Waterite Excelgro+ Installation instructions

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INSTALLATION AND OWNER’S MANUAL
For Hydroponic Water Systems
THIS MANUAL IS TO BE LEFT WITH THE OWNER OF THE EQUIPMENT FOR
REFERENCE PURPOSES AND TECHNICAL GUIDANCE. IT IS STRONGLY
RECOMMENDED THAT QUALIFIED DEALER SERVICE PERSONNEL BE CONTACTED
IN THE EVENT OF AN UNKNOWN INTERRUPTION OF SERVICE OR APPARENT
PRODUCT MALFUNCTION. AN ANNUAL PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
INSPECTION BY A WATER PROFESSIONAL IS RECOMMENDED TO ENSURE
TROUBLE-FREE AND CONTINUOUS OPERATION.

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Congratulations!
You have purchased the finest hydroponic water system
available for your home garden. It will provide you years of
reliable service if properly installed, operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual before attempting installation
and operation.
Section 1. Frequently Asked Questions
Before getting started, take the time to familiarize yourself with your new Waterite
Excelgro+™ system by reading some FAQs listed below. Call us or ask your dealer if you
have any other questions about your system’s operation.
Q: How does your Excelgro+™ Hydroponic Water System differ from an ordinary water filter?
Ordinary water filters use a cartridge or membrane contained in a sump or housing to filter your
drinking water. Cartridge or membrane changes require housing wrenches and manual insertion of
the cartridges into the housings. Excelgro+TM systems use a convenient quarter-turn bayonet style
cartridge that may be easily changed without any system disassembly. Your system will deliver pure
water for an optimal crop yield.
Q: What is a membrane and how does it work?
A reverse osmosis (RO) membrane is a semi-permanent synthetic film that is spiral wound and
separates raw water from product water (permeate). Water containing dissolved contaminants and
salts is forced though the membrane by water pressure, with pure water being collected in the
storage tank and rejected contaminants flushed to waste.
Q: What processes does the Excelgro+TM systems use?
Excelgro+™ systems use combinations of 4 types of treatment to produce your drinking water. 5-
micron polypropylene (PP) particle filters remove dirt, rust and other sediment. Activated carbon
cartridges (granular carbon in GAC and moulded briquettes in CBC) remove chlorine, colour, taste,
odours and other contaminants. RO membranes will reduce concentrations of dissolved mineral
and salt ions in the water by up to 99.9%.
Q: Where is the system installed?
The Excelgro+™ systems are compact and take up very little space, they can be installed in virtually
any indoor or sheltered outdoor location. Should an outdoor location be chosen the system must be
protected from freezing. Keep in mind that filter cartridges will need periodic replacement and that
easy access must be maintained. Do not install in a location with high humidity, heat or direct sun.
Q: How much water does the Excelgro+™ system produce?
A Excelgro+TM RO system will nominally produce 300-350 US gallons (1130-1325 litres) of product
water per day. This output will be affected by system pressure, concentration of Total Dissolved
Solids in the raw water, raw water temperature and other localized factors. Normally, you can expect
the system to produce 45 to 55 litres of water per hour. You may wish to install a pressure water
storage tank on the permeate line if peak usage exceeds system output. Your dealer can help select
a tank and provide the fittings necessary.

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Q: What is the standard warranty with Excelgro+™ systems?
Every Excelgro+™ system comes with a standard one-year limited warranty on all parts and repair
labour. A detailed warranty card is included with the unit. You may purchase an extended
consumer warranty if you wish - see the enclosed Extended Warranty Program information
sheet and enrolment form included in your package. Call your dealer or go to www.waterite.com
to apply. Normal filter cartridge replacement is excluded from your warranty.
Q: What is the cartridge replacement schedule for the Excelgro+™ system?
A good rule of thumb is to replace filter cartridges (green and blue cartridges) every three to six
months. RO membranes have a life usually ranging from one year to as much as five to seven
years, dependent upon local water conditions Slower production rates on RO systems are an
indicator that the membrane may require replacement.
Section 2. Unpacking and Installation
Your system includes:
Carton Contents (Fig 1A)
The main 4 stage RO/filter unit assembly;
One encapsulated membrane (pre-installed), one sediment filter cartridge, two carbon block
filter cartridges;
One garden hose adapter;
One push-on 3/8””shutoff valve;
Two #10 X1” bracket mounting screws;
Poly tubing for water connections ¼” and 3/8” clear; (¼” black is for drain line);
One Owner’s package including owner’s manual, warranty certificate, Extended Warranty
Plan enrolment form, Waterite Parts Program enrolment form;
One Pressure Reducing Valve
One Leak Stop leak detection device
Step 1. Selecting the System Location
Excelgro+™ systems are compact and take up very little space, they can be installed in virtually any
indoor or sheltered outdoor location. Should an outdoor location be chosen the system must be
protected from freezing. Do not install in a location with high humidity, heat or direct sun.
Figure 1A.
Mounting Bracket RO Membrane
Sediment Cartridge (blue)
PE Tubing Carbon Block Cartridge
(green)
Pressure Reducing Valve
Leak Stop
Garden Hose Adapter 3/8” Shut Off Valve

