Aquasana Rhino WH-1000 Whole House Water Filter Owner's Manual and Installation Guide

Box Contents & System Configuration

Before beginning installation, please ensure all parts listed are present. If any part is missing or damaged, do not attempt to install the system. Please contact Customer Support for replacement parts at 866-662-6885.

Box Contents:

• 1 Rhino® Tank
• 2 20" Pre-Filter
• 3 10" Post-Filter
• 4 Plastic Wrench
• 5 Filter Support Brackets (2)
• 6 1" - 3/4" Reducer Bushings (2)
• 7 Shut-Off Valve
• 8 Slip Unions (2)
• 9 2.5" TOE Nipples (5)
• 10 3" Smooth Nipple
• 11 Brass Drain Valve
• 12 PVC Tee
• 13 Salt-Free Water Conditioner (Optional)
• 14 UV Filter (Optional)

System Configuration Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the typical arrangement of the whole house water filter system. Water enters from the left, passes sequentially through a pre-filter (2), the main Rhino® tank (1), and a post-filter (3), before exiting to the house supply on the right. Various fittings such as unions (8), nipples (9, 10), shut-off valves (7), and a drain valve (11) connect these components. Optional components like the Salt-Free Water Conditioner (13) and UV Filter (14) can be integrated into the system.

Note: Box contents will be packaged in multiple boxes.

Installation Steps

Tools Recommended for Installation:

• Drill
• Wrench
• Channel locks
• Pipe cutter
• NSF certified PVC primer and glue
• NSF certified plumber's tape
• Garden hose
• 5 gallon bucket

Optional Components:

• Check valve
• Pro-Grade Bypass Kit
• Water hammer arrestor
• Copper wire & grounding clamps (if copper pipes are present)
• Pex tubing, crimp rings and cutter

[Link to Installation Video]

Precautions:

• For all installations: Due to the varieties of home design, not all configurations can be addressed in this guide. Anticipate the need for additional parts and pieces including but not limited to PEX tubing, clamps, and mounting screws to install unit properly (available at a local home improvement store or through your plumbing contractor).
• DO NOT install this filter where the line pressure may exceed 100 psi. The operating pressure range for this filter is between 20psi – 100psi. In areas with high pressure, a pressure relief valve and a water hammer arrestor may be necessary.
• Install on cold water lines only (40° – 90°F).
• Installation of the filtration system must comply with existing state and local plumbing codes.
• Some local codes may require the use of a licensed plumber or certified installer when disrupting a potable water line.
• It is recommended your system be installed indoors and out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to light can weaken plastic components, resulting in filter housing failure. If this is not possible and the system is outdoors or in a sunny area, the unit must be protected from both direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
• Unit must be installed in an area where the main water line enters your home, before connecting to the water heater. DO NOT install after a water heater or on the hot water line.
• DO NOT install the tank on its side. It must be installed upright to maximize contact with media bed.
• Pick an appropriate installation location where if the tank or any connection thereto should leak, the resulting flow of water will not cause damage to the surrounding area. Dimensions of systems vary—always allow an estimated minimum of 50" clearance for height of tank, and a minimum of 44" for floor space.
• Filtration tank must be flushed before running water from system into house.
• NSF certified plumber's tape (thread sealing tape) is the only sealer that can be used on threaded fittings. DO NOT use pipe dope or PVC primer/glue on threaded fittings. Exposure to these compounds will damage nipples causing leaks.
• Properly tighten all fittings to ensure a leak-free assembly.
• If installing on metallic plumbing, two grounding clamps and #4 copper wire are essential for safety.
• It is strongly recommended to install a check valve at the end of your system configuration and before the water heater to protect your filtration system from back flow.

1. Select Location

Lay out system in appropriate configuration. Improper sequencing of equipment will affect performance, and could possibly damage your system.

1. Pick an appropriate installation location. Unit must be installed in an area where the main water line enters your home, and before it connects to the water heater. It is recommended to install after any outdoor hose bibs or irrigation lines to avoid using filtered water where not needed.
2. Choose the location for a shut-off valve to be able to isolate your system. If installing a check valve, it should be installed after your system but before the water heater. If installing the Pro-Grade Bypass Kit, choose the location at this time.

Pro-Grade Bypass Kit Installation (If Applicable)

If your system does not include the Pro-Grade Bypass Kit, continue to step 2.

