VIQUA UV Water System Owner's Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on the purchase of your ultraviolet (UV) water system! This system uses the most advanced UV technology on the market and is designed to provide you with years of trouble-free operation with minimal maintenance. To ensure ongoing optimal operation, UV lamps need to be replaced annually with VIQUA factory-supplied replacements. VIQUA lamps are the result of extensive development, resulting in a highly efficient platform with extremely stable UV output over the entire 9000-hour lifetime. Its success has led to a proliferation of non-genuine copies in the market. The UV lamp is the heart of the UV system, and there should be no compromise when it's time for a replacement. Insist on genuine VIQUA replacement lamps to avoid damage to the control module, safety risks, and to ensure equivalent performance.

Section 1: Safety Information

1.1 Potential Hazards

• WEEE: ♻️ Waste electrical and electronic equipment. Do not discard in trash; contact local recycling/reuse or hazardous waste center for proper disposal.
• Mercury (Hg): ⚠️ This symbol indicates Mercury is present.
• Safety Alert: ⚠️ Obey all safety messages following this symbol to avoid potential injury. Refer to the Operational and Maintenance manual for additional information when on the equipment.
• Electrical Shock: ⚡ Risk of electrical shock and/or electrocution exists.
• Ejection Risk: ⚠️ Marked equipment may contain a component that can eject forcibly. Obey procedures to safely depressurize.
• Pressure: ⚠️ System is under pressure.
• UV Hazard: ⚠️ Potential UV hazard. Proper protection must be worn.
• Hot Surface: ? Marked item could be hot and should not be touched without care.
• Hot Water: ? Potential for VERY hot water when flow is started.
• Combustible Material: ⚠️ Do not store combustible or flammable material close to the system.
• Fragile: ⚠️ Contents of the transport package are fragile; handle with care.
• Eye Protection: ? Safety glasses with side protection are required for protection against UV exposure.
• Gloves: ? Gloves must be worn.
• Boots: ? Safety boots must be worn.
• Operator Read: ? Operator must read all available documentation to perform required procedures.
• Copper Piping: ? Plumber must use copper piping.
• GFCI Protection: ? System should only be connected to a properly grounded, grounding-type controller receptacle protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or residual current device (RCD) not exceeding 30 mA.

1.2 Safety Precautions

DANGER: Failure to follow these instructions will result in serious injury or death.

• Electric Shock: Take special care as water is present near electrical equipment. Do not attempt repairs yourself; refer to an authorized service facility.
• GROUNDING: This product must be grounded. Use a cord with an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. Plug into an appropriate, properly installed, and grounded outlet. Do not modify the plug or use adapters.
• GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER PROTECTION: Connect to a properly grounded GFCI or RCD outlet (not exceeding 30 mA). Inspect GFCI operation regularly.
• DO NOT operate the UV system if it has a damaged cord or plug, is malfunctioning, or has been dropped or damaged.
• DO NOT use this UV system for other than intended use (potable water applications).
• DO NOT install this UV system where it will be exposed to weather or temperatures below freezing.
• DO NOT store this UV system where it will be exposed to weather or temperatures below freezing unless all water has been drained.

WARNING:

• During extended periods of no water flow, water in the chamber can become very hot (approx. 60 °C) and potentially lead to scalding. Run water until hot water is purged. A temperature management valve can be installed at the outlet.
• Do not pass water through the UV system for a minimum of 5 minutes after applying power to avoid passing under-treated water.
• Do not operate the UV Lamp when it is removed from the chamber. Unintended use or damage may result in exposure to dangerous UV radiation, which can harm eyes and skin.
• Changes or modifications made without manufacturer consent could render the system unsafe and void the warranty.
• California Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including phthalates (known to cause cancer) and mercury (known to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm). For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

CAUTION: Failure to follow these instructions could result in minor or moderate injury.

• Carefully examine the UV system after installation. Do not plug in if water is on parts not intended to be wet.
• Due to thermal expansion and UV exposure, use metal fittings and at least 10" of copper pipe on the outlet of your UV chamber.
• Mercury (Hg) Exposure: If the lamp breaks, avoid inhalation or ingestion of debris and exposure to eyes and skin. Never use a vacuum cleaner. Obey local regulations for mercury disposal.

