Aquasana Rhino WH-1000 Whole House Water Filter

Box Contents & System Configuration

Diagram showing the Aquasana Rhino whole house water filter system components. The system includes two large blue filter tanks (Rhino® Tank), two smaller filter housings (Pre-Filter and Post-Filter), various pipes, unions, valves, and nipples connecting them. Optional components like a Salt-Free Water Conditioner and UV Filter are also depicted.

• 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)

Box contents will be packaged in multiple boxes. 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. Appearance of parts/components may vary depending on the time of purchase.

Installation Steps

Tools Recommended for Installation:

• Drill
• Wrench
• Channel locks
• Pressure reducing valve or pressure regulator
• Water hammer arrestor
• 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
• Copper wire & grounding clamps (if copper pipes are present)
• Pex tubing, crimp rings and cutter

For installation video, click here: Rhino® Whole House installation video.

Precautions

• For all installations: Anticipate the need for additional parts and pieces including pex tubing, clamps, and mounting screws, available at local home improvement stores or through your plumbing contractor.
• DO NOT install this filter where line pressure may exceed 100 psi. Operating pressure range is 20psi – 100psi. For high pressure (above 60 psi), a pressure reducing valve or regulator is recommended before the system.
• To safeguard against water hammer events, install a water hammer arrestor at the beginning and end of the system. This helps with instantaneous pressure spikes typically caused by washing machines and dishwashers.
• Install on cold water lines only (40° – 90°F).
• Installation must comply with existing state and local plumbing codes.
• Some local codes may require a licensed plumber or certified installer.
• It is recommended your system be installed indoors and out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to light can weaken plastic components. If outdoors or in a sunny area, protect from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
• Unit must be installed where the main water line enters your home, before 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.
• Pick an installation location where leaks will not cause damage. Allow minimum 50" clearance for height and 44" for floor space.
• Filtration tank must be flushed before running water into the house.
• Use NSF certified plumber's tape (thread sealing tape) only on threaded fittings. DO NOT use pipe dope or PVC primer/glue, as these can damage nipples and cause leaks.
• Properly tighten all fittings for a leak-free assembly.
• If installing on metallic plumbing, use two grounding clamps and #4 copper wire 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 from backflow.

1. Select Location

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

1. Pick an appropriate installation location where the main water line enters your home, before connecting to the water heater. Install after any outdoor hose bibs or irrigation lines to avoid using filtered water where not needed.

DO NOT install after the water heater or on the hot water line.

2. Choose the location for a shut-off valve to isolate your system. If installing a check valve, it should be after your system but before the water heater. If installing the Pro-Grade Bypass Kit, choose the location now.

Pro-Grade Bypass Kit Installation:

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

NOTE: Anticipate the need for additional items to install the bypass loop properly. These items are available at local home improvement stores or through your plumbing contractor. Not all configurations can be addressed in this guide.

1. Once an appropriate location is selected for your whole home water filter system and main shut-off valve, lay out the bypass loop and ensure you have all components and tools required. The Pro-Grade Bypass Kit is specific to 1” PEX connections. Reference the system configuration image on page 9 for layout.
2. Pre-assemble all parts before installation. Straighten PEX tubing and plan for additional length that can be trimmed later.
3. Mark your incoming water line where you want to start your bypass loop, before your main PVC shut-off valve. Clean the sections of pipe you plan to cut.

2. Prepare Rhino® Tank

1. Ensure the Rhino tank sits level. Refer to the troubleshooting section if it looks off-center or unlevel.
2. Pre-assemble all parts and dry-fit the entire system to ensure proper spacing and necessary components. Reference the system configuration image on page 3 for layout and connections.
3. Connect all smooth fitting connections using NSF certified primer and glue. These include nipples, unions, shut-off valve, and PVC tee. After applying glue, press and hold the connection 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 nipples and attached unions into the filtration tank's threaded inlet and outlet. Hand tighten, then tighten with a pipe wrench (2-2.5 rotations) to seal connections.

NOTE: DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. If space prevents using a pipe wrench, clamp to the glued union to make final rotations.

Diagram showing the Aquasana Rhino tank with unions attached to inlet and outlet ports, ready for connection.

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

When installing on metallic plumbing, securely install two (2) grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire (not included) across the installation location. Tightly clamp at both ends, as shown in the illustration.

Diagram illustrating grounding for metallic plumbing installations. It shows the filter system with two grounding clamps attached to the pipes, connected by a ground wire.

⚠️ WARNING

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.

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 necessary components before proceeding.

1. Turn off the main water source. Drain water from lines by turning on a faucet at the lowest elevation in your home to relieve pressure.