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Step 2. Getting Ready
1. Clear working area. Unpack all components and check for visual damage. Ensure all listed
components are included.
2. You will need the following tools: An electric drill, a 1/8” drill bit,a pencil, a sharp knife for
cutting tube (X-Acto type knife is best), a Phillips-head screwdriver, a center punch. Always
wear eye protection when using an electric drill.
Step 3. Mounting the RO Unit
1. While holding the RO unit in its mounting position, mark the holes for the wall screws with
the pencil and center punch. Using a 1/8” bit, drill the pilot holes for the screws. The two
mounting holes are 13.5” centers. Use the #10x1” lag screws and washers supplied.
2. Screw in the mounting screws leaving ¼” protruding. Hang the RO mounting bracket on the
screws and tighten.
3. If the unit is to be mounted on wallboard, use plastic screw anchors, available at any builder’s
supply and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Step 4. Connect the System Tubing
1. Install the ¼” tubing preassembled with the garden hose adaptor to the cold-water source.
A garden hose fitting has been provided to connect the 1/4” line to a normal hose bib.
(Additional fittings will be necessary if the system is attached to other cold water sources.)
Measure and cut the tubing to allow for easy access to the RO unit. Connect the other end
of the ¼” tubing to the cold-water inlet on the RO (as marked).
2. To install the pressure reducing valve, cut the line between the cold-water source and the
water inlet. Make sure the arrow is pointing in the direction of the flow. (cold water source
RO). See the addendum following this manual.
3. Connect the pre-attached black ¼” tube (marked “to drain”) to a nearby drain line ensuring
that a 2-3-inch air gap is maintained to avoid cross contamination of the RO unit, secure
firmly. A drain line flow restrictor has been factory installed INSIDE the black drain tube at
the system drain connection.

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4. Connect the 3/8” tubing to the system permeate outlet (RO water). A shutoff valve is
preassembled on the other end of the 3/8” tubing.
5. You may find that your unit does not have labels attached to indicate the water line and drain
line connections. The photos below are labelled with the correct locations for the water and
drain connections
Drain
Permeate outlet
Cold water inlet
SYSTEM BACK VIEW
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DO NOT USE ANY WATER FROM THE SYSTEM UNTIL THE NEXT STEP IS COMPLETE.
Step 5. Starting Up the Excelgro+TM Filtration System
1. Turn on the water supply valve, close the shutoff valve on the permeate line and check all
connections for leaks. Do not proceed further until any leaks are fixed.
2. Let the system operate for about 10 minutes. Check for leaks again and fix if necessary.
3. The system is now operating.
Section 3: Operation and Maintenance
Operation of your Excelgro+TM Filtration System is simple and easy. This appliance is fully automatic
and can be enjoyed without complicated operating procedures. Be sure to follow the cartridge
replacement schedule to ensure peak performance and long membrane element life.
Changing Filter Cartridges
The green and blue cartridges should be changed, as a rule of thumb, every three months,
depending on local raw water conditions. The RO membrane will normally last from a little as one

