Troubleshooting Metallic Taste in Water from a 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System

Troubleshooting Metallic Taste in Water from a 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are designed to provide clean, purified drinking water. However, it is not uncommon for customers to notice an unusual metallic taste when they first install their 5-stage under-counter RO filter. If you are experiencing this, there are several potential causes and solutions to address the issue.

1. Normal Initial Taste

Cause: When a new RO system is installed, it may have residual manufacturing lubricants, preservatives, or sanitisation agents in the filters, tubing, and storage tank. This can result in an unusual taste during the first few uses.

Solution: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for flushing the system. Typically, this involves flushing 2–3 full tanks of water. Continue flushing until the metallic taste subsides.

2. Improper Filter Rinse

Cause: The carbon filters in the system (pre-filters and post-filters) might not have been rinsed properly during installation. This can lead to carbon fines or temporary taste alterations in the water.

Solution: Detach the system and rinse the carbon filters under running water for a few minutes. Reassemble the system and flush it again as per the manual’s guidelines.

3. Residue in Tubing or Fittings

Cause: Plastic or metal components within the RO system, such as tubing, connectors, or fittings, can leach a metallic taste into the water, especially when the system is new.

Solution: Inspect the tubing and fittings for any unusual odours or residue. If detected, clean or replace the affected parts as necessary.

4. Faulty Storage Tank

Cause: The bladder inside the RO storage tank may have residual coatings or substances from manufacturing that cause a metallic taste.

Solution: Empty the tank completely and flush it several times to remove any residue. If the taste persists after multiple flushes, consider replacing the storage tank.

5. Local Water Chemistry

Cause: Certain water sources have high levels of contaminants such as iron, manganese, or other dissolved metals. These can affect the performance of the pre-filters and increase the burden on the RO membrane, leading to unusual tastes.

Solution: Test the water quality at the source. If high levels of metals or other contaminants are detected, additional pre-treatment may be required, such as an iron removal filter, before the water enters the RO system.

6. Defective or Contaminated Filters

Cause: Occasionally, a filter or membrane may be defective or improperly stored before installation, causing an off taste in the water.

Solution: Replace all the filters and the membrane with new components from a trusted supplier to ensure there are no issues with the materials.

Replacement Cartridges and Sets

5 Stage RO Cartridge set without membrane

50GPD - 5 Stage RO Cartridge Set

75GPD - 5 Stage RO Cartridge Set

100GPD - 5 Stage RO Cartridge Set

50GPD - Reverse Osmosis Membrane 

75GPD - Reverse Osmosis Membrane 

100GPD - Reverse Osmosis Membrane 

 

Testing and Professional Support

If you have flushed the system thoroughly and the metallic taste persists, we recommend testing the water quality at the output to determine if the system is functioning as intended. A professional inspection may also be beneficial to identify and resolve the issue.

At H2O Warehouse, we provide expert advice and high-quality replacement parts to ensure your water treatment system performs optimally. Should you need further assistance, please contact us for professional guidance.