NOTICE:

• The UV system inactivates Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Fecal Coliform.
• The UV lamp has an effective life of approximately 9000 hours. Replace annually for continuous protection.
• The UV system is not to be used or played with by children. Persons with reduced capabilities or lack of experience should only handle the system with supervision or instruction.
• This system is intended to be permanently connected to water lines.
• This system is not intended for use in or above water, outdoors, or in swimming pools when persons are in the pool.
• Extension Cords: Use only 3-wire, outdoor-rated extension cords with a rating not less than the system's rating. Avoid tripping hazards. Do not use damaged cords. Disconnect from receptacle before disconnecting the system. Always grasp the plug, not the cord.
• If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent.
• System Protection: A UL1449 certified transient voltage surge suppressor is strongly recommended for the controller.
• The UV lamp conforms to applicable CFR requirements, including Title 21, Chapter 1, Subchapter J, Radiological Health.
• Read and understand the Owner's Manual before operating or performing maintenance.

1.3 Water Chemistry

Water quality is extremely important for optimum performance. Recommended levels for installation:

*Where total hardness is less than 7 gpg, the UV unit should operate efficiently provided the quartz sleeve is cleaned periodically. If total hardness exceeds 7 gpg, the water should be softened. Proper pre-treatment is essential for the UV system to operate as intended.

Section 2: General Information

2.1 Dimension and Layouts

The Drinking Water System (DWS) may be installed under a sink, in a basement, or other location depending on available space. Do not install where temperatures fall below freezing, as this damages the unit. The faucet should be placed near the sink where drinking/cooking water is normally required. A 2" diameter flat surface is required to mount the faucet (not exceeding 1-1/4" thickness). Feed water connection is accomplished with a 1/2" x 1/2" x 3/8" adaptor. Locate this assembly as close to the DWS as possible. Connect to a potable, cold water supply line only.

Figure 2: Water Treatment System Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the typical installation of the UV system under a sink. It shows a faucet, a cold water supply line connecting to a Water Supply Adaptor (1/2" x 1/2" x 3/8"), which then connects to the UV system's inlet. The UV system consists of two filter housings followed by the UV chamber. The outlet of the UV system connects to a Faucet Adaptor (7/16 UNS to 3/8" tube) which feeds the faucet. Key dimensions are indicated: 3" (from supply line), 15" (system length), 17.5" (system height), 9" (distance from wall to faucet), 4.7" (faucet base to spout end), 8.5" (faucet height), 25" (overall depth from wall), and 64" (height from floor to faucet). Mounting holes for the system are shown on the back.

System Components (Figure 1)

Figure 1: System Components Diagram Description: This diagram shows a visual representation of the UV system with numbered parts. The components are detailed in the table below.

Section 3: Installation of Drinking Water System

3.1 Faucet Installation

If the sink has a sprayer, it may be disconnected for faucet installation. A pipe cap or plug will be necessary to seal the sprayer connection. To make the faucet mounting hole (if sprayer or second hole is not used), check under the sink to ensure the drill does not interfere with anything. Center punch a small indent at the desired faucet location. A 2" diameter flat surface is required, not exceeding 1-1/4" thickness. Drill the required pilot hole and tighten the nut to cut the desired hole size. Clean up sharp edges. The faucet should be positioned to empty into the sink and swivel freely. If the sink has a suitable hole, no drilling is required.

Figure 3: Faucet Installation Diagram Description: This diagram shows the components of a faucet assembly. From top to bottom, it lists: Chrome Base Plate, Rubber Washer, Threaded Nipple, Flat Washer, Star Washer, Hex Nut, and Faucet Adaptor. It illustrates how these parts are assembled onto the sink or counter.

3.2 Mounting Faucet

Disassemble hardware from the threaded nipple, except for chrome base plates and rubber washers. Feed the threaded nipple through the sink or counter mounting hole and orient the faucet. From below, assemble the white spacer flat washer and hex nut on the threaded nipple and tighten by hand. Ensure correct orientation (open end up, open side toward air gap). Tighten with a wrench until secure.

3.3 Installing the Water Supply Adapter

Note: The supply adapter fits 3/8” - NPT threads.

Procedure:

1. Turn off the cold water inlet supply line. Install a shut-off valve if one is not present under the sink.
2. Turn on the cold water faucet and allow all water to drain from the line.
3. Disconnect the cold water line from the 3/8" 14 NPS threaded stub on the bottom of the main faucet.
4. Using the original nut, screw the old water line to the male supply adapter threads.
5. Under-sink connections may vary; alternate connectors can be obtained from your local plumbing wholesaler.

