Question 1

can I install my APEC RO system in my garage? it gets cold in winter.

Accepted Answer

No. The system must be installed indoors in a permanently sheltered environment. Requirements: Install indoor away from possible environmental damage. Avoid exposure to hot and cold weather. Avoid direct sunlight. Operating feed water temperature must remain between 40°F and 100°F (4°C and 37°C). Risks of garage installation: Freezing temperatures will crack filter housings, tubing, and the storage tank. Heat can degrade filters and breed bacteria. Sunlight can encourage algae growth in transparent housings. Alternative: Install under a kitchen sink, in a basement utility room, or a conditioned closet. Ensure there is access for filter changes and that the location complies with local regulations. Heads up: Even if the garage is insulated, if temperatures can drop below 40°F where the system is located, do not install it there. The warranty likely does not cover freeze damage.

Question 2

APEC ROES making a gurgling sound from the drain line, is that okay?

Accepted Answer

A gurgle is normal when the system is producing water and sending concentrate to the drain. It's just water flowing through the drain saddle into your pipe. But, listen for the pattern: Normal: Intermittent gurgling only when the system is actively filtering (tank refilling). Problem: Constant gurgling or sucking air sounds. This often means the drain line isn't secured properly or the drain saddle is leaking air. To fix a problematic gurgle: Check the 1/4" black drain tube connection at the drain saddle. Make sure it's pushed all the way in and the saddle clamp is tight on the drain pipe. The saddle should be installed vertically on a straight section of pipe, not on a bend or horizontal run. If that didn't work: The drain saddle itself might be cracked or the needle valve inside might be loose. Inspect it. Heads up: The drain line must have an air gap (via the air-gap faucet or a separate device) as required by your local code to prevent contaminated drain water from back-siphoning into your RO unit.

Question 3

my APEC water system tank seems to have very low pressure, barely any water comes out of the faucet. how do I check it?

Accepted Answer

The storage tank has an internal air bladder. Pressure is typically preset to 7-8 psi when empty. Low pressure means weak flow. Shut the tank valve. Disconnect the tank from the system. Drain all water from the tank via the faucet. Check air pressure at the Schrader valve (looks like a tire valve) on the tank with a low-pressure gauge. If below 7 psi, use a bicycle pump to inflate to 7-8 psi. Do not over-pressurize. If that didn't work: The bladder inside the tank may be ruptured. If the tank feels heavy even when supposedly empty, or won't pressurize, the tank needs replacement. Heads up: Tank pressure should only be checked and adjusted when the tank is completely empty of water. Never pressurize a full tank.

Question 4

installing my APEC ROES-50, can I drill through granite for the faucet? what size bit?

Accepted Answer

You can drill granite, but you need the right tools and patience. The hole size depends entirely on which faucet you're using. For the standard faucet included in the kit, you need a 1/2" drill bit. If you have an air-gap faucet (often required by code to prevent back-siphonage), you need a larger 1 1/4" hole. Use a variable speed drill. For granite, start with a small pilot hole (a 1/8" bit is recommended) to guide the larger bit. Use water to keep the bit cool and lubricated while drilling. If that didn't work: If you're not comfortable drilling stone, consider installing the faucet in an existing hole (like a spare soap dispenser hole) or use a countertop mounting plate designed for RO faucets. Heads up: Always follow local plumbing codes for installation. The air-gap faucet is specifically for areas that mandate an air gap. The drain saddle must also be securely attached to your sink's drain pipe, not the garbage disposal.

Question 5

how often do I need to change the filters on my APEC ROES-50? and which ones first?

Accepted Answer

Follow the filter change schedule strictly for performance. Here's the order and typical timeline: Pre-filters (3 housings): Every 6-12 months. Sediment filter first, then carbon blocks. Change these first—clogged pre-filters kill membrane efficiency. RO Membrane: Every 2-3 years. This is the critical component for reducing dissolved solids. Post-filter (if equipped): Every 12 months. Steps to change: Use the provided wrenches. Shut off feed water and tank valve. Relieve pressure by opening the faucet. Unscrew housing, replace cartridge, lubricate O-ring, re-tighten. Run water to flush for 10+ minutes. If that didn't work: If water quality drops before schedule, test your feed water. High sediment or chlorine can shorten filter life. Consider a pre-filter upgrade. Heads up: The product water must be tested periodically to verify the system is reducing total dissolved solids effectively. Keep a log.

