Whirlpool Gold Central Water Filtration System
Model WHELJ1
Installation and Operation Manual
Contact Information
For questions or concerns regarding installation, operation, or maintenance, please call the toll-free number: 1-866-986-3223, Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 9 PM EST, or visit www.whirlpool.com.
System Overview
This manual guides you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Whirlpool Gold Central Water Filtration System. The system is designed to reduce tastes, odors, and sediment in your water.
System Tested and Certified: NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standard 42. See performance data sheet for details.
ENERGY STAR®: Powered by an ENERGY STAR® qualified adapter for a better environment.
Manufacturer: Manufactured and warranted by Ecodyne Water Systems LLC, 1890 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125.
Safety Information
Always read and obey all safety messages. Safety messages are identified by the safety alert symbol and the words "DANGER" or "WARNING".
- DANGER: Indicates a hazard that will result in death or serious injury if not immediately followed.
- WARNING: Indicates a hazard that can result in death or serious injury if instructions are not followed.
Follow all safety instructions to reduce the risk of injury.
Before You Start
- Review the "Installation Requirements" section before proceeding.
- Failure to install the system properly voids the warranty.
- Read the entire manual before installation.
- Gather all necessary materials and tools.
- Check local plumbing and electrical codes.
- Use only lead-free solder and flux for sweat-solder connections.
- Handle the system with care; do not turn upside down, drop, or set on sharp protrusions.
- Avoid installing in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause damage.
- The system operates with water pressure between 30-125 psi. Use a pressure-reducing valve if pressure exceeds 80 psi.
- The system operates on 24-volt, 60 Hz electrical power via an included transformer. Use a properly protected 120V, 60 Hz household outlet.
- Do not use with microbiologically unsafe water without adequate disinfection.
- Dispose of electrical and electronic equipment according to WEEE requirements and local laws.
Inspect Shipment
Check the system for shipping damage and parts loss. Keep small parts in their bags until needed.
Packing List
- Ground Clamp Kit
- Bypass Valve
- 10 ft. Drain Hose
- Clips
- Installation Adaptors
- Hose Clamps
- Adaptor Elbow
System Dimensions
Top View: 10-1/8" width, 3-3/8" inlet/outlet spacing.
Side View: 27-1/2" height.
Front View: 13-7/16" width, 33-3/4" height.
For future reference, record Model No., Serial No., Code, and Installation Date.
How the System Works
Normal Operation: Water enters the system and flows through filtration processes to reduce tastes, odors, and sediment.
Clean Rinse Cycle: Automatically initiated by the controller to rejuvenate the media bed and flush out collected contaminants. Dirt, sediment, and iron are flushed down the drain.
Applications
- Do not use with microbiologically unsafe water without disinfection.
- May not be effective for hydrogen sulfide problems (rotten egg odor/taste). Contact a water treatment expert if your water has this issue.
- Does not remove iron; not a replacement for iron treatment equipment.
- Additional sediment filtration may be needed for problem water applications.
Installation Requirements
Tools Needed
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Pliers
- For Soldered Copper Pipe: Tubing cutter, lead-free solder and flux, propane torch, emery cloth/sandpaper, copper pipe fittings.
- For Threaded Pipe: Pipe cutter/hacksaw, pipe joint compound, threading tool, threaded pipe fittings.
- For CPVC Plastic: Pipe cutter, solvent cement, hacksaw, primer, adjustable wrench.
- Other: Pipe and fittings suitable for potable water, per manufacturer and local codes.
Location Requirements
- Do not operate where freezing temperatures occur.
- Do not treat water over 120°F. Freezing or hot water damage voids the warranty.
- Install close to the water supply inlet, before other plumbing connections (except outside water pipes), to condition all home water.
- A nearby drain is required for Clean Rinse discharge. Options include floor drain, laundry tub, or standpipe. Check local codes.
- If a drain is not available, the system can operate in manual Clean Rinse mode, but automatic Clean Rinse must be disabled.
- Provide an electrical outlet in accordance with NEC and local codes.
- Do not install on a hot water line.
- Install between the incoming water supply and the water softener, if applicable.
Air Gap Requirements
A 1-1/2" air gap is required between the drain hose end and the drain to prevent backflow of sewer water.
Valve Drain Requirements
Use the included flexible drain hose or a rigid drain line as required by local codes. Ensure the drain line is as short and direct as possible, not exceeding 30 feet.
Installation Steps
Turn Off Water Supply
- Close the main water supply valve.
- Open all faucets to drain house pipes.
Move the System into Place
WARNING: Use two or more people to move the system due to its weight.
- Position the system on a level surface. Use plywood and shims if necessary for leveling.
- Remove the top cover and hang it from the post on the front rim.
Assemble Inlet and Outlet Plumbing
- Measure, cut, and assemble pipe and fittings from the main water pipe to the system's inlet and outlet ports.
- Ensure incoming water connects to the INLET side.
- Use Teflon tape or pipe joint compound on threaded connections.
