SpectraPure SpectraPlus 2000 Installation And Operating Manual

SpectraPure

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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-0025 25 gpd (95 lpd) TFC Membrane
MEM-0040 40 gpd (151 lpd) TFC Membrane
MEM-0060 60 gpd (228 lpd) TFC Membrane
MEM-0090 90 gpd (340 lpd) TFC Membrane (use 2 for 180 gpd
(680 lpd) System)
FR-25 Flow Restrictor for 25 gpd (95 lpd) System
FR-40 Flow Restrictor for 40 gpd (151 lpd) System
FR-60 Flow Restrictor for 60 gpd (228 lpd) System
FR-90 Flow Restrictor for 90 gpd (340 lpd) System
FR-180 Flow Restrictor for 180 gpd (680 lpd) System

DI-SFCI-10 SilicaFree™ Color Change DI Cartridge
DI-AR-CI-10 Chloramine Removal Cartridge

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

Optional Accessories

Model Optional Part

FAU-SMP Quick Connect Faucet Coupler
TS-C61

Micro-Siemens Conductivity Tester (0-1999 uS/cm)
TS-T71 Total Disolved Solids Tester (0-1999 ppm TDS)
TK-CL-25 Total Chlorine Test Kit
VA-FVK-4 Flush Valve Kit
BPLF-MO-115 Low-Flow Booster Pump, 115V
BPLF-MO-230 Low-Flow Booster Pump, 230V
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

REV 07-13-2006

Reverse Osmosis/Ion Exchange Water

Purification System

(Single and Dual Membrane Models)

SpectraPlus 2000™ RO/DI System

INSTALLATION AND OPERATING

MANUAL

SpectraPure

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INSTALLATION

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.

COPYRIGHT 2002-2005© BY SPECTRAPURE INC

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents and Term................................................................................................2-3

Warranty Information...............................................................................................................4

Systems Information

What is Reverse Osmosis...................................................................................................5

System Specifications..........................................................................................................6

System Description..........................................................................................................7-8

Installation

Installing Water Purity Monitor...................................................................................8-9

System Initialization..........................................................................................................10

Checking Waste to Product Water Ratio.............................................................11-12

Flow Restrictor Removal, Adjustment and Replacement...............................13-14

Filter Diagnostics

Sediment Filter Diagnostic.............................................................................................15

Carbon Filter Diagnostic.................................................................................................15

Deionization Cartridge Diagnostic........................................................................16-17

RO Membrane Diagnostic.......................................................................................18-20

Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Guide for the System......................................................................21

Troubleshooting Purity Monitor...................................................................................22

Troubleshooting the RO Membrane....................................................................23-26

Mounting Locations.........................................................................................................27

Replacement & Optional Parts............................................................................................28

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CHOOSING A MOUNTING LOCATIONS

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.

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TIPS FOR LONG MEMBRANE LIFE

1. Replacement of .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 .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 11-12.

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 extend membrane life up to 6 months.

STORAGE

1. It is recommended that you store your RO System
in a cool place when not being used.

2. Your RO System must be protected from freezing or
temperatures above 100° F (38°C).

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TERMS & CONDITIONS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

1. Shipping charges on units or parts submitted to our facility for repair or
replacement must be borne by the registered purchaser. After repair or
replacement, the factory will return the unit or part freight prepaid to the
customer.

2. We assume no warranty liability in connection with our equipment other than as
herein specifi ed.

3. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, including
warranties of fi tness for a particular purpose.

4. We do not authorize any person or representative to assume for us any other
oblligation on the sale of our equipment. This is the exclusive remedy and liability
for consequential damages under any and all warranties which are excluded to
the extent exclusion is permitted by law.

5. Proof of original purchase date must accompany all warranty claims.

6. SpectraPure, Inc. reserves the right to change prices without notice when
necessary. All prices in the catalog are quoted in US dollars.

7. Claims for error in quantity or condition must be made within 10 days of receipt of
material. SpectraPure, Inc. will not be responsible for any claimed shortages not
reported within 10 days. Returns other than warranty claims may be subject to
20% restocking fee.

8. SpectraPure, Inc. cannot be held liable for damage or loss to a shipment by a
freight carrier. Check shipment for damage before acceptance or note on freight
bill subject to inspection for concealed damage. Consignee must fi le claim.
SpectraPure, Inc. will offer as much assistance as possible.

