Echo | Whole Home RO System Installation and Operation Manual

About the Echo Water Whole Home RO system

At Echo Water, we offer three levels of Whole Home Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems designed to provide cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water throughout your entire home. Each system is engineered for city water applications and built with high-performance filtration, advanced sterilization, and scalable storage solutions.

Whether you’re looking for reliable whole-home filtration or the most advanced water purification system available, our Essential, Plus, and Pro packages provide options tailored to different household needs and performance goals.

Whole Home RO (Reverse Osmosis) System Comparison - Key features for each system

Hardness, iron, manganese, biologics and many other water contaminants can cause excessive membrane damage and fouling. A full spectrum water report should be done prior to installing any RO system. Membranes are considered a consumable item and will require periodic replacement even under ideal conditions. Membranes do not carry any warranty as they are easily damaged by misapplication.

Gallons Per Day (GPD):

Each 4” x 40” membrane is rated to produce up to 2,000 gallons per day (GPD) at 65 PSI (4.5 Bar), 77°F (25°C), and 500 PPM TDS. Production capacity will decrease significantly with lower water pressure, colder water temperatures, or higher TDS levels. Refer to the Temperature and Pressure Compensation Chart on page 5 for additional performance details.

For proper RO operation, a minimum of 1 PSI is required for every 100 PPM of TDS. This is referred to as osmotic pressure and is calculated using the following equation:

p=TDS100p=\frac{TDS}{100}p=100TDS​

When working with higher TDS water supplies, osmotic pressure must be considered, as it reduces the system’s effective operating pressure. For example, incoming water with 1,000 PPM TDS results in approximately 10 PSI of pressure loss. Therefore, if the incoming water pressure is 80 PSI with 1,000 PPM TDS, the system’s effective operating pressure would be approximately 70 PSI.

Membranes:

Systems are available in single- or dual-membrane configurations. Single-membrane systems can be upgraded in the field to dual-membrane operation with minimal modifications.

Booster Pump:

A booster pump is recommended for applications where incoming water pressure is below 65 PSI (4.5 Bar) or when operating with colder water temperatures. Booster pumps can be easily added in the field if needed in the future.

Water Storage Options:

Atmospheric tank systems include a float switch kit designed for easy installation on most standard atmospheric storage tanks. Pressure tank systems include a factory preset pressure switch set to 40 PSI. Pressure tank systems require a minimum operating pressure of 65 PSI (4.5 Bar). If incoming pressure is below this level, a booster pump model is recommended.

Pressure Gauges:

Depending on the system configuration, 2 to 4 high-quality liquid-filled pressure gauges are included. The system design also allows an additional booster pump pressure gauge to be added to the faceplate if the system is upgraded with a booster pump in the future.

Incoming Water Quality – Minimum Requirements

Line Pressure System Specifics

Notes:

• Systems ship with the bolded flow control. Flow rate can be adjusted using included flow control buttons.
• 220V, 50/60Hz options available.

What does the recovery rate mean of the reverse osmosis system?

The recovery rate describes how much of the incoming water is converted into clean, usable product water compared to how much is sent to drain.

In simple terms:

Recovery Rate = (Product Water ÷ Total Feed Water) × 100

Where:

• Product Water (Permeate): Clean water produced by the system
• Total Feed Water: Product water + waste water (concentrate)

How recovery works in Echo Water Whole Home RO systems

In Echo Water Whole Home RO systems, the recovery rate is carefully set using a flow control device. This helps balance efficiency, water quality, and membrane protection.

• A lower recovery rate means more water is sent to waste, which typically helps extend membrane life.
• A higher recovery rate increases water efficiency but may reduce membrane lifespan over time.

Each system is shipped with a pre-selected flow control setting that matches the performance specifications listed in the system chart.

The installed flow control determines how much concentrate (waste water) is discharged. These settings can be adjusted using interchangeable flow control buttons if needed to better suit specific water conditions or application requirements.

If adjustments are being considered, it is recommended to consult a qualified system expert to ensure optimal performance and membrane protection.

Estimate RO Production Rate in GPD Based on PSI/degrees F per Membrane

Echo Water Whole Home RO Parts

Flow Control & Recovery Rate Adjustment

The Echo Water Whole Home RO Systems include four interchangeable flow control buttons that allow you to adjust the system’s recovery rate (the balance between clean water production and wastewater discharge).

• The 2000 GPD system ships with a 2.2 GPM flow control button installed, resulting in an approximate 40% recovery rate.
• The 4000 GPD system ships with a 2.7 GPM flow control button installed, resulting in an approximate 50% recovery rate.

Adjusting the Flow Control Button

To change the recovery rate:

1. Disassemble the flow control assembly as shown in the installation diagram.
2. 
3. Remove the existing flow control button.
4. Insert the new button (higher or lower flow rate as needed).
5. Reassemble the unit securely.

