FSA GT1-18 User manual

High Performance Filtration | Media Vessel Pressure
Tank for Water Filtration with Backwash Head
Polyethylene Inner | 12" x 52" (GT1-18)
Contents
Technical Overview.........................................................................................................................................2
I. Important Notes.......................................................................................................................................2
II. Before You Purchase/Open ....................................................................................................................2
III. Before You Begin Installation .................................................................................................................2
IV. What is Standard Filtration ....................................................................................................................3
V. Installation with other Systems ...............................................................................................................3
Installation Introduction ...................................................................................................................................3
I. Site Preparation.......................................................................................................................................3
II. Installing Connections .............................................................................................................................4
Plumbing Installation, Start Up & Operation Instructions.................................................................................5
I. Plumbing Installation ...............................................................................................................................5
II. Filling the Vessel with Filter Media & Start-Up Commissioning...............................................................6
III. Turning the System On/Off ....................................................................................................................7
Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................................7
I. Spare Parts..............................................................................................................................................7
Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................................................8
General Warranty............................................................................................................................................9

Technical Overview
I. Important Notes
For correct operation of this appliance, it is essential to observe the manufacturer’s instructions.
Installation must be carried out by a qualified plumber or authorised technician to comply with Australian
Plumbing Codes. This filter system is certified to WaterMark Standards AS/NZS 3497 under Certificate
Number 23247. WaterMark certification is the level of certification required by law for a licensed plumber in
Australia to install a water filter system. Failure to follow these guidelines may void warranty and insurance.
II. Before You Purchase/Open
The system requires specific working conditions to be met before installation, some general guidelines* are
listed below. If these conditions are not met, the system may not be suitable for the application and may not
function as specified.
These systems are designed for use in home applications on Main Water or Tank Water. For applications
where raw water supplies are used (E.g. Bore, Dam, Creek) please contact the manufacturer for technical
assistance to determine if your application is suitable for these systems.
Feed Water Conditions Min Max
Working Pressure
(Ideal Operating Pressure
= ≤ 700 kPa)
- 1000 kPa
Max Flow
-
67L/Min
Max Vacuum
-
7kPa (5" Hg) Negative Pressure
Nominal Volume
-
84 Litres
Temperature 1°C
50°C
III. Before You Begin Installation
The GT1-18 Media Vessel kit comes standard with a Pressure Vessel (H1252FRP-2.5), a Runxin Manual
Multi Port Valve (GT36-33K) and a 1” Lateral Drop Tube (Riser Pipe) (GT36-30) (the tube is pre-cut to the
exact length required for installation with the bottom strainer pre-installed). A 1” One-Way Check Valve
(GT15-1) will also be required for installation, which you may purchase from FSA or supply your own.
These units are batch tested to ensure there are no leaks. Due to transit, fittings and other components
may be loosened or damaged – ensure the system and all components are inspected for damage
prior to employing a plumber for installation.
Lateral
Drop Tube/

IV. What is Standard Filtration
Standard Filtration generally refers to systems designed to remove dirt/sediment & chemicals (such as
chlorine) from drinking water. These systems are NOT designed to remove Fluoride or other dissolved
salts or minerals from water. These units are generally simple to install and run and have a lower cost to
maintain. They help improve the taste of the water whilst removing common impurities.
V. Installation with other Systems
It is common for Pressure Media Vessels to be installed alongside other additional filtration systems for
different applications. The most common of these would be a “Big Blue” Sediment/Carbon Filter and
Ultraviolet Sanitation System. Below are some example scenarios. NOTE: These are just guidelines and
may be different depending on the requirements of the job. Check with the client or supplier as to which
type of installation order is required for not standard installations.
Installing the GT1-18 as a Calcite Filter: Calcite filters are usually installed on Rain Water Systems to
counteract the pH of acidic rain water which usually causes green/blue staining in the water or on fixtures.
The calcite filter is usually installed as stage 1 as it is a back washable media vessel, followed by the Big
Blue System. The most common installation set up will go in order of Tank GT1-18 Calcite Filter Big
Blue UV House
Installation Introduction
I. Site Preparation
The GT1-18 Vessel must be installed in a vertical position on a solid base such as a concrete slab (500mm x
500mm minimum) in close proximity to the main water line coming into the house (between the pump &
house). Ideally you should locate where the cold water enters the building or tees off to the hot water system.
Either way, you will need access to modify the pipe work for system installation. Allow enough room to install
a bypass for the filtration system in the event that something goes wrong with the system, or during
maintenance so that water can still be supplied to the house.
Example bypass installation, which is strongly recommended with the GT1-18 Vessel.
All installations are different so please consult your plumber prior to installation.
The GT1-18 Vessel is UV resistant, however where possible, it is best for the longevity of the system to
install the unit under cover, or construct a simple cover for the system to shield it from direct sunlight and
weather extremes such as rain, storms and frost. Ensure that you allow adequate clearance above and
around the vessel for plumbing fittings and filter maintenance.

