Waterdrop 15UC-UF Inline Water Filter for Refrigerator

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Waterdrop 15UC-UF 0.01μm Inline Water Filter. This filter is designed to provide clean, crisp drinking water for your refrigerator and ice maker, effectively reducing chlorine, taste, odor, heavy metals, chemical impurities, sediment, and other large particles. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure proper function and safety.

2. Safety Information

• Install the filter only on the cold water line. Do not connect to a hot water supply.
• Ensure the operating temperature is between 35-100°F (1.7-37.8°C).
• Maintain operating pressure between 10-100 psi (0.7-6.8 bar).
• Avoid exposing the filter to direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.
• Use only the provided parts and connections for installation.
• Activated carbon is made from natural coconut shells. Confirm you are not allergic to it.

3. Product Overview

The Waterdrop 15UC-UF Inline Water Filter features innovative multistage filtration, including a 0.01 micron Ultrafiltration Membrane and activated carbon block. It is IAPMO certified against NSF/ANSI 42 standards for chlorine, taste, and odor reduction, and can lower lead when tested by a third-party laboratory against NSF/ANSI 53 standards. The filter is designed for compatibility with most refrigerators and ice makers.

Included Components:

• Waterdrop Undersink Water Filtration System ×1
• 1/4" PE tubing ×1
• 1/4" Male water supply line adapter ×1
• 1/4" Compression hex nut ×1
• Sleeve ×1
• Insert ×1
• Teflon tape ×1

Figure 1: The Waterdrop 15UC-UF filter effectively reduces various substances including chlorine, taste, odor, lead, sediments, rust, and large particles.

Figure 2: The Waterdrop 15UC-UF filter features a multi-stage filtration system with a 0.01μm filtration accuracy, designed for a long lifespan.

Figure 3: The filter utilizes an accordion-style structure for a large filtration area and 20x increased dirt adhesion, minimizing clogging and extending filter lifespan.

Figure 4: The Waterdrop WD-15UC-UF offers a 24-month lifespan and a 0.75 gpm flow rate, outperforming typical 6-month refrigerator filters.

Understanding TDS:

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) refers to the total concentration of dissolved substances in water. While a low TDS reading is often associated with pure water, it's important to understand that TDS measures both beneficial minerals and harmful contaminants. A high TDS reading does not automatically mean water is unsafe, nor does a low TDS reading guarantee safety. For example, distilled water has a TDS of 0, but water with beneficial minerals can have a higher TDS and still be safe and healthy to drink. The Waterdrop filter focuses on removing harmful substances while retaining beneficial minerals.

4. Setup and Installation

The Waterdrop 15UC-UF filter is designed for easy installation, typically taking less than 3 minutes with its innovative push-to-connect fittings. It can be installed under your sink or wall-mounted behind your refrigerator.

Installation Steps:

1. Prepare the Installation Area: Ensure you have enough clearance for the filter. For under-sink installation, leave at least 2 inches higher than the bottom of the cabinet for easier filter changes.
2. Fix the Filter Head: Use the provided assistant label to mark drilling points. Drill at these points and install screws, leaving enough space to hang the filter. Hang the filter system on the screws.
3. Shut Off Water Supply: Turn off the cold water supply to your sink or refrigerator.
4. Connect to Cold Water Line: Remove the existing refrigerator water tubing. Connect the 1/4" PE tubing to the original 1/4" male thread T-connector using the 1/4" compression hex nut, sleeve, and insert. Ensure the tubing hits the bottom of the fitting.
5. Connect to Filter Inlet: Connect the other end of the 1/4" PE tubing to the inlet of the filter head. Make sure the tubing hits the bottom of the fitting.
6. Connect to Refrigerator: Connect one end of the remaining tubing to the outlet of the filter head. Connect the other end of this tubing to the 1/4" male water supply line adapter, ensuring it hits the bottom of the fitting, then lock the clip. Connect this assembly to your refrigerator.
7. Check for Leaks and Flush: Turn on the water supply slowly and check all connections for leaks. Flush the filter for 5 minutes before initial use to remove any carbon fines.

Figure 5: The filter can be installed under the sink or wall-mounted behind the refrigerator. Ensure adequate clearance for maintenance.

5. Operating Instructions

Once installed and flushed, your Waterdrop 15UC-UF filter will provide filtered water directly to your refrigerator's water dispenser and ice maker. The fast flow rate of 0.75 gpm at 60 psi ensures a stable and quick supply of pure water.

Figure 6: Enjoy fresh drinking water without waiting, thanks to the stable and fast water flow provided by the filter.

Figure 7: The 1/4" interface allows direct connection to various appliances, including refrigerators, ice makers, and dishwashers.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance, primarily filter replacement, is crucial for optimal performance. The Waterdrop 15UC-UF filter has a lifespan of up to 2 years or 19,000 gallons, depending on usage and local water quality.

Filter Replacement:

The filter features a twist-and-lock design for quick and easy replacement without tools. Simply twist the old filter counter-clockwise to remove it, and then insert the new filter (Model WD-RF15-UF, search B085FTK7FV on Amazon) and twist clockwise until it locks into place. Flush the new filter for 5 minutes after replacement.

Figure 8: The twist-and-pull design allows for a 3-second filter swap, ensuring easy and clean maintenance with no leakage.

7. Troubleshooting

Slow Flow Rate or Clogging:

If you experience a slow flow rate or rapid clogging, first check that the inlet and outlet hoses are connected correctly. Incorrect hose connection can significantly reduce filter life and performance. Reconnect the hoses if necessary and flush the system for 10 minutes. If the problem persists, contact customer service.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact Waterdrop customer support. Refer to the product packaging or the official Waterdrop website for the most current contact information.