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Diy wonder: how to fix your ro water purifier at home – step-by-step guide

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Ensure that the UV lamp is connected to a power source and the switch is turned on.
  • Ensure that the water pressure is within the recommended range to avoid damage to the purifier.
  • If not in use, store the purifier in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from freezing or overheating.

Are you experiencing issues with your RO water purifier? Don’t fret! With a little troubleshooting and some simple tools, you can fix most common problems yourself, saving you time and money. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to fix your RO water purifier at home.

Common RO Water Purifier Problems and Solutions

#1. No Water Flow

  • Check the power supply: Ensure that the purifier is plugged in and the power switch is turned on.
  • Inspect the inlet valve: Make sure the water supply valve connected to the purifier is open.
  • Clean the sediment filter: A clogged sediment filter can restrict water flow. Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly.
  • Replace the RO membrane: A damaged or clogged membrane can also cause no water flow. Replace the membrane as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

#2. Slow Water Flow

  • Clean the pre-filters: Pre-filters can accumulate impurities, reducing water flow. Clean or replace them as needed.
  • Check the booster pump: If your purifier has a booster pump, ensure it is functioning properly. Replace the pump if necessary.
  • Increase the water pressure: If the water pressure is low, install a pressure booster pump to increase it.

#3. Water Tastes Bad

  • Replace the carbon filter: The carbon filter removes impurities and improves taste. Replace it every 6-12 months.
  • Check the RO membrane: A damaged or clogged membrane can let impurities through, affecting the taste. Replace the membrane as required.
  • Clean the storage tank: Over time, bacteria can accumulate in the storage tank, affecting the water taste. Clean the tank regularly.

#4. Water is Cloudy or Milky

  • Check the RO membrane: A damaged or clogged membrane can allow minerals to pass through, resulting in cloudy water. Replace the membrane.
  • Reduce the water pressure: High water pressure can force minerals through the membrane. Adjust the pressure to reduce cloudiness.
  • Add a remineralization filter: Remineralization filters can add essential minerals back into the water, improving its taste and clarity.

#5. Leaking Water

  • Inspect the connections: Tighten any loose connections between the filters, membrane, and storage tank.
  • Replace O-rings: O-rings can wear out over time, causing leaks. Replace any damaged O-rings.
  • Check the storage tank: A cracked or damaged storage tank can leak water. Replace the tank if necessary.

#6. UV Lamp Not Working

  • Check the power supply: Ensure that the UV lamp is connected to a power source and the switch is turned on.
  • Replace the UV lamp: UV lamps have a limited lifespan. Replace the lamp every 6-12 months to maintain disinfection.
  • Clean the quartz sleeve: The quartz sleeve that surrounds the UV lamp can become dirty, reducing its effectiveness. Clean the sleeve regularly.

#7. TDS Level is High

  • Replace the RO membrane: A damaged or clogged membrane can allow dissolved solids to pass through. Replace the membrane.
  • Check the pre-filters: Impurities in the pre-filters can increase the TDS level. Clean or replace the pre-filters as needed.
  • Adjust the TDS valve: Some RO purifiers have a TDS valve that can be adjusted to reduce the TDS level. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the valve.

How to Prevent RO Water Purifier Problems

  • Regular maintenance: Clean or replace filters and membranes regularly to prevent clogging.
  • Check water pressure: Ensure that the water pressure is within the recommended range to avoid damage to the purifier.
  • Store the purifier properly: If not in use, store the purifier in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from freezing or overheating.
  • Inspect the storage tank: Check the storage tank for leaks or damage and clean it regularly.
  • Use a surge protector: Protect the purifier from power surges by using a surge protector.

FAQ

1. Can I fix my RO water purifier without any experience?

Yes, most common problems can be fixed with basic tools and some troubleshooting knowledge. Follow the instructions in this guide carefully.

2. How often should I clean my RO water purifier?

Clean the pre-filters every 3-6 months, the carbon filter every 6-12 months, and the RO membrane every 2-3 years.

3. Can I drink the wastewater from my RO purifier?

No, the wastewater from an RO purifier contains impurities and should not be consumed.

4. What is the lifespan of an RO water purifier?

With proper maintenance, an RO water purifier can last for 5-10 years.

5. How much does it cost to fix an RO water purifier?

The cost of fixing an RO water purifier depends on the problem and the parts required. Simple repairs can cost around $20-$50, while more complex issues may require professional assistance and cost more.

Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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