The decrease in the water pressure from the storage tank or the appearance of an extraneous taste in the purified water directly indicates that the cartridges for the Atoll filter with reverse osmosis have exhausted their resource and require immediate replacement. Ignoring these symptoms leads to overload reverse osmosisThis is the most expensive element of the system and can cause the entire installation to fail. Owners of water treatment systems often face the need to correctly identify modules, as the use of non-original or micron-appropriate elements disrupts the filtration process cycle.
Labeled systems AtollThe A-550 and A-560 series are built according to the classic multi-stage cleaning scheme, where each stage is critical for the quality of the result. Untimely replacement of prefilters (pre-cleaning cartridges) leads to rapid contamination of the membrane element, which is economically impractical. Understanding the purpose of each module allows you to avoid unnecessary costs and provide the house with a stable flow of drinking water of high quality.
In this guide, we will analyze the replacement algorithm, the technical characteristics of standard sets and methods for diagnosing the state of the system without the involvement of specialists. You will learn how to properly sanitize flasks after installing new consumables and why it is important to relieve pressure in the system before starting work. Competent maintenance extends the service life of expensive components several times.
Device of the cleaning system and designation of steps
Standard reverse osmosis system Atoll It consists of several consecutive stages, each of which solves the problem of removing impurities. The first three stages are mechanical and chemical preparation of water before being fed to the membrane. It is here that replaceable cartridges work, which trap rust, sand, chlorine and organic compounds.
The first stage is usually equipped with a 5 micron mechanical cleaning module that removes visible suspensions. The second stage contains activated carbon granular form (GAC), necessary for dechlorination and improving taste. The third stage is often a carbon block (CTO) with finer purification of up to 1 micron, which finally polishes the water in front of the membrane.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Installing a carbon-filled cartridge on the first stage instead of a mechanical filter will cause it to instantly silt and lose pressure throughout the system.
The fourth stage is the heart of the system. reverse osmosisIt removes up to 98% of dissolved substances. The fifth stage, or post-filter, is installed after the storage tank and serves to correct the taste and smell of water immediately before feeding to the tap. Violation of the sequence of installation of modules makes the system inefficient.
Cartridge Types and Compatibility with Atoll Models
Filters Atoll They are available in 10 inch (SL10) Slim Line standard size cases, which ensures wide compatibility with consumables from other manufacturers. However, for guaranteed tightness and claimed resource, it is recommended to use original cartridges or certified analogues that exactly meet the specifications. The main difference lies in the filler and micronity of the pores.
For mechanical steps, it is critical to observe micronity gradation. Using a too rough filter (e.g., 20 microns) in the first stage will allow small particles to pass through, which will quickly clog the second stage coal block. Conversely, installing a filter that is too thin (1 micron) at the inlet will cause it to become contaminated quickly and often need to be replaced, which increases operating costs.
Coal cartridges also differ in production technology: the pressed block (Carbon Block) has a larger sorption area and better delays mechanics than granular coal. In systems Atoll A-550 Often used combination, where the second step is the granule, and the third - carbon block. This scheme is optimal for protecting the membrane from chlorine, which is the main enemy of polyamide membranes.
Replacement Regulations: Terms and Signs of Wear
The manufacturer sets recommended replacement intervals, which depend on the quality of the source water and the volume of consumption. For pre-cleaning cartridges (1-3 stages), the standard period is 6 months. However, in conditions of high pollution of tap water or high consumption, this period can be reduced to 3-4 months.
Reverse osmosis membrane It lasts much longer โ from 1.5 to 2.5 years, but only if the prefilters are replaced in a timely manner. If the pressure in the tank drops and the water in the drainage flows constantly, this is a sure sign that the pores of the membrane are clogged and it needs to be replaced. The post-filter (5th stage) is changed once a year, since its resource is determined not only by the volume of water, but also by the time during which coal retains its properties.
There are a number of signs that signal the need for unscheduled maintenance:
- A sharp decrease in system performance (the tank is accumulated for longer than 2-3 hours).
- The appearance of taste or smell in purified water.
- Increased discharge of water into the sewer (drainage).
- e Indications of the TDS-meter at the output above 20-30 mg / l (at a rate of up to 10-15 mg / l).
Savings on timely replacement of cheap prefilters leads to a quick and expensive replacement of the membrane.
Instructions for replacing cartridges with their own hands
The procedure for replacing consumables does not require a complex tool, but requires a strict sequence of actions to avoid leaks. Before starting work, it is necessary to close the water supply tap to the filter and open the valve on the storage tank to relieve pressure. It is also recommended to open the drinking tap to drain the remaining water from the system.
With the help of a special key included in the set AtollUnscrew the flasks counterclockwise. Act carefully so as not to damage the rubber seals (O-ring) on the threaded bulbs. Remove the waste cartridges and thoroughly rinse the inner surfaces of the flasks with warm water with a mild detergent that does not contain chlorine.