3.4 DWS Unit Installation

Procedure:

1. For shipping, the UV lamp is in a separate tube. Carefully remove the lamp, avoiding touching the glass portion. Insert the UV lamp into the quartz sleeve and chamber, ensuring the connection end is inserted last. Mount the UV system to the wall or cabinet.
2. If hard plumbing, ensure enough clearance in front of the lamp connector for lamp service (a length equal to the unit's length).
3. Mount the system to the wall using the two mounting holes in the back with appropriate fastening devices.
4. Final tubing connections:
   • Cut tubing to desired length using square cuts and a proper cutting device.
   • Avoid sharp bends.
   • Keep tubing from the supply line to the unit and faucet as short as practical for good flow.
   • Connect tubing from the faucet to the DWS.
   • Connect tubing from the water supply adapter to the DWS.
5. Prior to connecting power, check all connections for security. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
6. The power source must be within five (5) feet of an electrical outlet. DO NOT use a switched outlet. Attach the lamp connector to the UV lamp, slide the connector over the retaining nut. Plug the ballast into the outlet and ensure the POWER-ON LED is illuminated.

Section 3.5: Cleaning Procedure

Prerequisites:

• Reapply lubricant to the O-ring when reinstalling sumps.

It is imperative that the entire distribution system located after the UV be chemically cleaned to ensure it is free from contaminants. This process must be performed immediately after installation and repeated whenever the UV is shut down for service, without power, or inoperative.

Procedure:

1. Ensure the controller is plugged in for the entire cleaning process.
2. Shut off the water supply. Open an upstream faucet to release pressure.
3. Remove the sump housings using a sump wrench. (Note: Sumps will be full of water and heavy).
4. Remove cartridges and pour 2 cups of household bleach solution into the sump housings. (Note: DO NOT use Hydrogen Peroxide).
5. Connect only the sump housings to the unit. Turn on the water supply and allow water to fill the chamber.
6. Turn on the cold water supply, followed by hot water (if available), until the bleach smell is detected.
7. Close all faucets and allow bleach to settle in the water lines for 30 minutes.
8. With all faucets closed, remove sump housings using a sump wrench.
9. Reinstall the cartridges into sump housings and connect to the unit.
10. Flush all water outlets until bleach can no longer be smelled (at least 5 minutes).

Section 4: Maintenance

WARNING: Always disconnect power before performing any work on the UV system. Always shut off water flow and release water pressure before servicing. Regularly inspect your UV system for power indicators and alarms. Always drain the chamber when closing a seasonal home or leaving the unit in an area subject to freezing temperatures.

4.1 Replacing UV Lamp

NOTICE: Lamp replacement is a quick and simple procedure. The UV lamp must be replaced after 9000 hours of continuous operation (approximately one year) for adequate performance. Do not use water during replacement.

Procedure:

1. Shut off the water line to the UV chamber and release system pressure before servicing.
2. Disconnect main power source and allow the unit to cool for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the lamp connector by squeezing the plastic locking tabs on the side of the connector.
4. Remove the lamp in an upward direction from the chamber and lamp connector base. Always hold the lamp at the ceramic ends. ⚠️ (Hg symbol indicates mercury content).
5. Insert the new lamp fully into the chamber, leaving about two inches of the lamp protruding from the chamber.
6. Attach the connector to the UV lamp, noting that it will only allow correct installation in one position.
7. Push the lamp connector against the lamp connector base together until an audible click is heard. Re-pressurize the system to check for leaks.

4.2 Cleaning and Replacing Quartz Sleeve

Note: Minerals can form a coating on the quartz sleeve, reducing UV light transmission. This coating must be removed; if the sleeve cannot be cleaned, it must be replaced.

Prerequisites:

• Shut off water supply and drain all lines.
• Place a small pail under the unit to catch spills.
• Remove the UV lamp (Refer to Section 4.1).

Procedure:

1. Remove the bottom retaining nut, floating spring, and O-ring.
2. Remove the top retaining nut and O-ring.
3. Remove the quartz sleeve.
4. Clean the quartz sleeve with a cloth soaked in CLR, vinegar, or another mild acid, then rinse with water. (Note: If the sleeve cannot be completely cleaned, or if it is scratched or cracked, replace it).
5. Reinstall the quartz sleeve in the UV chamber, allowing it to protrude equally on both ends.
6. Reinstall the top and bottom retaining nuts, floating spring, and O-rings respectively. Assemble in the reverse order of disassembly.

Notes:

• 1) After replacing the UV lamp or quartz sleeve, perform the cleaning procedure (Section 3.5).
• 2) If the system is put on a temporary by-pass or becomes contaminated, shock the system with household bleach for 20 minutes before resuming water use.

4.3 Replacing Cartridges

It is recommended to change filter cartridges approximately 3-4 times per year, depending on water quality and usage. A gradual drop in water pressure indicates pre-filter cartridges nearing the end of their useful life.

