Aquasana Whole House UV Filter Owner's Manual

Table of Contents

1. Box Contents
2. Before Installing
3. Precautions
4. System Configuration
5. Installation Steps
6. Use & Care
7. Operating the Controller
8. Equipment Specifications
9. Warranty
10. Water for Life® Program

Box Contents

The following components are typically included with your system. Parts may vary based on your specific order.

Tools & Supplies Recommended for Installation:

• Pipe cutter, hacksaw, or other specialized tools for plumbing (e.g., for PEX piping)
• Philips head screwdriver
• Wrench (for tightening fittings)
• Inlet/outlet connections
• Plumber's tape
• Cotton gloves
• Piping (PEX, PVC, etc.)
• Fittings for 1" MNPT

Before Installing

Water Quality Parameters

Aquasana recommends installing a Pre-Filter of at least 5-microns before the UV Filter system. For effective bacteria and virus killing, UV light must pass through the water. Treated water should be tested for the following parameters:

• Hardness: <7 gpg (120 mg/L) (If hardness is 7gpg or slightly below, clean the Quartz Sleeve periodically; if above, water must be softened)
• Iron (Fe): < 0.3 ppm (0.3 mg/L)
• Manganese: <0.05 ppm (0.05 mg/L)
• Turbidity: <1 NTU
• Tannins (organics): <0.1 ppm (0.1 mg/L)
• UVT (transmittance): >85%

If your water exceeds these parameters, Aquasana recommends pre-treatment equipment. Contact the Aquasana Sales Department at 866-662-6885 for water testing and recommendations.

Prior to Installation

• For all installations: Anticipate the need for additional parts and pieces, including pex tubing, clamps, and mounting screws. These are available at local home improvement stores or through your plumbing contractor.
• Professional Installation Recommended: Aquasana recommends a licensed plumber or certified technician install the UV Filter. Installation must comply with existing state and local plumbing codes. Aquasana and its manufacturer are not liable for consequential or incidental damages due to improper installation.
• Installation Location: It is recommended your UV Filter be installed indoors and out of direct sunlight. If installed outdoors or in a sunny area, the unit must be protected from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.

Specifications

This UV Filter is designed and tested for use with genuine Aquasana parts. Using parts from other manufacturers may result in reduced contaminant reduction, performance issues, system damage, or failure, and will void your warranty. Please visit aquasana.com for replacement parts.

• Model: AQ-UV-10C / AQ-UV-15C
• Replacement bulb: AQ-UV-L330C/AQ-UV-L420C

Understanding Your UV Filter System

The system consists of a UV Reactor containing the UV Lamp and Quartz Sleeve, through which water flows. A Power Supply connects to a Controller which manages the system.

• Power Supply
• UV Reactor
• Quartz Sleeve
• Water flow (indicated by arrows)
• UV Lamp
• Compression Spring
• Internal Centering Springs
• Incoming water supply
• Outgoing water supply

Precautions

Safety Precautions

• ALWAYS disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet before servicing the system.
• NEVER look directly at an illuminated UV Lamp without adequate eye protection. Protect your skin from direct exposure to the UV light, as it is harmful to eyes and skin.
• Use the unit only with a properly grounded electrical outlet to avoid electrical shock. For metallic plumbing installations, two grounding clamps and #4 copper wire are essential for safety.
• The UV Filter should be installed into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). If an extension cord is required, it must be a minimum of 16-gauge wire, and care should be taken to avoid tripping hazards.
• NEVER perform maintenance unless comfortable doing so. Contact the manufacturer for service instructions if needed.
• DO NOT use this system for purposes other than its intended use, as misuse could cause harm.
• DO NOT install this UV Filter where line pressure may exceed 100 psi. The operating pressure range is 10-100 psi.
• Install on cold water lines only (40° - 90°F).
• Properly tighten all fittings to ensure a leak-free assembly.
• Use only NSF certified plumber's tape (thread sealing tape) on threaded fittings. DO NOT use pipe dope or PVC primer/glue, as these can damage fittings and cause leaks.
• DO NOT plug in the unit if the system or components are wet. Aquasana UV Filters are for indoor use only, away from leaking plumbing.
• In high-pressure areas, a pressure relief valve and a water hammer arrestor may be necessary.

