The Everpure QL3 Single water filter is a residential filtration system designed for point-of-use water treatment in homes and businesses. This guide compiles installation instructions, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting procedures based on official documentation and technical manuals provided by the manufacturer and its affiliated distributors. The system is intended for use with standard water supply lines and includes features such as an 11-month countdown timer and FDA-approved materials. Below is a detailed breakdown of the installation process, system-specific considerations, and customer support procedures.
Installation Procedures
General Installation Considerations
Everpure recommends that the QL3 Single filter be installed using either copper tubing, CPVC, or gray flexible riser tubes. Prior to installation, it is essential to ensure that the piercing lance on the saddle valve does not protrude beyond the rubber gasket. This helps prevent leaks and ensures a secure connection. The following steps provide a general overview of the installation process for the saddle valve method:
- Turn off the cold-water valve located under the sink or at the main water line.
- Assemble the saddle valve on the chosen tube or pipe, ensuring proper alignment with the water supply line.
- Turn the handle clockwise until it stops, which will pierce the tube or pipe. This action closes the valve.
- Turn on the water supply to pressurize the cold water line.
- Use a wrench to snug the nut and seal around the valve stem.
- Connect the tubing to the feed water valve using a brass compression nut, stiffener insert, and plastic sleeve.
- To open the valve, turn the handle counterclockwise.
For installations involving other metal pipes, the procedure is slightly different:
- Turn off the cold water supply.
- Drill a 3/16″ hole at the desired location.
- Ensure the piercing lance does not extend beyond the rubber gasket.
- Assemble the saddle valve on the pipe, aligning it with the hole.
- Turn the saddle valve handle clockwise to close the valve.
- Tighten the nut and seal around the valve stem using a wrench.
- Connect the tubing to the feed water valve using the same brass compression nut, stiffener insert, and plastic sleeve.
- Turn on the cold water supply.
- To open the valve, turn the handle counterclockwise.
Faucet Adapter and Ball Valve Installation
For systems that require a faucet adapter and ball valve, the installation procedure involves the following steps:
- Turn off the cold water supply using the angle stop shut-off located under the sink.
- After turning off the valve, relieve the pressure by opening the handle on the faucet on the cold water side.
- Using an adjustable wrench or basin wrench, disconnect the riser tube from the bottom of the faucet.
- Thread the female side of the faucet adapter onto the male end of the faucet.
- Thread the riser tube onto the bottom of the faucet adapter.
- Connect a length of 1/4″ tubing between the fitting on the side of the faucet adapter and the ball valve.
Flexible riser tubes, which are commonly made of braided stainless steel, braided plastic, or gray 3/8″ plastic tubing, are the most compatible with the faucet adapter installation. These flexible materials allow for the additional 2″ of space needed for the adapter without requiring a shorter riser tube.
If the riser tube is made of copper, a bend must be made in the copper to accommodate the 2″ space required for the faucet adapter. If the copper tube is 3/8″, bending can be done easily by hand.
Mounting the Faucet
The installation of the faucet involves disassembling the hardware from the threaded shank. Chrome base plates and rubber washers slide up the shank to the faucet body. The following steps detail the mounting process:
- Feed the threaded shank through the sink hole and orient the faucet.
- From below the sink, slide the lock washer and hex nut over the threaded shank.
- Tighten the hex nut with a wrench. It is recommended to have someone hold the faucet from above to prevent it from moving out of place during tightening.
- If assistance is not available, tighten the hex nut until it is slightly less than completely tight. Then, turn the faucet base from above the sink to tighten it while orienting the faucet in the desired location.
Angle Stop Valve and Tubing Installation
The John Guest Angle Stop Valve is used to provide a connection between the angle stop (cold water shut-off) and the bottom of the riser tube. This valve is equipped with a built-in shut-off and provides the feed supply connection for the reverse osmosis system. The installation process includes the following steps:
- Shut off the cold water supply using the angle stop shut-off located under the sink.
- After shutting off the valve, relieve the pressure by opening the handle on the faucet on the cold water side.
- Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the riser tube from the existing cold water shut-off.
- Move the tubing away from the valve to create space for the John Guest Angle Stop Valve.
- Connect the valve according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Special Considerations for Different Sink Materials
The installation procedure may vary depending on the material of the sink. The following guidelines are provided for porcelain, enamel, ceramic on metal, or cast iron sinks:
- Mark the center with a center punch for the 1/4″ pilot hole.
- Carefully drill the pilot hole with a masonry bit through the porcelain, stopping when metal is visible.
- Switch to a standard metal-cutting bit to continue cutting through the metal below the porcelain surface.
- Continue to enlarge the pilot hole using larger masonry and metal-cutting bits until the hole is 1/2″ in diameter.
For stainless steel sinks:
- Mark the center with a center punch for the 1/4″ pilot hole.
- Drill the pilot hole.
- Continue to enlarge the hole using larger drill bits until it is 1/2″ in diameter.
- Clean up any sharp edges.
It is important to note that some municipalities may require the use of air gap faucets, which necessitate a 1-1/4″ hole in the sink. To make such a hole, special tools like a chassis punch (for stainless steel) or a Relton cutter (for porcelain) may be required. Users should consult their local dealer for more information on the specific requirements in their area.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Filter Life and Performance
Everpure filters are designed to last for an extended period, but the exact lifespan may vary depending on three key variables: inlet water pressure, consumption, and water quality. These factors are unique to each installation and can affect the performance of the filter over time. Despite these variations, Everpure ensures that the quality of the filtered water remains consistent throughout the life of the filter.
In the event that a filter appears to have a shorter lifespan than expected, users are advised to contact the manufacturer for assistance. Everpure provides a five-year warranty on the filter heads and a one-year warranty on the cartridges against manufacturing defects.
Leak Detection and Resolution
A small leak from the top of the cartridge may occur due to trapped air bubbles. In such cases, the manufacturer recommends removing the cartridge (after shutting off the water supply) and applying FDA-approved silicone lubricant around the O-rings at the top of the cartridge. This step should be performed before contacting customer support.
If the issue persists, users should reach out to Everpure via email or live chat. The company may request the defective item to be held for up to six weeks in case the manufacturer wishes to inspect it.
Customer Support and Returns
Everpure offers multiple avenues for customer support, including live chat, email, and links on their website. The contact information provided is [email protected], and users are encouraged to use the RGA (Return Goods Authorization) number when returning items. The following guidelines apply to returns:
- Returned items must be in their original condition and packaging.
- The user must include their name, address, and phone number in the package.
- A 20% restocking fee may apply for returns made within 7 days of purchase.
- The returned items must be unused.
For defective products, users are advised to contact the company via email, providing the production code from the defective item. The code is typically a small stamp on the label near the top of the product. Everpure may ask users to hold onto the defective item for up to six weeks in case the manufacturer requests it for further inspection.
Conclusion
The Everpure QL3 Single water filter is a reliable and effective solution for point-of-use water filtration in residential and commercial settings. The installation process involves careful preparation and adherence to manufacturer guidelines, particularly when dealing with different types of tubing, sink materials, and faucet configurations. Proper maintenance and troubleshooting procedures are essential to ensure the system operates efficiently over its lifespan. By following the outlined steps and contacting customer support when necessary, users can enjoy clean, filtered water for an extended period.