OP-2 BAD SMELLING PRODUCT WATER

The reverse osmosis membrane is permeable by many gases including hydrogen sulfide, the gas that causes rotten eggs to smell the way they do. If there are bad odors in the feed water they will go through the membrane and the product water will be affected. Usually the source of the odor is from the decay of planktonic creatures trapped in the sea strainer and prefilters. These tiny oxygen loving creatures soon suffocate and die inside the prefilter housings when the unit is shut down. Once all the available oxygen is consumed, anaerobic bacteria begin to grow, causing the odor. If a unit being used frequently begins to make smelly water, it will be the pre- filters that are the source of the problem. This occurs in a week or two in cold climates, but in less than one night in very warm waters like the Sea of Cortes or the Red Sea. These bacteria can spread throughout the watermaker, and begin to grow on the membrane, causing poor water quality and high feed pressures.

Filling the system with fresh water after every use greatly slows this process, allowing the auto- mated Spectra units to operate with less frequent prefilter changes. Units operated for only an hour or so a day will probably need to have the filters changed due to odor before they are dirty enough to restrict water flow. Prefilters can be cleaned. We recommend that you have three sets in service, one in the unit, one set soaking overnight in a bucket of clean fresh or salt water and one set drying for the next use. After shutting down the unit, remove the used prefilters and install the dry set. Leave the housings full of air until the next use. On non-automated sys- tems, open the pressure relief when starting if there is a lot of air in the system until the air is cleared out through the brine overboard. The filters will get just as clean when soaked in sea water, but dry much faster if soaked in fresh. Given gentle handling, prefilters can be reused many times.

Bad smelling product water is usually caused by bad smelling feed water, but can also be caused by a fouled membrane if the membrane has been left unpickled. If the unit makes smelly but not salty water after a long idle period and the prefilters are new, the smell can be eliminated by running the unit unpressurized for an hour or so to flush the membrane.

Odors in the product water can also be eliminated by adding a charcoal filter in the product wa- ter line. Spectra offers a product water filter kit (part no. KIT-FLT-CC).

More on this subject is available on our website at www.spectrawatermakers.com.

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Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 owner manual OP-2 BAD Smelling Product Water
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MPC-5000 specifications

The Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 is a highly efficient water desalination system designed for a variety of applications, including marine, off-grid, and emergency situations. Known for its reliability and innovative technology, the MPC-5000 stands out as one of the leading solutions for producing fresh water from saltwater.

One of the main features of the MPC-5000 is its impressive production capacity. Capable of producing up to 5,000 gallons of fresh water per day, this system is well-suited for larger vessels or facilities with significant water needs. This robust output makes it an ideal choice for yachts, research vessels, and even small communities in remote areas.

The MPC-5000 utilizes advanced reverse osmosis technology, a process that efficiently separates salt and impurities from seawater. This technique not only ensures high-quality drinking water but also operates at lower energy consumption compared to traditional desalination methods. By employing a state-of-the-art energy recovery device, the MPC-5000 maximizes energy efficiency, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

In terms of build quality, the MPC-5000 is constructed with marine-grade materials to withstand harsh conditions, making it durable and reliable for long-term use. Its compact design allows easy installation on various platforms, and the system can be operated either through AC or DC power sources, providing flexibility for diverse applications.

The onboard controls of the MPC-5000 are user-friendly, featuring a digital display that provides real-time data on system performance, water production rates, and maintenance alerts. This intuitive interface simplifies operation and monitoring, ensuring users can quickly identify and address any issues.

Another noteworthy characteristic is its low maintenance requirement. The MPC-5000 is designed for easy serviceability, allowing users to conduct routine maintenance with minimal downtime. The integrated filtration system and user-replaceable membrane further enhance its appeal, offering convenience without sacrificing performance.

In conclusion, the Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 is a standout solution in the water desalination market. With its impressive production capacity, advanced technology, durable construction, and user-friendly design, it meets the water needs of various users while ensuring efficient and reliable operation. Whether for marine use, emergencies, or off-grid living, the MPC-5000 represents a smart investment in sustainable water sourcing.
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