System Configuration

Pick an appropriate installation location

For Point of Entry (POE) systems: Choose a location where the main cold water line is accessible. Install the system after other water treatment equipment (softener or filters), but before any branches.

Sequencing: If adding components, ensure correct sequencing. Improper sequence can affect performance and damage the filter.

(Installation shown includes Professional Grade Install Kit)

• 10" Pre-Filter
• 20" Pre-Filter
• Salt-Free Water Conditioner
• Rhino® Water Filter System
• 10" Post-Filter
• UV Filter

WARNING: For Stand-Alone Point of Entry (POE) systems, Aquasana does not provide instructions. Aquasana recommends a 5-micron Pre-Filter be installed before the UV Filter.

Installation Steps

1. Installation Checks and Options

1. To facilitate future lamp replacements, ensure there is enough space at the UV Lamp connector end to safely remove the UV Lamp and/or Quartz Sleeve. NOTE: Leave at least an additional UV Reactor length for easier removal.
2. The Controller requires a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI or GFI) outlet and should be mounted beside or above the UV Reactor.
3. For water supplies with unknown maximum flow rates, a flow restrictor is recommended for the outlet port of the UV Reactor to prevent exceeding system flow rates.
4. The UV Reactor can be installed horizontally or vertically using the provided clamp. Vertical installation (inlet at the bottom, UV Lamp connection at the top) is preferred as it allows air in the lines to be easily purged.

2. Bypass Assembly

A bypass assembly is recommended to isolate the UV Reactor for easier access during maintenance.

3. Copper Pipes Only (Proceed to next step for PVC pipes)

When installing on metallic plumbing, follow these precautions: Securely install two (2) grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire (not included) across the installation location, clamping tightly at both ends.

WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK Hazard - Failure to install grounding clamps and wire properly on metallic plumbing can result in death or electric shock.

4. Plumb In UV Filter

1. Use the Mounting Brackets to mount the UV Reactor to wood or drywall. Use appropriate fasteners for other materials.
2. Plumb the UV Filter and any additional filtration add-ons. Screw Post-Filter support brackets onto the wall, attach the filter, and use PVC pipe, elbows, and reducers to connect from the Post-Filter to the UV inlet.
3. Properly connect all system components (slip fittings, barbed fittings, NSF certified PVC glue, etc.), ensuring parts are oriented for the correct water flow direction.
4. Once installation is complete, allow adequate time for glue to dry according to manufacturer instructions.

5. Insert the Quartz Sleeve

WARNING: DO NOT touch the Quartz Sleeve with bare hands. Use cotton gloves to prevent oils from leaving residue that can block UV light.

1. Gently remove the Quartz Sleeve from packaging and slide it into the UV Reactor. Align the sleeve so it is centered and gently push it in to lock into the internal centering springs. NOTE: Pushing too hard when misaligned can damage the Centering Springs.
2. Slide the O-Ring onto the Quartz Sleeve until it is butted up against the UV Reactor.

6. Add Gland Nut and Compression Spring

1. Hand tighten the Gland Nut over the Quartz Sleeve onto the threaded end of the UV Reactor. NOTE: DO NOT use tools; it has a positive stop to prevent over-tightening.
2. Insert the Compression Spring into the Quartz Sleeve. NOTE: DO NOT install the UV Lamp inside the Quartz Sleeve without the Compression Spring in place.

7. Check For Leaks

After plumbing connections are complete and glue has dried, slowly turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Ensure bypass valves function correctly and water flows through the UV Reactor.

Troubleshooting: The most common leak is from the O-Ring not sealing properly. Review steps 5 and 6. If leaks occur during lamp replacement, drain the reactor, remove and dry the O-Ring, reapply silicon grease, and reinstall, checking for leaks.

8. Mount Controller

Mount the Controller to the wall above the UV Reactor. NOTE: Ensure no moisture can deposit on connections. Always mount the Controller vertically. DO NOT plug the Controller power cord in before the last step.