Note: Due to the variety of home design and spaces, anticipate the need for additional items to install bypass loop properly. Additional items would be available at a local home improvement store or through your plumbing contractor. Not all configurations can be addressed in this guide.

1. Once you've selected an appropriate location for your whole home water filter system and main shut-off valve, lay out the bypass loop and ensure you have all the components and tools required. The Pro-Grade Bypass Kit is specific to 1" PEX connections for easy installation. Reference the system configuration image on page 9 when laying out bypass loop components to ensure correct order and location.
2. Pre-assemble all the parts before starting the installation. Straighten out your PEX tubing and plan for additional length that can be trimmed down before the final installation.
3. Mark your incoming water line where you would like to start your bypass loop. This should be before your main PVC shut-off valve. Prepare your existing pipes by cleaning the sections you plan to cut.
4. Once your bypass loop is prepared, continue to step 2 on next page before making the final connections.
5. Once the main system has been fully installed, cut down any PEX tubing to ensure you have the proper length and complete bypass loop connections.
6. Turn on main water line and check for leaks.

Bypass Kit Box Contents:

• 1 PEX 1" brass shut-off valves (2)
• 2 PEX 1" brass 90° elbows (2)
• 3 PEX 1" brass tees (2)
• 4 PEX 1" brass male adapters (2)

Bypass Kit Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the typical arrangement of bypass kit components, showing how shut-off valves, elbows, and adapters connect to create a bypass loop around the main filter system.

2. Prepare Rhino® Tank

1. Ensure the Rhino tank sits level. If it looks off-center or unlevel, reference the troubleshooting section.
2. Pre-assemble all parts and dry-fit the entire system to ensure proper spacing and to confirm you have the necessary components for installation. Reference system configuration image on page 3 to understand the system layout and connections.
3. Connect all smooth fitting connections using NSF certified primer and glue. Smooth connections will be on the nipples, unions, shut-off valve, and PVC tee. Once glue is applied, press and hold the connection tight for 10-15 seconds.
4. Carefully remove shipping caps from inlet and outlet ports without damaging valve threads.
5. Wrap threaded nipple ends 3 times with NSF certified plumber's tape. Insert the nipples and attached unions to the filtration tank's threaded inlet and outlet. Hand tighten and then tighten again with a pipe wrench (2-2.5 rotations) to seal the connections.

Note: DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. If space does not allow for a pipe wrench to grip the nipples, clamp to the glued union to make final rotations.

3. Copper Pipes Only (Proceed to Step 4 for all other pipes)

When installing on metallic plumbing, ensure you take the following precautions. Securely install two (2) grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire (not included) across the location where the system will be installed. Tightly clamp at both ends, as shown in the illustration.

⚠️ ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Prior to installation on metallic plumbing, securely install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire per installation instructions. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or electric shock.

Grounding Diagram Description: The illustration shows the Rhino® system connected to copper pipes, with grounding clamps attached to the pipes on either side of the system and a copper wire connecting them, indicating proper grounding procedure.

4. Install Shut-off Valve and Ensure Spacing

Note: You may need additional components to connect your system to the main water line where it enters and exits the filtration system. Ensure you have all components needed before proceeding to the next steps.

1. Turn off the main water source. Drain water from lines to relieve pressure by turning on a faucet at the lowest elevation inside your home.
2. Note: Installation could take 1–4 hours to complete. Plan accordingly as you will be without water throughout the home during this time.
3. Using a pipe cutter, cut into the main water supply line and catch any remaining water in the 5-gallon bucket. Each system includes a 1" PVC shut-off valve with the option of threaded or smooth connections, as well as reducer bushings to connect to a 3/4" main water line.
4. Loosely fit shut-off valve to calculate the proper spacing of components.
5. Measure distance for Pre- and Post-Filter, Rhino® tank, and optional add-ons (Salt-Free Water Conditioner and UV Filter) and mark pipe accordingly.

Note: DO NOT cut more pipe than necessary. You can cut more pipe later if needed. If you're installing a bypass loop, plan accordingly for the space required.

System Layout Diagram Description: This diagram shows the recommended spacing for the Pre-Filters, Post-Filters, Rhino® tank, and optional add-ons. It illustrates the incoming and outgoing water supply lines and the placement of PEX components (shut-off valves, elbows, tees, male adapters) for a bypass loop configuration.

