Kenai FreshStream Reverse Osmosis Undersink Water Filtration System

2.1 Location of RO Unit

The RO unit may be located under the kitchen sink or in the basement. A cold water supply line must be close by. Ensure adequate room for the filter module assembly and the storage tank. For best performance, the tank should be located as close to the clean water faucet as possible (within 20 feet).

2.2 Mounting the RO filter unit under a sink (Figure 1)

Mount the unit to the wall of the sink cabinet. Pre-fit the unit by positioning the bottom of the pre-filter cartridges 2 inches off the floor of the cabinet. This clearance is necessary to remove the housings when replacing filter cartridges. Mark the location of the 2 mounting holes in the mounting bracket. Install 2 mounting screws leaving 1/8 inch clearance under the screw head. Check the fit by mounting the RO filter unit, but do not install permanently yet.

A 1/4" ball valve is supplied to shut off feed water when leaving the home unattended. For best protection from water leaks, install an automatic leak detector shutoff valve.

Figure 1 Description: Diagram showing the Kenai FreshStream RO unit connected to the cold water supply, a drain pipe, and a clean water faucet. A storage tank is also depicted, connected to the RO unit and the faucet.

2.3 Connecting the Feed Water Supply (Figure 3)

The feed water assembly includes a 1/2” brass slip joint adapter, a black washer, and a 1/4" x 1/4" ball valve. Locate these parts in the installation kit.

Locate the cold water shut-off valve under the sink and turn it off. Open the cold water faucet to release pressure. On single-handled faucets, turn off hot water to prevent cross-over. If water continues to flow with under-sink valves off, turn off the house main valve.

With the water off, disconnect the cold water riser tube (flex line) from the valve. Install the slip joint connector with the black washer. Loosen the nut and separate the cold riser tube from the faucet shank. Gently bend the riser tube so the slip joint adapter fits onto the faucet shank. Reinstall the cold riser tube on the slip joint connector using the existing cone washer. For solid copper tube, cut a piece about 3/4" to 1" to fit the slip joint adapter between the valve and riser tube. Wrap Teflon tape on the ball valve and install on the slip joint connector.

Figure 3 Description: Illustration of the feed water supply connection, showing a ball valve, 1/4" orange tubing, a 1/2" slip joint adapter, and the existing cold water line.

2.4 Installation of Non-UPC Drain Connection (Figure 4)

Place the drain outlet saddle on the drain pipe, allowing space for drilling. Tighten the saddle bolts evenly. Using the opening in the saddle as a guide, drill a 1/4" hole in the drain pipe. Clean any debris from the drain saddle connection.

Figure 4 Description: Diagram showing two methods for the drain connection: a horizontal mount on a drain pipe and a vertical mount. It shows the RO drain line connecting to a saddle clamp on the pipe.

2.5 Installation of Clean Water Faucet

Position the faucet considering aesthetics, function, and convenience. Ensure an ample flat area for the faucet base and clear space under the sink below the mounting location.

If a hole is already present (e.g., from a previous faucet or unused spray handle), it can be used. Drilling a hole in porcelain sinks requires caution to prevent chipping.

2.6 Porcelain/Enamel over Steel or Cast Iron Sinks

Use a small diameter carbide-tipped drill to create a pilot hole through the porcelain and material underneath. Remove any metal chips. Insert a spring-loaded porcelain cutter bit into the drill chuck, ensuring the pilot guide is tight. Apply light pressure to the porcelain surface and start the drill motor slowly. Increase speed gradually after the initial cut begins. The cut may take three to four minutes; faster drilling can cause chipping. Ensure a complete ring is cut through the porcelain to the metal.

Insert a finish hole saw into the drill chuck, again with a tight pilot guide. Begin cutting with slow speed and light pressure until the porcelain is penetrated. Remove the saw, clean debris, and reinsert to cut through the remaining material. (This procedure is for the non air gap faucet provided.)

Figure 5 Description: Step-by-step illustration of drilling a hole in a sink: Step 1: Pilot Drill, Step 2: Spring-loaded porcelain saw (Relton cutter), Step 3: Finish hole saw.

2.7 Install Faucet (Figure 6)

Disassemble hardware from the threaded stud, leaving the top base plate and sealing gasket. Install the faucet in the sink hole. From below the sink, assemble the mounting hardware and tighten the nut with a deep socket.

Figure 6 Description: Diagram detailing the installation of the clean water faucet, showing components like the escutcheon plate, rubber washers, counter top, lock washer, nut, and faucet adapter.

2.8 Tubing Connections (Figure 7)

The Kenai FreshStream uses Quick Connect O-ring seal fittings. Ensure tubing is cut squarely and fits evenly into the fitting for a proper seal.

Figure 7 Description: Details on tubing connections using quick-connect fittings, showing how to cut tubing squarely, insert it into the fitting, and check for security. It also details disconnecting the tubing.

