Spectra Watermakers Newport 400 - Manual (Page 49)

49
PF-2 CHARCOAL FILTERS
The function of the charcoal filter element, p/n FT-FTC-CC, is to remove any chlorine in the
fresh water flush water supply. It also removes any particulate matter. The charcoal filter we
use removes 99.7% of the chlorine. Beware when buying other charcoal filters. If they don’t
specify the percentage of chlorine removed, don’t use them. The cheap ones in most cases will
only remove 60 or 70%. Also, there are aftermarket filters which are very close to, but not
exactly, the same dimensions that will not seal properly in the housing. The membrane can
only handle small amounts of chlorine for short periods without damage. The chlorine will
damage the bonding agent in the membrane in a very short time. So if you skimp on the char-
coal filter you will toast a $450.00 membrane on the first flush. The other factor is the flow
rate that the filter can handle. Because the chlorine is deactivated by a chemical reaction with
the charcoal, it must remain in contact with the charcoal for sufficient period of time for the
reaction to be complete. The filter we use can handle 1.5 gallons (6 litres) per minute flow,
and are good for 5000 gallons (12,000 litres) at 1.5 GPM, or six months, whichever comes
first. Regardless of the flow the charcoal loses its effectiveness after six months.
7/26/04