Aquasana EQ-AST-WH User manual

Whole House
Salt-Free Water
Conditioner
Owner’s Manual
EQ-AST-WH and EQ-AST-WH-C

Meet clean, healthy water. Your new Aquasana®whole house Salt-Free Water
Conditioner system was expertly engineered to protect internal pipes and
plumbing from scale buildup without the use of harsh chemicals or salt.
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're protecting your
home's plumbing and extending the life of your washing machine, water
heater, dishwasher, and other appliances.
EQ-AST-WH and EQ-AST-WH-C
Whole House
Salt-Free Water
Conditioner
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Box Contents ................................................................................................................ 1
System Conguration.................................................................................................. 2
Use & Care .................................................................................................................... 3
Installation Steps......................................................................................................4–7
Warranty ....................................................................................................................... 8
Water for Life®Program.............................................................................................. 9

BOX CONTENTS 1
10" Pre-Filter
Shut-O Valve
(Not included
with Pro-Kit)
Salt-Free Water
Conditioner
3" Nipples (4)
Slip Unions (2)
Garden Hose
Adapter
Pre-Filter
Support Bracket
• Drill
• Wrench
• Channel locks
• PVC pipe cutter
Tools recommended for installation:
Parts and pieces included with your system will vary depending on your specic order.
Please call Customer Service with any questions or concerns 866-662-6885.
• NSF approved PVC primer and glue
• NSF certied plumber's tape
• Copper wire & grounding clamps
(if copper pipes are present)
Wrench
OPTIONAL UPGRADE - Professional Grade Install Kit
20"
Pre-Filter
10"
Post-Filter
Not NSF Certied
Pex Support
Brackets (2)
Brass
Valves (3)
Post-Filter
Support Bracket
Brass "T"
Fittings (2) Brass
Adapters (2)

2SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
2
If you have added components to your Salt-Free Water Conditioner,
note the correct sequencing below.
(Installation shown below includes Professional Grade Install Kit)
Before installing
• Lay out system in appropriate conguration. Improper sequence
of equipment will aect performance, and could possibly damage
your system.
• For all installations: Anticipate the need for additional parts and pieces
including but not limited to pex tubing, clamps and mounting screws to
install unit properly (available at a local home improvement stores or
through your plumbing contractor). Due to the varieties of home design,
not all congurations can be addressed in this guide.
• DO NOT install this water conditioner where the line pressure may
exceed 100 psi. The operating pressure range for this conditioner
is between 20psi – 100psi.
• Install on cold water lines only (40° – 90°F).
• Installation of the water conditioner must comply with existing state and
local plumbing codes. Aquasana and its manufacturer are not liable for
consequential or incidental damages due to improper installation.
• DO NOT install the unit on its side. It must be installed upright
to maximize contact with media bed.
Salt-Free Water
Conditioner
10" Post-Filter
(Optional)
10" Pre-Filter
20" Pre-Filter
(Optional)
UV Filter
(Optional)
Rhino®Water
Filter System
(Optional)

USE & CARE 3
Read all precautions and installation instructions carefully and completely
before installing.
Precautions
• Properly tighten all ttings to
ensure a leak-free assembly.
• NSF certied plumber's tape (thread
sealing tape) is the only sealer that
can be used on threaded ttings.
DO NOT use pipe dope or PVC
primer/glue on threaded ttings.
Exposure to these compounds will
damage nipples causing leaks.
• Pick an appropriate installation
location. Dimensions of systems
vary—always allow an estimated
minimum of 60” clearance for
height of tank, and a minimum
of 45” for oor space.
• Unit must be installed in an area
where the main water line enters
your home, before connecting to
the water heater. DO NOT install
after a water heater or on the
hot water line.
• It is recommended your system
be installed indoors and out of
direct sunlight. Prolonged
exposure to light can weaken plastic
components, resulting in housing
failure. If this is not possible and the
system is outdoors or in a sunny
area, the unit must be protected
from both direct sunlight
and freezing temperatures.
• If installing on metallic plumbing,
two grounding clamps and #4
copper wire are essential for safety.
• Some local codes may require
the use of a licensed plumber or
certied installer when disrupting
a potable water line.
• In areas with high pressure, a
pressure relief valve and a water
hammer arrestor may be necessary.
Cleaning
The exterior of your water conditioner
can be cleaned with warm, soapy
water. Rinse well with fresh, clean
water.
A Pre-Filter is included with your
system. Sediment levels vary from one
location to another. It is recommended
to replace your Pre-Filter every 2
months. If the ow rate has noticeably
decreased, replace your lter cartridge
sooner.
Specications
This water conditioner is designed and
tested for use with genuine Aquasana
parts including replacement lters and
all hardware. Use of parts from other
manufacturers may result in loss of
contaminant reduction performance,
system damage or failure. Use of parts
from other manufacturers will also
void your warranty. Please visit
aquasana.com for replacement parts.
Model: EQ-AST-WH / EQ-AST-WH-C
Replacement tank:
EQ-AST-WH-R / EQ-AST-WH-C-R
Additional Replacements:
20" Pre-Filter: EQ-304-20
10" Pre Filter: EQ-304
10" Post-Filter: EQ-PFC.35
UV Lamp: AQ-UV-L330C
NOTE: Never use chemical
cleaning products on the system’s
exterior surface as they may
damage the housing.