Important Notes:

• Higher flow rate buttons increase water usage but may extend membrane life.
• Lower flow rate buttons conserve water but may increase membrane fouling risk.
• Always ensure proper pre-treatment to protect membrane life and performance.

Pre-Treatment Importance

Proper pre-treatment is critical for maximizing system lifespan and efficiency.

Water conditions that can significantly reduce membrane life include:

• Hardness
• Iron and manganese
• High pH levels
• Biological growth
• Flocculants (alum and similar agents)
• Sediment and turbidity issues

Consult a qualified water treatment professional to design the correct pre-treatment system for your water conditions.

Flow Control Button Installation Orientation

Ensure correct installation:

• The numbers on the flow control button must face the RO system.
• Water should flow toward the washer face with radius and printed text.
• 
• Proper flow control button orientation directs water flow towards the washer face with radius and text.

Correct orientation ensures proper system performance and flow regulation.

How Flow Control Works

The flow control device regulates the amount of concentrate (waste water) leaving the system. This directly determines:

• Recovery rate
• Membrane efficiency
• Overall system lifespan

Dual TDS Monitor

The Echo Water Whole Home RO Systems include a dual TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) monitor for real-time water quality tracking.

Features:

• Monitors both incoming (inlet) and treated (product) water
• Simple one-button operation
• Factory calibrated for accuracy
• Powered by (2) AA batteries (replaceable via rear cover)

Operation:

• Press Power to turn on
• Press IN/OUT to toggle between inlet and product water readings

Digital Permeate Flow Meter

The system includes a digital flow meter to measure product water output.

Specifications:

• Accuracy: ±5%
• Flow range: 0.4 GPM (1.5 LPM) to 6.5 GPM (25 LPM)
• Auto-on when water flows
• Auto shut-off after 10 seconds of no flow

Display Modes:

• Current flow rate
• Total cumulative flow

Reset:

• Press and hold Reset for 5 seconds to reset total flow to zero.

System Start-Up Procedure

1. Disconnect permeate line from storage tank and direct to drain.
2. If equipped with a pump throttle valve, close it approximately 90%.
3. Press and hold the RO controller power button for 5 seconds.
4. 
5. Adjust pump throttle valve to achieve 65–100 PSI, depending on application.
6. Allow system to run for one hour.
7. Shut down system and reconnect permeate line to storage tank.
8. Restart system and resume normal operation.

RO Controller General Operation

Standby / ON Switch

The controller uses a capacitive touch switch for power and manual functions.

• The Tank Full LED turns red to confirm the button has been properly activated.
• Touch and hold the switch for 1–2 seconds to turn the system ON or OFF.
• This same switch is also used to initiate Manual Run and Manual Flush functions.

Manual Run / Manual Flush Function

The controller is capable of running a timed Manual Run and timed Manual Flush.

• Default duration for both functions: 5 minutes

Starting a Manual Run

1. Ensure the system is in the Tank Full state.
2. Briefly tap the ON switch two (2) times.
3. The Tank Full LED will turn orange to confirm input recognition.
4. The system will begin normal operation.
5. The RO Pump LED will turn orange, indicating a Manual Run/Flush cycle is active.

Activating Manual Flush

• While a Manual Run is active, press the ON switch two (2) additional brief times to trigger a Manual Flush cycle.

Ending Manual Run / Flush

• Touch and hold the ON switch for 2 seconds to stop the Manual Run or Manual Flush at any time.

RO Controller Specifications

RO Controller Programming Options

The RO Controller is pre-set to the most common programming (Program 1). If you ordered the RO with the Permeate Flush option we will set the programming to (Program 3). It can be adjusted in the field to meet your specific application needs. See tables below for programming options.

Routine Maintenance for the Echo Whole Home RO System

This routine maintenance schedule is a general guideline designed to help ensure safe operation, optimal performance, and long system life of the Echo Water Whole Home RO System.

The system should remain powered on at all times and must be installed in a location protected from potential water damage. While all components are built with high-quality materials, all mechanical systems experience normal wear over time, and leaks or part failures may eventually occur.

To reduce risk, it is strongly recommended to install a third-party leak detection and automatic shut-off device in any installation where water damage could occur.

