3M Water Filtration & RO System Shutdown & Start-Up Instructions
When it comes to water filtration, 3M makes a system designed to run consistently. If it needs to be taken out of service for an extended period, there a steps you need to take to ensure peak performance when restarted. Below are specific procedures from our friends at 3M for shutting down and starting up its standard and reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration systems.
3M Filtration System Shutdown Instructions
Less Than Six Weeks
If the filtration system out of commission for less than a six-week period, follow the shutdown procedure below.
Six Weeks or More
Follow the shutdown procedure above and replace all filter cartridges prior to restarting the filtration system using the instructions below. If you don't want to replace filter and membrane cartridges, try simulating “normal” use by flushing the filter system at least once every three days when the filtration system isn't being used daily.
Note: Whether the system is being shut down for more or less than six weeks, remember to replace the cartridge no later than the scheduled date to change it. Even if the installed filter wasn't in use, it should still be changed not later than the scheduled change date.
Extended Water Filter Shutdown
After the three-day flushing procedure, make sure to flush the filtration system almost once every three days. Operate the system and run water to drain for at least five minutes at each flush cycle. The extended shutdown procedure below isn't required if you follow the three-day flushing cycle.
- Step 1. Shutdown the equipment that is connected to the filtration system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Step 2. Close the filtration system's inlet water valve.
- Step 3. Open the filter flush valve or downstream valve for a few seconds. This helps relieve pressure in the system.
- Step 4. Once pressure has been relieved, close the flush or downstream valve.
- Step 5. Leave cartridges in place that are installed in the heads.
Extended Reverse Osmosis (RO) Shutdown
After the three-day flushing procedure, make sure to flush the RO system once every three days by emptying the tank. Once the tank drains, let it refill. The extended shutdown procedure below isn't required if you follow the three-day flushing cycle.
- Step 1. Shutdown the equipment that is connected to the RO system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Step 2. Close the RO system's inlet water valve. (Note: For systems with a ScaleGard HP, it must be unplugged from the power outlet before the inlet water is closed.)
- Step 3. Empty the tank. Once it's empty, close the tank valve.
- Step 4. Leave cartridges in place that are installed in the heads.
3M Filtration System Start-Up Instructions
Standard System Start-Up: Less Than Six Weeks
If the filtration system has been shut down for less than six weeks or the filter system has been flushed at least once every three days, follow the restart procedure below:
- Step 1. Open the filter inlet water valve. Make sure to check for leaks.
- Step 2. Flush out the system to drain for at least five minutes.
The system is now ready for use.
RO System Start-Up: Less Than Six Weeks
If the RO system has been shut down for less than six weeks or flushed at least once every three days, follow the restart procedure below:
- Step 1. Open the RO filter inlet water valve and tank valve. Make sure to check for leaks.
- Step 2. Flush out the RO system following the filter's recommended instructions. These are included on the performance data sheet.
- Step 3. Sanitize the tank.
- Step 4. Let the tank fill up completely. Once full, drain the entire tank. Let it refill again.
The system is now ready for use.
Standard System Shut Down for Six Weeks or More
If the filtration system has been shut down for six weeks or more and the filtration system wasn't flushed every three days, follow the restart procedure below:
- Step 1. Discard the old filter cartridges and replace them with new ones. Follow the installation instructions.
- Step 2. Open the filter inlet water valve. Make sure to check for leaks.
- Step 3. Flush out the system following the filter's recommended instructions. These are included on the performance data sheet.
The system is now ready for use.
RO System Shut Down for Six Weeks or More
If the filtration system has been shut down for six weeks or more and the filtration system wasn't flushed every three days, follow the restart procedure below:
- Step 1. Discard the old filter cartridges and replace them with new ones. Follow the installation instructions.
- Step 2. Open the filter RO inlet water valve and tank valve. Make sure to check for leaks.
- Step 3. Flush out the system following the filter's recommended instructions. These are included on the performance data sheet.
- Step 4. Sanitize the tank.
- Step 5. Let the tank fill up completely. Once full, drain the entire tank. Let it refill again.
The system is now ready for use.
Download or print the full 3M water filtration system procedure checklist.