Water filters, as all other appliances, are bound to have numerous issues after some time, particularly if taken good care of. Some of the most common issues a water filter might experience are listed below:
1. Slow Filtration of Water / Low Water Flow
Cause: RO water wastage could occur as a result of clogged filters or the RO membrane, which is full or clogged. This is likely if there has not been a considerable amount of time since the purifier was last maintained.
Solution: Change the sediment filters, pre-filters, or RO membrane as appropriate. That could be avoided by regular maintenance.
2. RO Water Wastage
Cause: RO purifiers typically waste water in the filtering process. Nonetheless, wastage may be extensive if the purifier is broken or if there is damage to the RO membrane.
Solution: Inspect the RO membrane and other filters for clogging or damage. The models vary regarding their waste-to-purified-water ratio; select an effective model when making your purchase.
3. Water Taste or Odor Issues
Cause: If the purified water has an unpleasant taste or odor, it may be caused by:
An old clogged activated carbon filter.
Growth of bacteria or mold inside the system.
The water tank is dirty and requires cleaning.
Solution: Replace the filter, clean the water tank, and service it on a regular basis to keep the purifier bacteria-free.
4. Leakage
Cause: Leakage of water from a water purifier can be caused by:
Loose connections or fittings.
Loose or damaged O-rings or seals.
Cracks in the body or tank of the purifier.
Solution: Tighten fittings and inspect the O-rings and seals. Physical damage to tank will require replacement.
5. No Water Output (Water Not Being Dispensed from Purifier)
Cause: This can be caused by a variety of reasons:
The water tank is full (and the automatic shut-off valve is closed).
Faulty motor or pump.
Dirty filters or membranes.
Solution: Make sure the auto-shut-off valve is properly functioning, and inspect the pump or motor for malfunction. Clean or replace the filters and membranes accordingly.
6. Water Leaking from the Faucet
Cause: A leaky faucet is usually due to a loose connection or faulty faucet valve.
Solution: Secure connections and find out if the faucet valve requires replacement.
7. Purifier Display Malfunction
Cause: In indicator or display electronic purifiers, electrical faults, sensor faults, or software faults can cause a faulty display.
Solution: Inspect the power supply, and reset the system if needed. If the problem persists, have a technician inspect and repair the problem.
8. Power Failure or Unstable Power Supply
Cause: Water purifiers require a steady power supply to function efficiently. During power outage or voltage dips, the purifier will not function properly.
Solution: Use a voltage stabilizer against voltage fluctuations and have a consistent power supply. Certain filters possess an inbuilt voltage protection.
9. Purifier Making Strange Noises
Cause: Noises in the purifier are generally caused by:
The motor or pump being faulty.
Air that has accumulated within the system.
A clog in the filters or pipes.
Solution: Drain the air out of the system, inspect the motor/pump for breakdown, and the filters for blockages.
10. Failure of RO Membrane
Cause: The RO membrane gets less effective after a period of time because of:
High levels of TDS.
Rare filter replacements.
Hard water causing scaling on the membrane.
Solution: Change the RO membrane regularly (every 1-2 years depending on usage) and descale the system to avoid scaling.
11. UV or UV Lamp Not Operating
Cause: The UV lamp may not be functioning properly if it is:
Burned out.
Dirty, which prevents it from effectively killing germs.
Incorrectly installed or connected.
Solution: Change the UV lamp when it dies (usually every 6-12 months). Clean the UV chamber and also properly install.
12. Lack of Filtration
Cause: If the purifier fails to filter water properly, the reason could be:
A dirty filter.
A damaged or faulty RO membrane.
A malfunctioning UV or UF filter.
Solution: Replace the faulty or damaged filter, and make sure that the RO membrane is not clogged or old. Regular maintenance guarantees proper filtering.
13. Purifier Not Turning On
Cause: If the purifier does not turn on, the reason may be:
Power supply problems.
Defective power switches or buttons.
Internal electrical problems.
Solution: Inspect the power connection to the power supply, check the fuse, and make sure that the power switch works. In the worst-case scenario, replace the wiring or electrical components inside by a technician if necessary.
14. High TDS After Filtration
Cause: If the TDS is high even after filtration, it can be due to:
A damaged or spent RO membrane.
Problem with the filters in failing to filter out impurities properly.
Solution: Replace the RO membrane, filter cleaning, and replace all the components in good working condition.
15. Error Codes or System Malfunctions
Cause: Certain new purifiers have error codes indicating system malfunctions, i.e., sensor faults, electrical faults, or clogged filters.
Solution: Check the user manual for error codes and fault finding procedures. If the problem continues, consult the dealer or customer support.
Preventive Steps to Reduce Common Issues
Regular Maintenance: Maintain your purifier every 6-12 months. This keeps the filters, RO membrane, and UV lamps in good condition.
Replace Filters on Time: Replace filters, RO membranes, and UV lamps as indicated by the manufacturer.
Clean Water Tank: Clean the water storage tank once every 3-6 months at least so as not to allow bacterial growth.
Use a Stabilizer: In areas where voltage fluctuation is high, use a stabilizer so as to guard the parts of the purifier.
Test Water Quality: Keep checking on the levels of TDS, especially when you are using borewell water, as the purification system can require upgrading or maintenance more often in such a situation.