9. A complete credit check is required prior to shipping on a Net 30 or “C.O.D. ­CUSTOMER CHECK ACCEPTABLE” basis. In the interim period during which
credit references are being evaluated, all orders must be shipped “C.O.D. ­CERTIFIED FUNDS” (cash, cashiers check or money order).

10. All returned checks (due to insuffi cients funds or closed accounts) will be
subjected to a $25 penalty charge.

Invoices on Net 30 accounts not paid within 30 days of shipment will be considered delinquent and

will accure Finance charges at the rate of 1.5% per month (18% per annum).

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THREE YEAR LIMITED 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 three 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
limited to, filters and cartridges unless specifically stated above

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SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Product Water - Low Production Rate

Cause Corrective Action

Plugged pre-filters Replace pre-filters
Low water temperature Heat feed water or use higher GPD membrane
Low feed pressure Use booster pump or use higher GPD membrane
Fouled membrane Replace membrane

MEMBRANE TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

The following chart illustrates the procedure for determination of RO membrane
performance. However, the chart represents only rough guidelines for determin­ing performance of RO membrane. Depending on your tap water chemistry, the
rejection characteristics of the membrane may vary significantly.

Method of Calculate % Test Results Conclusion
Testing Rejection

TDS/ Measure feed water and Is Rejection No - Replace Membrane
Conductivity

RO product water TDS/ greater than Yes - Membrane OK

Tester Conductivity 95% ?

Alkalinity Measure feed water and Is Rejection No - Replace Membrane
Test Kit RO product water greater than Yes - Membrane OK
Alkalinity 90% ?

Hardness *Measure feed water Is Rejection No - Replace Membrane
Test Kit and RO product water greater than Yes - Membrane OK
Hardness 90%?

*Caution: This test is not to be used on softened water sources.

USING THE PRESSURE GAUGE

The pressure guage is used to monitor the condition of the Sediment and Carbon
Pre-Filters (not the RO Membrane). When the filters are new, the gauge will
indicate the actual available water pressure. As the filters collect particulates, the
pressure will begin to drop. A 15% (or more) drop in pressure would indicate that
the pre-filters are in need of replacement.

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Membrane Output Calculation Example

What is the expected GPD from a 75 GPD System at 40 psi pressure and 60°F
water temperature?

PCF = 40 ÷ 60 = 0.666
TCF = 0.754 (from Table 1)
Expected GPD = 75 × 0.666 × 0.754 = 37.7 GPD ± 15%

37.7 GPD would be the Actual Production Rate

Performance Test

The performance of a RO membrane is measured by its ability to reject salts
(or TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)).

Important: Test the quality of the membrane once every 6 months.

Note: This procedure will require a Conductivity Meter (TS-C61) or TDS Meter (TS-T71).

Procedure:

1. Measure tap water conductivity. (Call it X)

2. Run the system for 15-20 minutes.

3. Rinse test instrument cell 2-3 times with RO water.

4. Measure RO water conductivity directly from the blue product
water line. (Call it Y).

5. Subtract RO water conductivity from tap water conductivity. (X - Y)

6. Divide this quantity by tap water conductivity. (X - Y) ÷ X

7. Rejection = [(X - Y) ÷ X ] ×100

* Conductivity in the above procedure could be replaced by hardness, alkalinity,
nitrate, phosphate, silica etc. (measured 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.

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Household water pressure is used to force tap water through the semipermeable R.O.
membrane. The membrane only allows the purest of water molecules to pass through
it while over 98% of most salts and other impurities are rejected and automatically
rinsed from the membrane down the drain.

Figure 1 Figure 3

WHAT IS REVERSE OSMOSIS

Osmosis is a process in nature that allows fluid of a lower concentration to pass through a
semi-permeable membrane into a fluid of a higher concentration (See Figure 1). Because of
the difference in salt concentration, pure water flows through the membrane as though a
pressure were being applied to it (Figure 2). The effective driving force is called the osmotic
pressure. As a rough guide, the osmotic pressure is equal to about 1 psi (pounds per square
inch) per 100 ppm Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). When enough pressure is applied to the
solution with a higher concentration it can then pass through the membrane into the
solution of lower concentration. (See Figure 3). This is the basis of Reverse Osmosis.

Figure 2

WHAT DOES THE SYSTEM DO?

SpectraPure’s SpectraPlus 2000™ System uses household water pressure to reverse a
natural physical process called osmosis. Water, under pressure is forced through a semi­permeable membrane where minerals and impurites are screened out and sent down the
drain with waste water. These minerals and impurities are measured as total dissolved solids
(TDS)..

