The use of reverse osmosis filters has become essential in many Ukrainian households. However, with their increasing popularity, many questions have arisen about malfunctions in their operation. Let's take a closer look at the reasons for these malfunctions.

Causes of issues with reverse osmosis filters

  • Filters can malfunction due to expired service life, worn-out cartridges, hoses, and fittings. The length of the operational life varies between manufacturers, but Ecosoft filters have a service life of five years.
  • Low-quality systems can also cause problems. If the price of a system seems too good to be true, it's worth reading reviews before purchasing.
  • Production defects can occur with any manufacturer. Malfunctions often occur shortly after purchasing a filter and are usually covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
  • Other issues can be associated with operation and maintenance. Let's take a closer look at the most common problems: water leaks, unpleasant taste, and slow tank filling.

Low water pressure in the reverse osmosis system

  • Limited water supply
    If you have recently installed or serviced your system, check if the pipes are not blocked and the tank valve is fully open.
  • Low pressure in the pipeline.
    If the pressure in your pipeline is below 3 atm, it will be insufficient for the filter to function properly. The tank will fill up very slowly, and a lot of water will be wasted. This problem can be solved by installing a pump.
  • Untimely replacement of pre-filter cartridges or membrane elements.
    After the expiration date or increased water consumption, the membrane element becomes clogged with slime, causing the filter to fill the tank slowly. Untimely replacement of cartridges will result in unfiltered water entering the membrane, which in turn will accelerate its clogging. If you change the membrane and pre-filter cartridges on time, but this happens regularly, we recommend replacing the 1-2-3 set more often. We have written about this in detail before.
  • Low pressure in the accumulation tank.
    The pressure should be 0.4-0.6 atm (bar) under normal conditions. If the pressure is not adequate, it needs to be boosted using a pump. This service has to be provided by the service engineer.

Why my filter is leaking?

The leakage of the water filter can occur for a variety of reasons. Before fixing the leakage, it is necessary to understand why it is happening.

Incorrect connection or maintenance

Such malfunctions usually occur immediately after manual manipulation of the system or after the technician's visit. To fix such problems, it is enough to carefully inspect the filter, detect the leakage, and seal the found point. The main places of leakage can be clips on hoses, drainage, and connections between the flask and the base. To fix this problem, you can disconnect the filter, detach and reconnect the connections.

Pressure surges in the system

Most systems have an allowable working pressure of up to 6 atm (bar). If your water supply system has pressure fluctuations, it is recommended to install a pressure reducer to protect the filter. After installing the pressure reducer, it is necessary to check all fittings and connections.

Wear of the sealing gasket between the flask and the head

This happens if the installation has reached the end of its service life, and it is necessary to replace the gasket or call a service engineer to install it.

Mechanical damage

This can happen during transportation or incorrect maintenance or installation.

Poor quality components

This often happens in "no-name" systems. Usually, these problems can be solved by a service center.

To find out why the water filter has burst, it is always necessary to check 2, 4, or 5 factors. Usually, they are the cause of the accident.

High level of noise

If your system is making a lot of noise, the cause may be:

  • Air in the auto-regulator - this problem will resolve itself after some time.
  • High pressure at the system inlet. In this situation, it is recommended to install a check valve at the apartment inlet or directly before the system.
  • Low pressure level in the tank.

Why the reverse osmosis pump won't turn on

The pump for reverse osmosis filters is designed to increase pressure directly in front of the filter. It allows to increase the filter's productivity and reduce water discharge into the drain. The reasons why the pump may not be working are:

  1. Low pressure in the pipeline - each pump has a minimum input pressure indicator, usually 1.5 - 2 atm, if it is lower, the pump will not work;
  2. Hose clogging, this problem usually occurs immediately after replacing the cartridges;
  3. Lack of power supply to the pump - check the connection to the network.

Why is water constantly flowing into the drain?

The membrane or cartridge pre-filters may be contaminated. Contamination reduces the filter's capacity or simply clogs it, resulting in the pipeline pressure being unable to push water through the membrane. In such a situation, scheduled maintenance will resolve the issue.

Low pressure at the system's inlet also leads to the inability of liquid to pass through the membrane element, and large volumes of water are discharged into the sewer. The tank slowly fills with water.

Faulty auto-regulator. To check this point, you need to close the tap on the tank. In 2-5 minutes, the auto-regulator should shut off the water supply to the system. If this does not happen, you should contact a service center to replace the auto-regulator.