9. Insert UV Lamp

WARNING: Always hold UV Lamps by their ceramic ends, not the bulb. Use cotton gloves.

Remove the UV Lamp from its packaging and insert it into the UV Reactor. NOTE: DO NOT touch the key's exposed contacts.

10. UV Lamp Connection

1. Plug the UV Lamp Connector into the UV Lamp, noting the keying for proper alignment.
2. Insert the UV Lamp Connector into the Gland Nut and turn approximately 1/4 turn to lock it.

11. Ground Screw Connection

Tighten the captive ground screw to the ground lug on the UV Reactor using a Phillips Head Screwdriver to ensure proper grounding.

12. Plug-In UV Filter

Your system is now ready to be plugged into the appropriate GFCI protected outlet. Refer to the System Disinfection section before allowing water to flow through the system.

Use & Care

System Disinfection

Use these steps to disinfect lines after installation, lamp replacement, or power loss:

1. Remove the filter cartridge from the Post-Filter. Fill it with 1-2 cups of household bleach (approx. 5.25% chlorine). Replace the sump and slowly turn on the water supply.
2. Turn on water at an outlet. Run water until bleach can be smelled, ensuring disinfection. Repeat for all faucets, toilets, shower heads, appliances, and outdoor taps. Wait at least 30 minutes.
3. Replace the filter cartridge in the Post-Filter. Flush the chlorine solution by opening all faucets until chlorine is no longer detected.

Cleaning the Quartz Sleeve

The Quartz Sleeve should be cleaned at least once every 12 months, or more often depending on water quality.

1. Unplug the UV Filter from the electrical outlet.
2. Turn off the main water inlet valve or the inlet valve on the Pro-Kit to enable the bypass system.
3. WARNING: DO NOT turn off water or drain lines before disconnecting power to the UV Filter.
4. Using a screwdriver, remove the Ground Screw from the Ground Lug on the UV Reactor.
5. Unplug the Lamp Connector from the UV Reactor by pushing it in and turning it 1/4 turn counter-clockwise. Disconnect the lamp connector from the lamp. WARNING: The UV Lamp may be hot!
6. Remove the UV Lamp. NOTE: DO NOT touch the UV Bulb. Only touch the ceramic ends.
7. Unscrew the Gland Nut from the UV Reactor to expose the Quartz Sleeve end.
8. Remove the Quartz Sleeve and O-Ring by gently twisting and pulling. Use cotton gloves.
9. Wipe the sleeve with a soft, lint-free cloth or towel using a commercial scale cleaner (e.g., CLR® or LIME-A-WAY®) to remove scaling or iron deposits. WARNING: DO NOT get any moisture or liquids inside the Quartz Sleeve.
10. Replace the O-Ring and slide the Quartz Sleeve back into the Reactor. Follow steps 5 and 6 in the manual to complete installation.

Operating the Controller

Aquasana UV Filters feature a controller with an LED visual screen and audible warnings in a water-tight case. A green LED indicates the UV Lamp is on, but does not guarantee water potability. These systems monitor the UV Lamp's "on-off" status, not the disinfection level. Regular microbiological water testing is recommended.

WARNING: While the LED is red and the buzzer is sounding, the water from the system should NOT be consumed. If water passes through during this period, follow the disinfection procedure before consumption.

The controller has a tricolor LED indicating system status and a 4-digit display for UV Lamp life remaining. Pressing the button cycles through total running time.

• Green LED: UV Lamp is on and within operating range.
• Red LED & Audible Buzzer: UV Lamp is not on or UV Lamp life has expired. Replace the UV Lamp with a genuine Aquasana replacement. Refer to the data plate on the UV Reactor for model numbers.

Lamp Countdown Sequence

The system counts down days until a UV Lamp change is required:

• 375-31 Days Remaining: LED counts down days with a green indicator light.
• 30 Days Remaining: LED changes to a yellow caution indicator light.
• 7 Days Remaining: Yellow caution indicator light, with an additional audible chirp.
• Past 0 Day Threshold: LED changes to solid red with a continuous buzzer.