NOTE: Installation could take 1-4 hours. Plan accordingly as you will be without water during this time.

2. Using a pipe cutter, cut into the main water supply line and catch any remaining water in a 5-gallon bucket. The system includes a 1" PVC shut-off valve with threaded or smooth connections, and reducer bushings for 3/4" lines.
3. Loosely fit the shut-off valve to calculate proper component spacing.
4. Measure distance for Pre- and Post-Filter, Rhino® tank, and optional add-ons (Salt-Free Water Conditioner and UV Filter) and mark the pipe accordingly.

Diagram showing the recommended spacing for Pre- and Post-Filters, the Rhino® tank, and optional add-ons. It illustrates the incoming water supply, the filter components, and the outgoing water supply, with numbered PEX components (shut-off valves, elbows, tees, male adapters) for a bypass loop.

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)

5. Cut Pipes

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

Illustration showing correct and incorrect pipe cutting. The 'CORRECT' example shows a clean, straight cut. The 'INCORRECT' example shows a rough, angled cut with burrs.

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 in 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.

Figure 1 shows piping assembly with primer and glue. Figure 2 shows plumber's tape being applied to a male threaded end. Figure 3 shows a drain valve being tightened into a tee, with a checkmark for correct tightening (a small gap) and a cross for over-tightening (no gap, potentially cracking the tee).

7. Configure System

1. Fit Rhino® tank and any optional add-ons into the system.
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 using NSF certified plumber's tape.

NOTE: If your Pre-Filter housing has a shipping guard, remove it before assembly. If you upgraded to the Low Maintenance Pre-Filter, remove plastic wrapping from the filter before installing. The filter is inside the pre-assembled housing. Once the guard/wrapping is removed, proceed to step 4.

Diagram showing the Pre-Filter housing with an 'IN' and 'OUT' port, and a 'Shipping Guard' label.

4. Attach the filter wall bracket to the Pre-Filter housing with screws. Screw the support bracket to the wall.

NOTE: Additional materials may be needed to ensure Pre-Filter and Post-Filter brackets are supported and properly secured to the wall.

5. Ensure all parts are flowing through the "IN" port in the correct direction of water flow.
6. Connect the threaded nipple from the Pre-Filter outlet to the union attached to the Rhino® tank inlet.
7. Using the drain valve assembly from step 6, connect it to the union attached to the Rhino® tank outlet and the Post-Filter inlet with included nipples.
8. Attach the Post-Filter bracket and housing to the wall, similar to the Pre-Filter, and ensure all connections are tight.
9. If you have additional attachments, reference their manuals before final installation.
10. 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.

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 leaks are detected, refer to the troubleshooting section. 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.

Diagram showing the complete filter system connected to a garden hose at the drain valve. Water is shown spraying from the hose into a drainage area.

Flush Your System (continued)

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.

Diagram showing the complete filter system connected to a garden hose at the drain valve. Water is shown spraying from the hose into a drainage area, illustrating the flushing process.

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.
• Whole House Low Maintenance Pre-Filter Cartridge Replacement: Replace every 6 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow.
• Whole House 10" Post-Filter Cartridge Replacement: Replace every 6 months. Replace sooner if there is a noticeable decrease in water flow.
• 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 (A). Place a 5 gallon bucket under the system drain valve and open the valve. This will relieve water pressure and drain excess water.

NOTE: You must relieve the pressure in your system before attempting to change any Pre-Filter or Post-Filter.

2. Remove the blue filter housing by turning the lower ring to the left, using the wrench supplied with your filter system. Remove the used filter.
3. If necessary, clean the inside of the blue filter housing with mild soapy water, rinse, and dry.
4. Place the new filter in the center of the blue filter housing.
5. 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 by turning to the right.

NOTE: DO NOT USE PETROLEUM JELLY as lubrication on the system or o-rings.

6. After reassembly, turn the system back on at the shut-off valve.
7. Run water, with the bucket still under the Pre-Filter. Check for leaks.

Specifications

This filter system is designed and tested for use with genuine Aquasana parts, including replacement filters and all hardware. Use of parts from other manufacturers may result in loss of contaminant reduction performance, system damage, or failure. Use of parts from other manufacturers will also void your warranty. For replacement parts, please visit aquasana.com.

Model: WH-1000 System Replacements

• 20" Pre-Filter: EQ-303-20
• 10" Post-Filter: EQ-PFC.35
• 20" Low-Maintenance Pre-Filter: EQ-PRE-204-R
• UV Lamp: AQ-UV-L420C
• Quartz Sleeve: AQ-UV-Q420
• Salt-Free Conditioner: WH-SFWC

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 the 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.