Procedure:

1. Disconnect main power source and allow the unit to cool for 10 minutes.
2. Shut off the water supply. Open an upstream faucet to release pressure.
3. Remove the sump housings using a sump wrench. (Note: Sumps will be full of water and heavy).
4. Discard the used cartridge and clean the sump housings as required or perform the cleaning procedure (Section 3.5). Install the new cartridges. (Note: Ensure the sump O-ring is lubricated with silicone base lubricant).
5. Reinstall the sump housings using a sump wrench. (Notes: 1) Sumps will be heavy. 2) Reapply lubricant to the O-ring when reinstalling sumps).
6. Restore power. Slowly turn on the water supply and allow any air to bleed off by partially opening a nearby faucet. Once water runs without air, return the system to use.

Section 5: Specifications

¹Flow rates based on End of Lamp Life; 20°C

Units ending in "/2" are for 230V applications

Units ending in "*/NOM" are Certified to the Mexican NOM standard

Section 5: Manufacturer's Warranty

Our Commitment

VIQUA is committed to ensuring your experience with our products and organization exceeds your expectations. We have manufactured your UV system to the highest quality standards and value you as our customer. Should you need any support, or have questions about your system, please contact our Technical Support team at 1.800.265.7246 or technicalsupport@viqua.com and we will be happy to assist you.

How to Make a Warranty Claim

Note: To maximize the performance and reliability of your VIQUA product, the system must be properly sized, installed, and maintained. Guidance on necessary water quality parameters and maintenance requirements can be found in your Owner's Manual.

In the event that repair or replacement of parts covered by this warranty are required, the process will be handled by your dealer. If you are unsure whether an equipment problem or failure is covered by warranty, contact our Technical Support team at 1.800.265.7246 or e-mail technicalsupport@viqua.com. Our fully trained technicians will help you troubleshoot the problem and identify a solution. Please have available the model number (system type), the date of purchase, the name of the dealer from whom you purchased your VIQUA product ("the source dealer"), as well as a description of the problem you are experiencing. To establish proof of purchase when making a warranty claim, you will either need your original invoice, or have previously completed and returned your product registration card via mail or online.

Specific Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage is specific to the VIQUA range of products. Warranty coverage is subject to the conditions and limitations outlined under "General Conditions and Limitations".

Ten-Year Limited Warranty for VIQUA UV Chamber

VIQUA warrants the UV chamber on the VIQUA product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of ten (10) years from the date of purchase. During this time, VIQUA will repair or replace, at its option, any defective VIQUA UV chamber. Please return the defective part to your dealer who will process your claim.

Three-Year Limited Warranty for Electrical and Hardware Components

VIQUA warrants the electrical (controller) and hardware components to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase. During this time, VIQUA will repair or replace, at its option, any defective parts covered by the warranty. Please return the defective part to your dealer who will process your claim.

One-Year Limited Warranty for UV lamps, Sleeves, and UV Sensors

VIQUA warrants UV lamps, sleeves, and UV Sensors to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase. During this time, VIQUA will repair or replace, at its option, any defective parts covered by the warranty. Your dealer will process your claim and advise whether the defective item needs to be returned for failure analysis.

Note: Use only genuine VIQUA replacement lamps and sleeves in your system. Failure to do so may seriously compromise performance and affect warranty coverage.

General Conditions and Limitations

None of the above warranties cover damage caused by improper use or maintenance, accidents, acts of God, or minor scratches or imperfections that do not materially impair the operation of the product. The warranties also do not cover products that are not installed as outlined in the applicable Owner's Manual.

Parts repaired or replaced under these warranties will be covered under warranty up to the end of the warranty period applicable to the original part.

The above warranties do not include the cost of shipping and handling of returned items. These limited warranties outline the exclusive remedy for all claims based on a failure of or defect in any of these products, whether the claim is based on contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise. These warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, whether written, oral, implied, or statutory. Without limitation, no warranty of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose shall apply to any of these products.

VIQUA does not assume any liability for personal injury or property damage caused by the use or misuse of any of the above products. VIQUA shall not in any event be liable for special, incidental, indirect, or consequential damages. VIQUA's liability shall, in all instances, be limited to repair or replacement of the defective product or part, and this liability will terminate upon expiration of the applicable warranty period.

Recycling Information

FR: Cet appareil se recycle

English: This appliance is recyclable

To deposit in store OR To deposit in recycling center

Collection points at www.quefairedemesdechets.fr

Prioritize repair or donation of your appliance!