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