2.9 Air-Gap Faucet Installation (Figure 8)

Air-Gap Faucets may be required by municipal code. They direct waste water to the sink top for gravity flow to the drain saddle, preventing drain backup into the membrane. A 3/8" drain saddle and 3/8" tubing (black) are used for this connection.

Sink Preparation: Drill the appropriate size hole for the air-gap faucet.

Drain Connection: Follow section 2.5, but drill a 3/8" hole in the drain pipe.

Tubing Connections: Connect the black 1/4" drain line from the membrane to the 1/4" barbed fitting on the air-gap faucet. Connect the 3/8" black tubing to the 3/8" barbed fitting on the air-gap faucet. Install the faucet assembly. Secure per section 2.8. Re-attach the 1/4" black tubing to the RO membrane housing's drain side and attach the 3/8" tube to the drain connector. Attach the pure water line to the faucet per section 2.9-D.

Note: To reduce drain noise, gently curve the black tubing from the air-gap faucet to the drain connection.

Figure 8 Description: Diagram illustrating the Air-Gap Faucet Installation, showing the faucet on the counter top with drain lines connecting to a drain saddle.

3.1 Air Purge

The filter elements (stages 1, 2, 3, and 5) are dry and contain air. This air will be expelled slowly but may collect in the system. Purge the system for peak operating efficiency, following the procedure in Section 3.2.

3.2 Start-Up

Open the feed water ball valve. Ensure the storage tank ball valve is closed. Check for leaks for at least 10 minutes. Open the product water faucet and let water flow until all air is expelled (approximately 30 minutes).

Close the product water faucet. Open the tank valve. Allow the system to run for about 2 hours to fill the storage tank. Then, open the clean water faucet and empty the tank. Repeat this dump-and-fill process four times to flush the tank and remove any preservative from the RO membrane or carbon "fines" from the post filter.

If waste water continues to run after the tank is full, air may be binding the autovalve. Open the faucet to empty the tank again to help clear the air.

4.1 Filter Replacement, Kenai FreshStream 5-Stage

Filter elements for Stages 1, 2, 3, and 5 must be replaced annually to maintain water purity. Use only specified replacement parts for Platinum Seal Certification.

These filter replacement elements and kits are available from your dealer. Contact Kenai for dealer information if unavailable.

Kenai Address: 8150 N. Lehigh Ave, Morton Grove, IL 60053. Phone: 847-466-4378. Email: kenai@chargerwater.com

4.2 Filter Replacement, Kenai FreshStream 4-stage

Filter elements for Stages 1, 2, and 4 must be replaced annually to maintain water purity. Use only specified replacement parts for Platinum Seal Certification.

Purchase replacement elements from your dealer. Kenai recommends buying the first-year filter replacement kit.

The kit includes instructions for replacement and cleaning. A space is provided to write the date of replacement. At year 3 (or sooner if water quality issues arise), the RO membrane assembly should also be changed. Request the RO membrane assembly along with other filters from your dealer.

5.0 Filter Replacement Procedure

Turn off the feed water ball valve and close the storage tank ball valve. Open the faucet to depressurize the system. Place a pan under the RO system to catch spills.

Unscrew the filter body (1/4 turn counter-clockwise), pull down, and lift to the sink to drain. Discard the spent filter body. To install a new filter, remove the red cap, lubricate the o-rings with cooking oil or Vaseline, insert into the head, and turn 1/4 turn clockwise. Repeat for all pre-filters (2 for 4-stage, 3 for 5-stage) and the post-filter.

6.0 Conditions Of Use

Water must be microbiologically safe. System pressure: 40 to 100 PSIG. Temperature: 40 to 100°F. pH range: 3 to 10. Maximum TDS: 1500 PPM. Maximum Iron (FE): 0.3ppm. Maximum Manganese (Mn): 0.1ppm. Turbidity: less than 1.0 NTU.

7.0 Installation Troubleshooting

8.0 Two-Year Limited Warranty

Kenai sells products through independent water dealers. Kenai warrants the FreshStream RO system to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for TWO YEARS from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage from accident, misuse, neglect, improper installation, or water pressure exceeding 100 lbs. per square inch. The warranty extends only to the original purchaser from a Kenai dealer. Modifications to the product void the warranty.

All warranty claims must be made to the Kenai dealer from which the product was purchased. Kenai is not liable for incidental or consequential damages; its obligation is limited to repair or replacement of defective parts. Proof of purchase, date of purchase, and dealer name are required.

Implied warranties are limited to two years from the date of original purchase or the shortest period allowed by law.

9.0 Performance Data Sheet

Models: CPK - FRESHSTREAM4, CPK - FRESHSTREAM5

Contaminant Reduction Typical RO

This system treats water containing pentavalent arsenic (As(V), As(+5), or arsenate) at concentrations of 0.30 mg/L or less. It reduces pentavalent arsenic but may not remove other forms. Use on water supplies with a detectable free chlorine residual or those proven to contain only pentavalent arsenic. Chloramines (combined chlorine) may not ensure complete conversion of trivalent arsenic to pentavalent arsenic. Refer to the Arsenic Facts section for more information.

