RO System Maintenance: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide for Continuous Water Flow Issues

Diagnosing and Fixing Non-Stop Water Flow in RO Systems

When your Reverse Osmosis (RO) system fails to shut off, allowing wastewater to flow continuously even when the tank is full, it’s crucial to identify and resolve the issue promptly. This guide will walk you through the potential causes and step-by-step troubleshooting procedures to fix the problem.

Possible Causes of Non-Stop Water Flow

1. Malfunctioning Permeate Pump

A broken or insensitive permeate pump may fail to shut off the water flow. This component is responsible for controlling the water flow within the RO system.

2. Defective Check Valve

A clogged or broken check valve can also cause the RO system to continue running. The check valve prevents backflow, ensuring that water only flows in one direction.

3. Leaks in Output Lines

If your RO system supplies water to multiple output points, a leak in one of these lines can cause continuous water flow.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Testing the Check Valve and Permeate Pump

To determine which component is at fault, follow these steps:

1. Fill your RO tank to capacity.
2. Turn off the feed water supply to the RO system.
3. Open the tank valve to release any pressure.
4. Disconnect the black drain line from the drain saddle on your drainpipe.
5. Observe the black line for any water drainage.

– If water continues to drain out, the check valve is defective and needs to be replaced (refer to diagram point E for location).
– If no water drains out, the permeate pump is the likely culprit, and it should be replaced (refer to the diagram for instructions).

Replacing Components

Order a new check valve or permeate pump online:

– Check Valve: Item# Check Valve, $9 (visit [this link](http://www.freedrinkingwater.com/parts-fittings.htm))
– Permeate Pump: Item# PUMP-PERMEATE, $80 (visit [this link](https://www.freedrinkingwater.com/collections/apec-residential-ro-systems-replacement-parts-apec-under-counter-ro-systems-replacement-parts))

Checking for Leaks in Output Lines

If your RO system supplies water to additional output points, inspect these lines and fittings for any signs of pressure leakage. Even a minor leak can prevent the RO system from shutting off.

Addressing System Consequences of Non-Shut Off

Depleted Prefilters

Continuous water flow through the RO system can deplete stages 1, 2, and 3 prefilters rapidly. If the issue has persisted for more than 1-2 months, it’s advisable to replace these prefilters to protect the membrane.

Membrane Health Check

Use a TDS meter to verify the condition of the stage-4 membrane. Regularly checking the membrane’s performance is crucial for maintaining the RO system’s efficiency.

Annual Pre-Filter Replacement

Changing the three prefilters at least every 12 months is essential to protect the stage-4 membrane and the auto-shut-off valve. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to damage to these components.

RO System Maintenance Schedule

Filter Cartridges and Membrane Replacement

Your under-sink RO system includes five filter cartridges:

– Stages 1, 2, & 3 Pre-filters: Replace every 12 months. Cost: $39 per set (1 sediment, 2 carbons).
– Stage 4 RO membrane: Replace every 3-5 years, depending on water quality. Cost: $65 (RO45, RO-PUMP models) or $85 (RO90, RO-PERM models).
– Stage 5 polish filter: Replace every 3-5 years. Cost: $10 (all models).

Order the necessary replacement parts using the following item numbers:

– FILTER-SET for pre-filters
– MEM-45 or MEM-90 for RO membranes
– 5-TCR for stage 5 polish filters

By following this comprehensive guide, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve continuous water flow issues in your RO system, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future problems and ensuring clean, safe drinking water.