1. Product Overview
The OPTI Flex 3 Gallon Alkaline Water Jug Filter is designed to provide healthy, great-tasting drinking water by removing contaminants and increasing water alkalinity up to 9.0 pH. This refillable unit is an alternative to traditional 2, 3, or 5-gallon water jugs and is compatible with most top-loading hot or cold water dispensers. It features a 5-stage ion adsorption technology filter, made in the USA, that reduces chlorine, lead, mercury, copper, zinc, and cadmium, while preserving beneficial trace minerals.
Image 1: The OPTI Flex 3 Gallon Alkaline Water Jug Filter, showing the clear jug, the internal filter cartridge, and a water float component.
2. Key Features
- Alkaline Water: Enhances water alkalinity up to 9.0 pH, which can remain stable for over 90 days.
- Contaminant Reduction: Reduces over 200 contaminants including chlorine, lead, mercury, copper, zinc, and cadmium.
- Mineral Preservation: Protects natural beneficial trace minerals such as Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, and Sodium.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit on any top-load water cooler, suitable for both home and office use.
- Easy Installation: No plumbing required for setup.
- Filter Lifespan: Each filter processes approximately 200 gallons of water.
- Filtration Speed: Filters approximately 1 gallon per hour using solid activated coconut carbon for thorough contaminant removal.
Image 2: Visual representation of OPTI Flex benefits, including natural alkalinity up to 9.0 pH, protection of beneficial trace minerals, removal of 99.99% of contaminants, and "Filters made in the USA" label. It also indicates a filtration rate of approximately 1 gallon per hour.
3. Setup Instructions
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove the OPTI Flex jug, filter cartridge, and water float from the packaging.
- Prepare Filter: Rinse the filter cartridge under cold tap water for 15 seconds to remove any loose carbon dust.
- Install Filter: Insert the rinsed filter cartridge into the designated slot within the upper reservoir of the OPTI Flex jug. Ensure it is securely seated.
- Place Float: Position the water float in the upper reservoir.
- Initial Fill: Fill the upper reservoir with tap water. Allow the water to filter through completely. Discard the first two full jugs of filtered water to prime the filter and remove any residual carbon dust.
- Position on Dispenser: Place the assembled OPTI Flex jug onto your top-load water cooler. No plumbing is required for this step.
Image 3: The OPTI Flex jug placed on a black top-load water cooler, illustrating its convenient design and ease of installation without plumbing.
4. Operating Instructions
- Filling the Jug: Pour tap water directly into the upper reservoir of the OPTI Flex jug. The water will slowly filter through the 5-stage system into the main reservoir.
- Filtration Speed: The filter processes water at approximately 1 gallon per hour. This slower rate is due to the use of solid activated coconut carbon, which ensures thorough contaminant removal.
- Water Level: The top reservoir is designed to maintain approximately 1 inch of water at all times to ensure the filter remains in contact with water for optimal performance. This is normal operation.
- Dispensing Water: Once filtered, the water is ready for use through your top-load water dispenser.
Image 4: A person filling a glass with fresh, clean alkaline water from a water cooler equipped with the OPTI Flex jug.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Filter Replacement
- The OPTI Flex filter cartridge has a lifespan of approximately 200 gallons.
- Replace the filter when the water flow significantly slows down, or after approximately 200 gallons of use, whichever comes first.
- To replace, remove the old filter, rinse the new filter as per setup instructions, and install it securely.
5.2 Cleaning the Jug
- Periodically clean the OPTI Flex jug with mild soap and warm water.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these may damage the plastic.
- Ensure all soap residue is thoroughly rinsed before refilling with water.
Image 5: A woman enjoying filtered water, with the OPTI Flex jug on a water cooler. The image highlights that each filter processes 200 gallons, saving up to 1,600 single-use water bottles.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Slow filtration rate | New filter not properly primed; filter nearing end of life; excessive sediment in tap water. | Ensure filter is rinsed for 15 seconds before first use. Discard first two full jugs of water. Replace filter if it has reached its 200-gallon capacity or if flow remains slow after priming. |
| Water taste or odor not improved | Filter not properly installed; filter exhausted. | Check that the filter is securely seated in the jug. Replace the filter if it has exceeded its lifespan. |
| Water not flowing from dispenser | Jug not correctly seated on dispenser; dispenser issue. | Ensure the OPTI Flex jug is properly aligned and seated on your water cooler. Consult your water cooler's manual for troubleshooting dispenser-specific issues. |
| Water remains in top reservoir | Normal operation. | The design intentionally keeps approximately 1 inch of water in the top reservoir to maintain filter contact and optimize performance. This is not a malfunction. |
7. Specifications
- Model Name: OPTI Flex
- Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 10.5 x 14 inches
- Product Weight: 5.3 Pounds
- Brand: OPTI Water Filter
- Manufacturer: OPTI Water Filter
- Special Feature: Chlorine Reduction, Alkalinity Enhancement
- Installation Type: Countertop (for jug on dispenser)
- Power Source: Manual Powered (no electricity required for filtration)
- Upper Temperature Rating: 100 Degrees Celsius (212°F)
- Included Components: One 200 Gallon Filter, 1 OPTI Flex Jug, Water float
- Certifications: Tested to ANSI & NSF standards 42 & 53
- Patent: US-Patent: 10,570,023-B2