II. Installing Connections
The GT1-18’s Runxin Manual Multi Port Valve features standard 1” BSP Female ports for straightforward
installation. It is important that a suitable fitting is used for the installation into the housing port. Dimension
and specifications for the are Runxin Manual Multi Port Valve are outlined below. Coupling or union-style
fittings are recommended for easy installation and maintenance, to allow the Runxin Valve to be
removed and the vessel to be moved if required (i.e. for filling with media/emptying).
DO NOT use any type of liquid thread sealant as this will cause the cap to split shortly after it cures
– warranty will not cover this. Thread tape is the only form of sealing material permitted for use on
these housings. Alternatively, you can also use a suitable 1” BSP fitting with an O-ring for sealing.

III. Filter Protection
If there is no Pressure Limiting Device (PLV) installed on the main line incoming to the house to
limit the water pressure to 500 kPa, you will need to install one prior to the filtration system to
reduce the pressure in compliance with Australian Plumbing Codes & FSA Warranty. Failure to do
so may cause excessive pressure & potentially damage the filtration system.
It is recommended that an anti-water hammer device is installed on the house to dampen water hammer
commonly caused by washing machines. It is best to install these devices at the point of hammer such as
on the cold-water line at the washing machine or dishwasher.
Plumbing Installation, Start Up & Operation Instructions
I. Plumbing Installation
All installation scenarios may be different so there is more than one way to connect this system. The
example provided on page 3 showing a bypass set up would be the most ideal type of installation. The
plumber installing this system will determine which installation set up is best suited.
•Ensure that a one-way check valve is mounted before the filtration system.
•Control valves should be higher than the drain.
•Ensure the backflush is plumbed to drain. Do not directly connect the drain line to sewage to avoid
wastewater contamination.
•This system is a refillable media vessel, and as such, will require the head assembly to be
disconnected to allow changing or topping up of filter media. Due to this, it is recommended that you
use fittings and installation techniques that are easy to remove for maintenance.
•Note the Runxin Manual Flush valve has three settings: Filter, Fast Rinse and Back Wash. Toggle
between these settings by moving the position of the valve handle.
Mode
Symbol
Function
Filter
In Service (Filtration) – Flow from Inlet

Down Through Media

Up the Drop Tube

Flow to Outlet
Fast Rinse
Flow from Inlet Down Through Media Up the Drop Tube Flow to Drain
Back Wash
Flow from Inlet

