A Comprehensive Guide to RO Water Purifier Installation

For those seeking crystal-clear, contaminant-free water at home, a Reverse Osmosis (RO) water purifier is an excellent solution. However, the prospect of assembling one yourself might seem daunting. Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to assemble your RO water purifier like a pro.

Before You Begin: Gather Your Necessities

Tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape
• Phillips screwdriver
• Utility knife
• Scissors

Materials:

• RO water purifier system (including pre-filters, RO membrane, storage tank, and faucet)
• Feed water hose (usually included)
• Drain saddle valve (optional, depending on your drainage system)
• Food-grade RO tubing (usually included)
• Inline shut-off valve (optional, for additional control)
• Pipe clamps (optional, for added security)

Important Note: Refer to your specific RO water purifier model’s user manual for a complete list of parts and any additional tools or materials you might need.

Step 1: Pre-Installation Considerations

1. Location Selection: Choose a location with easy access to a cold water supply line, a drain, and a power outlet for the RO system’s control unit. Ensure there’s enough space for the storage tank and comfortable maneuvering during installation.
2. Water Supply Check: Verify your cold water supply line pressure falls within the recommended range specified in the user manual (typically between 30-80 psi). If the pressure is too low, a booster pump might be required.
3. Drainage Options: Decide on your drainage method. Most RO systems utilize a drain saddle valve connected to the drainpipe under your sink. Alternatively, you can connect the drain line directly to your existing drain system.

Step 2: Installing the Pre-filters

1. Locate the pre-filters: Your RO system will usually have two or three pre-filters – a sediment filter, a carbon block filter, and sometimes an additional pre-carbon filter.
2. Wrap the threads: Apply a few layers of Teflon tape around the threads of each pre-filter housing, ensuring a tight and leak-proof connection.
3. Install the pre-filters: Screw the pre-filter housings hand-tight into the designated ports on the RO system chassis. Don’t overtighten with the wrench yet.

Step 3: Connecting to the Water Supply

1. Turn off the main water supply: Locate the shut-off valve under your sink or wherever your main water supply line originates. Turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.
2. Install the drain saddle valve (optional): If using a drain saddle valve, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for its installation on your drainpipe. Remember to place a bucket underneath the drain line to collect any initial water discharge.
3. Connect the feed water hose: Locate the cold water supply line under your sink. Depending on your setup, you might need to use a shut-off valve adapter or a compression fitting to connect the feed water hose. Tighten the connection securely using the wrench.
4. Connect the feed water hose to the RO system: Locate the “Feed Water Inlet” port on the RO system. Attach the other end of the feed water hose (with the pre-installed shut-off valve, if applicable) to this port and tighten the connection with the wrench.

Step 4: Connecting the Drain Line

1. Cut the drain line to size: Measure the length needed to reach your chosen drainage point and cut the RO tubing accordingly using the utility knife or scissors. Leave some slack for future adjustments.
2. Connect the drain line: Locate the “Drain Outlet” port on the RO system. Push the pre-cut drain line firmly onto the port until it clicks into place. Secure the connection with a pipe clamp (optional) for added security.
3. Route the drain line: Route the drain line to your chosen drainage point, ensuring there are no kinks or loops that could restrict water flow.

Step 5: Installing the RO Membrane

1. Locate the RO membrane housing: The RO membrane housing is typically a cylindrical container.
2. Unscrew the housing: Carefully unscrew the housing cap following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Unwrap the RO membrane: The RO membrane will be wrapped in plastic packaging. Carefully remove the packaging without touching the membrane itself (oils from your skin can affect its performance).
4. Insert the RO membrane: Gently insert the RO membrane into the housing, ensuring the O-rings are properly seated.

5. Reassemble the housing: Screw the housing cap back on hand-tight, following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper tightening sequence (if applicable). Do not overtighten.

Step 6: Connecting the RO System to the Storage Tank

1. Locate the tank connection ports: Identify the “Product Water Outlet” and “Storage Tank Inlet” ports on the RO system.
2. Connect the RO tubing: Cut two pieces of RO tubing to the appropriate length, connecting one end of each to the designated ports on the RO system, ensuring a secure fit. Secure the connections with pipe clamps (optional) for added security.
3. Connect the tubing to the storage tank: Locate the “Feed Water Inlet” and “Product Water Outlet” ports on the storage tank. Connect the corresponding RO tubing ends to these ports, ensuring a secure fit. Again, secure the connections with pipe clamps (optional).

Step 7: Installing the Faucet

1. Locate the faucet mounting point: Depending on your model, the faucet might be pre-installed on the RO system or require separate installation. Identify the designated mounting point on your sink or countertop.
2. Install the faucet: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper faucet installation, which might involve drilling a hole in your sink or countertop and securing the faucet with mounting hardware.
3. Connect the RO tubing: Locate the “Product Water Outlet” port on the faucet. Connect the remaining piece of RO tubing to this port, ensuring a secure fit. Secure the connection with a pipe clamp (optional).

Step 8: Final Touches and System Activation

1. Open the shut-off valves: Slowly open the shut-off valve on the cold water supply line and the shut-off valve on the feed water hose (if applicable). Observe for any leaks at the connections. Tighten any loose connections if necessary.
2. Turn on the power: Plug the RO system’s power cord into a grounded outlet.
3. Initial flush: The RO system will automatically perform an initial flush cycle, typically lasting 10-15 minutes. This cycle removes any residual contaminants and air from the system. Observe for any leaks during the flush.
4. Discard the initial water: Let the RO system complete the flush cycle and discard the flushed water, as it might contain impurities.

Congratulations! You have successfully assembled your RO water purifier. Now, enjoy the benefits of clean, refreshing water at your fingertips.