Culligan Whole House Water Filter R50-BBSA Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Culligan R50-BBSA is a heavy-duty pleated sediment filter cartridge designed for whole-house water filtration systems. It effectively reduces coarse sediment, rust, scale, dirt, and coarse sand particles larger than 25 microns. This filter is suitable for high-flow and well water applications, providing visibly clearer water and helping to protect plumbing and water-using appliances.

Key Features:

• Superior Filtration: Reduces particles larger than 25 microns, including sediment, rust, scale, dirt, silt, and fine sand.
• Long Lasting: Designed for a filter life of up to 6 months or 24,000 gallons, depending on water quality.
• Compatibility: Compatible with various whole house systems, including Culligan HD-950A and WH-HD200-C.
• Certified Materials: Constructed with quality, food-grade materials, certified by IAPMO R&T against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for Material Requirements only.

Image 1: Culligan R50-BBSA Whole House Water Filter Cartridge.

Image 2: The R50-BBSA filter shown with compatible whole house filter housings, including the HD-950A and WH-HD200-C models.

2. Installation Instructions

These instructions are for replacing an existing filter cartridge. For new system installations, refer to your system's specific manual.

1. Turn off water supply. Press the red pressure-vent button (if present) to relieve pressure. Rotate handle to OFF or BYPASS position for whole-house units (e.g., WH-HD200-C).
2. Unscrew housing. Remove the large o-ring, wipe clean, and set aside.
3. Clean housing. Wash the filter housing with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly. Fill 1/3 with water. Add about 1 tablespoon of bleach and scrub to disinfect. Rinse thoroughly.
4. Lubricate o-ring with clean silicone grease. Insert o-ring in groove. NOTE: This step is important to ensure a proper housing seal. Make certain the o-ring is seated level in the groove.
5. Insert new filter cartridge over standpipes in the bottom of the housing.
6. Screw housing onto the cap and hand-tighten. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. Make sure the cap standpipe slips into the cartridge.
7. Turn on water supply. Press the pressure-vent button (if present). Check for leaks before leaving the system.
8. NOTE: After installation, flush cartridge for 10 minutes, wait an hour, then flush again for 10 minutes before using the water. It is recommended that you run the tap for at least 20 seconds prior to using water for drinking or cooking purposes.

WARNING: Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system.

Image 3: Visual guide for filter cartridge replacement steps.

3. Operation

Once installed, the Culligan R50-BBSA filter operates by allowing water to flow through its pleated media, trapping sediment and other particulate matter. The filter is designed for a flow rate of 10 GPM (gallons per minute).

The filter provides visibly clearer water throughout your home, protecting appliances and improving the aesthetic quality of your water. It does not alter the taste or color of water, but rather removes physical impurities.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance, primarily filter replacement, is crucial for optimal performance.

• Filter Life: Replace the filter cartridge every 6 months or after 24,000 gallons of use, whichever comes first. In areas with high sediment content, the filter may need to be replaced more frequently.
• Replacement Indicators: A noticeable drop in water pressure or a decrease in water clarity are indicators that the filter may need replacement sooner than the recommended interval.
• Storage: Store replacement cartridges in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight.

NOTE: This filter cartridge has a limited service life. Changes in the taste, odor, color, and flow of the water being filtered indicate that the cartridge should be replaced. The contaminants or other substances removed or reduced by the cartridge may not necessarily be in your water.

NOTE: For plastic housings (such as during vacation), it is recommended that the system be flushed thoroughly. Let water run for 5-6 minutes before using.

5. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your Culligan R50-BBSA filter, consider the following:

• Reduced Water Flow: This is typically an indication that the filter cartridge is clogged with sediment and needs to be replaced. High sediment levels in your water supply will shorten filter life.
• Leaks After Replacement:
  • Ensure the large o-ring is properly seated in its groove and lubricated with silicone grease.
  • Verify the housing is hand-tightened securely but not over-tightened.
  • Check for cracks or damage to the housing or o-ring.
• Water Clarity Issues: If water remains cloudy or contains visible particles after filter replacement, ensure the new filter is correctly installed and that the housing is sealed. If issues persist, the problem may originate from a source other than sediment, or a finer micron filter may be required.

6. Specifications

Image 4: Dimensions of the R50-BBSA filter cartridge.

Image 5: Culligan Whole House Sediment Cartridge Selection Guide, highlighting the R50-BBSA as a heavy-duty 50 micron filter.

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the specific warranty documentation included with your product or contact Culligan customer support.

Culligan provides knowledgeable and responsive customer support for any questions regarding the use of your product.

Contact Information:

• Manufacturer: Culligan
• Website: www.culligan.com
• Phone: Refer to product packaging or official website for current support numbers.