The EcoPure Model ECOP20 is an undersink drinking water filter system designed to provide filtered cold drinking water directly from a dedicated faucet. This system is intended for use in kitchens or bathrooms, installed on the cold water supply pipe. Its primary function is to reduce various contaminants from tap water, improving its taste, odor, and overall quality for drinking and cooking.
The system operates by passing cold water through two filter cartridges housed within a compact assembly that fits conveniently under the sink. It is certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standards 42 and 53 for the reduction of specific claims, ensuring its effectiveness and safety for use with disinfected waters that may contain filterable cysts. However, it is explicitly stated not to be used with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system.
Installation of the EcoPure ECOP20 involves several steps, starting with connecting to the cold water supply. The manual provides detailed instructions for both using the included water supply fitting and an optional compression fitting (not included). A key part of the installation is making a hole for the filtered water faucet, which can be done in an existing sink spray attachment hole, by drilling a new hole in the sink top, or in the countertop next to the sink. The faucet itself is designed for easy installation, with a 3/8" tubing that feeds through the mounting hole and toggle bolts to secure its base.
One of the notable usage features of this system is its quick-connect push-in fittings for tubing connections, simplifying the assembly process. The manual emphasizes the importance of cutting tubing ends square and ensuring full engagement into the fittings to prevent leaks. Included tube benders are provided to prevent kinking if sharp bends in the tubing are necessary.
A unique feature of the EcoPure ECOP20 is its integrated faucet timer, which helps users keep track of when to replace the filter cartridges and battery. Located inside the faucet base, this battery-operated 6-month timer includes an amber LED indicator. After 6 months of use, the LED will flash continuously, signaling that it's time for maintenance. This eliminates the need for manual tracking and ensures optimal performance of the filtration system.
Maintenance of the EcoPure ECOP20 primarily revolves around replacing the filter cartridges and the faucet battery. The system uses taste and odor cartridges containing activated carbon. When new cartridges are installed, users are instructed to open the filtered water faucet and allow fine carbon particles (fines) to purge from the cartridge for approximately 10 minutes until the water runs clear. The manual recommends replacing both the battery and filter cartridges every six months. The process for replacing cartridges is straightforward: turn them to the left to remove from the filter heads, dispose of them properly, and then install new ones by turning them to the right to re-attach.
Changing the battery for the faucet timer is also a simple process. Users need to loosen a screw on the right side of the faucet base, press the battery housing upwards, replace the CR 2032 or equivalent battery with the positive (+) side facing the back, and then re-install the housing. The system provides visual feedback after battery replacement: six flashes indicate a fully charged battery and the start of a new 6-month cycle, while two repeated flashes indicate a weak battery that needs replacement.
The manual also includes a troubleshooting section to address common issues such as taste and odor problems, a non-functioning LED indicator light, and water leaks at push-connect fittings. This section provides causes and corresponding corrections, empowering users to resolve minor issues independently. For more complex problems or system sanitization instructions, users are directed to contact customer support.
The EcoPure ECOP20 is designed for user convenience, from its relatively simple installation process to its intuitive maintenance reminders. Its compact design allows it to fit discreetly under most sinks, providing a continuous supply of filtered drinking water without taking up valuable counter space. The emphasis on clear instructions and readily available support ensures that users can effectively install, operate, and maintain their system for long-term benefit.