1. Once out of the box, keep the tank upright
at all times as to not apply pressure to
divider. Remove shipping caps from inlet
and outlet ports. Using supplied adapter,
connect a garden hose to the inlet port
so the water will ow into the system
and out of the outlet port.
2. Slowly turn faucet on and allow
discolored water to ow from
outlet into a suitable
drainage area.
TIP: You may need to slightly shake
the tank to help ush the system.
3. Flush the tank for 5-10 minutes.
4. Disconnect the system from the garden
hose, be sure the white washers are
properly set inside the inlet and outlet
ports, and position the system
for installation.
4
Pre-Condition Salt-Free Water Conditioner
Select Location
1. Pick an appropriate installation location. Unit must be installed in an
area where the main water line enters your home, before connecting
to the water heater.
2. Turn o the main water source prior to installation. Drain water from
lines to relieve pressure by turning on a faucet inside your home.
NOTE: DO NOT install after the water heater or on the
hot water line. Components and installation will vary.
NOTE: It’s imperative that this system is ushed properly prior to nal installation.
1
2
INSTALLATION STEPS

5
Prepare Salt-Free Water Conditioner
Wrap your pipe nipples with NSF
certied plumber's tape. Connect the
nipples to the system's inlet and outlet.
NOTE: DO NOT use pipe solvent
(dope), as solvents in some types
of pipe dope may cause damage to
plastic ttings. Do not over-tighten
to prevent damage to conditioner.
3
When installing on metallic plumbing,
ensure you take the following precautions.
Securely install two (2) grounding clamps
and a #4 copper wire (not included) across
the location where the system will be
installed. Tightly clamp at both ends,
as shown in the illustration.
Ground
Clamp
Ground
Clamp
Ground Wire
WARNING
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
Prior to installation on metallic
plumbing, securely install two
grounding clamps and a #4 copper
wire per installation instructions.
Failure to follow these instructions
can result in death or electric shock.
4COPPER PIPES ONLY (proceed to Step 5 for PVC Pipes)
INSTALLATION STEPS

6
Cut Pipes
Cut pipe along the marked sections from step
5 and clean ends of pipe. Ensure there are no
burrs, sharp edges or deep scratches.
6
NOTE: Cut tubing as straight as
possible with a utility knife, or
an appropriate pipe cutter for
copper tubing or PVC.
INSTALLATION STEPS
NOTE: DO NOT cut more pipe than necessary. You can cut more pipe
later if needed. If you're also installing a Pro-Install Kit or bypass loop,
do so at this time.
Incoming
water supply
Outgoing
water supply
Install Shut-o Valve and Ensure Spacing
1. Using a pipe cutter, cut into the main water supply line to install
the shut-o valve.
2. Loosely t shut-o valve to calculate proper spacing of components.
3. Measure distance for Pre-Filter, Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank,
and optional add-ons (Rhino Tank, Post-Filter, and UV) and mark
pipe accordingly.
If you're installing additional add-ons make sure to read through
those separate installation manuals prior to fully installing your
complete system.
5
Ensure proper spacing to t Pre-Filter, Salt-Free Water Conditioner,
and any optional add-ons
CORRECT
INCORRECT

Congure System
Fit Salt-Free Water Conditioner tank and additional optional add-ons
into the system at this time. Screw Pre-Filter support bracket onto
the wall and attach Pre-Filter.
Properly connect system together accordingly (slip ttings, barbed
ttings, NSF certied PVC glue, etc.). Ensure all parts are owing
through the "IN" port in the correct direction of water ow.
Final System Check
Once installation is complete, allow proper time for glue to dry
according to manufacturer instructions. Then, slowly turn water
on and inspect for leaks.
After inspecting for leaks, turn on the faucet closest to the
installed unit and allow water to run for 5-10 minutes for the
nal ushing period.
7
8
7
INSTALLATION STEPS