Bypass Kit Components Diagram Description: This diagram lists and numbers the components included in the Pro-Grade Bypass Kit: PEX 1" brass shut-off valves (2), PEX 1" brass 90° elbows (2), PEX 1" brass tees (2), and PEX 1" brass male adapters (2).

5. Cut Pipes

Cut pipe along the marked sections from step 4 and clean ends of pipe. Ensure there are no burrs, sharp edges, or deep scratches.

Pipe Cutting Diagram Description: Two pipe ends are shown. One is labeled "CORRECT" and appears cleanly cut. The other is labeled "INCORRECT" and shows a jagged, uneven cut.

Note: Cut tubing as straight as possible with a utility knife, or an appropriate pipe cutter for copper, PVC, or PEX tubing.

6. Assemble Drain Valve

Note: All threads are NPT tapered pipe threads.

1. Using PVC primer and glue, assemble the piping as shown to the right (Figure 1), applying primer and glue. Ensure enough glue cure time before running water through the system.
2. Wrap the 1/2" male drain end 2-3 times with plumber's tape (Figure 2).
3. Hand tighten the drain valve into the 1/2" female threaded tee. Then, tighten 1-2 more turns with a wrench (Figure 3).

Note: DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN. There should be a gap between the drain valve threads and tee. Tightening the 1/2" brass drain valve more than 2 turns with a wrench can cause the tee to crack.

Drain Valve Assembly Diagrams Description:

• Figure 1 shows the initial assembly of piping with PVC primer and glue.
• Figure 2 shows the 1/2" male drain end being wrapped with plumber's tape.
• Figure 3 illustrates the correct (checkmark) and incorrect (cross mark) tightening of the drain valve into the tee, indicating the proper gap and avoiding overtightening.

7. Configure System

1. Fit Rhino® tank and additional optional add-ons into the system at this time.
2. Attach the shut-off valve to your incoming water line.
3. Connect the threaded nipple from the shut-off valve outlet to the 20" Pre-Filter housing inlet with NSF certified plumber's tape.
4. Note: If you upgraded to the Low Maintenance Pre-Filter, the following steps remain the same.
5. Attach the filter wall bracket to the Pre-Filter housing with included screws. Once this is complete, screw the support bracket to the wall.
6. Note: Additional materials may be needed to ensure Pre-Filter and Post-Filter brackets are supported and properly secured to wall.
7. Ensure all parts are flowing through the "IN" port in the correct direction of water flow.
8. Connect the threaded nipple from the Pre-Filter outlet to the union that is attached to the Rhino® tank inlet.
9. Using the drain valve assembly from step 6, connect the drain valve assembly to the union attached to the Rhino® tank outlet as well as the Post-Filter inlet with included nipples.
10. Attach the Post-Filter bracket and housing to the wall, similar to the Pre-Filter, and ensure all connections are tight.
11. If you have additional attachments, please reference those manuals before the final installation.
12. Once installation is complete, allow proper time for the glue to dry according to manufacturer instructions.

8. Flush Your System

Note: It's imperative that this system is flushed properly prior to system water entering your house. The granular carbon used in the filtration tank contains fines that must be flushed out prior to use.

Flushing Diagram Description: The diagram shows the assembled water filter system connected to a garden hose, with water flowing out of the hose into a drain, illustrating the flushing process.

1. Connect a garden hose to the integrated drain valve and ensure the drain valve is in the open position.
2. Ensure the garden hose outlet is directed towards a floor drain or outdoor area. If a bypass loop is installed, ensure each shut-off valve is in a closed position.
3. Slowly turn the water on from the initial shut-off valve and inspect for leaks. If any leaks are detected, refer to the troubleshooting guide on page 13. If no leaks are detected, proceed with the flushing process.
4. Slowly turn the water on and allow discolored water to flow from the drain valve into a suitable drainage area. The first few gallons will appear black and cloudy due to carbon fines.
5. After the initial 15-minute flushing, begin a period of "surge flushing" by turning the water supply on for 30 seconds and then off for 30 seconds, repeating the cycle for 15 minutes or until the initial surge of water is completely clear and free from discoloration and cloudiness.
6. Final installation is complete. You may now close off the drain valve and enjoy filtered water throughout your home.

Note: Do not drink flushed water.

Troubleshooting Guide

Maintenance

Cleaning

• The exterior of your filtration system can be cleaned with warm, soapy water.
• Do not use any abrasive solution.
• Rinse well with clean water.

