The NuvoH2O system is a salt-free water softener designed to prevent and remove hard water scale buildup in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Unlike traditional salt-based softeners, it does not remove minerals from the water but instead uses a proprietary citrus formulation called CitraCharge to bind with mineral ions, preventing scale formation. This process, based on chelation, results in healthy, pH-balanced, mineralized water that does not produce the "slick" feeling often associated with salt softeners. The system is FDA approved and safe to drink from.
Function Description:
The primary function of the NuvoH2O water softener is to condition hard water by preventing the formation of mineral scale. It achieves this through a chelation process where the CitraCharge formulation binds to hard water minerals (like calcium and magnesium), keeping them suspended in the water rather than allowing them to precipitate and form scale. This not only prevents new scale buildup but also helps to remove existing scale from plumbing and appliances over time. The system is designed for whole-home water treatment, ensuring that all water entering the residence is softened. It does not act as a filter or purifier and is not intended for use with microbiologically unsafe water.
Important Technical Specifications:
The NuvoH2O system is available in three main models, each tailored for different home sizes and water usage:
Studio System (Item # DPSB):
- Intended Use: Condos, townhomes, and apartments less than 1000 sq. feet, with 1 bathroom, and low water use.
- Size: 5" x 14"
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
- Water Flow: 12-15 gpm (gallons per minute) with 3/4” ports.
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PSI (6.8 bar).
- Capacity: Approximately 20,000 gallons or up to 6 months.
- Replacement Cartridges: Uses 2” x 10” cartridges (Item #: S-2416 or SHP-2516).
- Features: Built-in pressure relief valve, FDA & NSF approved.
Home System (Item # DPHB):
- Intended Use: Homes up to about 2,000 sq. ft., with 2 or 3 bathrooms, and average water use.
- Size: 5" x 24"
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Water Flow: 12-15 gpm with 1” ports.
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PSI (6.8 bar).
- Capacity: Approximately 35,000 gallons or up to 6 months.
- Replacement Cartridges: Uses 2" x 20" cartridges (Item #: H-2416 or HHP-2516).
- Features: Built-in pressure relief valve, FDA & NSF approved.
Manor System (Item # DPMB):
- Intended Use: Larger homes over 2000 sq. ft., with 3 or more bathrooms, and homes with above-average water use.
- Size: 8" x 26"
- Weight: 14 pounds
- Water Flow: 15-18 gpm with 1.5” ports.
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PSI (6.8 bar).
- Capacity: Approximately 50,000 gallons or up to 6 months.
- Replacement Cartridges: Uses 4” x 20” cartridges (Item #: M-42416 or MHP-42516).
- Features: Built-in pressure relief valve, FDA & NSF approved.
General Technical Specifications and Cautions:
- Installation: Must be installed vertically.
- Water Flow Direction: Inlet and outlet lines must be properly attached as marked ("IN" and "OUT").
- Pressure: Recommended pressure setting is 65 psi (4.5 bar). A pressure reduction valve should be installed if water pressure may exceed the maximum PSI rating of 100 (6.8 BAR).
- Temperature: Maximum operating water temperature is 100° F; do not connect to a hot water supply line.
- pH: Intended for hard water with above normal pH; do not install if inlet water pH is 7.2 or less.
- Outdoor Installation: If installed outdoors, the system MUST be protected from sunlight and freezing. Environmental damage from these conditions is not covered under warranty.
- Connections: Brass inserts on ports provide stronger threading but can split or break if over-tightened. Thread seal tape or sealant compound is required to prevent leakage. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
- O-ring: The O-ring in the Housing Body MUST be seated properly to prevent leaks.
Usage Features:
- Salt-Free Operation: Eliminates the need for salt, making it a more environmentally friendly and low-maintenance option compared to traditional softeners.
- No Electricity or Drains: The system operates without electricity and does not require a drain line, simplifying installation and reducing operational costs.
- No Calibration: No complex calibration is needed after installation.
- Built-in Bypass: Facilitates easy cartridge replacement without requiring additional shut-off valves in the plumbing system.
- Improved Water Quality: Provides healthy, pH-balanced water that is beneficial for hair and skin.
- Dishwasher Use: Requires less soap in dishwashers (decrease by at least half) and advises against using pre-soaks or rinse-aids to prevent fine white film or spots, especially with no-phosphate detergents.
- Immediate Use (with caveat): For maximum efficiency, it is recommended to allow the new cartridge to remain in the housing with minimal water flow for one hour before full use.
Maintenance Features:
- Easy Cartridge Replacement: The system is designed for straightforward semi-annual cartridge replacement.
- Wrench Provided: A housing wrench is included to assist with detaching and securing the housing body during cartridge changes.
- Bypass Mode for Cartridge Change: The black cap at the top of the unit can be turned to "By-Pass" mode, allowing water to continue flowing to the rest of the home while the cartridge is being replaced. This also activates a pressure release valve (or requires manual pressure relief for Manor systems) to depressurize the cartridge chamber.
- Cleaning: The inside of the housing should be cleaned with dish soap, ½ teaspoon bleach, and water, then rinsed thoroughly during cartridge replacement.
- O-ring Inspection: The O-ring should be inspected and properly seated during each cartridge replacement to ensure a proper seal.
- Cartridge Life: Cartridges are rated for a specific usage (gallons) and/or time period (typically up to 6 months) and must be replaced as directed for correct operation.
The NuvoH2O system offers a convenient, effective, and environmentally conscious solution for managing hard water issues in residential settings, backed by a money-back guarantee and a lifetime limited warranty.