Kinetico KPRO COMPACT

This document outlines the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Kinetico RO KPRO Compact direct flow reverse osmosis system, designed for commercial HORECA use.

Function Description

The Kinetico RO KPRO Compact is a water treatment system that utilizes reverse osmosis to reduce concentrations of salts and other dissolved substances in water. It's specifically engineered for commercial applications, ensuring high-quality water for various uses. The system processes mains water through a multi-stage filtration process. Initially, water passes through a sediment and carbon filter, which retains suspended particles, chlorine, its derivatives, and other organic substances. A solenoid valve controls the flow of water into the equipment.

Following the initial filtration, the water is directed to reverse osmosis membranes. The system incorporates a pump to increase water pressure, which is essential for the reverse osmosis process to occur effectively. The treated water, now purified, is then available for consumption. Any reject water, containing excess salts and dissolved substances, is directed to the drain for disposal.

The equipment features an electronic controller that efficiently manages its functionality, status indications, and various security systems. This controller provides information about the system's operational states and helps ensure optimal performance. The device is designed for direct flow, meaning it produces purified water on demand without the need for a storage tank.

Usage Features

The Kinetico RO KPRO Compact is designed for ease of use and integrates several features to ensure safe and efficient operation. When the device is stopped, it ceases operation via a maximum pressure switch. A minimum pressure switch acts as a safety system, protecting the pump from inlet pressure loss by stopping it and preventing dry operation.

For periods of absence longer than a week, users are advised to close the water inlet tap, drain the equipment, and disconnect it from the power supply. Upon return, the power supply should be reconnected, the inlet valve and tap opened, and water allowed to run for at least 5 minutes before use.

The system includes a user interface with indicators for various statuses. A "water quality light" indicates the quality of dispensed water, using different colors (blue for right TDS, purple for medium TDS, red for high TDS). This light also flashes to indicate flushing in progress or maintenance requirements. Filter life indicators for both the CF pre-filter and RO membrane are present, changing color (blue, lilac, red) to signal normal life, upcoming maintenance, or expiration. An "OFF" button allows the user to stop the device, putting it into standby.

The device also features an external interface that can be wall-mounted and offers 12 different settings, allowing for customization based on specific water conditions and usage requirements. This external device replicates the status of the filters and water quality indicator LED, providing convenient monitoring.

The system performs several automatic flushing cycles to maintain membrane efficiency and water quality:

Functional flushing: For first use, the RO membrane is flushed for 5 minutes.
Flushing on startup: Whenever the system starts, the RO membrane is flushed for 20 seconds. This stops if water is used, and the machine enters normal mode.
Flushing based on operating time: After every 2 hours of accumulated operating time, the membrane is flushed for 20 seconds. This also stops if water is used.
Daily flushing: If the machine hasn't run for 24 hours, the membrane is flushed for 20 seconds.
Flushing after filter change: After changing the CF pre-filter or RO membrane and resetting its counter, the system initiates a 5-minute flush.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for guaranteeing the quality of the water supplied by the Kinetico RO KPRO Compact. This maintenance should be carried out by qualified technical personnel. The manual provides a recommended maintenance frequency for consumable items.

Key maintenance aspects include:

Filter replacement: The CF pre-filter should be replaced at least every 6 months or after 8000 liters, whichever comes first. The RO osmosis membrane typically lasts for approximately 3 years or 20,000 liters, for water with hardness less than 150 ppm. The duration of these components depends on local water quality, consumption, type of use, and specific water characteristics like turbidity, chlorination, and iron content.
Sanitization: The equipment should be sanitized at start-up and then at least every 12 months, depending on usage. Sanitization is also required whenever components in contact with water are accessed or if no water has been consumed for more than a month.
Leak detection: The system incorporates an electronic leak detection system. If a leak is detected, the equipment blocks operation and emits an acoustic and light signal alarm. The equipment remains blocked until the detection probe is dry.
Water quality control: A probe reads the conductivity of the produced water to evaluate the state of the membrane and its components. This measurement is taken when water is dispensed from the tap.
Troubleshooting: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section to address common issues such as leaks, zero or low production, excessive production, unpleasant taste/smell, white colored water, continuous dripping, and the equipment not starting or stopping/starting constantly. Solutions often involve checking water and power supplies, inspecting filters/membranes, or calling for service.
Filter lifetime display: The system provides a visual display of the remaining life of the filters in days and liters. This helps users anticipate when replacements are needed. Indicators show "Normal" (>15 days, >150 liters), "Little left" (0-15 days, 0-150 liters), and "Exhausted" (≤0 days, ≤0 liters), with corresponding visual and acoustic signals.
Hygienic precautions: All consumables are supplied in individual packaging designed to guarantee hygienic storage and transport conditions. Users are advised to exercise hygiene precautions when removing consumables from their packaging and handling connectors and components.
Installation considerations: The equipment should not be supplied with hot water (above 38°C) and the ambient temperature should be between 4°C and 45°C. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and longevity of the membrane and other components. If inlet water contains high chlorine concentrations (above 1.2 ppm), an activated carbon filter is recommended to protect and extend the life of the equipment. For water with hardness exceeding 150 ppm, a softener is required to prevent reduction in membrane life and performance.