Note: Never use chemical cleaning products on the system's exterior surface as they may damage the housing.

Filter Replacements

Pre/Post-Filter Replacements

• Whole House 20" Pre-Filter Cartridge Replacement: Replace every 2 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow through the filter system.
• Whole House Low Maintenance Pre-Filter Cartridge Replacement: Replace every 6 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow through the filter system.
• Whole House 10" Post-Filter Cartridge Replacement: Replace every 6 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow through the filter system.
• Pre/Post-Housing Replacement: Replace every 5 years. To replace, call Customer Support.

How to change the Pre/Post-Filters:

1. Shut the filter system off at the shut-off valve Ⓐ. Place a 5 gallon bucket under the system drain valve and open valve. This will relieve water pressure and drain excess water.
2. Note: You must relieve the pressure in your system before attempting to change any Pre-Filter or Post-Filter.
3. Remove the blue filter housing by turning the lower ring to the right, using the wrench supplied with your filter system. Remove the used filter.
4. If necessary, clean the inside of the blue filter housing with mild soapy water, rinse and dry.
5. Place new filter in the center of the blue filter housing.
6. Clean the housing o-ring and relubricate it with silicone grease. Set the o-ring into the proper groove and reattach the housing by screwing it back onto the top piece.
7. Note: DO NOT USE PETROLEUM JELLY as lubrication on the system or o-rings.
8. After reassembly, turn the system back on at the shut-off valve.
9. Run water, with the bucket still under the Pre-Filter. Check for leaks.

Rhino® Tank Replacement

1. Shut Off Water Supply

1. Turn off the main water source prior to tank replacement or turn off the shut-off valve.
2. Place a 5 gallon bucket under the system drain valve and open valve. This will relieve water pressure and drain excess water.

Note: You must relieve the pressure in your system before attempting to change the Rhino® tank.

⚠️ ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: If you have copper pipes - leave your grounding clamps installed. Do not disconnect at any time while changing the tank. Failure to follow this instruction can result in death or electric shock.

2. Remove Tank from System

1. Loosen the unions on both sides of the Rhino® tank. Slide the entire tank (pipe nipples and halves of unions included) away from the system.
2. Unscrew the pipe nipples from the tank.
3. Dispose of the old Rhino® tank properly.

Tank Removal Diagram Description: The diagram shows the Rhino® tank connected via unions. Arrows indicate loosening the unions and sliding the tank away. It also shows unscrewing the pipe nipples from the tank.

3. Reconnect Fittings

1. Clean the threads on the pipe nipples and re-apply new NSF certified plumbers tape.
2. Connect pipe nipples to your new Rhino® tank.

Reconnect Fittings Diagram Description: The diagram shows pipe nipples with newly applied plumber's tape being screwed into the inlet and outlet ports of the new Rhino® tank.

4. Plumb In New Rhino® Tank

Slide the new tank back into the system and re-attach the unions.

Plumb In New Tank Diagram Description: The diagram shows the new Rhino® tank being placed back into the system and the unions being reconnected to the pre-filter and post-filter sections.

5. Flushing New Rhino® Tank

Note: It's imperative that this system is flushed properly prior to system water entering your house. The granular carbon used in the filtration tank contains fines that must be flushed out prior to use.

1. Connect a garden hose to the integrated drain valve and ensure the drain valve is in the open position.
2. Ensure the garden hose outlet is directed towards a floor drain or outdoor area. If a bypass loop is installed, ensure each shut-off valve is in a closed position.
3. Slowly turn the water on from the initial shut-off valve and inspect for leaks. If any leaks are detected, refer to the troubleshooting guide on page 13. If no leaks are detected, proceed with the flushing process.
4. Slowly turn the water on and allow discolored water to flow from the drain valve into a suitable drainage area. The first few gallons will appear black and cloudy due to carbon fines.
5. After the initial 15-minute flushing, begin a period of "surge flushing" by turning the water supply on for 30 seconds and then off for 30 seconds, repeating the cycle for 15 minutes or until the initial surge of water is completely clear and free from discoloration and cloudiness.
6. Final installation is complete. You may now close off the drain valve and enjoy filtered water throughout your home.

Note: Do not drink flushed water.

Performance & Certifications

Manufactured by: Aquasana, Inc.
6310 Midway Road
Haltom City, Texas 76117
866-662-6885

System independently tested to NSF/ANSI 42 for the claims specified on the Performance Data Sheet.