Question 6

APEC ROES-50 drain line is constantly running water, even when the tank is full. is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yeah, this one's common. A constant drain flow usually means the auto-shutoff valve on the RO head isn't closing properly. First, make sure your storage tank is actually full. Shut the tank valve and open the faucet. If no water comes out, the tank is empty and the problem is different. If the tank is full, tap lightly on the auto-shutoff valve body. Sometimes sediment can keep it from seating. If tapping doesn't work, the valve diaphragm might be damaged or have debris. It may need replacement. If that didn't work: Check the drain saddle. The needle valve in the kit controls drain flow rate. If it's opened too wide or is faulty, it can cause excessive drainage. Adjust it slightly. Heads up: A constantly running drain wastes water and can overwhelm your plumbing. Get this fixed. Also, never install the system where it could freeze—that'll wreck valves fast.

Question 7

my APEC reverse osmosis system just stopped making water completely. the tank is empty. help?

Accepted Answer

Diagnose in this order: Check water supply: Confirm the main feed water valve to the system is open. Check tank valve: The blue tank ball valve on the tank must be in the open (horizontal) position. Check pressure: System requires sufficient incoming water pressure to operate. Maximum operating pressure is 85 psi. Check auto-shutoff valve: Located on the RO head. If the storage tank is full, it shuts off flow. If the tank is empty and it's still shut, the valve may be faulty. If that didn't work: Examine the drain saddle connection on your sink's drain pipe. If it's clogged or installed incorrectly, it can cause abnormal shutoff. Ensure the drain line (1/4" black tubing) is not kinked. Prevention: Install the system indoors, away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes, which can damage components.

Question 8

my APEC ROES-50 system is making water super slow, like barely a trickle. what's going on?

Accepted Answer

Low incoming water pressure is the most common cause. The system needs adequate pressure to force water through the membrane. Check your home's main water supply pressure. It must be within the operating range. Inspect the pre-filters (the first three housings). If they're clogged, they restrict pressure to the membrane. Replace them per the schedule. Verify the feed water valve is fully open. If that didn't work: The RO membrane itself could be fouled or scaled, especially if you have hard water. It needs replacement every 2-3 years. Also check for a kinked or pinched 1/4" feed water line. Heads up: Never connect the unit to a hot water line. Feed water temperature must stay between 40°F and 100°F (4°C and 37°C).

Question 9

i see air bubbles in the water from my apec ro faucet, is my system broken?

Accepted Answer

Nah, that's normal, especially with a new system or after a filter change. It's just dissolved air coming out of solution. The water is under pressure in the tank. When you release it at the faucet, the pressure drops and tiny air bubbles form, making the water look cloudy or fizzy for a few seconds. It clears up in your glass. If it's persistent, here's what to check: New system/filter change: It can take 24-48 hours of use for all the air to purge from the system. Just keep using it. Check connections: Ensure all tubing connections are tight, especially on the feed water line (red) and the faucet line (clear). A small leak can suck in air. Tank pressure: If the air bubbles are excessive and continuous, the air charge in the storage tank might be low. This requires a specific tank pressure check and recharge procedure; you might need to call for service. If the bubbles are accompanied by a strange taste or the water flow is very slow, then you might have a different issue, like a clog or a failing membrane.

Question 10

going on vacation, do i need to do anything with my apec reverse osmosis system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must turn off the water supply and drain the system if freezing temperatures are possible. Standard procedure for extended leave: Turn off the main cold water supply to the RO system using the shut-off valve on the feed water adapter. Critical procedure for freezing weather: Turn off the main cold water supply to the RO system. Open the RO faucet to release pressure. Drain all water from the storage tank. You can do this by opening the RO faucet and letting it run until empty. Drain water from the system itself by disconnecting tubing at low points if necessary, per manual instructions for winterizing. If you are not expecting freezing temps, simply shutting off the feed water supply is sufficient. Operating parameter: The system must be installed in a sheltered environment. Avoid exposure to hot and cold weather or direct sunlight. This is especially important when unattended.