- Support plumbing to prevent stress on the valve.
Connect Inlet and Outlet Plumbing
- Soldered Copper: Clean and flux joints, make connections. Do not solder with adapters attached. Secure ground clamp to metal pipes if using metal pipes and a plastic bypass valve.
- Threaded Pipe: Apply pipe joint compound or Teflon tape. Tighten joints. Secure ground clamp to metal pipes if applicable.
- CPVC Plastic Pipe: Clean, prime, and cement joints per manufacturer instructions.
- Other Pipe (PEX): Follow manufacturer instructions. Secure ground clamp to metal pipes if applicable.
Attach Ground Clamp
If using metal pipes and a plastic bypass valve, attach a ground clamp to the metal pipes.
Install Valve Drain Hose
- Connect the 3/8" drain line to the system's drain fitting using a hose clamp.
- Run the drain hose to a floor drain, ensuring an air gap. Secure the hose to prevent whipping during Clean Rinse cycles.
Test for Leaks
- Place the bypass valve in the normal operation position.
- Fully open the main water supply valve.
- Check all plumbing connections for leaks.
Turn On the System
- Check that all leadwire connectors on the back of the electronic board are secure and wiring is clear of moving parts.
- Plug the system into an electrical outlet not controlled by a switch.
- The display should flash "12:00 PM" and "PRESENT TIME". Set the clock as described in the "Set Time of Day" section.
- Run the start-up procedure as detailed on the next page.
Start Up Procedure
IMPORTANT: The filtration media may release small particles during initial use, causing temporary water discoloration. The start-up cycle rinses these particles and any discolored water down the drain.
To Initiate:
- Ensure the drain hose is attached and secured over a drain.
- Ensure the bypass valve is in the "service" (open) position and water supply is on.
- Press and hold the CLEAN button until the valve changes position and "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
During Start Up:
The cycle takes approximately 20 minutes. Do not use water during this time. Do not interrupt the cycle by unplugging the transformer or pressing other buttons.
After Start Up:
The system will return to normal operation. If water is still discolored, run manual Clean Rinse cycles. Set the time of day if not already done. Check for leaks.
Programming the System
Setting the Time of Day
If "PRESENT TIME" is not displayed, press the PROGRAM button until it is. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to set the correct time (AM/PM). Press PROGRAM to confirm.
Customizing Features / Options
Start a Clean Rinse Cycle
Press and hold the CLEAN button for a few seconds until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
Set Number of Days Between Clean Rinse Cycles
Press PROGRAM until "RECHARGE" is displayed. Use UP/DOWN to set the number of days (1-99). Press PROGRAM to confirm.
Set Clean Rinse Time
Press PROGRAM until "RECHARGE TIME" is displayed. Use UP/DOWN to set the desired start time (AM/PM). Press PROGRAM to confirm.
Set Length of Clean Rinse
Backwash: Press and hold PROGRAM until "000--" appears. Press PROGRAM again for "bA TIME". Use UP/DOWN to set backwash time in minutes. Press PROGRAM to confirm.
Fast Rinse: Press and hold PROGRAM until "000--" appears. Press PROGRAM again for "Fr TIME". Use UP/DOWN to set fast rinse time in minutes. Press PROGRAM to confirm.
Operating in Manual Clean Rinse Mode
If the automatic Clean Rinse function is disabled, manual initiation is required. Run a Clean Rinse cycle at least monthly.
Disabling Automatic Clean Rinse:
Press and immediately release the CLEAN button. "VAC" will flash in the display.
Manually Starting a Clean Rinse Cycle:
Press and hold the CLEAN button for a few seconds until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
Re-enabling Automatic Clean Rinse:
Press and immediately release the CLEAN button. The "VAC" indicator will disappear.
Power Outage Memory
The system retains settings for up to eight hours during a power outage. If the display flashes upon power restoration, reset the time of day. Clean Rinse cycles may occur at the wrong time until the clock is reset.
Care of Your Central Water Filtration System
Vacations and Extended Periods of No Water Use
- If water supply is on and automatic Clean Rinse is enabled, no action is needed.
- If automatic Clean Rinse is disabled or water supply is off, perform at least two manual Clean Rinse cycles upon return to operation.
- If freezing is possible, disconnect and drain the system.
Protect from Freezing
- Close the main water shut-off valve.
- Open a filtered water faucet to vent pressure.
- Set bypass valve to bypass position (or close inlet/outlet valves on a 3-valve bypass).
- Unplug the transformer. Remove the cover.
- Remove clips and separate the unit from adapters or bypass valve.
- Lay a piece of 2-inch thick board near the floor drain.
- WARNING: Use two or more people to move the system.
- Move the system close to the drain, tip gently onto the board with inlet/outlet over the drain. Do not let the unit's weight rest on fittings.
- Tip the bottom up to drain all water. Plug inlet/outlet with clean rags.