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and to as much as seven years.Falling system flow rates on RO systems are indicators that the
pre-filters and/or membrane requires replacement.
The pressure gauge located on the system bracket also is helpful in alerting the user to change
cartridges. It indicates the water line pressure after the pre-treatment cartridges. The indicated
pressure will fall when the cartridges require changing. When the pressure falls below 40PSI (2.75
bar), cartridges should be changed. (Note: This applies if the inlet pressure to the RO is 50 psi or
greater).
Membrane elements require changing much less frequently than the filter cartridges and only when
failure is indicated. This should be done when water production begins to noticeably fall or TDS
readings in the product water begin to rise. Total Dissolved Solids may be measured by a water
professional or by use of a simple hand-held TDS meter. These are available from your dealer or
from Waterite’s Online Store at www.waterite.com.
Soft water free from iron is ideal for long membrane life. Hardness, iron, chlorine and infrequently
changed filter cartridges are the membrane’s greatest enemies.
1. Close the cold-water supply valve. Depressurize the system by draining the water until the
flow of water stops. Grasping the cartridge to be removed, twist ¼ turn COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE.The cartridge will disengage and can be easily removed by pulling it out of
the socket. Repeat for each cartridge to be changed.
2. Wash hands thoroughly. Remove the replacement cartridge from its box and its sani-sealed
protective sleeve. Remove the protective cap. Make sure the correct cartridge is installed in
its socket according to its colour. Locate the alignment tab on the top of the cartridge (there
are two at 180 degrees from each other) and align with the center of the cap alignment
socket. Push cartridge straight up into the socket, while turning ¼ turn CLOCKWISE. The
cartridge will engage and lock into place. See figure 5.
Figure 5.
Cap alignment
socket
3. Turn the water supply valve ON. Allow the system to run for two to five minutes to flush.
You may now resume normal use of the system.
Your Warranty
Keep your bill of sale and your warranty certificate, included in this kit. This is needed to claim any
parts or repair service during the warranty period. Read the document completely for warranty claim
instructions.
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BE SURE TO RETURN THE EXCELGRO+TM WARRANTY CARD LOCATED IN YOUR
LITERATURE KIT. THIS IS NECESSARY TO VALIDATE YOUR PRODUCT WARRANTY.

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Section 4: Troubleshooting Guide
Trouble Possible Cause Solution
Low Water or No Water Water supply valve closed Open valves
Low home water pressure Must exceed 40 PSI. If lower,
install booster pump – see
dealer
Crimped poly tube Repair or replace tube
Filters or membrane plugged Replace cartridges or
membrane
Tubes installed to wrong fitting Install tubes per S.6 (1), (2) and
(3).
Flow restrictor (DLFC) Check DLFC and replace if
necessary
Raw water TDS high Consult dealer – may need pre-
treatment
System Runs Auto shutoff valve defective Replace valve
Continuously
Flow restrictor (DLFC) Check DLFC and
replace if necessary
Leaking Joints Fittings not seated Disconnect fitting
and reseat tube.
See S.6.
HYDROPONIC WATER SYSTEM
COMMON PARTS LIST
DESCRIPTION
PART NUMBER
Auto shut-off valve (RO)
ROS002
Pre-filter PP Sediment Cartridge (Blue)
VTSED05
Pre-filter CBC Carbon Cartridge (Green)
VTCBC10
400 GPD RO Membrane
BME3013SXL
Garden Hose Adapter
A4FAN9
Leak Stop Device
LS1414KAD
3/8” shut off valve push fit
A6HVU6
Drain Line Flow Control 750 ml/min (DLFC)
069E
¼” Clear Tubing (100ft)
3634100
3/8” Clear Tubing (100ft)
3636100

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Calculating your RO System’s Daily Output
The Pressure and temperature chart below will help you determine what daily output you can expect
from your Excelgro+TM RO System. Your RO system is rated to produce 400 US gallons per day,
or approximately 1515 litres per day. Membranes are nominally rated at about 77°F (23°C) and 65
PSI (4.5 bar). By measuring your household pressure and inlet water temperature, you may
calculate the expected production of your RO system in your home. Keep in mind that RO
membrane output normally decreases with age, up to about 10% in the first year.
Example: 58°F (13°C) and 50 PSI (3.4 bar) measured in your home at the RO inlet.
(From the chart below) .5094 X 400 gallons = 203.8 gallons (771 litres) per day.
203.8 gallons/24 hours = 8.5 gallons (32.2 litres) per hour production rate
VISIT THE WATERITE WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION,
CONSUMER ONLINE REPLACEMENT PARTS AND PRODUCT
UPDATES AT:
www.waterite.com