Question 11

the black drain line from my apec roes-50 keeps popping out of the saddle under the sink.

Accepted Answer

The tubing isn't fully inserted into the quick-connect fitting on the drain saddle. You need a firm, straight push. Do not use an insert or any connector on the drain tubing end. Shut off the feed water to the RO system. Pull the black 1/4" drain tubing completely out of the saddle's quick-connect port. Inspect the end of the tubing. Cut it cleanly with scissors or a utility knife if it's damaged or uneven. Push the tubing straight into the quick-connect port on the drain saddle until it seats fully and you feel it click or stop. It should go in about 1/2". Turn the water back on. The constant pressure in the drain line should help hold it in place. If that didn't work, the quick-connect fitting on the saddle may be damaged. Ensure the drain saddle itself is securely tightened to the drain pipe with its two screws. A loose saddle can wiggle and dislodge the tube. Never remove the flow control component inside the black drain tubing. It's there to maintain proper drain flow and back-pressure.

Question 12

my apec ro water still tastes like tap water, not pure. what gives?

Accepted Answer

The post-filter (5th stage in-line carbon filter) needs replacement, or the membrane is spent. First: Replace the in-line carbon filter (the 5th-stage filter). This is the final "polishing" filter that removes any lingering taste. Second: Check your filter change schedule. The sediment (1st stage) and carbon block filters (2nd & 3rd stage) should be changed every 6-12 months. The RO membrane (4th stage) lasts 2-3 years. Old pre-filters can overwhelm the membrane. Third: Test the water's TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) level with a meter. A reading higher than normal indicates the membrane is no longer rejecting contaminants effectively and needs replacement. If that didn't work, the system may be bypassing. Ensure all tubing connections are secure, especially at the faucet and the tank ball valve. Let the system run for a few minutes to flush any stagnant water from the tank and lines before tasting. Heads up: The system is certified for feed water TDS up to 2000 ppm. If your tap water is harder than that, it will shorten the membrane's life.

Question 13

one of the filter housings on my apec ro system is leaking from the bottom. how do i fix it?

Accepted Answer

That's almost always a loose housing or a missing or damaged O-ring. Don't worry, it's a straightforward fix. First, turn off the feed water supply using the shut-off valve on the brass adapter. Then, follow these steps: Place the system face-up if possible—it gives you better leverage. Use the blue wrench that came with the system. Fit it onto the leaking filter housing. Turn the housing counter-clockwise to tighten it. Apply firm pressure. You want it snug, but don't over-torque it. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If that didn't work, the O-ring is likely the issue. Turn the water supply off again. Use the wrench to remove the housing completely (turn clockwise). Inspect the black rubber O-ring seated in the groove at the top of the housing. Make sure it's not pinched, cracked, or missing. Reseat the O-ring or replace it if damaged. Lightly lubricating it with a dab of silicone grease (food-grade) can help it seal. Reinstall the housing and tighten counter-clockwise with the wrench. Always check for leaks after any maintenance. If the housing itself is cracked, contact APEC for a replacement.

Question 14

apec roes-50 water output is super slow, barely a trickle. filters are new.

Accepted Answer

Low incoming water pressure is the most common cause for slow output. The system requires sufficient feed water pressure to operate correctly. Check and address these points in order: Verify the feed water adapter shut-off valve is fully open (handle vertical). Ensure the main cold water supply valve under the sink is fully open. Check for kinks in the red feed water supply line or the clear faucet output line. If that didn't work, the problem may be at the drain. Inspect the black drain line. Ensure it is not kinked or pinched. Check the drain saddle installation. The hole in the saddle must align perfectly with the 1/4" hole you drilled in the drain pipe. Misalignment blocks drain water and damages the membrane, slowing production. DO NOT remove the flow control component inside the black drain tubing. Operating parameter: Feed water temperature must be between 40–100°F (4-37°C). Very cold water can slow the membrane.

Question 15

my apec reverse osmosis system is making a humming noise, is that normal?