Down the Drop Tube

Up Through Media

Flow to Drain

II. Filling the Vessel with Filter Media & Start-Up Commissioning
We strongly recommend to position the vessel in the installation location before filling with media – once
the vessel is filled it will be very heavy and hard to move! Coupling or union-style fittings are recommended
for easy installation and maintenance, to allow the Runxin Valve to be removed and the vessel to be
moved if required (i.e. for filling with media/emptying).
Calcite/Magnesium Media
Calcite and Magnesium media are commonly used for pH adjustment in Rain or Bore Water.
1. Lower the drop tube (riser pipe) into the vessel, dome end first, and centre it into the depression at
the bottom of the vessel. Using the funnel (sold separately), fill the bottom of the vessel slowly with
the supplied amount of filter gravel. NOTE: Be careful not to spill any gravel/media in the centre of
the drop tube.
2. Add 75kg of Calcite Media (Approx. 3 bags). Ensure the drop tube stays centred during the filling
process.
If using Magnesium pH Booster (Corosex):
a. If the source water’s pH is around 5, add 1/3 of a bag of Magnesium.
b. If the source water’s pH is around 4.5, add 1/2 of a bag of Magnesium.
3. Fit the top screen to the Runxin Valve and lock into place.
4. Install the base seal ring then fit the valve to the vessel, ensure that the o-ring stays in place while
tightening the valve.
5. Connect the plumbing to the valve head ready for start-up.
6. Set the valve to the “Back Wash” setting (refer to diagram on page 5).
7. Turn on water and back wash the system for 10-15 minutes, or until the water runs sufficiently clear.
8. After back washing has completed, open the nearest tap downstream of the filter to purge air from
the system.
9. Move the valve to the “Filter” setting. Once the lines have been sufficiently purged of air, close the
downstream tap. Your system should now be fully operational.
10. Optional: Conduct a pH Test after the filter to ensure pH has reached the desired level.
Granular Activated Carbon (“GAC”) Media
GAC media produces a fine black powder which tends to discolour water, and may clog up appliances
when first installed. Thus, it will need to be thoroughly backwashed to ensure that all carbon fines are
removed. Acid Washed Coconut Carbon is the preferred type of media for use in a media vessel
application, as it produces less carbon dust which makes the flushing process quicker and more efficient.
1. Lower the drop tube (riser pipe) into the vessel, dome end first, and centre it into the depression at
the bottom of the vessel. Using the funnel (sold separately), fill the bottom of the vessel slowly with
the supplied amount of filter gravel. NOTE: Be careful not to spill any gravel/media in the centre of
the drop tube.
2. Add Carbon Media to the vessel (Approx. 25kg unless specified otherwise). Ensure the drop tube
stays centred during the filling process.
3. Fit the top screen to the Runxin Valve and lock into place.
4. Install the base seal ring then fit the valve to the vessel, ensure that the o-ring stays in place while
tightening the valve.
5. Connect the plumbing to the valve head ready for start-up.
6. Set the valve to the “Back Wash” setting (refer to diagram on page 5).
7. Turn on water and back wash the system for 10-15 minutes, until the water runs sufficiently clear and
the presence of carbon dust has significantly reduced.
8. Then, set to “Fast Rinse” until the water runs completely clear.
9. After back washing and fast rinsing has completed and the water is running clear, open the nearest tap
downstream of the filter to prepare for purging air from the system.
10. Move the valve to the “Filter” setting. Once the lines have been sufficiently purged of air, close the
downstream tap. Your system should now be fully operational.