Malfunction of the membrane's check valve. If this part is broken, even if the tank is full, water continues to flow onto the membrane and bypass it, draining into the sewer.

Low pressure in the tank.

Blocked or faulty flow restrictor. It should be inserted into the black-colored tube on the outlet of the membrane holder. If the part is missing, it is likely that it has been washed away into the sewer and a new element needs to be installed. Also, it may be located near the drain clamp. In that case, it needs to be flushed and the tube installed into the flow restrictor closer to the membrane holder.

Water is not draining into the drain

This indicates that the system is not functioning. The cause of this problem may be a blocked flow restrictor that needs to be removed and flushed, or an incorrectly installed drain clamp. In the latter case, you should check the alignment of the openings in the pipe and the installed clamp.

How to repair a faucet for a drinking water filter?

Our clients rarely complain about the breakdown of water faucets, which usually occurs after many years of service. If your drinking water faucet has started to leak, we recommend replacing it. However, if you have decided to repair it:

  • remove the plug from the faucet valve;
  • unscrew the screw with a cross-shaped screwdriver;
  • remove the valve from the base of the faucet;
  • remove the retaining washer;
  • unscrew the screws with pliers;
  • remove the faucet sleeve and extract all the parts from it;
  • remove the rubbers from the central metal part (rubbers diameter - 6 mm) and replace them;
  • clean all parts;
  • lubricate the faucet head;
  • reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

A visual video tutorial can be found here. If these operations do not help, then you will still have to replace the faucet.

Bad taste of water

If you notice an unusual odor or taste in your water, it may be due to an exhausted coal post-filter. In this case, simply replace the filter to solve the issue.

Another possible cause is contamination of the system or tank, which often results from incorrect maintenance. To prevent this, regular service and disinfection of the system are necessary.

Turbidity after purification

This occurs because the water is saturated with air. It is not indicative of a malfunction and will usually pass within one or two weeks after installing the filter. To confirm whether it is air, pour water into a glass and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

It is important to note that this can happen in winter when the temperature difference between the water and the environment is significant.

If you encounter any issues not listed here, please let us know in the comments.

And remember, at Ecosoft, you can not only purchase high-quality filters but also receive exceptional customer service.

FAQ

Why is my reverse osmosis system producing less water than before?

There could be several reasons why your reverse osmosis system is producing less water than before. Firstly, check if the water pressure in your home has decreased. Low water pressure can directly affect the production rate of your system. Additionally, a clogged pre-filter or sediment filter can restrict water flow and reduce production. It is recommended to inspect and clean or replace these filters regularly. Another potential cause could be a malfunctioning or worn-out membrane. Over time, the membrane may degrade or become damaged, resulting in decreased water production. If none of these solutions solve the issue, it is advisable to consult a professional for further assistance.

Why does my reverse osmosis system have a slow flow rate?

A slow flow rate in a reverse osmosis system can be frustrating, but it is a common problem with various possible causes. One common reason is a clogged or dirty membrane. Accumulation of minerals, sediments, or contaminants on the membrane can restrict water flow. Regular cleaning or replacement of the membrane can help resolve this issue. Another possible cause is inadequate water pressure. Check the water pressure in your home and ensure it meets the minimum requirements for the system. Additionally, check for any kinks or restrictions in the tubing or faucet that may impede water flow. If the problem persists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.

Why does my reverse osmosis water taste strange?

If your reverse osmosis water tastes strange, it could be due to a few reasons. Firstly, check the age of your filters. Over time, the carbon filters in the system can become saturated, leading to an unpleasant taste or odor in the water. Replacing the filters at the recommended intervals can help alleviate this issue. Another possibility is the presence of dissolved minerals in the water. While reverse osmosis systems are designed to remove most minerals, some may still pass through or accumulate on the membrane. In such cases, using a post-filter or a remineralization cartridge can enhance the taste of the water. If the problem persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a professional or consider getting your water tested for potential contaminants.

How often should I maintain my reverse osmosis system?

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your reverse osmosis system. While the specific maintenance requirements may vary depending on the system, a general guideline is as follows. Replace pre-filters, such as sediment and carbon filters, every 6 to 12 months or as recommended by the manufacturer. The membrane typically needs replacement every 2 to 3 years, again depending on usage and manufacturer's recommendations. Regularly clean the storage tank, tubing, and faucet to prevent the buildup of bacteria or contaminants. It is also advisable to monitor the system's performance, such as water production rate and taste, and address any issues promptly. Following the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for your specific system is essential to ensure effective maintenance.