Accepted Answer

Yeah, this one's common. It's usually the drain line vibrating against the sink cabinet or pipe. The black drain tubing has constant pressure inside it, which can cause it to vibrate. The fix is to secure the tubing so it doesn't rattle. Check where the black drain tube runs from the RO unit to the drain saddle under your sink. Use zip ties or adhesive clips to fasten it to the cabinet wall or another stable surface, keeping it away from other pipes. If that didn't work, the noise might be coming from the drain saddle itself. Make sure the drain saddle is mounted as low as possible on the vertical tailpiece, or on the horizontal tailpiece, to reduce drainage noise. Also, ensure the self-adhesive black sponge is correctly installed between the saddle and the pipe to cushion it. If it's a loud, new grinding sound, check that nothing is blocking the drain flow. A clogged drain saddle hole can cause back pressure and abnormal noises.

Question 16

my apec roes-50 ro system has no water coming out of the faucet at all, what's wrong?

Accepted Answer

The main shut-off valve is closed or the feed water supply is off. First, check the feed water adapter's built-in shut-off valve. The handle must be vertical to be open. If it's horizontal, turn it. Next, verify the main cold water supply under your sink is fully on. If water flows to the regular faucet, the main supply is good. Locate the red feed water tubing connected to the system. Follow it back to the brass feed water adapter on your cold water line. Ensure the adapter's shut-off handle is in the vertical (open) position. If that didn't work, the tank may be empty because the system hasn't been producing. Let the faucet open for 30-60 minutes to allow the tank to fill. If still nothing, check for kinks in the red feed water line or the clear faucet output line. Heads up: Never connect the system to a hot water line. It's designed for cold water supply only, at 40–100°F.

Question 17

red light is on my apec ro faucet. what does that mean?

Accepted Answer

The red light on an APEC faucet is a filter change indicator. It activates on a timer to signal that pre-filter replacement is due. Fix: Replace your stage 1 (sediment) and stage 2 (carbon block) pre-filters. After replacing the filters, reset the indicator. The reset method varies by faucet model. Typically, you press and hold a button on the faucet base or the indicator module itself for 5-10 seconds until the light turns blue or green. If that didn't work: If the light returns immediately or the water flow/taste is still poor after changing pre-filters, your RO membrane (stage 3) may also be exhausted and require replacement. The standard membrane change interval is 2-3 years. Heads up: This is a reminder light only. You should also periodically test your product water's TDS to objectively verify system performance, as the timer does not measure actual water quality.

Question 18

installing my apec ro system, what's the deal with the drain saddle? do i have to drill a hole in my pipe?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't drill into the pipe itself. The drain saddle clamps around your sink's existing drain pipe (usually the vertical tailpiece) and has a self-piercing needle valve. Fix: Locate a smooth, straight section on your sink's drain pipe, below the flood level of the sink bowl. Place the rubber gasket from the kit on the pipe, then position the saddle clamp over it. Tighten the clamp screws evenly until they are snug. Do not overtighten. As you tighten, the needle valve inside will pierce the drain pipe to create the connection for the 1/4" waste water tube. If that didn't work: If you're uncomfortable with the saddle, you can alternatively drill a 1/4" hole directly into a horizontal section of the drain pipe and use a push-in fitting with a seal. The saddle is the standard, no-drill method provided. Heads up: The waste water line must have a downward slope from the RO system to the drain to prevent backflow.

Question 19

the storage tank on my apec roes-50 feels empty or only gives a couple cups of water. how do i fix it?

Accepted Answer

The tank is waterlogged. The air bladder has no pressure. Fix: Shut off the feed water and open the faucet to drain the tank completely. Check the tank's air pressure with a tire gauge on the Schrader valve (like a bike tire). It should read 7-8 psi with zero water in the tank. If it's at 0 psi, use a bicycle pump to inflate it to 7-8 psi. If that didn't work: The bladder inside the tank is ruptured. The tank will not hold proper air pressure and needs to be replaced. Heads up: Normal tank delivery pressure is about 30-40 psi when full. If your faucet flow is weak but the tank is pressurized, check the tank ball valve and the faucet aerator for clogs.

Question 20

my apec ro water tastes weird or salty after a few months. is the membrane bad?