⚠️ WARNING

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.

Diagram showing the Rhino® tank being disconnected. It illustrates loosening unions on both sides of the tank and unscrewing pipe nipples.

3. Reconnect Fittings

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

Diagram showing new pipe nipples with plumber's tape being connected to the new Rhino® tank.

4. Plumb In New Rhino® Tank

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

Diagram showing the new Rhino® tank being slid back into the system and the unions being re-attached to connect it.

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.

Diagram showing the complete filter system connected to a garden hose at the drain valve. Water is shown spraying from the hose into a drainage area, illustrating the flushing process.

Flush Your System (continued)

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.

Diagram showing the complete filter system connected to a garden hose at the drain valve. Water is shown spraying from the hose into a drainage area, illustrating the flushing process.

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 the water filter used in a single-family residence in the United States of America and is void if moved from the original installation location. Registration of the product is not required to receive warranty coverage.

WHAT IS COVERED

This Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship during the limited warranty period of your Aquasana Rhino Whole House Filtration System, including sub-components purchased with the original system (may or may not include pre-filter, post-filter, and fittings), except as provided below. The water filter is warranted only when it is installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the instructions accompanying the water filter found on Aquasana.com. A water filter should be installed such that if the tank or any connection leaks, the resulting flow of water will not cause damage to the area. For detailed instructions, read the manual and review drawings.

FOR HOW LONG

This warranty runs for the period specified in the chart below from the date of purchase by a consumer ("Warranty Period"). No warranty coverage will be provided if the claimant cannot provide proof of purchase. Water conditions and use rates may limit the functional lifespan of your filter. This Limited Warranty does not extend to the full estimated life span of the filter.

WHAT AQUASANA WILL DO

1. If necessary, the Manufacturer will provide a replacement that fulfills the remaining estimated lifespan/capacity of your original purchase and send it with installation instructions. If industry standards, product improvements, or obsolescence prohibit an identical model replacement, the Owner will be furnished with a new water filter of comparable remaining capacity and functionality; the Owner will be charged for the additional value of incorporated items.
2. Component Part: If any component part proves defective in material or workmanship within the warranty period, the Manufacturer will furnish the Owner with a replacement for the defective part(s).
3. Return of Defective Water Filter and Component Parts: Manufacturer reserves the right to examine the alleged defect. It is the Owner's obligation to return the water filter and/or component part(s) to the Manufacturer upon request.
• When returning a water filter, it must include all component parts.
• When returning component part(s), they must be individually tagged and identified with the water filter's model number, date of purchase, and date of installation.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

1. This Warranty applies only to products purchased from authorized Aquasana resellers.
2. This warranty does not cover filter cartridges and systems not installed in compliance with instructions, or that have been abused or operated incorrectly.
3. Except when prohibited by applicable state law, this Limited Warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied (written or oral), including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
4. Except when prohibited by applicable state law, the Manufacturer shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special, or contingent damages or expenses arising from any defect or use of the water filter.
5. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any water damage arising, directly or indirectly, from any defect in the water filter or component part(s) or from its use.
6. Manufacturer shall not be liable for any damage or product failures caused by: misuse, alteration, neglect, or accident; installation not in accordance with applicable codes or Manufacturer's instructions; use of non-approved aftermarket equipment; exposure to corrosive conditions; failure to supply potable water continuously; operation outside factory calibrated temperature limits; removal from original installation location; installation in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures; failure 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; or over-pressurization.
7. This warranty does not cover damage caused by the use of parts that are not genuine Aquasana parts, including replacement filters, faucets, or diverter valves.
8. Except when prohibited by applicable state law, the Owner, not the Manufacturer, shall pay for all labor or other expenses incurred in removal, repair, or replacement of defective parts or the water filter. Such charges may include freight, shipping, handling, delivery, removal, installation, materials, permits, and return costs.
9. This warranty provides specific legal rights and limitations, but you may have other rights under applicable 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 support@aquasana.com within the Warranty Period. Describe the problem to a customer service representative who will verify warranty status and determine replacement. You will need to provide proof of purchase and proof of proper installation.

WARRANTY REGISTRATION

Warranty registration is not required for coverage. If purchased from an authorized reseller, complete the online Warranty registration form at warranty@aquasana.com. Proof of purchase from an Aquasana authorized dealer is required.

HOW STATE LAW APPLIES

This Warranty gives you specific rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.

Rhino® System Warranty Coverage

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

Water for Life® Program

Protect your investment and save money with Water for Life®. Our Water for Life® program 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

• ? 866-275-2319
• ✉️ waterforlife@aquasana.com

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

Customer Support

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