The system connects to a house COLD water pipe for a water supply. The SpectraPlus
2000™ system includes replaceable sediment and carbon pre-filters. The sediment pre­filter removes sand, dirt, rust particles and other particulates while the carbon pre-filter
takes chlorine and organics out of the feed water. The water then passes through the
RO membrane and through the Deionization Cartridges which removes any remaining
impurities in the RO water and provides less than 1 PPM pure water.

The SpectraPlus 2000™ System gives you a continous supply of sparkling clear water
for your aquarium and hydroponics. The reliability with the SpectraPlus 2000™ Water
Treatment System is greatly improved over other systems and costly maintenance is
avoided.

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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 SilicaFree™ Color-Indicating Anion
Dual Layer Color-Indicating Deionizing

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
25 (95) 66 ml/min 264 ml/min
40 (151) 105ml/min 420 ml/min
60 (228) 158 ml/min 632 ml/min
90 (340) 235ml/min 940 ml/min
180 (680) 470ml/min 1880 ml/min

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.

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TESTING THE QUALITY OF THE MEMBRANE

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

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TROUBLESHOOTING WATER PURITY MONITOR

Some FAQs

Q:Does monitor read “good” or “bad” when it is unplugged ?
A:The monitor reads “bad-RED” when it is unplugged.

Q: What if the light switches between “green” and “red” between
successive depressions of the “push-to-test” water purity monitor?

A: Do not press the “push-to-test” button rapidly in quick
succession. Wait at least 5 minutes between two successive
depressions of the button for an accurate reading.

Q:How should the probe be mounted for an accurate reading?
A:The probe should be mounted VERTICALLY, at the bottom of

the T.
Q:How long does the battery last ?
A:1 year approx.
Q:How do you determine if the battery needs replacement ?
A:Depressing “push-to-test” button does not give any light.
Q: If the monitor shows a red light, what does it mean?
A: It means that either the membrane is bad OR either the probe

or monitor is faulty.
Q:How do you determine if the probe or monitor is faulty?
A:Refer to the troubleshooting guide.

IMPORTANT NOTE: ONLY USE ALKALINE BATTERIES.

Other Batteries will cause erroneous readings.

Fig. K: Purity Monitor Jack

Depress the
spring contact

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SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The SpectraPlus 2000™ system is a five stage reverse osmosis de-ionization
system.

1. First, the incoming feed water 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.

4. The fourth stage filter is a color changing, strong base anion

cartridge. The anion exchange resin removes all negative ions
and replaces them with hydroxyl ions.

5. The fifth stage of the system is a Dual Layer Deionization

cartridge. This cartridge removes almost all minerals and
organics that may pass through the membrane, producing
laboratory grade water with >18 Mohm / cm resistivity. The
result of processing water through all five stages is ultra-high
purity “mineral-free water”. This System is also available with a
semi-conductor-grade mixed-bed resin cartridge for more critical
applications.

The SpectraPlus 2000™ system comes equipped with a water purity monitor that
indicates when the final DI stage(housing position #4) is exhausted.

This super-capacity RO/DI system consists of newly developed color-indicating DI
resin cartridges with twice as much phosphates/silica removal resin as in previous
designs.

Maintenance and trouble-shooting procedures have been made easy and effec­tive with a combination of the DI purity monitor, color-indicating DI resins, and a
built-in pressure gauge. It is recommended that you keep replacement cartridges
on hand, ready to install as soon as the monitor indicates that the cartridge in use
is exhausted.

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INSTALLING THE WATER PURITY MONITOR

1. Remove front cover from the monitor and connect the supplied 9-volt batery to the
snap terminals located on the circuit board

(Fig. C). Support the battery terminals with

your finger while insert

ing

the battery. For proper operation use only an ALKALINE type

battery.

2. Insert the plug from the test probe cable into the jack on the monitor box.

3. Locate the 8-position “dip switch” (Fig. B). Each of the internal set

tings corresponds to

a specific electrical conductivity level measured

in micro-siemens (uS). The equivalent

natural water” TDS setting in ppm is shown below.

4. Locate switch #7 on the selector switch. Slide (or push-in) the switch to the ON
position. Ensure that all remaining switches are in the OFF position. This is the
recommended setting to determine the condition of the #2 cartridge.

5. Replace the front cover and fasten with the included screw. Locate monitor at an
easily accessible location within 3 feet of the test probe. Attach by peeling the
protective cover from the self-adhesive velcro tape and pressing onto the mounting
surface.

