This document is the user manual for the iSpring US31 Water Systems, version 04/2019. It outlines the installation, usage, and maintenance of an under-sink three-stage water filtration system.
Function Description
The iSpring US31 is a three-stage under-sink water filtration system designed to provide clean, filtered drinking water directly from a dedicated faucet. The system utilizes a combination of sediment and carbon block filters to remove various contaminants from tap water, improving its taste, odor, and clarity. The three stages work sequentially to purify the water:
- Stage 1 (Sediment Filter - PP15): This initial stage typically uses a polypropylene sediment filter to remove larger particles such as rust, sand, dirt, and silt from the water. This protects the subsequent carbon filters from premature clogging and extends their lifespan.
- Stage 2 (CTO Carbon Filter - FC15): Following the sediment filter, water passes through a Carbon Block (CTO) filter. This filter is highly effective at removing chlorine, chloramines, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals that can affect the taste and odor of water.
- Stage 3 (CTO Carbon Filter - FC15): The third stage employs another CTO Carbon Block filter, providing additional filtration to ensure maximum reduction of remaining contaminants and further enhance water quality. This dual carbon filtration ensures comprehensive removal of chemical impurities.
The system is designed for easy integration into existing kitchen setups, connecting to the cold water supply line and delivering filtered water through a dedicated drinking faucet installed on the countertop or sink.
Important Technical Specifications
While specific flow rates, pressure requirements, and micron ratings for the filters are not explicitly detailed in the provided pages, the manual implies standard residential under-sink filtration performance.
- Filter Cartridges: The system uses three standard-sized filter cartridges: one sediment filter (PP15) and two CTO carbon block filters (FC15).
- Fittings: The system utilizes quick-connect fittings for easy and secure tubing connections. These fittings are designed for 1/2 inch deep tube insertion to ensure a proper seal.
- Faucet: A standard non-air-gap drinking faucet is included, requiring a 1/2-inch hole for installation.
- Feed Water Adapter (AFW43): This adapter connects the system to the cold water supply line, featuring an on/off valve to control water flow to the filter system.
- Dimensions: The housing unit, as depicted, is compact enough for under-sink installation, though exact dimensions are not provided. The overall footprint suggests it can fit in most standard kitchen cabinets.
Usage Features
- Under-Sink Installation: The system is designed to be installed discreetly under the kitchen sink, saving countertop space.
- Dedicated Faucet: A separate drinking faucet provides convenient access to filtered water without affecting the main kitchen faucet's water supply.
- Quick-Connect Fittings: These fittings simplify the installation process and make future filter changes easier by allowing for tool-free tube connections and disconnections. The manual provides clear instructions on how to properly use these fittings, emphasizing the importance of full tube insertion and the use of blue lock clips for security.
- Water Supply Control: The included feed water adapter (AFW43) features a handle that allows users to easily turn the water supply to the filter system on or off, which is crucial for maintenance and leak checks.
- Initial Flushing: The manual instructs users to flush the system for at least five minutes after installation to remove residual carbon fines and air bubbles, ensuring optimal performance from the start.
- Leak Checks: Users are advised to check for leaks daily during the first week and occasionally thereafter, a standard practice for any new plumbing installation.
Maintenance Features
- Filter Replacement Schedule: The manual provides a clear filter maintenance schedule:
- Sediment Filter (PP15): Recommended replacement every 6-12 months.
- Carbon Block Filter (FC15): Recommended replacement every 6-12 months.
- The manual explicitly states that professional opinion and industry standards suggest changing filters no later than every 6 months to minimize contamination risks and ensure intended filtration performance, despite some vendors claiming longer lifespans.
- Easy Filter Access: The filter housings are designed to be unscrewed using a provided housing wrench, allowing for straightforward filter cartridge replacement. The manual advises against over-tightening to facilitate future replacements.
- Step-by-Step Filter Change Guide: Detailed instructions are provided for changing filters, including shutting off the water supply, placing a bucket for spills, twisting off housings, installing new cartridges, and re-tightening.
- O-Ring Maintenance: The manual highlights the importance of ensuring the O-ring is properly seated in the groove on top of the filter housing during installation and replacement, suggesting the optional use of food-grade silicone jelly for a better seal.
- Warranty and Support: iSpring offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, a 1-year manufacturer warranty, and lifetime tech support. Users are encouraged to register their product online and contact customer support for any issues or questions. This commitment to support enhances the long-term maintainability and user experience of the product.