Owners of reverse osmosis systems sooner or later are faced with the need for scheduled equipment maintenance. System Geyser Prestige is one of the most popular models on the market, providing deep water purification from impurities, hardness salts and bacteria. However, the resource of consumables is not endless, and timely replacement of cartridges is the key to clean water and proper operation of the membrane. Ignoring replacement dates can lead to damage to expensive elements and deterioration in the quality of drinking water.
The maintenance process does not require calling a technician if you clearly understand the sequence of actions. Many users are afraid of breaking the tightness of connections or mixing up the order of installing modules. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm for replacing all filtration stages, paying special attention to the technical nuances and typical mistakes made by beginners during the first service.
First, you will need to prepare a workplace and purchase an original set of cartridges that matches your modification (P, PM, PM2 or PM3). It is important to ensure that the pressure in the system is relieved and the taps are closed. Correctly carried out procedure will extend the service life reverse osmosis membrane and guarantees a stable pressure of purified water for a long time.
Preparing to replace cartridges and necessary tools
Before you begin dismantling the old modules, you need to perform a number of preparatory steps. This will ensure the safety of the process and prevent flooding of the kitchen. First, turn off the water inlet valve to the filter and open the clean water tap to relieve excess pressure in the storage tank. If the system has an electronic pump, it must also be de-energized.
To work, you will need a minimum set of tools, which are usually found in every home. The main tool will be a special key for unscrewing the flasks, which comes complete with the filter. If the key is lost, you can use a belt or rope, but you will have to act extremely carefully so as not to damage the plastic of the cases.
☑️ Preparation for service
Do not forget to prepare a container to drain the water that remains in the prefilter flasks. You should also have paper towels or rags on hand to wipe down threaded connections. It is important to inspect new cartridges for damage to the packaging and integrity of the rubber seals.
Removing old cartridges and washing flasks
The process of removing the flasks requires care, since water under residual pressure may remain inside them. Place the key on the grooved part of the bulb and turn it smoothly counterclockwise. If the bulb does not unscrew, do not use excessive force - perhaps the pressure has not yet been completely relieved, or the threads are stuck due to deposits.
After removing the first flask (usually mechanical cleaning), pour the contents into the sink. You may notice mucus or dark residue inside - this is normal and indicates that the filter is working. Thoroughly rinse the inner surface of the flask with warm water without using aggressive chemicals or abrasive sponges.
⚠️ Attention: Never use hot water above 40°C to wash flasks, as this can deform the plastic and break the tightness of the joints during assembly.
Carry out a similar procedure with the second and third flasks. Pay special attention to the rubber O-rings. They must be removed, washed and lubricated with silicone food grade grease. If the rings show cracks, tears, or have lost their elasticity, they must be replaced with new ones, otherwise leakage cannot be avoided.
Before installing new cartridges, wipe the threads on the body neck and the mating threads of the bulb with a dry cloth to prevent sand or dirt from getting into the connection.
Procedure for installing new filtration modules
Installation of new cartridges is carried out in a strict sequence, violation of which will lead to incorrect operation of the entire system. Standard Geyser Prestige the scheme is as follows: the first stage is mechanics (5 microns), the second is a carbon block (CBC), the third is mechanical (1 microns or 0.5 microns). The fourth stage is a membrane, and the fifth is a post-carbon filter.
Insert the cartridges into the appropriate flasks. Please note that the cartridges should fit tightly, but without excessive force. When screwing the flasks into place, make sure that the rubber ring does not jump out of its groove and is not pinched. Tighten the flasks by hand until they stop, and then add another quarter turn with a wrench.
Installation requires special attention reverse osmosis membrane. It is in a long flask (usually the fourth in a row). When installing the membrane, it is important to push it into the housing until it stops. Often users are afraid of damaging the element and leave a gap, which leads to mixing of clean and drainage water.
How to insert the membrane correctly
The membrane must be inserted end-to-end with two small o-rings inside the housing. If it is tight, you can lightly moisten the O-rings with water. You should press gently but firmly until the end of the membrane rests against the bottom of the flask.
After installing all cartridges, reassemble the system in reverse order. Make sure that all tubes are connected correctly according to the color markings or diagram on the housing. Mixed up tubes can cause the filter to run empty or constantly dump water into the drain.
Features of replacing the membrane and post-filter
The membrane is the heart of the reverse osmosis system and requires careful handling. Its service life ranges from 1.5 to 3 years, depending on the quality of the source water and the pressure in the water supply. When replacing the membrane, it is critical not to damage the thin film at the end, which is responsible for filtration. Even a microscopic puncture will render the cartridge useless.
