APEC Water Systems Auto Shut Off Valve (ASO) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your APEC Water Systems Auto Shut Off Valve (ASO) replacement part. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity of the valve.

The ASO valve is designed to automatically stop the flow of water to your Reverse Osmosis (RO) system once the storage tank is full, preventing continuous water waste. It is an essential component for efficient RO system operation.

2. Product Overview

The APEC Water Systems ASO valve is a critical component for various APEC Reverse Osmosis systems, including models RO-45, RO-90, RO-PH90, ROES-50, ROES-PH75, and ROES-UV75. It features 1/4 inch quick-connect fittings for easy installation and is designed for durability and reliable performance.

Image 1: The APEC Water Systems Auto Shut Off Valve (ASO) replacement part, a white plastic component with four 1/4 inch quick-connect ports.

Key Features:

• Automatic Shut Off: Prevents water waste by stopping flow when the RO tank is full.
• 1/4 Inch Quick Connect: Ensures easy and secure tubing connections.
• Lightweight and Durable: Constructed from plastic for long-lasting use.
• Broad Compatibility: Suitable for most Reverse Osmosis systems, specifically APEC models RO-45, RO-90, RO-PH90, ROES-50, ROES-PH75, ROES-UV75.

Image 2: A cutaway diagram illustrating the internal diaphragm mechanism of the ASO valve, which allows the system to turn off the water supply when the tank pressure reaches approximately 65% of the supply water pressure.

3. Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure you have all necessary tools and that the main water supply to your RO system is turned off. It is recommended to relieve pressure from the system by opening the RO faucet before disconnecting any lines.

3.1 Quick Connect Instructions

Image 3: Instructions for using the 1/4 inch quick-connect fittings. To insert tubing, push it firmly into the port. To remove, hold the collet (blue ring) against the fitting and pull the tubing out.

1. Prepare Tubing: Ensure the ends of your 1/4 inch tubing are cut cleanly and squarely.
2. Insert Tubing: Firmly push the tubing into the quick-connect port until it seats securely. You should feel a slight resistance and then a click as it locks into place.
3. Verify Connection: Gently pull on the tubing to ensure it is properly seated and will not leak.
4. Remove Tubing (if needed): To remove tubing, push the collet (the small colored ring) inward towards the fitting and simultaneously pull the tubing out.

3.2 ASO Valve Connection

The ASO valve typically has four ports. While specific RO systems may vary in port labeling or color coding, the general connection principle is as follows:

• Inlet (from cold water supply): Connects to the filtered water line coming from the pre-filters (before the RO membrane).
• Outlet (to RO membrane): Connects to the inlet of the RO membrane housing.
• Inlet (from RO membrane): Connects to the purified water outlet of the RO membrane housing.
• Outlet (to RO tank): Connects to the inlet of your RO storage tank.

If replacing an existing ASO valve, it is often easiest to transfer one tube at a time from the old valve to the new one to avoid confusion.

Image 4: An ASO valve integrated into a typical under-sink Reverse Osmosis filtration system, showing its position relative to the filter housings and tubing.

3.3 Post-Installation Check

After connecting all tubing, slowly turn the main water supply back on. Check all connections for leaks. The system will begin to fill the RO tank. It is normal for water to drain initially.

Important: After installation, the system needs to pressurize before the ASO valve will function. This can take 5-10 minutes. Do not expect the water to stop draining immediately. If the ASO valve is installed correctly and there are no other problems with your system, the valve should engage once the correct pressure is reached, and the water will stop draining. If water continues to drain after 5-10 minutes, refer to the troubleshooting section.

4. Operating Instructions

The APEC Water Systems ASO valve operates automatically. Once installed correctly, it monitors the pressure in your RO storage tank. When the tank pressure reaches approximately 65% of the incoming supply water pressure, the valve will automatically shut off the flow of water to the RO membrane, preventing overfilling and continuous drainage.

When water is drawn from the RO faucet, the tank pressure drops, and the ASO valve automatically re-opens, allowing the RO system to produce more purified water until the tank is full again.

No manual intervention is required for the operation of the ASO valve.

5. Maintenance

The ASO valve is a durable component designed for long-term use. Regular maintenance primarily involves:

• Leak Checks: Periodically inspect all connections around the ASO valve for any signs of leaks. Address any leaks immediately by ensuring tubing is properly seated or replacing O-rings if necessary.
• System Performance Monitoring: If you notice your RO system running constantly or draining continuously, the ASO valve may need inspection or replacement.

There are no user-serviceable parts inside the ASO valve. If it malfunctions, it should be replaced.

6. Troubleshooting

If your Reverse Osmosis system exhibits issues related to water flow or continuous drainage, the ASO valve may be a contributing factor. Here are common troubleshooting steps:

6.1 RO System Running Constantly / Continuous Drainage

Symptom: The RO system continuously produces water and drains to the sink, even when the storage tank should be full.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty ASO valve.
• Incorrect ASO valve installation.
• Low pressure in the RO storage tank.
• Other system issues (e.g., faulty check valve, low incoming water pressure).

Solutions:

1. Verify ASO Valve Function: After installing or replacing the ASO valve, ensure the RO tank valve is turned OFF. Wait 5-10 minutes. If the ASO valve is working correctly and the system is building pressure, the water draining should stop. If it continues to drain, proceed to the next steps.
2. Check Tank Pressure: When the RO tank is full of water, it should have a pressure of at least 40 psi. If the tank pressure is too low, the ASO valve may not sense enough back pressure to shut off. You may need to re-pressurize the tank (refer to your RO system's manual for tank pressurization instructions).
3. Inspect Connections: Ensure all 1/4 inch quick-connect fittings are secure and free of leaks. A small leak can prevent the system from building adequate pressure.
4. Replace ASO Valve: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, and you suspect the ASO valve is faulty, replacement may be necessary.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support regarding your APEC Water Systems Auto Shut Off Valve (ASO) replacement part, please contact APEC Water Systems directly. You can find contact information and additional resources on their official website or through their Amazon store page.

Visit the APEC WATER Store for more products and support.