How to regularly check and maintain the water purifier pressure gauge

As a vital guarantee for healthy drinking water in modern households, a water purifier's efficient and stable operation relies on the coordinated operation of various core components. The water purifier pressure gauge, the "eyes" of the system, monitors water pressure and provides users with critical operating data. However, many users neglect regular pressure gauge inspection and maintenance, which can lead to inaccurate data, hindering accurate judgment of water purifier performance and even causing serious system failures.

The Importance of Regular Pressure Gauge Inspection

Regular pressure gauge inspection is not an optional step. An accurate pressure gauge is the only professional basis for determining the condition of a water purifier's filter element, the performance of the RO (reverse osmosis) membrane, and the proper operation of the booster pump. If the pressure gauge reading is inaccurate, users may not be able to detect blockages in the pre-filter element in time, resulting in prolonged high-pressure water flow on the RO membrane, accelerating scaling and failure. Similarly, failure to determine the proper operation of the booster pump using the pressure gauge can result in reduced water output or even system downtime. Therefore, regular inspections are crucial to maintaining water purifier performance, reducing maintenance costs, and extending equipment life.

How to Perform a Daily Pressure Gauge Inspection

Daily inspections should become a regular habit when using your water purifier. This requires no complex tools, only careful observation.

Observe reading stability: When the water purifier is operating normally (for example, when producing water), observe the pressure gauge needle for stability. Violent fluctuations may indicate unstable water pressure, cavitation in the booster pump, or insufficient damping fluid in the pressure gauge.

Check the reading range: Ensure the pressure gauge reading is within the normal operating range. For most RO water purifiers, the normal operating pressure is typically between 40-90 PSI. If the reading consistently deviates from this range, further investigation is necessary. A reading that is too high may indicate a clogged RO membrane or post-filter; a reading that is too low may indicate insufficient inlet water pressure or a malfunctioning booster pump.

Pay attention to zeroing: When the water purifier stops operating (for example, due to a full tank and automatic shutdown), observe whether the pressure gauge needle quickly returns to zero. If the needle fails to return to zero or returns slowly, it may indicate residual pressure or a stuck mechanical component within the gauge.

Professional Pressure Gauge Maintenance Steps

In addition to daily inspections, regular professional maintenance is equally important. It's generally recommended every six months to one year, though the frequency can be adjusted based on factors such as water hardness and frequency of use.

Cleaning the dial and connections: Wipe the pressure gauge dial with a clean, soft cloth to ensure clear readings. Also, inspect the connection between the pressure gauge and the water pipe for scale or dirt buildup. If scale is found, gently scrub it with a soft brush and an appropriate amount of acetic acid solution to prevent clogging.

Verifying Reading Accuracy: If you suspect your pressure gauge is inaccurate, you can verify it by comparison. Use a spare pressure gauge of known accuracy and connect it to the same test point in the system to compare the readings. If there's a significant discrepancy between the two gauges, the original pressure gauge may need to be replaced.

Checking the Damping Fluid: Some high-end pressure gauges are filled with a damping fluid (usually glycerin or silicone oil) to reduce needle jitter and extend its life. If the damping fluid is discolored, cloudy, or contains bubbles, this may affect reading accuracy. In this case, consider replacing the pressure gauge.

Checking the Booster Pump: The pressure gauge reading is closely related to the performance of the booster pump. During maintenance, check the operating status of the booster pump. Listen for any unusual noises, check the operating temperature, and compare the reading on the pressure gauge to determine whether the pump's output pressure is stable.

Replacing and Upgrading: If a pressure gauge shows obvious signs of failure (such as a broken pointer, inability to return to zero, or large reading errors), it should be replaced immediately. When replacing, choose a pressure gauge that matches the original model and has higher accuracy to ensure future monitoring accuracy. Some older water purifiers may not have a built-in pressure gauge. Users may also consider installing one to better monitor the device's status.