For the full list of contaminants filtered, go to the Performance Data Sheet on Aquasana.com.

Rhino® tank tested and certified by WQA under NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 for Materials Safety Requirements Only and CSA B483.1 for Materials Safety and Structural Integrity Requirements. Not certified for contaminant reductions by WQA.

Rhino® Water Filter Limited Warranty

Who is Covered

Aquasana and its suppliers ("Manufacturer") warrant to the owner of the home where the water filter is initially installed ("Owner"). The warranty is restricted to filters used in single-family residences in the United States and is void if moved from the original installation location.

What is Covered

This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship during the limited warranty period for the Aquasana Rhino Whole House Filtration System, including sub-components purchased with the original system. The filter is warranted only when installed, operated, and maintained according to the instructions found on Aquasana.com. The installation must prevent water damage from leaks.

For How Long

The warranty period is specified in the chart below from the date of purchase. Proof of purchase is required. Water conditions and usage rates may affect the filter's functional lifespan.

What Aquasana Will Do

1. If necessary, the Manufacturer will provide a replacement fulfilling the remaining estimated lifespan/capacity of the original purchase, along with installation instructions. If an identical model is unavailable, a comparable replacement will be provided, potentially with an additional charge for value upgrades.
2. If any component part proves defective in material or workmanship within the warranty period, the Manufacturer will furnish a replacement for the defective part(s).
3. The Manufacturer reserves the right to examine alleged defects. The Owner is obligated to return the water filter or component part(s) upon Manufacturer's request. Component parts must be individually tagged with model number, date of purchase, and installation date.

What is Not Covered

• Filter cartridges and systems not installed according to instructions, or those abused or operated incorrectly.
• Implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are excluded.
• Manufacturer is not liable for incidental, consequential, special, or contingent damages or expenses arising from defects or use of the water filter.
• Manufacturer is not liable for water damage arising from defects or use of the water filter or component parts.
• Manufacturer is not liable for damage or product failures caused by:
  • Misuse, alteration, neglect, or accident.
  • Installation not in accordance with local plumbing/building codes or regulations.
  • Failure to follow Manufacturer's instructions, or use of unapproved aftermarket equipment.
  • Exposure to highly corrosive conditions.
  • Lack of continuous supply of potable water.
  • Operation outside factory calibrated temperature limits.
  • Removal from original installation location.
  • Installation in direct sunlight or exposure to freezing temperatures.
  • Failures due to iron or sediment build-up.
  • Clogging due to failure to replace the Pre-Filter cartridge.
  • Damage from fire, flood, or acts of God.
  • Damage from over-pressurization in the water line.
• Damage caused by non-genuine Aquasana parts (including replacement filters, faucets, diverter valves).
• The Owner is liable for all labor and other expenses incurred in removal, repair, or replacement, including freight, shipping, handling, delivery, materials, permits, and return costs, unless specifically prohibited by state law.

How to Get Service

To receive service under this Warranty, contact Aquasana (A. O. Smith Water Treatment (North America), Inc.) at 1-866-662-6885 or warranty@aquasana.com within the Warranty Period. Provide proof of purchase and proper installation. A customer service representative will verify warranty status and determine the resolution.

Rhino® System Warranty Coverage

This warranty does not include the UV Filter. See the original UV manual for full warranty information.

Water for Life® Program

Protect your investment and save money with the Water for Life® program. It helps you protect the investment you've made in your family's health with an extended limited warranty on your new filtration system, a 15% discount on replacement filters, and free shipping.

• Extended Limited Warranty: Our performance promise to you – free replacement parts when needed.*
• Discounted Replacements: The only way to lock in a 15% discount on replacement filters.
• Free Shipping: Replacements shipped to you right when you need them – at no extra cost.
• No Contract: Free to join and cancel anytime – no long-term commitment required.

Contact Us to Learn More:

? 866-662-6885

✉️ waterforlife@aquasana.com

*Exclusions apply. Limited Warranty details are available at aquasana.com. Benefits are for the term of Water for Life membership.

Contact & Support

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NEED HELP? Give us a call at 866-662-6885 and tell us what's going on.

Aquasana, Inc.
6310 Midway Road
Haltom City, Texas 76117
866.662.6885 USA
877.332.7873 Canada
www.aquasana.com