Accepted Answer

A salty or off taste usually means the RO membrane is exhausted or the post-filter (if your system has one) needs changing. It can also happen if the system isn't shutting off properly. Fix: First, check your filter change schedule. The RO membrane typically lasts 2-3 years. If you're near that mark, replace it. If the membrane is new, test your water's Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) with a meter. A high TDS reading in the product water confirms the membrane isn't rejecting contaminants effectively. Ensure the system is shutting off correctly when the tank is full. A constantly running system can degrade water quality. If that didn't work: Sanitize the entire system and replace all filters, including the post-filter (often called an in-line polishing filter). Stagnant water in the system or a contaminated housing can cause taste issues.

Question 21

how often do i need to change the filters on my apec roes-50?

Accepted Answer

Follow the standard schedule: pre-filters every 6-12 months, the RO membrane every 2-3 years. Primary Cause of Slow Flow/ Bad Taste: Overdue filter changes. Mark your calendar. Critical Note: This system has a replaceable treatment component critical for reducing total dissolved solids (TDS). You must test the product water periodically to verify performance. If that didn't work: If water quality drops before the schedule, your source water may have higher sediment or chlorine levels. Shorten the pre-filter change interval to every 6 months.

Question 22

can i install my apec reverse osmosis system in my garage? it gets cold in winter.

Accepted Answer

No, you should not install it in an unheated garage. The system must be installed indoors, in a location sheltered from environmental damage. Fix: Find an indoor location. Under a kitchen sink is standard. The feed water temperature must stay between 40°F and 100°F (4-37°C). Water freezing in the lines or housings in an unheated garage will crack and destroy the system. If that didn't work: If you have no indoor space, the only alternative is a conditioned, insulated space like a heated basement utility room that never drops below 40°F. Heads up: Also avoid installing it under direct sunlight or near any heat source. Temperature extremes are the enemy.

Question 23

apec roes-50 won't shut off, keeps running and dumping water down the drain. help?

Accepted Answer

The automatic shut-off valve (ASO) on the RO head has failed or the storage tank is waterlogged. Fix: Check tank pressure. Empty the tank completely. Use a tire pressure gauge on the tank's air valve. It should read 7-8 psi when empty. If it's zero, use a bicycle pump to inflate it to 7-8 psi. If tank pressure is correct, the ASO valve is defective and needs replacement. If that didn't work: Verify the drain line flow restrictor is installed and not clogged. A missing or faulty flow restrictor prevents proper system pressure from building up to trigger the ASO valve.

Question 24

just got my ROES-50, one of the plastic filter housings has a small crack from shipping. can i still install it?

Accepted Answer

Do not install it. A cracked housing will leak under pressure and can fail completely. If any part is cracked or broken, you should not proceed with the installation. Your next step is to contact APEC or your distributor directly. They will arrange for an exchange of the damaged part. Have your order information ready. While you wait for the replacement, you can unpack and familiarize yourself with the rest of the system. Lay out all the other parts—the RO head, tank, faucet, installation kit with tubing and fittings—to ensure nothing else is missing or damaged. Installing a compromised part will lead to water damage and is not covered under warranty. It's frustrating, but it's much easier to fix now before everything is hooked up under your sink.

Question 25

can i install my APEC ROES-50 in my garage? it gets cold in winter.

Accepted Answer

No, you should not install your APEC ROES-50 in an unheated garage. The system must be installed indoors in a sheltered, temperature-controlled environment. An unheated garage that gets cold in winter exposes the system to freezing temperatures. Water inside the filters, membrane, and tank can freeze. This will crack the component housings and cause irreparable damage to the system. For proper operation, the feed water temperature must remain between 40°F and 100°F (4°C to 37°C). The installation location must also be protected from direct sunlight and weather extremes. Choose a protected indoor location like under the kitchen sink, in a basement utility room, or in a conditioned crawl space. Installations in environments like an unheated garage void the warranty.

Question 26

my APEC reverse osmosis system is making a constant dripping or dribbling sound from the drain line. is that normal?

