A.O. Smith AO-WH-PREV - User Manual

The AO Smith AO-WH-PREV Whole House Water Filter is a valve-in-head system designed to provide an effective filtration method for reducing rust, soil, and silt throughout an entire home. This system is engineered to improve water quality by filtering out various contaminants.

Function Description:

The primary function of the AO-WH-PREV filter is to remove rust, soil, and silt from the household water supply. It is a whole-house system, meaning it filters all water entering the home, ensuring that filtered water is available at every tap. The valve-in-head design allows for easy operation with "OFF" and "BYPASS" modes, enabling users to turn off water to the filter for maintenance or bypass it entirely if needed. The system uses a sediment filter (AO-WH-PREV-R2) to achieve its filtration goals.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Model: AO-WH-PREV (system), AO-WH-PREV-R2 (replacement filter)
• Rated Service Flow: 6.0 gpm (gallons per minute) or 22.7 L/m (liters per minute)
• Water Supply: Community or private well
• Water Pressure: 25-100 PSI (172-689 kPa)
• Water Temperature: 40-100°F (4.4-37.8°C)
• Max Operating Pressure: 100 psi (689.5 kPa)
• Max Operating Temperature: 100°F (37.8°C)
• NSF/ANSI 42 Certified: The system is tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction of Particulate Class V (30 to 50 um).
  • Class V Particles (30 to 50 um): Average % reduction of 98.8% (at least 1,000,000 particles/mg/L influent). Max. effluent of 29 mg/L, Min. reduction of >97.6%, Average influent of 1167 mg/L.
  • Influent Chlorine: 1.0 mg/L. Average % reduction of >85%. Max. effluent of 29 mg/L, Min. reduction of >97.6%, Average influent of 1167 mg/L.
• BPA-Free: The product is free from BPA.

Usage Features:

• Valve-in-Head System: Features a valve integrated into the filter head, allowing for easy switching between "OFF," "BYPASS," and "FILTER" modes. This simplifies maintenance and allows for water flow even when the filter is being serviced.
• Easy Installation: The manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions for installation, including diagrams. Tools required for installation include Teflon® tape, an adjustable wrench, a pipe cutter, two 3/4" MNPT x 3/4" fittings for metal pipe, and when installing on metallic plumbing, two (2) grounding clamps and #4 copper wire.
• Compact Design: The unit is designed to be installed upright to maximize contact with the media bed.
• Indoor/Outdoor Installation: The system can be installed indoors and out of direct sunlight. However, prolonged exposure to light can weaken plastic components, resulting in filter housing failure. If installed outdoors or in a sunny area, the unit must be protected from both direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
• Local Codes Compliance: Installation must comply with existing state and local plumbing codes. A licensed plumber or certified installer is recommended.
• Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting section for common issues like water leaks at fittings and connections, providing guidance on how to address them.

Maintenance Features:

• Filter Replacement: The recommended replacement frequency for the AO-WH-PREV-R2 sediment filter is every six (6) months, or sooner if a significant drop in water pressure occurs.
• Simple Replacement Process: The filter replacement process involves turning off the water, switching the valve to "OFF" or "BYPASS," unscrewing and removing the old filter housing, inserting a new filter and re-installing the housing, and then turning the valve to "FILTER" position.
• Cleaning: The exterior of the filtration system can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Rinsing well with fresh, clean water is recommended. Harsh chemical cleaning products should not be used on the system's exterior surface as they may damage the housing.
• Pre-Filter Replacement Tips: Before changing filters, turn off the water supply. Place a bucket under the filtration system to catch the small amount of water that will run out after housing removal. If a non-A. O. Smith brand filter is used, the installer must ensure the replacement filter is appropriate.
• Warranty: The product comes with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase by a consumer ("Warranty Period"). The warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship in manufacturing of the A. O. Smith Whole House Sediment Filter. It does not cover filter cartridges, systems not installed in compliance with instructions, damage from misuse, freezing, or improper installation.
• Customer Support: A. O. Smith provides customer service for installation, troubleshooting, and filter replacement information. Users can call 877.333.7108 for assistance.