Conforms to NSF/ANSI 58 for pentavalent arsenic reduction. Testing performed under standard laboratory conditions; actual performance may vary.

Specifications

• Pentair GRO75EN 75 gallon per day reverse osmosis membrane
• Storage tank: 4.0 gallon total volume; 2.2 gallon water volume
• Dimensions: 14in. long by 6in. wide by 15.5in. high. Tank: 11in. dia by 15 1/2in. high.
• Weight: 24 pounds

Conditions of Use

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

• Pressure: Minimum-40psig; Maximum-100psig
• Temperature: 40 to 100°F
• pH Range: 3.0 to 10
• Max iron content: 0.3ppm
• Turbidity of inlet water: less than 1.0 NTU
• Maximum TDS: 1500ppm

This system contains replaceable components critical for effective TDS reduction and system efficiency. Replacement RO components must be identical to the original specifications. Replacement parts and numbers are listed below. Periodically test product water to verify satisfactory performance.

Recommended Changeout Interval

Refer to the OWNER INSTALLATION manual for complete installation, operation, and maintenance requirements, including the manufacturer's limited warranty.

9.1 Arsenic Facts

Arsenic (As) is naturally found in some well water and has no color, taste, or odor. It must be measured by a laboratory test. Public water utilities test for arsenic; results can be obtained from them. Well owners can have water tested by local health departments or state environmental health agencies, which can provide lists of certified labs ($15-$30 cost). Information is available at www.epa.gov/safewater/arsenic.html.

Arsenic exists in two forms: pentavalent (As(V), As(+5), arsenate) and trivalent (As(III), As(+3), arsenite). Well water may contain either or both. Special sampling is needed to determine type and quantity. Check with local labs for this service.

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are effective at removing pentavalent arsenic but not trivalent arsenic. A free chlorine residual converts trivalent arsenic to pentavalent arsenic. Ozone and potassium permanganate also convert trivalent arsenic. Combined chlorine (chloramine) may not convert all trivalent arsenic. Contact your public water utility to determine if free chlorine or chloramine is used.

The FreshStream systems are designed to remove pentavalent arsenic and do not convert trivalent arsenic. Lab tests show reduction of 0.30 mg/L (ppm) pentavalent arsenic to 0.010 mg/L (ppm) (USEPA standard). Actual performance may vary. Test your water to confirm system performance.

The RO component must be replaced every 12 months or when the test above rises above 10ppm to ensure continued pentavalent arsenic removal. Component identification and purchase locations are in the installation/operation manual.

Appendix A: Theory of Operation

Flow Schematic Figure A-1

Figure A-1 Description: A flow schematic of the RO system tracing water path from feed water inlet, through pre-filters (sediment, carbon block), RO membrane, auto-valve, to the clean water tank, and finally to the pure water faucet. It also shows the discarded water line.

A.1 Pre-Filters:

Pre-filters serve two purposes: cleaning water for consumption and protecting the RO membrane from fouling. The first stage filter removes sediment (sand, rust, pipe scale, dirt) down to 5-microns using spun polypropylene material.

The carbon block filter removes 90% of chlorine, protecting the RO membrane and improving taste/odor. It works via adsorption on its high surface area activated carbon. It also removes VOCs (volatile organic chemicals) from industrial pollution. Claims for chlorine and VOC reduction are not yet certified by the Water Quality Association.

A.2 The Reverse Osmosis Membrane:

The membrane is the core component, replicating stomach tissue to allow water molecules through while retaining dissolved solids. This process uses osmotic pressure, reversed by applying pressure to the water.

RO technology rejects about 93% of total dissolved solids. Over time, the membrane fouls, reducing efficiency and increasing TDS content in clean water. Replacement is indicated when TDS rises above 30% of the inlet TDS value, typically every 3-4 years.

Approximately 1.2 gallons of water are discarded for every gallon of pure water produced. A flow control orifice manages this ratio. For a 50-gallon per day membrane, about 520 ml/min of water is discarded. A check valve prevents backflow to the membrane. An average household uses about 3 gallons of drinking water daily.

A.3 Auto Control:

An auto control valve stops water production when the storage tank is full. It closes when tank pressure reaches approximately 2/3 of the incoming line pressure. With normal 60-psi city water pressure, tank pressure stops at 40-psi.

Purified water is stored in the tank, which has a bladder. Initial air pressure is 6-psi. The 4.0-gallon tank stores about 2.5 gallons of water when full. Water drawn from the faucet passes through the post filter for polishing. For refrigerator supply, the line should be connected after the post filter.

If raw water pressure is 40-psi or less, the RO membrane may not operate efficiently. Use an add-on booster pump set (Vertex p/n PMPA-8014) in such cases.

Notes

Water Disinfection with chlorine bleach (5.25%)