Bed filters that aren’t skid-mounted are often delivered disassembled in order to avoid a variety of issues. In order for installation and start-ups to go as smoothly as possible, there are a few tips and tricks to follow.
Installation of the Distributor
The distributor is typically in the form of hub and laterals or a slotted stack, which collects the filtered water at the bottom of the tank. Installation of this component is relatively simple. Simply apply PVC glue to the end of the riser tube and insert it into the distributor. Once it is set, make sure that the riser tube extends past the lip of the tank by a maximum of one-half inch, and cut the excess.
Placing the Tanks
This step is used to ensure that the chosen location for your system is appropriate. Begin by installing the tank in its intended location. Once in place, temporarily install the control valve to confirm that there is enough space. The reason this step is important is that tanks can be extremely heavy and cannot be moved safely once filled.
If the filter is to be hard piped, do not install any of the piping until the tanks are filled, as the weight of the media can compress the tank and change the height of the connections of the control valve. If the filter is to have flexible connections, make sure that there is enough flexibility to account for a potential height change.
Filling the Tank
WARNING : During the filing process, block the riser tube to avoid filing it with any media, a simple piece of tape will suffice. In order to avoid damage to the bottom distributor, it is highly recommended to fill the tank 1/3 full of water before starting to fill.
To the best of your ability, try to make sure that the riser does not lift up because the media could pass underneath the distributor. We also recommend keeping the riser as centred as possible during filling.
When filling of the tank, if your system requires graver, start by pouring the finest grade, finishing with the coarsest. Then, add the required media. Once the media is added, remove the tape from the top of the riser.
Control Valve Installation
IMPORTANT : For more details, please refer to the control valve manual provided with the equipment.
Start by making sure the centre O-ring in the bottom of the valve is in place and well lubricated. Then align the riser tube in the centre hole under the control valve and screw it in carefully.
If your system requires a bypass on the control valve, you can install it at this point.
Getting started
We recommend that you consult the control valve manual for instructions on how to initiate regeneration or backwash.
Otherwise, follow these steps to activate your system:
- Fill the tank with water.
- Close the outlet valve.
- Initiate a backwash.
- Slowly open inlet valve until you hear water flowing into the tank (you should hear air coming out of the drain line). Note that it is important not to allow the flow rate to be too high; otherwise, you may lose some of the media.
- Once the system is filled, let the media soak for about 12 hours to allow it to extract the air trapped in it.
- Once soaking period is complete, open the inlet valve to full capacity
- Upon completion of the initial regeneration or backwash, open the outlet valve to full capacity.