Daily Maintenance

• Inspect the system for leaks, unusual noises, excessive heat, or other irregular operation
• Check system readings including:
  • TDS meter
  • Flow meter
  • Pressure gauges
• Confirm the system is operating within normal performance ranges

Every 3 Months (Quarterly Maintenance)

• Replace the pre-filter
  • In high-usage environments, more frequent replacement may be required
• Perform a full system inspection for:
  • Wear and tear
  • Leaks
  • Operational irregularities

Annual Maintenance

• Replace UV lamp (if installed)
• Sanitize the entire system
• Remove TDS probes and soak for 2 minutes in a 10% hydrochloric acid solution, then:
  • Rinse thoroughly
  • Reinstall
  • Calibrate TDS meter
  • Replace batteries
• Replace RO membrane
• Verify pressure gauge accuracy (replace if outside ±10% accuracy range)

Bi-Annual Maintenance (Every 2 Years)

• Replace membrane housing O-rings
• Replace UV quartz sleeve (if UV system is installed)

5-Year Maintenance

• Replace booster pump (recommended)
• Replace filter sump

Weekly System Log (Recommended Tracking Sheet)

Record the following values weekly to monitor system performance:

Installation

❔Can this be installed outside?

Yes but it would need to have protection from the weather

System Mounting Requirements

Floor Mounted Installation

• Install the four supplied feet under each corner of the system frame
• Threaded holes are pre-installed for easy leveling adjustment
• The system must be secured to either:
  • A wall using the supplied wall bracket, or
  • The floor using appropriate anchoring hardware
• This is required due to the system’s compact footprint and top-heavy design

Wall Mounted Installation

• The system can be wall-mounted using the provided wall mounting system
• Installation must be done with extreme care to ensure safety
• A solid backing is required, such as:
  • 3/4” plywood spanning at least two wall studs, or
  • 2x4 bracing spanning two studs
• Use only high-quality, appropriately rated hardware
• Wall mounting should only be performed by a qualified professional installer

Troubleshooting the Echo Whole Home RO System

Low Permeate Flow

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• Low pressure → Increase system pressure or install booster pump
• Plugged pre-filter → Replace pre-filter and check differential pressure
• Cold water → Increase pressure (do not exceed 110 PSI)
• Fouled membrane → Replace membrane and improve pre-treatment (consider antiscalant)

High Permeate Flow

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• High pressure → Adjust pump throttle or install regulator (never exceed 110 PSI)
• Damaged membrane → Replace membrane and correct pre-treatment
• Damaged O-ring → Replace membrane cap O-rings
• Faulty check valve → Inspect/replace check valve

High Permeate TDS (Poor Water Quality)

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• Damaged membrane → Replace and correct oxidant exposure
• Damaged O-ring → Replace membrane cap O-rings
• Faulty check valve → Inspect/replace
• High incoming TDS → Verify rejection rate (>90% typical)

Membrane Fouling

Possible Causes & Solutions:

• Scaling → Adjust pH, improve antiscalant dosing, add softener
• Oxidation damage → Repair/replace dechlorination system
• Organic fouling → Replace GAC pre-treatment
• Biofouling → Sanitize system and add UV or chlorine/dechlorination pre-treatment

FAQs | Echo Whole Home RO System

❔Will this change the ORP?

Once the water becomes highly purified, measurements like ORP, alkalinity, and pH become less stable, less meaningful, or harder to maintain because the minerals and dissolved solids that influence those readings have largely been removed.

In simpler terms:

• ORP, pH, and alkalinity are all influenced by the mineral content and dissolved ions in the water
• When water is heavily purified (such as through RO or deionization), there are very few minerals left in the water
• Because of that, ORP readings can fluctuate easily and may not stay strongly negative
• The water also has very little buffering capacity, meaning pH can shift very easily as well

“Once the water is highly purified, maintaining or interpreting a stable negative ORP becomes less reliable because the water no longer contains many of the minerals and compounds that influence ORP, alkalinity, and pH.”

That does not necessarily mean the water cannot have a negative ORP — it just means the reading may become less stable or less significant after extensive purification depending on the system setup and remineralization.

Need Help? Contact Support

If you encounter any issues or have questions about your Echo Pure™ Whole Home Filtration System, our dedicated support team is here to assist you. Whether you're experiencing technical difficulties, need replacement parts, or just have a general inquiry, don't hesitate to reach out.

Email Support

Send a detailed description of your issue to: techsupport@echowater.com
Please include:

• Your Order Number

• Photos (if applicable) to help us better understand the issue
  Our team will respond promptly to assist you.

Phone Support

Call Tech Support at: +1 (855) 737-1114
Available: Monday–Friday (Closed weekends & major US Holidays)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MST)

Book Installation Assistance 

You can use the link above to schedule installation assistance with our tech support team, who will guide your plumber through the setup process.

Online Support:

Visit our website at www.echowater.com/support to access FAQs, and troubleshooting guides, and to submit a support request directly. We also offer chat support between 9 AM and 5 PM MST, Monday through Friday.

We are committed to ensuring you have the best experience with your new Echo Pure™ Whole Home Filtration System. Your satisfaction is our top priority!

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