III. Turning the System On/Off
This will depend on the style of bypass that is installed on the system. Refer to the above diagrams of a
bypass in service and bypass position.
If the water to the house in not going to be used for over 48 hours, it is recommended to turn the water
supply off to avoid static pressure build up in the filter system. For periods of time over 1 week, the above
also applies, however we would suggest briefly flushing the system before use (allow the first few minutes
to run down the drain) specifically for drinking water. For this we recommend using “Fast Rinse” for 5-15
minutes to circulate the water.
Maintenance
I. Spare Parts
There are generally no parts (excluding consumables) on the system that will require periodic replacement
at regular intervals. Below is a list of items that may be applicable:
H1252FRP-2.5 HPF 12" x 52" FRP Tank (Grey) with 2.5" Opening
GT36-33K Manual Multi Port Valve (Runxin) with Top and Bottom Screen Filters
GT36-30 1" Drop Tube
GT5-6 No. 5 Filter Gravel 3.0 - 6.0mm 20kg
GT5-4 Calcite Granite 2 - 3.2mm (6 - 10 Mesh +/-) 25kg
GT5-0F Coconut Based Granular Activated Carbon 20kg
GT5-2F Coconut Based Silver Impregnated Granular Activated Carbon 20kg
GT5-25 Coal Based Carbon 25kg
GT5-15 Corosex pH Booster Filter Media 22.68kg
Replacement Filter Media
The lifespan of filter media varies according to feedwater conditions, usage and your unique filtration
requirements. Filter media can be replaced under the following guidelines under normal working conditions:
Calcite & Magnesium
Calcite & Magnesium naturally dissolve into the water over time, so check the pH every 3-6 months and top
up as required. Alternatively, if you have specific ph requirements (i.e. you have highly acidic water and
also use magnesium), test your pH ongoing and add more filter media when the pH drops below the
minimum desired level (ie. 6.8 pH). 75kg (3 bags) of Calcite Media will provide a full refill for the 12” x 52”
vessel – you should not have to empty the vessel to conduct a re-fill, as the gravel is re-usable. In cases
where Magnesium and Calcite are used together, add the calcite to the vessel first, then add the
Magnesium on top. Ensure that you do not overfill the vessel to the brim.
•If the pH is around 5, fill the vessel with a ratio of 75kg (3x 25kg boxes) of Calcite to 7.5kg (approx. 1/3
bag) of Magnesium.
•If the pH is around 4.5, fill the vessel with a ratio of 71.25kg Calcite to 10-12kg (approx. 1/2 bag) of
Magnesium.
Carbon
Carbon which has expired requires replacement, so check your parameters/requirements (i.e. testing for
free and total chlorine levels) every 3, 6 or 12 months and replace as required. Simple Free Chlorine
testing can be done after the filters to determine if the filters are still removing chlorine adequately from
your drinking water. These types of tests are generally inexpensive however for best results, lab tests are
recommended. To empty the vessel, you can use a syphon or up-end the vessel – please check with local
regulations for expired carbon disposal instructions. 20kg (1 Bag) of Gravel and 25kg (1 Bag) of Carbon
Media will provide a full refill for the 12” x 52” vessel

Troubleshooting
Problem
Possible Cause(s)
Solution
Leaking from in/out
Ports
1. Insufficient Thread Tape
2. Crack/Split
3. Incorrect Fitting
1. Remove existing tape and apply slightly more tape
– do not apply excessive amounts to avoid damage
to port.
2. Check the port for a hairline crack or split – if there
is one, the cap will need to be replaced, it is not
reparable.
3. The caps are 1” BSP and will require preferably a 1”
BSPT male fitting.
No Water Flow
1. Valve Position
2. Insufficient pressure
1. Check that the bypass and service valves are in the
correct position. Ensure the mains is also turned on.
2. Check the incoming water pressure and ensure it
meets the requirements of the selected filters. NOTE:
some filters require higher pressure to operate.
High pH Reading
1. Carbon Media
2. Magnesium Media
3. Insufficient Testing
Equipment
1. If you have a GAC filter (Carbon), this will naturally
increase the pH of the water. pH is the measure of
Hydrogen in the water and this hydrogen will vent off
the water if you leave it to stand and the pH will then
drop back down to the normal level.
2. Magnesium is designed to increase the pH. A high
pH reading with magnesium is normal.
3. pH testing equipment can range from cheap test
strips right up to lab grade equipment. Before coming to
a conclusion on pH issues, it is best to ensure the
equipment used to measure the pH of the filtered water
is of high standards and suitable for reading pH levels in
lower EC water (i.e. not test strips). We have access to
high quality testing equipment and frequently test our
units and conduct research. If you feel that there is an
issue with your pH, please contact us.
Strange taste to the
water (New System)
1. Residue
2. pH Alteration
3. Contamination
1. The filters are dry packed, the carbons, alkaline
filters will have ‘fines’ on them.
2. Carbon, Calcite and Magnesium will react with the
water when new and will increase the pH. People who
are not accustomed to higher pH water may notice a
strange taste/sensation due to the large variance of
pH. Flushing the system will help stabilise the pH from
and also allowing the water to stand before drinking
can also help allowing the water to ‘vent’ off the pH.
3. Bacterial contamination is highly unlikely, but not
impossible. If there is a strong ‘foul smell’ or organic
taste to the water, it is possible that there is some form
of contamination. Contact us straight away so we can
rectify (or diagnose) the problem if there is one present
Cloudy Water
1. Air in water
1. Air is common whenever the system is opened.
This will dissipate over time as the air flushes from the
system/plumbing.
Slimy Feeling Water
1. Activated Carbon
Reaction
1. This is a common symptom with activated coconut
carbon. It gives the feeling of ultra- softened water and
can feel slimy and also cause soaps to have an
increased lather making it harder to rinse off. This is
only temporary – keep flushing until the slipperiness
subsides.

