Having clean, safe drinking water in your home requires ongoing maintenance of your Ultraviolet (UV) system. It is relatively simple to do without the need to hire a professional.
The intensity of UV light created by the UV lamp decreases over time, requiring that the UV lamp be replaced. They are good for 9,000 hours (365 days) of run time, and need to be changed annually on systems that operate year round. When changing the lamp inspect the housing, quartz sleeve, and all other equipment. Minerals in the water slowly form a coating on the quartz sleeve that surrounds the lamp. This coating must be removed because it reduces the amount of UV light reaching the water, thereby reducing disinfection performance. If the quartz sleeve can not be cleaned, it must be replaced.
Filters should be replaced as needed and generally last between 4 to 6 months. We recommend at least 2 filter changes at a minimum per year to keep the filters from accumulating bacterial growth. When changing the filters inspect the o-ring and filter housing and all other equipment. When installing new filters also remember to lubricate the o-ring with a non-petroleum based lubricant, preferably one that is silicon based.
Pro tip #1: Install pressure gauges before and after the UV system. If the pressure drops more than normal, this is often an indication that your filters are accumulated with too much sediment and they need to be changed. You may also notice a drop in water pressure in your home when turning on a faucet or turning on the shower.
Pro tip #2: Plug your system into an outlet with a dedicated breaker. If not, a hair dryer or other appliance may trip a common breaker thus turning off your UV lamp.
Pro tip #3: Install a bypass assembly with a shut-off valve to provide emergency water supply in the event that the UV system is damaged.
Pro tip #4: Install shut-off valves before and after your UV system to allow for ease of maintenance.
Pro tip #5: Purchase a quartz sleeve along with your new UV lamp. You may find that the sleeve cannot be easily cleaned at the time you change the lamp. They are very fragile and can break when changing out the lamp and, therefore, it is a good idea to have an extra one on hand.
Filter housings are available in clear or colored plastic. Some people prefer the clear housing as they can see at a glance if the filter needs to be changed. Clear housings are more susceptible to damage from UV light and direct sunlight can cause them to crack easily. The more common colored housings come in a softer plastic that will hold up better to UV light.
Have a question? You can live chat with us at https://www.rcworst.com/, call 855.329.4519, or email Customer.Service@RCWorst.com to speak with an industry expert.