Who is covered
AQUASANA AND ITS SUPPLIERS, (herein collectively referred to as “Manufacturer”) warrants to
the owner of the home where the water conditioner is initially installed (hereinafter “Owner”). The
warranty is restricted to the water conditioner used in a single-family residence in the United States
of America and is void if moved from the original installation location.
What is covered
This Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship during the limited warranty
period of your Aquasana Salt-Free Water Conditioner including sub-components purchased
with original system (may or may not include pre-lter, post-lter, and ttings), except as provided
below. The water conditioner is warranted only when it is installed, operated and maintained in
accordance with the instructions accompanying the water conditioner found on Aquasana.com.
A water conditioner should be installed in such a manner that, if the tank or any connection thereto
should leak, the resulting ow of water will not cause damage to the area in which it is installed.
For detailed instructions read the manual accompanying the water conditioner and review drawings
in the manual.
For how long
This warranty runs for months specied in chart below from the date of purchase by a consumer
(herinafter "Warranty Period"). No warranty coverage will be provided if the claimant is unable to
provide proof of purchase. Water conditions and use rates may limit the functional lifespan of your
conditioner. This Limited Warranty does not extend to the full estimated life span of the conditioner.
What Aquasana will do
1. If necessary, the Manufacturer will provide a replacement that fullls the remaining estimated
lifespan/capacity (see chart) of your original purchase and send it to you with installation
instructions. If industry standards, product improvements or product obsolescence prohibit
Manufacturer from furnishing an identical model replacement water conditioner under this
warranty, the Owner will be furnished with a new water conditioner of comparable remaining
capacity and functionality; however, the Owner will be charged for the additional value of the
item(s) which Manufacturer has incorporated in the replacement water conditioner.
2. Component Part – If any component part proves to Manufacturer’s satisfaction to be defective
in material or workmanship within the warranty period listed on the data plate label, the
Manufacturer will furnish the Owner with a replacement for the defective part(s).
3. Return of Defective Water Conditioner and Component Parts – Manufacturer reserves the right
to examine the alleged defect in the water conditioner or component part(s), and it will be the
Owner’s obligation to return the water conditioner and/or component part(s) to the Manufacturer
at the Manufacturers request.
a. When returning a water conditioner, it must include all component parts.
b. When returning component part(s), they must be individually tagged and identied with the
water conditioner’s model number, date of purchase, and date of installation.
SALT-FREE WATER CONDITIONER
LIMITED WARRANTY
RHINO SYSTEM WARRANTY COVERAGE
Model Lifespan/Capacity
EQ-AST-WH / EQ-AST-WH-C 6 Years / 600,000 Gallons
Installation Kit
(includes pre-lter, post-lter, and ttings purchased with original system) 1 Year
This warranty does not include the UV FIlter. See full warranty information for the UV Filter in the original UV manual.

What is not covered
1. This warranty does not cover cartridges and any systems that were not installed in compliance
with the instructions or that have been abused or operated incorrectly.
2. The Limited Warranty stated herein is in lieu of any and all warranties, express or implied
(whether written or oral), including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability
and tness for a particular purpose.
3. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special, or contingent damages
or expenses, arising, directly or indirectly, from any defect in the water conditioner or the use of
the water conditioner.
4. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any water damage arising, directly or indirectly, from any
defect in the water conditioner or component part(s) or from its use.
5. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any damage or product failures caused by any of the
following:
• The water conditioner or any of its component parts have been subject to misuse, alteration,
neglect or accident.
• The water conditioner has not been installed in accordance with the applicable local plumbing
and/or building code(s) and/or regulations or in their absence.
• The water conditioner is not installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the printed
Manufacturer’s instructions, including if the water conditioner has any additional aftermarket
equipment introduced into the sealed system not approved by the manufacturer.
• The water conditioner is exposed to highly corrosive conditions.
• The water conditioner is not continuously supplied with potable water.
• The water conditioner is not operated within the factory calibrated temperature limits.
• The water conditioner is removed from its original installation location.
• The water conditioner is installed in direct sunlight or exposed to freezing temperatures.
• The water conditioner or any of its component parts fail due to iron or sediment build-up.
• Clogging due to purchaser’s failure to replace the Pre-Filter cartridge.
• Damage caused by re, ood or acts of God.
• Damage caused by over-pressurization in the water line.
6. This warranty does not cover damage caused by the use of parts that are not genuine Aquasana
parts. This includes, but is not limited to replacement conditioners, faucets, and/or diverter valves.
7. Except when specically prohibited by the applicable state law, the Owner, and not the
Manufacturer, shall be liable for and shall pay for all charges for labor or other expenses incurred
in the removal, repair or replacement of the water conditioner or any component part(s) claimed
to be defective or any expense incurred to remedy any defect in the product. Such charges may
include, but are not necessarily limited to:
a. All freight, shipping, handling and delivery costs of forwarding a new water conditioner or
replacement part(s) to the owner.
b. All costs necessary or incidental in removing the water conditioner or component part(s) and
installing a new water conditioner or component part(s).
c. Any material required to complete, and/or permits required for, installation of a new water
conditioner or replacement part(s), and
d. All costs necessary or incidental in returning the water conditioner or component part(s) to a
location designated by the manufacturer.
How to get service
To receive service under this Warranty, you must contact Aquasana (A. O. Smith Water Treatment
(North America), Inc.) at 1-866-662-6885 or [email protected] within the Warranty Period to
describe the problem to a customer service representative who will verify that the product is under
warranty and determine whether a part or the system will be replaced and whether you must send
back the unit. You will be required to provide proof of purchase and proof of proper installation.

EQ-AST-WH_OM_011921
Aquasana, Inc.
6310 Midway Road
Haltom City, Texas 76117
866.662.6885 USA
877.332.7873 Canada
www.aquasana.com
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