Fig. A: System Components

TFC RO Membrane
(TFC-XX)

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

10)

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

10)

Pressure
Guage

Purity Monitor

DI
Cartridge
#1
DI-SFCC-10

DI
Cartridge #2
DI-AR-DI-10

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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE FOR RO/DI SYSTEMS

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 membrane. ii. Try to restore flux using rubbing alcohol OR
replace membrane.
c. Plugged flow restrictor. iii. Replace flow restrictor and clean/replace
membrane.

3. Extremely high production rate:
a. Ruptured membrane. i. Replace it.
b. Very high line pressure (> 90 psi). ii. Use a pressure reducing valve.

4. Red light on purity monitor comes on:
a. Exhausted deionization cartridge. i. Replace cartridge.
b. Bad membrane & exhausted cartridge. ii. Replace membrane & deionization cartridge.
c. Faulty monitor/probe. iii. Replace monitor/probe.

5. Pressure gauge does not register anything:
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.

6. 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.
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
phosphates etc. in tap water. bed cartridge.

f. High pH tap water (> 9.0). vi. Acidify feed water to the RO membrane
to improve its rejection.

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20

Reconnect the tubing to the membrane housing. Place the
flow restrictor in a safe location where it will not be accidentally
crushed or damaged.

11. Put the yellow concentrate tubing and the blue product
water tubing in the drain and turn on the system water supply.
Allow the system to flush for several minutes to remove any loose
particles.

12. Turn off the water supply to the system. Remove the yellow
tubing from the membrane tubing from the membrane housing
and replace the flow restrictor assembly as described on page 13-14.

13. Re-insert the flow restrictor end of the yellow tubing into
its push-fitting at the RO membrane and reconnect the yellow
concentrate tubing to the membrane housing.

14. Turn on the water supply to the system and check for leaks. Check,
and if necessary adjust, the Concentrate to Purified Water Ratio per
the procedures described on page 11-12.

Fig. H: Removing the Membrane Element

Fig. I: Inserting the New Membrane Element

black

membrane

brine seal

black
membrane
housing
O-ring

membrane
product
water tube

double
O-ring end of
membrane
product
water stem
tube

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Fig. C: Purity Monitor Without Cover

Switch Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Setting in uS 100 50 20 10 5 2 1 0.5
Setting in ppm 67 33 13 6.7 3.3 1.3 0.67 0.33

Fig. B: Purity Monitor Switches

* If settings are changed for any reason (such as testing the quality of the RO membrane),
They should be returned to the original #7 setting after completion of the test.

Switch #7
Shown in “ON”
Position

USING THE PURITY MONITOR (EPM)

The purity monitor is typically used to monitor the condition of the DI cartridge, and with a
simple procedure, monitor the RO membrane.

1. Before operating the monitor, allow at least 2 gallons of water to
run through the system.

2. To test, press the red “push-to-test” button located on the front of
the monitor box. At any point, a green or “good” indication means
lower electrical conductivity (pure water), while a red or “service”
indication means higher conductivity (less pure water). A red or
“service” indication would normally imply that membrane replace­ ment and/or deionization cartridge replacement is required.

3. If neither indicator illuminates, replace the battery with the 9 volt
ALKALINE type ONLY.

Warning!!: The water purity monitor does not detect the presence of silica, organic
contaminants or micro-organisms, nor should it be used as a medical or scientific instru­ment. It should be used as an indicator or guide only, and does not imply water safe for
human consumption. No application other than monitoring the electrical conductivity of
water is expressed or implied.

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System Hook-Up

1. Attach the garden hose adapter to your cold water source. Never run hot
water (greater than 100° F (38° C)) through the system.

2. Place the yellow concentrate tubing and the blue purified water tubing into
a drain. Do not 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 80 psi (5.5 bar).

Check the system to ensure that all fittings are tight and leak-free before
leaving the system unattended.

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.

Initally, air trapped in the DI cartridges is a normal condition and will not affect
the operation of the DI cartridges.

4. Finish the installation by connecting the yellow line to a drain. The blue line
can be placed into a RubberMaid™ trash can or you can set it up for
automatic shut-off using a Liquid Level Controller (LLC-S-115 or LLC-M-115)
or the Auto Shut-Off Kit (ASOFK).

SYSTEM INITIALIZATION

If you are setting up your system for the first time or replacing the RO
membrane, p

lease see the “

Checking the Concentrate to Purified Water

Ratio” section on page 11-12 .

SpectraPure®Inc. assumes no responsibility for water damage

due to leaks. It is the user’s responsibility to determine that the

system is leak-free.