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM | CAUSE | CORRECTION |
---|---|---|
Water has black or gray color | (NEW SYSTEM) Start up procedure not completed (NOT A NEW SYSTEM) Normal abrasion of filtration media | Run start up procedure or consecutive Clean Rinse cycles until water color is normal. |
Low water pressure at house faucets | Sediment filter screen is clogged Filtration media is fouled | Clean sediment filter screen. Manually initiate a Clean Rinse cycle. Adjust Clean Rinse frequency if screen clogs often. |
Water has objectionable taste and/or odor | System is in bypass Filtration media is fouled | Move bypass valve to normal operation. Manually initiate a Clean Rinse cycle. Adjust Clean Rinse frequency if media fouls often. |
No water flow to drain during Clean Rinse cycle | Drain flow control is plugged Drain hose is plugged or kinked | Clean drain flow control. Straighten drain hose. |
Clean Rinse cycle does not run automatically | Transformer unplugged Display reads "VAC" (Clean Rinse function disabled) | Check power. Press and release CLEAN button until "VAC" is no longer displayed. |
Clean Rinse cycle does not run at programmed time of day | Time display is flashing (long power loss) | Reset the clock to the correct time of day. |
Valve motor stalled or clicking | Motor defective or inner valve defect | Replace rotor/seal kit or motor and switch. |
Error Code E1, E3, or E4 appears | Wiring harness/connections, switch, valve defect, motor inoperative | Replace wiring harness, switch, rotor/seal kit, or motor as needed. |
Error Code E5 appears | Electronic control | Replace electronic control board (PWA). |
Procedure for removing error code from display:
- Unplug transformer.
- Correct problem.
- Plug in transformer.
- Wait 6 minutes.
Cleaning the Drain Flow Control
This is only needed if a lack of water flow to the drain is encountered.
- Remove the clip holding the drain fitting.
- Remove the drain fitting.
- Clear any obstruction.
- Reinstall the drain fitting and clip.
Cleaning the Sediment Filter Screen
This is only needed if low water pressure at faucets is encountered.
- Press and hold CLEAN until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
- Place bypass valve(s) in bypass position.
- Unplug the transformer.
- Remove the cover.
- Pull clips at inlet/outlet fittings and slide off adapters/bypass valve.
- Remove clamp retainers and clamp sections holding the valve to the tank. Lift valve off.
- Remove the small o-ring.
- Remove the screen from the top distributor. Rinse the screen.
- Flush the tank top opening with water. Replace top distributor and o-ring, ensuring correct seal placement.
- Install valve assembly and retaining clamps securely.
- Reconnect plumbing firmly.
- Return bypass valve(s) to normal operating position.
- Plug in the transformer. The system will complete the Clean Rinse cycle and return to normal operation.
Wiring Schematic
Shows a transformer converting 120VAC to 24VAC, which powers the controller. The controller provides 24VDC to the motor, controlled by a position switch.
Specifications
Specification | Model WHELJ1 |
---|---|
Rated Service Flow Rate | 6.0 gpm |
Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow | 10 psig |
Pressure Drop at 9.6 gpm | 15 psig* |
Water Pressure Limits (min / max) | 30 - 125 psi |
Water Temperature Limits (min / max) | 40 - 120 °F |
Drain Flow Rate | 3.4 gpm |
Rated Capacity | 570,000 gal. |
Estimated Total Capacity (extrapolated from laboratory test data) | 1,500,000 gal. |
* From independent laboratory test data.
Warranty
Central Water Filtration System Warranty
Warrantor: Ecodyne Water Systems Inc., 1890 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125
One Year Full Warranty: All parts and labor for repair or replacement of defective parts are covered for one year from installation.
Limited Warranties:
- 10-year warranty on the fiberglass filtration media tank against rust, corrosion, leaks, or bursting.
- 3-year warranty on the electronic control board against defects in materials and workmanship.
If a part proves defective within the warranty period, Warrantor will ship a replacement part at no charge. Labor after the first year is not covered.
For warranty questions, assistance, or to order parts, call 1-866-986-3223, Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 9 PM EST.
General Provisions: Warranties are void if the system is operated outside specified pressure (125 psi) or temperature (120°F) limits, or if subjected to abuse, misuse, alteration, neglect, freezing, accident, negligence, or acts of nature.
Disclaimer: Warrantor disclaims all implied warranties, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, beyond the stated warranty periods. Warrantor's sole obligation is to replace or repair defective components. Warrantor is not liable for consequential or incidental damages.
Some states have limitations on implied warranty duration or incidental/consequential damages. This warranty provides specific legal rights, and other rights may vary by state. Applies to consumer-owned installations only.
® Registered trademark/TM Trademark of Whirlpool, USA. Manufactured under license by Ecodyne Water Systems, Woodbury, Minnesota. ©2006 Whirlpool Corporation. All rights reserved.
Exploded View and Parts List
Refer to the diagrams and parts list for identification and ordering of replacement parts. Key numbers correspond to items in the exploded views.