We’ve got a 5 stage RO water filter for drinking water. It claims to be a 50 gallon a day system with a 3 gallon tank for reserve pressure. About 3 weeks ago we started seeing a substantial decrease in the output pressure at the tap. Previously we could get about 1/2 gallon out of the system before the pressure would start to drop and slow to a trickle, now we can’t get a quart out of the system before it slows. I tried replacing the filters, mostly because it was it for a replacement, I haven’t replaced the RO membrane recently because it is supposed to last for 12 months and that won’t be up until June. Is there a safe way to pressurize the plastic tank to increase the output flow, or should I just start drinking out of smaller glasses?
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MNScott,
Yes, there is a safe way to pressurize the tank. Check with your tank/system manufacturer first. I have a Water Factory Systems unit and recently recharged the tank.
First I took the tank out of the system and put it sideways on the counter, then drained its contents dry into the sink. Then using a bike pump I pumped the bladder to 5psi. Whenever this is done it is also good to sanitize your tank with a tablespoon of bleach. Check with the mfr for exact procedures.
The website of my water guy is http://www.coloradowaterwizard.com . He has lots of good info on his site.
Bill
Edit: I just reread your post. RO membranes are expensive and can last a long time. It is better to test your water than to replace the membrane willy-nilly. Mine has been in service for 8 years on the same membrane, works great. Pre- and postfilters get changed every 18-24 months, as we are only 2 people using it. Annual replacement of those filters is recommended by the mfr.
Edited 1/24/2008 1:05 pm by BillBrennen
Thanks Bill. The website is great. I'll try to re pressurize the tank this weekend or as soon as I can find someone with a bike tire pump! I don't think the air compressor would be a good choice!Scott
Although I don't have a pressure problem, our system has only a 2 gallon tank and it was difficult to get any great quantity of water. At first, we maintained a full gallon or two in milk jugs. I finally added another 10 gallon tank to the system and eliminated the problem. We can fill the tea kettle without any loss in flow and the recovery rate for the system will maintain the total storage. My unit is also about 20 feet from the faucet. If I wanted better pressure, I would have to replace the plastic tubing with a larger diameter line to reduce the pressure drop.