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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 13).

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. H).

6.

Remove the black housing O-ring (Fig. H). 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. I). 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.

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

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.

10. Disconnect the yellow concentrate tubing (Fig. B) from the
membrane housing and remove the flow restrictor (Fig. C) from the
yellow tubing (Refer to the procedure on page 13-14).

Fig. G: Membrane Housing

blue product
water tubing

black feed tubing

membrane feed
push-fitting

membrane housing lid

yellow concentrate tubing

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RO MEMBRANE DIAGNOSTICS

In order to accurately determine the condition of the RO Membrane, a
conductivity tester capable of reading the tap water conductivity and
the product water conductivity would be required (see Performance
Test page 23-24) but the included electronic purity monitor is capable of
providing a general idea of the membrane’s condition.

Before performing the following membrane test with the purity monitor,
the DI cartridges most be removed and the empty housings re-installed;
also, the waste to product water ratio must be 4 to 1 or greater (see page
11-12).

1. Turn on the system, let it operate long enough to fill the empty DI
housings, then let it run for an additional 20 minutes.

2. Remove the cover from the monitor.

3. Set all switches to the down or OFF Position except switch #1 is ON.

4. Push the test button and record the light indication (a good
membrane will show green).

5. Continue through each switch number in order until you observe
a red light indication.

6. Record the number of the last green light indication.

7. Look at the graph on page 9. Compare your highest green light
indication to the number represented in uS or PPM.

As a general rule we would consider the RO membrane to be in good
condition if a green light indication is observed on switch #3 or above.
(The higher the switch number the better).

8. If you are in doubt or if you observe a red light on switch #1
or #2 we would recommend calling the factory for assistance.
(This condition could be due to either a faulty membrane or
monitor).

9. Return monitor to switch #7 ON, all others are OFF.

Note: All water sources are different and are subject to changes in con­ductivity from season to season which could affect the monitor reading
depending on the time of the year. For this reason we recommend the
use of a conductivity tester in order to receive the most accurate mea-

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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 and will void

the pro-rated Membrane Warranty.

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. 4X to 6X is an acceptable concentrate flow rate.

Procedure:

1. Open the cold water supply valve and let the system run for 15 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 milli-liters. Do the same with the waste water
from the yellow line.

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 ratio is less than 4:1

Disconnect yellow drain line from the membrane housing and then remove flow restrictor.
Use the appropriate Waste to Product ratio to determine how long to cut the flow restric­tor in order to obtain a 4:1 ratio. ( Figure D)

* Please refer to pages 13-14 for Flow Restrictor Removal, Adjustment, and Replacement. *

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

5. Turn on feed supply.

6. This completes the procedure.

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Fig. D: Flow Restrictor Tables

(For 4:1 Concentrate to Product Ratio)

FR-25 & FR-40

ml./min. gpd

in. cm.

110 42 1 2.5

84 32 2 5.1
75 29 3 7.6
69 26 4 10.2
63 24 5 12.7
60 23 6 15.2
55 21 7 17.8
51 19 8 20.3
47 18 9 22.9
45 17 10 25.4
44 17 11 27.9
42 16 12 30.5
40 15 13 33.0
39 15 14 35.6
38 14 15 38.1
37 14 16 40.6

PRODUCT RATE

CUT TO LENGTH

FR-90

ml./min. gpd

in. cm.
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

PRODUCT RATE CUT TO LENGTH

FR-60

ml./min. gpd

in. cm.
158 60 1 2.5
130 49 2 5.1
123 47 3 7.6
110 42 4 10.2

99 38 5 12.7
94 36 6 15.2
93 35 7 17.8
88 33 8 20.3
84 32 9 22.9
79 30 10 25.4
76 29 11 27.9
74 28 12 30.5
71 27 13 33.0
68 26 14 35.6
66 25 15 38.1
66 25 16 40.6

PRODUCT RATE

CUT TO LENGTH

FR-180

ml./min. gpd

in. cm.
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

PRODUCT RATE CUT TO LENGTH

(RED)

(ORANGE)

(GREEN)

(YELLOW)

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SpectraPure

®

DEIONIZATION CARTRIDGE #2 REPLACEMENT

(Right-most housing)

The last stage is a dual layer cation/anion cartridge, or in some cases a
mixed bed DI. The condition of this cartridge should be judged by observ­ing either a RED or GREEN light indication from the monitor. Please note

that the probe is located after housing #4. Thus, the monitor indicates
the condition of the final DI stage cartridge only.

