[the bfg]

  I have a solanoid playing up on my System so having to fill and backwash manually.


over the last 4 years this is the 3rd solanoid fitted and is about 18 months old,  if this a fair lifespan of a solanoid ?

dont wanna drive down to Ionics and wondered if anyone had any ideas where I could get it repaired/replaced .


I'm based in west berkshire.

[[GQC] Tim]

I'm not sure the solenoid is the problem, they are pretty tough. I would check all your connections, especially your ground as this can cause massive headaches. Also, if there are scotch lock crimp connectors in there, cut them out and use some normal connectors. I've found the scotch lock ones to give problems.

Just hook it straight up to a 12v source and see if it clicks.

[the bfg]

took them off and fitted  ut it wont let water into the system so I have to fill from the filter which means I have to leave the side door of van unlocked.

[Paul Coleman]

  I have a solanoid playing up on my System so having to fill and backwash manually.


over the last 4 years this is the 3rd solanoid fitted and is about 18 months old,  if this a fair lifespan of a solanoid ?

dont wanna drive down to Ionics and wondered if anyone had any ideas where I could get it repaired/replaced .


I'm based in west berkshire.

Presumably using a solenoid as you have a pumped system?
Have you considered going unpumped with a ballcock or water timer - or is the water pressure too dire?
An HF5 40" gives me 90-100 litres of pure per hour at 45psi (TDS currently 009 from RO).
Just looking at other possibilities to save you future hassle.

I currently have the following setup.  It does sound a bit of a kludge but works.

On the tap (indoors) I have fitted a battery powered water timer that I got from a garden centre.  The pipework goes through the usual assortment of pre-filters to a 40" HF5 membrane.  It comes out of there into the side of the tank via a ballcock arrangement.  The timer and the ballcock give double protection against flooding or from the waste continuing to run when the tank is full (can happen sometimes).  I'm on metered water.
When those solenoids let you down it is a serious PITA IME.  That's why I switched.
I do have a drip tray under the tap though because the timer drips (they're really meant for outdoor use I think).

If it's of any use to you, this is the timer that I use:

http://www.easywatering.co.uk/acatalog/Hozelock_AC_Pro_with_Rain_Sensor-2701A.html

Obviously the rain sensor is superfluous.
Most of these types of things from garden centres only allow you to set the water to run for up to 2 hours.  The one above allows it for up to 24.  Of course, if you are using a pumped setup, it won't help with switching off the pump.  However, if you end up so peed off with solenoids that you go unpumped, you may find this gadget (or similar) helpful