Rev. 25/09/2020
General Warranty
Water Filter Systems¹ (Excluding consumables) Manufactured or Assembled² by Filter Systems Australia (FSA) are
covered under a 12-month Warranty Against Defects (Manufacturer’s Warranty). This warrants the water filter system
to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 12 months from date of sale.
If applicable, FSA may cover the return freight in the form of a re-imbursement after the system has been inspected
and confirmed it is a valid warranty claim.
FSA will not cover any labour charge incurred by the consumer for the replacement or repair of a product. The
warranty is strictly parts only for the parts supplied by FSA. This warranty only applies to the original consumer of the
product and is non-transferable. If you have purchased the system through a re-seller, please contact them to facilitate
the warranty on your behalf. All replaced or exchanged parts become the property of FSA.
FSA does not cover the workmanship of the plumber who originally installed the system. Responsibility for damages
that occur during installation fall with the plumber.
Qualification for Warranty
As per Australian Plumbing Codes, all filter systems must be installed by a qualified plumber. The consumer is
responsible for keeping record and proof of installation in the form of an invoice and/or receipt.
Filter systems must be maintained as per FSA recommendations³ including the use of replacement filters, fittings and
components supplied by FSA. Failure to maintain the filtration systems using FSA supplied/approved products may
void warranty.
The warranty only applies if the product was used and/or installed in accordance with the user guide and/or installation
instructions. This warranty is given in lieu of all other express or implied warranties and manufacturer shall in no
circumstance be held liable for damages consequential or otherwise or delays caused or faulty manufacturing except
as excluded by law.
Warranties need to be approved by FSA to ensure the product was not incorrectly used, installed or claimed. False
and incorrect claims will be pursued at FSA’s discretion including chargeable inspection and transit costs incurred.
FSA does not take responsibility for retaining customer records, it is the consumer’s responsibility to retain all invoices
or proof of purchase from the original sale and ongoing maintenance records as proof of upkeep.
Warranty Exclusions
FSA Standard Warranty shall be void if the product sustains damage or failure resulting from
any of the following:
• If your system(s) fails to be maintained in accordance with recommended servicing and as per the
manufacturers operating instructions.
• Unauthorised or abnormal use or operation.
• Exposure to unsuitable environmental conditions*.
FSA does not cover the work of the plumber who originally installed the system.
Warranty – Australia
This warranty is given by Filter Systems Australia (Jacknel Pty Ltd ATF The J & N Family Trust). ABN 64 855 305 562
Located at 1/38 Jade Drive, Molendinar QLD 4214. Ph 07 5597 4585 & email [e-mail]
This warranty is provided in addition to other rights and remedies you have under law. Our products come with
guarantees which cannot be excluded under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
Definitions
¹ Water Filter Systems are defined as systems designed for drinking water under our Water filter Systems, Reverse Osmosis Systems & Ultraviolet
Sanitation Categories – Excluding Cartridges and Shower Filters.
² Other products not manufactured or assembled by FSA are covered under the applicable manufacturer’s warranty.
³ FSA specifies recommended or required filter maintenance – see product information for further details. If a maintenance schedule is not
specified, filter maintenance is required at least once per 12 month period.
* Unsuitable environmental conditions include but are not limited to; Excessive hot or cold, Weather extremes.