Defer Audible Chirp

The audible chirp or alarm can be deferred for seven days by holding the Controller button down for five seconds. The number of deferrals used will be displayed. The alarm will sound again once the deferral expires. The deferral can be repeated up to three times.

Lamp Replacement

When the UV Lamp expires, replace it with a genuine Aquasana replacement. See the data plate on the UV Reactor for the model number. Unplug the power to the UV Controller before replacing the lamp. Refer to installation steps starting with step 9.

To reset the timer, firmly hold down the Controller button for 10 seconds. The Controller will display "rSt3", "rSt2", "rSt1" and beep. The UV Lamp countdown timer is now reset.

System Troubleshooting

Hard Alarms:

These alarms provide a constant audible alarm:

WARNING: After any hard alarm, disinfect the home or facility by following the steps in the "System Disinfection" section.

Boil Water Advisory

If any failure occurs on an Aquasana UV system, the water must not be used for human consumption until the system is returned to a safe operational mode. If water is consumed during a failure period, it must be boiled (minimum 20 minutes at a full boil) prior to consumption.

Equipment Specifications

UV Filter Specifications

Limited Warranty

What is covered

This Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship in the manufacturing of your Aquasana UV Filtration System, except as provided below. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is not transferable.

For how long

• UV CHAMBER: Aquasana warrants the UV chamber (stainless-steel UV Reactor) to be free from defects for ten (10) years from the date of purchase.
• ELECTRONICS: Aquasana warrants electrical (power supply) components to be free from defects for three (3) years from the date of purchase.
• UV LAMPS & QUARTZ SLEEVES: Aquasana warrants UV Lamps, sleeves, and UV sensors to be free from defects for one (1) year from the date of purchase.

What is not covered

This warranty does not cover filter cartridges or systems not installed according to instructions, or those that have been abused or operated incorrectly. It also does not cover:

• Incidental or consequential damages caused by product failure.
• Clogging (pre-filter cartridge replacement is the purchaser's responsibility).
• Damage from use of non-potable water supplies.
• Labor costs for installation or filter replacement.
• Damage caused by fire, flood, or acts of God.
• Damage caused by water outside the following Water Quality Parameters:
  • Hardness > 120 mg/L (7 gpg)
  • Iron > 0.3 mg/L (ppm)
  • Manganese > 0.05 mg/L (ppm)
  • Tannins > 0.1 mg/L (ppm)
  • Turbidity > 1 NTU
  • Transmittance (UVT) < 75%
• Products modified without Aquasana approval.
• Products with altered, defaced, or removed serial numbers.
• Water damage inside ballast housing or controllers. Warranty is void if non-genuine Aquasana parts are used, including replacement UV Lamps, sleeves, control modules, and chambers. Failure to use genuine parts may compromise disinfection performance and warranty coverage.

What Aquasana will do

Aquasana will replace the defective part, or if necessary, the entire product, and send it with installation instructions.

How to get service

To receive service under this Warranty, contact Aquasana, Inc. at 1-866-662-6885 or warranty@aquasana.com within the Warranty Period. Describe the problem to a customer service representative who will verify warranty status and determine replacement procedures. Proof of purchase is required.

How state law applies

This warranty grants specific rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state. Some states do not allow limitations on incidental or consequential damages.

Warranty Registration

Warranty registration is not required for coverage under the Aquasana Limited Warranty for factory direct purchases from www.aquasana.com. For purchases from retailers or dealers, complete the online warranty registration form at www.aquasana.com/warranty to record your purchase.

Water for Life® Program

Replace your filters on time, without worry, with auto-delivery for less. Changing filters with genuine Aquasana replacements ensures continued water filtration and optimum system performance. The Water for Life® program offers no contract, auto-ship filter replacements.

• Free Shipping: Replacements shipped directly to you at no extra cost.
• Discount Replacements: Lock in a 15% discount on filters.
• Extended Warranty: Performance promise with free replacement parts.
• No Contract: Replacing filters is serious, but your commitment doesn't have to be.

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE

? 866-662-6885

✉️ waterforlife@aquasana.com

Contact Information

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