Common RO System troubleshooting tips...probelms and fixes!

Discussion in 'SpectraPure' started by SpectraPure, Nov 6, 2009.

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  1. SpectraPure

    SpectraPure 3reef Sponsor

    Joined:
    Sep 10, 2009
    Messages:
    25
    Common RO system troubleshooting Tips…Problems/Fixes

    Low production rate:
    Problem- plugged pre-filters Fix: Replace pre-filters.
    Problem- low water temperature. Fix: Heat feed water OR use higher GPD membrane.
    Problem- low line pressure. Fix: Use booster pump OR use higher GPD membrane.
    Problem- high TDS content. Fix: Use booster pump OR use higher GPD membrane.
    Problem- fouled membrane. Fix: Clean or replace membrane to restore flux.
    Problem- plugged flow restrictor. Fix: Replace flow restrictor & membrane.

    Zero production rate:
    Problem- Missing flow restrictor. Fix: Put flow restrictor in the yellow line.
    Problem- Dried RO membrane. Fix: Try to restore flux by soaking in rubbing alcohol
    OR replace the membrane.
    Problem- Plugged flow restrictor. Fix: Replace flow restrictor and replace the membrane.

    Extremely high production rate:
    Problem- Ruptured membrane. Fix: Replace
    Problem- Very high line pressure (> 80 psi). Fix: Use a pressure reducing valve.

    Pressure gauge does not register pressure when the system is “ON”:
    Problem- Missing flow restrictor. Fix: Put flow restrictor in the yellow line.
    Problem- Pressure gauge screwed in too far. Fix: Unscrew pressure gauge one
    turn and retest.
    Problem- Plugged pressure gauge orifice. Fix: Clean orifice with a needle.
    Problem- Defective pressure gauge. Fix: Replace it.

    Low deionization cartridge life:
    Problem- Defective membrane. Fix: Replace it.
    Problem- Low pressure (< 40 psi). Fix: Use booster pump.
    Problem- High CO2 levels in water (> 5 ppm). Fix: Aerate RO product water or use a
    straight anion cartridge ahead of DI cartridge. (Call Technical Support) 1-800-685-2783
    Problem- High TDS in feed water (> 1000 ppm). Fix: NO EASY SOLUTION.
    Problem- High levels of silica, nitrates, Fix: Use straight anion cartridge
    ahead of mixed-bed for
    phosphates etc. in tap water.
    Problem- Bad or faulty DI cartridge.
    Problem- High pH tap water (> 9.0). Fix: Acidify feed water to the RO
    membrane to improve its rejection.
    Problem- Faulty monitor/probe. Fix: Test and Replace if required.



    bruce