The post-filter (fifth stage) is a cartridge in a plastic case through which water passes after the storage tank. It improves the taste of water, removing the possible taste of rubber from the tank. It changes least often - once a year, or according to the taste of the water. To replace it, you do not need to disassemble the flasks; just disconnect the tubes on both sides.
When installing a new post-filter, pay attention to the direction of water flow. There is always an arrow on the body indicating the movement of the liquid. If installed incorrectly, coal dust may enter the storage tank or faucet.
The service life of different system components varies greatly. To help you plan your maintenance costs, we have prepared tables with recommended replacement intervals.
| Filter element | Resource (liters) | Service life (months) | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| CP cartridge (mechanics 5 µm) | 4000 - 6000 | 3 - 6 | Removing rust and sand |
| SBC cartridge (carbon block) | 4000 - 6000 | 6 - 9 | Removal of chlorine and organic matter |
| CP cartridge (1 µm mechanics) | 4000 - 6000 | 6 - 9 | Fine cleaning before membrane |
| Reverse osmosis membrane | 10000 - 15000 | 18 - 36 | Removing salts and bacteria |
| Post filter (carbon) | 5000 | 12 | Correction of taste and smell |
Starting the system and checking for leaks
After assembling all the elements, the most crucial moment comes - the first launch. Do not rush to open the drinking water tap at full capacity immediately. First, open the water inlet valve to the filter and carefully inspect all the connections of the flasks and tubes. In the first minutes, there may be a hiss of air - this is normal.
If you find leakage in the area of the bulb thread, try slightly tightening it with a wrench. If water drips from the tube connection nut, make sure the tube is fully inserted and the collet is tightened. A reverse osmosis system uses pressure, so even a small leak can become a serious problem over time.
⚠️ Attention: If the leak does not stop after tightening the connections, turn off the water and check the condition of the sealing rings. They may be twisted or damaged.
After checking for dryness, open the clean water tap. In the first 5-10 minutes, black air and water will come out of the tap (coal dust is washed out of the new cartridges). This is absolutely normal. Drain at least 10-15 liters of water to completely flush the system.
Typical errors when servicing Geyser Prestige
One of the most common mistakes is not lubrication of O-rings. Dry tires wear out faster and hold pressure worse. Using technical lubricant instead of food lubricant is also unacceptable, as this can spoil the taste of the water.
Another common mistake is incorrect cartridge installation sequence. If you put a coal block instead of mechanics, it will quickly become clogged with large particles of rust and lose its properties. Always follow the labeling on cartridges and flasks: PP → C → PP → RO → GAC.
Some users forget to release the pressure before unscrewing the flasks. This results in water splashing all over the kitchen and possible injury to your hands. Always open the drinking water tap after closing the inlet valve.
The main mistake of beginners is insufficient penetration of the membrane into the housing, which leads to mixing of purified and dirty water.
It is also worth mentioning the error associated with recycling old cartridges. Used filters contain preserved contaminants, so they should not be thrown into a regular trash container. Take them to special collection points or dispose of them according to the rules of your region.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
How do you know when it’s time to change cartridges if there is no counter?
The main symptom is a decrease in filter performance (the tank fills more slowly) or a change in the taste of the water. It is also worth focusing on the operating time: if more than 6 months have passed since the last replacement of pre-filters, it is better to carry out the procedure prophylactically.
Can mechanical cleaning cartridges be washed and reused?
Foamed polypropylene cartridges can only be washed visually to assess the degree of contamination. The structure of the material does not allow it to be properly cleaned of bacteria and small particles. Repeated use significantly reduces filtration efficiency.
What should I do if, after replacing the filters, water constantly flows into the drain?
Constant drainage of water may indicate several problems: low pressure in the water supply, a faulty shut-off valve, or a dirty membrane. If the problem appears immediately after replacement, check the correct connection of the tubes and the tightness of the membrane.
Do the flasks need to be disinfected every time they are replaced?
When regularly replacing cartridges, it is enough to thoroughly rinse the flasks with clean water. Disinfection with special solutions is required only after a long period of inactivity of the system or if an unpleasant odor appears in the flasks.
What water pressure is enough for Geyser Prestige to work?
For normal operation of a reverse osmosis system, a water supply pressure of 3 atmospheres is required. If the pressure is lower, the filter will not work efficiently and the flow of water into the drain will increase. In such cases, it is recommended to install a pressure booster pump.