Turn the on the system and allow water to flow past the monitor probe
for at least 20 minutes before attempting to use the monitor. The monitor
will indicate GREEN when the cartridge is in good condition and RED if it
is exhausted and in need of replacement. (Be sure that switch #7 is in the
ON position and all other switches are OFF.)

Replace the third stage cartridge immediately if the RED light is on.

Note: In addition to the monitor indicating the DI cartridge condition, the
resin will also change color. Note that only the DI-AR-DI-10 cartridge is
color indicating, not the lab grade mixed bed cartridge.

The DI-AR-CI-10 cartridge’s violet-colored layer is the resin layer used to indi­cate exhaustion and will change to an orange color when exhausted. The
standard cartridge will change color from bottom to top while the “down­flow” version will change from top to bottom.

The color change that occurs in this stage gives a general indication of its
condition but the monitor will provide the most accurate diagnosis of its
condition. There may be local conditions that affect the color-changing
characteristics of these

DI cartridges. High pH water may prevent these car-

tridges from changing colors.

Materials Needed: One DI-AR-DI-10 Deionizaton cartridge or (DI-MB-10,
filter wrench.

Procedure:

1. Follow the procedure for Cartridge #1 Replacement.

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DEIONIZATION CARTRIDGE #1 REPLACEMENT

( Second housing from the right )

The first DI stage is an anion cartridge DI-SF-CI-10. In order to determine
the condition of this cartridge, watch for the color to change from the
bottom to the top. The color will change from a very dark blue to a
lighter blue or tan color. Once the cartridge has changed color by 70 to
80% it must be replaced in accordance with the following instructions.
(For “down flow” DI systems or systems that incorporate a permeate
pump, the color will change from the top to the bottom ).There may be
local conditions that affect the color-changing characteristics of this DI
cartridge. High pH water (due to soda lime softening) may prevent this
cartridge from changing colors.

Materials Needed: One DI-SF-CI-10 Deionizaton cartridge, filter wrench.

Procedure:

1. Remove the filter housing from its cap by unscrewing it counter
clockwise as viewed from the bottom.

2. Remove and discard the old cartridge from the housing.

3. Thoroughly wash out the housings with hot soapy water to
which a few teaspoons of household bleach have been added.
Rinse well with clean hot water.

4. Install the new deionization cartridge. Make sure the cartridge is
installed in the correct direction as marked on the filter housing
and that the top seal is securely attached to the top of the
cartridge

5. Re-install the bottom housing onto the cap by rotating it clock­ wise and hand tighten ONLY.

6. Turn on system and check for leaks.

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®

FLOW RESTRICTOR REMOVAL, ADJUSTMENT

AND REPLACEMENT

1. Locate the yellow concentrate tubing (Fig. E ). Remove the tubing from its push-fitting
at the membrane as follows:
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. F). 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: 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-hand column and the length of the flow restrictor in the right-
hand column.

Example: If your Flow Restrictor Assembly is for a 90 GPD Membrane and
the product flow rate is 170 mL/Min, then the flow restrictor length should
be cut to 6.5 inches (16.5 mm). 170 is about halfway between 164 (7 in.)
and 175 (6 in.).

4. Using a new single-edge razor blade, carefully measure and then cut the
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. Care should be taken not to crush or other­ wise damage the end of the capillary tubing protruding from the end of
the insert.

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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 reseat the tubing as described above.

yellow tubing

capillary tubing

plastic insert

Fig. F: Flow Restrictor Assembly

Fig. E: Reverse Osmosis Assembly

Top/Rear View

membrane

feed

push-fitting

black

tubing to

membrane

feed

RO membrane

yellow concentrate tubing

blue purified water
tubing

black feed water
tubing

(Waste Water)

(Good Water)

(Tap Water)

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SEDIMENT PRE-FILTER REPLACEMENT

For maximum contaminant removal and long membrane life, the sediment and
carbon pre-filters must be changed when a 15-20% drop in pressure is observed
OR at least 6-month intervals. 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.

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. Refer to photo on page 8. Using the provided filter 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 on 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.

CARBON BLOCK FILTER REPLACEMENT

For maximum contaminant removal and long membrane life, the sediment and
carbon pre-filters must be changed when a 15-20% drop in pressure is observed
OR at least 6-month intervals. When chlorine breakthrough greater than 0.1
ppm occurs in the yellow concentrate line, test for chlorine breakthrough by
collecting 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

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

Procedure:

1. Perform steps 1-5 listed above

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