Checklist before installation
Install new cartridges in the bulbs, observing the orientation (usually the mesh layer on the outside). Insert the sealing rings into the grooves of the flasks covers, making sure they are not twisted. Twirl the flasks from hand to stop, and then slightly tighten the key (no more than 1/4 revolution after contact of the sealer). Excessive force can deform the thread or seal.
Compatibility and resources table of modules
For convenience of selection of consumables below is a table with the main characteristics of cartridges for standard systems Atoll. Note that sizes can vary slightly from one manufacturer to another, so always check the length and diameter before buying.
| Step | Type of cartridge | Nominee/Filler | Resource (mo.) | Article (example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mechanics (PP) | 5 ฮผm (polypropylene) | 3-6 | PP5-10SL |
| 2 | Coal (GAC) | Granular coal | 6 | GAC10-10SL |
| 3 | Carbonblock (CTO) | 1 ฮผm (press). coal | 6 | CTO10-10SL |
| 4 | Membrane | Reverse osmosis (1812-50) | 18-30 | RO50-1812 |
| 5 | Postfilter. | Coal in linear housing | 12 | InLine-Post |
The use of cartridges with a lower resource than stated, is possible with very soft water, but in harsh operating conditions, it is better to reduce the time. Membranes with a capacity of 50 gallons (standard for A-550) are the most common, but there are 75 and 100 gallons models that require a corresponding restrictive flow into the drainage.
System start-up and water quality control
After installing new cartridges, the system must be properly started. Close the drinking tap, open the valve on the tank (if it was closed) and smoothly open the water supply tap to the filter. Carefully inspect all flasks for leaks during the first 30 minutes of work.
The system will take 2 to 4 hours to fill the storage tank. The first portion of purified water (2-3 full tanks) is recommended to be drained into the sewer to wash coal dust and preservative from new filters. Only then can the water be used for drinking.
What to do if the connection leaks?
If you notice a drop of water at the junction of the bulb, do not panic. Cover the water, relieve pressure, unscrew the flask, check the sealing ring for dirt or clamps. Lubricate the ring with silicone lubricant (food) and twist the flask again. This often solves the problem without replacing the parts.
For an objective assessment of the quality of work, use the TDS-meter. Measure the indicator of tap water, and then purified. The degree of purification should be at least 90-95%. If the salinity content at the output is high, check the tightness of the membrane connections or the correct installation of cartridges.
Frequent errors in filter maintenance
One common mistake is to ignore sanitary treatment of flasks. Inside a humid environment, a biofilm can be formed during six months of operation, which a simple wash with water will not remove. It is recommended to wipe the inner surfaces of the flasks with a solution of baking soda or a weak solution of vinegar before installing new elements.
Another mistake is to install the cartridges in the wrong sequence. By confusing the carbon filter and mechanics, you risk quickly disabling the entire cleaning system. Always mark the bulbs or change them in turn, so as not to violate the logic of the movement of water.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Never leave a system without cartridges, even for a short time, if there is pressure in it. This can lead to hydraulic impact and destruction of the internal partitions of the flasks.
Also, users often forget to change the sealing rings, which eventually tan and lose elasticity. If you see that the rubber bands are cracked or flattened when replacing the cartridges, they should be replaced, even if they are in place recently. The set of rings is inexpensive, but prevents serious floods in the kitchen.
Useful advice: Buy a set of spare sealing rings along with cartridges. This will save you from a situation where the old cuff broke at the time of installation, and there is no new one at hand.
Diagnosing problems after replacement
If after replacing the cartridges, the system behaves incorrectly (noise, does not collect the tank, flows into the drainage), it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis. Noise and vibration can indicate the presence of air in the system, which is normal for the first hours of operation, or a faulty overlap valve. The constant flow of water into the drainage indicates leakage of the membrane body or sticking of the drainage valve.
It is important to check the pressure in the air cavity of the hydro tank. It should be about 0.6-0.7 atm (6-7 psi) with an empty tank. The wrong pressure in the tank creates the illusion of cartridge malfunction: water is either not collected at all, or flows in a weak trickle, although the filters are new.
Regular maintenance and use of quality components - the key to a long service of the filter Atoll. Compliance with replacement regulations protects your health and budget from the unforeseen costs of repairing complex plumbing.
How often should I change the cartridges in the Atoll filter?
Pre-treatment cartridges (1-3 steps) are changed every 6 months, the post-filter - once a year, and the membrane - every 1.5-2.5 years, depending on the quality of the original water.
Can I wash the cartridges and reuse them?
Mechanical cartridges (PP) can be washed to temporarily restore flow, but coal and membrane can not be washed. The sorbent resource and the pore of the membrane is not restored by washing.
Why does the water come with bubbles after replacing the cartridges?
This is the air that gets into the system when it is replaced. It's normal. It is necessary to empty and fill the tank several times to make the bubbles disappear.
Which cartridge is better: 1 micron or 5 micron on the first stage?
For the first stage, the standard is 5 microns. Installation of 1 micron will result in too frequent replacement (once every 1-2 months). 1 micron is usually placed on the third stage (carbon block).