Accepted Answer

Yeah, this is a common point of confusion. A slow, periodic trickle or drip from the drain line is normal during the filtration cycle—that's the wastewater being discharged. What's not normal is a continuous stream or flow when the system should be in standby mode (tank full). That means the automatic shut-off valve isn't working, likely due to low incoming water pressure or a faulty valve. First, check that your home's water pressure is within spec. If pressure is too low, the valve can't seal properly. Second, inspect the drain line installation. The drain saddle must be securely mounted on the horizontal section of your sink's drain pipe, and the 1/4" tubing must be inserted fully into the saddle. If it's on a vertical pipe or not sealed, it can siphon or leak. If you've got good pressure and a proper drain connection but it still flows non-stop, the shut-off valve inside the RO head may need service.

Question 27

what's the actual filter change schedule for the ROES-50? i don't want to guess.

Accepted Answer

The filter change schedule for the ROES-50 is as follows: Pre-filters (Stages 1 & 2): Replace every 6 to 12 months. These sediment and carbon block filters are in place to protect the RO membrane. RO Membrane (Stage 3): Replace every 2 to 3 years. A noticeable drop in water quality or flow rate also signals it's time for a replacement. Post-filter (Stage 4, if equipped): Replace this filter annually. The RO membrane is critical for reducing total dissolved solids. You must test the product water periodically to verify the system's performance. Use the included wrenches to open the filter housings. Always check that the O-rings are clean and properly lubricated before resealing to prevent leaks. After changing any filter, flush the system thoroughly before using the water for drinking or cooking.

Question 28

installing my APEC ROES-50, do i need any special tools? the manual list is confusing.

Accepted Answer

You'll need a few basic tools, but nothing too exotic. Here's what you'll actually use, step-by-step. First, you need a drill. For the standard faucet hole, you'll use a 1/2" drill bit. If you have an air-gap faucet, you need a 1 1/4" hole instead. For the wastewater drain line, you need to drill a 1/4" hole in your sink's drain pipe for the saddle clamp. For wrenches, grab an adjustable wrench or pliers. You'll use it to tighten the feed water adaptor and the faucet nut under the sink. The included filter wrenches are for changing the cartridges later. You'll also need a Phillips screwdriver to mount the faucet and a utility knife or scissors to cut the plastic tubing cleanly. Don't forget Teflon tape for sealing the threaded connections on the feed water adaptor. Wrap it clockwise on the threads to prevent leaks. Take your time, follow the connection order, and double-check every fitting before turning the water on.

Question 29

APEC ROES-50 just stopped making water completely, tank is empty. system shut off abnormal?

Accepted Answer

System shut-off is a pressure problem. The automatic shut-off valve isn't activating. First, check the storage tank valve. It's the blue knob on the tank. Make sure it's open (turned parallel to the tubing). If the valve is open, the issue is input water pressure. The system needs sufficient pressure to overcome the tank's air charge and to trigger the shut-off valve. Measure your home's water pressure. If it's below the required minimum, the system will not produce water. The maximum operating pressure is 85 psi. Pressure outside this range causes malfunction. If pressure is correct, inspect the drain line connection (the drain saddle). A malfunction or improper installation there can cause continuous wastewater flow, preventing the system from pressurizing. Do not connect the unit to a hot water line. Use cold water only.

Question 30

my APEC ROES-50 is barely trickling water, takes forever to fill a glass. what's wrong?

Accepted Answer

Slow output is almost always a pressure or filter issue. Diagnosis: Check these in order of likelihood. Low feed water pressure from your house supply. Clogged pre-filters or membrane needing replacement. Restricted flow due to a kinked or pinched 1/4" tubing line. Fix: Verify your home's incoming water pressure is within the system's operating range. The unit requires adequate pressure to function. Inspect all tubing from the feed connection to the faucet for kinks, especially behind the unit and under the sink. Confirm the storage tank has pressure. If empty, the system may be in shut-off mode due to low input pressure. If that didn't work: The pre-filters or the RO membrane are likely exhausted and need replacement. A severely clogged filter will drastically reduce flow. Heads up: Do not install the unit where it will be exposed to temperatures below 40°F or above 100°F, or in direct sunlight. Temperature extremes affect performance.

APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Reverse Osmosis System

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