LIFE -

1. Replacement of 0.5 micron sediment filter once every 6
months. This will prevent mem brane fouling due to silt or
sediment depositing on the membrane.

2. Replacement of 0.5 micron carbon block filter at least once
every 6 months or when chlorine breakthrough occurs. This
will ensure good membrane life and protect the membrane
from chlorine damage.

3. Membrane should not be operated at lower than the
recommended concentrate to purified water ratios, as
described on page 7.

4. Operating reverse osmosis systems on softened feed
water greatly reduces the chances of membrane fouling.

5. Use the optional flush valve kit after each use of the system
to help extend membrane life.

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

21

®

SpectraPure

STORAGE:

1. It is recommended that you store your RO System in a cool place
when not being used. (a Flush Valve Kit is recommended for
manually operated systems)

2. If your system is exposed to sunlight you will grow algae in the
housing and it may damage your system. Your RO System must be
protected from freezing or temperatures above 100° F (38°C).

3. MEMBRANE WARNING: All SpectraPure RO membranes, except for
encapsulated membranes, must remain moist at all times. It is the
customer’s responsibility to inspect the membrane upon receipt and
maintain adequate moisture.

Replacement membranes should be kept in the sealed non-permeable
shipping bag and in a refrigerator until use. The membrane can be kept
there for up to 1 year.

(DO NOT FREEZE)

CHOOSING A MOUNTING LOCATION:

When considering a location for the installation of the
RO System, consider the following factors:

Light Sources

1. Most of the components of this system are plastic and
are subject to damage by ultraviolet light from the sun
and other sources such as metal halide lighting.

2. Algae is more likely to thrive inside the clear filter housings
when exposed to bright light.

3. Avoid installing this unit in bright light or direct sunlight.

Temperature Extremes

1. The unit must be kept out of areas that are subject to freezing
temperatures.

2. High temperatures greater than 100° F (38° C) must be
avoided. If the unit is used outside, avoid putting the
system in direct sunlight or connecting it to a
garden hose that may be exposed to sunlight.

SpectraPure®Inc.

22

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783

SpectraPure

®

THREE YEAR

MANUFACTURERS

WARRANTY

Effective on products purchased after March 10, 2005.

SpectraPure, Inc.® warrants the product to the original owner only to be free of defects in material and
workmanship for a period of three years from the date of receipt. SpectraPure’s liability under this warranty
shall be limited to repairing or replacing at SpectraPure’s option, without charge, F.O.B. SpectraPure’s factory,
any product of SpectraPure’s manufacture. SpectraPure will not be liable for any cost of removal, installation,
transportation or any other charges which may arise in connection with a warranty claim. Products which
are sold but not manufactured by SpectraPure are subject to the warranty provided by the manufacturer
of said products and not by SpectraPure’s warranty. SpectraPure will not be liable for damage or wear to
products caused by abnormal operating conditions, accident, abuse, misuse, unauthorized alteration or
repair or, if the product was not installed in accordance with SpectraPure’s or other manufacture’s printed
installation and operating conditions, or damage caused by hot water, freezing, flood, fire or acts of God.

SpectraPure will not be responsible for any consequential damages arising from installation or use of the
product, including any water or mold damage due to flooding which may occur due to malfunction or faulty
installation, including, but not limited to failure by installer to over- or under-tighten fittings, housings, and/
or push-style fittings, or improper installation of push-style fittings. Consumable items such as pre filters and
membranes are not covered under the two year warranty.

SpectraPure warrants (pro-rated) the performance of tested SpectraSelect™ RO membrane elements only,
for one year from date of receipt by the buyer, providing that the loss of performance was not caused by
fouling , neglect or water conditions exceeding the feed water parameters listed in the applicable product
manual (refer to detailed membrane warranty information). SpectraPure will, on confirmation of loss of
performance during the warranty period, credit the pro-rated amount of the current catalog price of the
element. The disposable filters and cartridges are not covered under the warranty.

To obtain service under this warranty, the defective system or components must be returned to SpectraPure
with proof of purchase, installation date, failure date and supporting installation data. Any defective product
to be returned to the factory must be sent freight prepaid; documentation supporting the warranty claim
and a Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number must be included. SpectraPure will not be liable for
shipping damages due to the improper packaging of the returned equipment and all returned goods must
also have adequate insurance coverage and a tracking number.

SpectraPure will not pay for loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the presence, growth,
proliferation, spread or any activity of “fungus”, wet or dry rot or bacteria. Such loss or damage is excluded
regardless of any other cause or event that contributes concurrently or in any sequence to the loss. We
will not pay for loss or damage caused by or resulting from continuous or repeated seepage or leakage
of water, or the presence or condensation of humidity, moisture or vapor, that occurs over a period of 14
days or more. “Fungus” and “fungi” mean any type or form of fungus or Mycota or any by-product or type
of infestation produced by such fungus or Mycota, including but not limited to, mold, mildew, mycotoxins,
spores, scents or any biogenic aerosols.

SpectraPure will not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages, losses or expenses arising from
installation, use, or any other causes. There are no expressed or implied warranties, including merchantability

or fitness for a particular purpose, which extend beyond those warranties described or referred to above.

* The three year limited warranty does not apply to consumable items, including but not

SpectraPure®Inc

E-mail: [e-mail] Visit us on the web www.spectrapure.com

limited to, filters and cartridges unless specifically stated above

. Fax [phone] Fax us toll-free 1.877.527.7873

23

®

SpectraPure

REPLACEMENT PARTS

Model Replacement Part

SF-MT-0.5-10 .5 micron MicroTec™ Sediment Filter
CF-0.5-10 .5 micron Carbon Block Pre-Filter

MEM-90,180 90 or180 gpd Membranes (2) 90gpd membranes
makes 180 GPD System
FR-90 Flow Restrictor for 90 gpd System
FR-180 Flow Restrictor for 180 gpd System

DI-MC-10

DI-SB-10

GHA-4 1/4” (6.35 mm) Garden Hose Adapter
WR-UNIV Filter Wrench

MAXC

AP

DI

SilicaBuster

™ Cartridge

™ DI Cartridge

Optional Accessories

Model Optional Part

FAU-SMP Quick Connect Faucet Coupler
DS-4T Connects waste water to drain
LLC-S Fills a Single tank automatically
TK-CL-10 Total Chlorine Test Kit
VA-FVK-4 Flush Valve Kit
BPHF-MO-115 Hi-Flow Booster Pump, 115V
BPHF-MO-230 Hi-Flow Booster Pump, 230V

See our Catalog or our Web Site for Liquid Level
Controls and other Optional Accessories

SpectraPure®Inc.

24

2167 East Fifth St, Tempe, Arizona 85281

480.894.5437 Call us toll-free 1.800.685.2783