The ZeroWater Filter Bottle is a water filtration system designed to provide purified water by removing virtually all dissolved solids from tap water. It is intended for use with standard water coolers.
Function Description
The primary function of the ZeroWater Filter Bottle is to filter tap water through a 5-Stage filtration system, producing water with a "000" TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) reading, which meets the FDA standard for purified water. The system includes an upper chamber for unfiltered water, a lower chamber for filtered water, and a float valve that regulates water flow into the cooler's reservoir. A TDS meter is provided to measure the dissolved solids in the water, indicating when the filter needs to be replaced.
Important Technical Specifications
- Filtration Stages: 5-Stage filtration system.
- Stage 1: Activated carbon infused micron cloth.
- Stage 2: Multi-layer system using activated carbon and oxidation reduction alloy.
- Stage 3: Distributor that maximizes contact time.
- Stage 4: Comprehensive ION EXCHANGE array.
- Stage 5: Non-woven membrane to remove fine particles.
- TDS Removal: Guaranteed to remove virtually all dissolved solids (99.6% based on an EPA certified lab test).
- Filter Life: A single filter is rated for 22.5 gallons under laboratory protocols, though longevity may vary based on local water conditions and TDS levels.
- Lower Chamber Capacity: Three gallons.
- TDS Meter: Measures Total Dissolved Solids in parts per million (ppm). Uses two 1.5V button cell batteries.
Usage Features
- Assembly:
- Place the lower chamber divider rim firmly on top of the lower chamber, ensuring the rippled part overlaps the lower chamber and it fits tightly.
- Screw the float valve tightly into the hole on the bottom of the lower chamber. Avoid propping the bottle on the float valve once assembled, as it is fragile.
- Place the lower chamber onto the water cooler, with the float valve fitting inside the cooler's reservoir.
- Install filter cartridges by tightly screwing them into the holes on the bottom side of the upper reservoir to ensure a complete seal with the o-ring.
- Place the upper chamber with attached filter cartridges onto the lower chamber, ensuring the divider ring is tightly affixed.
- First Use Preparation:
- Clean all plastic components and filter cartridges by washing and rinsing thoroughly with warm water only. Rinse the Filter Bottle thoroughly when washing with soap.
- Note that components, filter cartridges, and the TDS meter are not dishwasher safe.
- Discard all plastic bags to prevent suffocation hazards.
- Water Cooler Preparation (if using with a standard water cooler, sold separately):
- Unplug the cooler.
- Drain all water from the cooler using spigots and the drain plug.
- Remove the splash guard from the cooler reservoir by gripping it, turning counter-clockwise, and pulling up. Failure to remove the splash guard will prevent the float valve from working and cause spills.
- Clean the cooler reservoir and spigots by mixing 1 tablespoon of baking soda into 1 gallon of hot water and pouring the solution into the reservoir.
- Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- Flush the cooler with three gallons of plain hot water.
- Do not replace the splash guard or spike fixture.
- Add water to the assembled ZeroWater Filter Bottle before plugging the cooler back into the electrical outlet.
- Filling the Filter Bottle:
- Remove the lid.
- Slowly fill the upper reservoir with cold tap water. Avoid filling too quickly when the lower chamber is empty to prevent tipping.
- Allow water to pass through the filters into the lower chamber. Water will be ready in minutes.
- Do not overfill; once water in the lower chamber reaches the divider rim, do not add more water to the upper chamber to prevent leaks, as it is not designed for long-term storage.
- TDS Meter Operation:
- Remove the cap from the TDS meter.
- Push the "ON/OFF" button; the meter should read "000".
- Place the end of the meter one inch into the water. Do not fully submerge to avoid short-circuiting the battery.
- Wait a few seconds for the reading to stabilize. Press the "HOLD" button to keep the reading on the display after removing the meter from water.
- Do not use the meter in hot water.
- Safety Precautions: Do not use with microbiologically unsafe water or water of unknown quality without proper disinfection. Consult a physician for specific microbiological purity needs. Municipal water is generally potable.
Maintenance Features
- Filter Replacement:
- Filters must be changed when the TDS meter reads "006" to ensure continued performance as represented.
- Replacement filter cartridges can be purchased in packs of 2, 4, or 8 from retailers or by calling Customer Service.
- Store new filters at or near room temperature.
- TDS Meter Battery Replacement:
- Use a fingernail to remove the cap that says "TDS".
- Replace old batteries with two new 1.5V button cell batteries.
- Replace the cap.
- Troubleshooting:
- "000" reading issue: Check the reading in the lower chamber directly. If not "000", clean the lower chamber and ensure filters are installed properly. If the lower chamber reads "000", the issue is likely an unclean cooler reservoir or spigot, requiring cleaning.
- TDS Meter not turning on: Replace batteries if the meter was used according to instructions.
- Strong filter odor: Test the filtered water; a reading higher than "006" indicates it's time to replace the filter.
- Slow lower chamber filling: This is normal; the flow is regulated for thorough filtration.
- Cooler leaking from divider rim: Ensure the lower chamber divider rim is placed correctly and sealed tightly. Avoid overfilling the upper chamber.
- Bottle wobble: The bottle may wobble slightly when empty. When filled, the weight helps. If the cooler top isn't flat, a leveling ring may be needed (available from Customer Service).
- Recycling Program: Zero Technologies, LLC offers a recycling program for used gravity filter cartridges from U.S. customers. Users can download a form from www.zerowater.com/recycling, place used filters in a sealed plastic bag, and mail them to the provided address, marking the package "ATTN: RECYCLING PROGRAM". Customers are responsible for shipping costs.