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ADDENDUM 1
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR WATERITE P/N REGP1414E PRESSURE REDUCING
VALVE
Residential drinking water RO systems are designed to operate at normal household water
pressure levels, about 50 to 65 PSI. While systems and components are factory tested to
125 PSI, this is to only check for leaks and component
integrity. On occasion, some household line pressures may
exceed this normal range and range up to100 PSI. Constant
high pressures exposure may, over time, weaken critical
components and lead to leaks or component failure. Similarly,
many households have fast-acting valves in such places as
washing machines, dishwashers or other appliances. This
may cause sudden hydraulic shock or water hammer
conditions throughout the plumbing system (pipes ‘banging’)
that could cause components or tube to break or rupture.
A well-designed plumbing system usually incorporates shock
arrestors (see figure 1) to soften the effects of water hammer.
Also, most areas where high line pressure exists will require
every home to be equipped with a pressure reducing valve that lowers the household
pressure to a normal range. However, some household plumbing may not have such
safeguards.
Figure 1.
As additional protection for the RO from over-pressure and water hammer, your kit has been
equipped with a combination water pressure reducer and water hammer arresting device,
Waterite p/n REGP1414E. This device is installed on the cold water inlet tube that feeds
the RO system. See figure 2.
Figure 1
Figure 2
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It is highly recommended that residential RO system installations be made only
in homes where line pressures are at a maximum of 65 PSI and water hammer
arrestors are present.

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1.0 Install the REGP1414E device
1.1 Turn off the water supply to the cold water supply adapter.
1.2 Using a sharp knife or tube cutter, cut the ¼” tube between the Leak Stop device and
the cold water inlet to the RO system. Make sure the cut is straight and without burrs.
1.3 Insert the tube from the cold water supply adapter into the inlet of the REGP1414E
device. Check the arrow on the device to make sure the flow direction is correct. See
figure 2. Make sure the tube is pushed all the way into the fitting and bottoms out. Tug
on the connection to make sure that it is secure.
1.4 Connect the outlet of the device to the tube leading to the RO. Make sure the tube is
pushed all the way into the fitting and bottoms out. Tug on the connection to make sure
that it is secure.
1.5 Turn on cold water supply and check for leaks. Reinstall tube connections if necessary.
Installation is now complete.

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ADDENDUM 2
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR LEAK STOP FLOW INTERRUPTOR
Waterite now includes a non-electric leak detection device, with all residential RO systems. This
LEAK STOP is easy to install and will automatically shut off the incoming water being supplied to
the RO unit if any water comes in contact with it.
Simply mount on the floor of the cabinet directly under your RO unit is installed. If a leak occurs on
the RO system, the sensor is triggered and an internal valve closes, preventing water from running
to the RO system and causing water damage.
The LEAK STOP is supplied with a mounting bracket, two-sided tape to make installation easy.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS (see Figure 1 below)
For new system installations, installing the LEAK STOP should be your LAST step.
1. Turn inlet water valve off.
2. Using the 2-sided tape provided, place the LEAK STOP in a convenient location under the RO
system, in a place most likely to get wet in the event of a system leak. Make sure the area is
COMPLETELY free of moisture. Remove the tape film and push down firmly so that tape adheres
to surface. (Fig. 1 & 2)
3. Remove the red locking rings from the ports on the LEAK STOP device. (Fig. 3)
4. If desired you can also fasten the bracket directly to the base of the cabinet by using the screw
holes provided on the base of the LEAK STOP. (Fig. 1)
5. From the shut off valve on the main feed line, attach the ¼” (10mm) tube to the inlet side (IN) of
the LEAK STOP device. (Fig 3)
6. From the outlet (OUT) side of the LEAK STOP, connect a ¼” (10mm) tube to the cold-water inlet
of the RO system. (Fig. 4)
7. Make sure all connections are tight and that the tube has been inserted all the way into the LEAK
STOP fittings. Secure the tubing with the locking rings supplied with the LEAK STOP. (Fig. 4)
8. Turn inlet water valve on. Make sure there are no leaks around the fittings.
Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4
Screw mount holes locking clips inlet outlet
WARNING!
The LEAK STOP should be wrapped with a dry towel or cloth before changing
cartridges. This will help avoid it coming into contact with water that may be
accidentally spilled in the process. Should the LEAK STOP device come into
contact with any water, the device will be triggered and the tablet will need changing
(LEAK STOP refill tablet part number HDJMF01T).

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REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT ONLINE AT WATERITE.COM OR FILL OUT THE
INCLUDED PRE-PAID, SELF ADDRESSED POSTCARD.
WATERITE, INC.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
www.waterite.com