FAQ's | Everfilt® Water Filtration Systems

Everfilt® FAQ's

Find Answers to Common Questions in Our Comprehensive FAQ Section.

1. Should I use stainless steel or carbon steel for my filter system?

Like anything, carbon steel and stainless steel materials both have their strengths and weaknesses. The best advice we can give to customers is to perform a water quality test before purchasing filtration equipment.

Doing so, will give the manufacturer and customer peace of mind, and take into account possible corrosive elements that could hinder the performance and shorten the life expectancy of your new filtration system. Taking the additional steps prior allows our professionals to recommend the best option available.

2. Can I use any type of sand or gravel in my tanks?

The simple answer is NO, each series or product line of media filtration equipment is designed specifically with pre-determined results and capabilities in mind. These capabilities and results are calculated and field-tested, utilizing the specific media and volumes at hand. Using incorrect media sizes or specialty media in equipment not designed for specific use can cause premature system failure or damage to the unit in question. For example, specialty media typically requires a set contact time (source water in contact with media bed) per the manufacturer.

If the required time and (service filtration rate) are not adhered to, results may vary or be unsuccessful. On multi-media type filtration systems, multiple layers of different sized media are required to achieve a specific micron level of filtration, if the depth of each media layer is altered, filtration results may vary. The most common issue when not using correct media will be a spike in pressure or significant difference on inlet and outlet pressure, even after a backwash cycle. Using a finer media DOES NOT allow water to penetrate the media bed as designed, and will cause elevated operating pressures or constant backwash cycles.

3. What is the difference between a welded under drain & removable underdrain?

A welded underdrain is the most common found in the industry. At Everfilt® our standard wedge wire underdrain options are constructed from 304SS (316SS options available) and the overall design is a main hub (or center-mounted section) with laterals extended outward around the hub. The base of the hub and each lateral are all welded together nicely in place. A removable underdrain is also constructed from 304SS or optional 316SS wedge wire.

The main difference is the center hub is threaded to the bottom of the tank, along with each lateral being threaded to the main hub. This design is more labor intensive, and requires more individual components, so this option does increase cost. The huge benefit, is the option to rebuild or completely replace the underdrain assembly if a portion becomes damaged or broken. Everfilt® offers individual laterals or complete assembly as replacements, and can be done without having to cut or damage the tank. All parts can be removed from tanks exiting the side-access manway.

4. What is A pressure differential Switch (PD-SWITCH) ?

The Everfilt® Pressure Differential Switch allows two hydraulic connections. The first is the high-pressure line connected to the inlet manifold which is responsible for taking a reading of the incoming flow pressure. The second connection on the pressure differential is for the low-pressure reading. The “low” reading is connected to the discharge manifold located at the bottom of the tanks.

As the filters or media beds become dirty, water does not pass through the media bed as freely, therefore reducing the pressure reading on the discharge line. When a pressure differential between 5-7 PSI is noticed on the PD-Switch, a backwash sequence will automatically be initiated to ensure the filter system has a clean media bed at all times. This feature is only available on automatic backwash-equipped units, and the PD-Switch on the front of the control panel is in the “ON” position.

5. Why are the backwash valves transitioning from filtration to backwash position, SLOWLY or not FULLY?

The most common issue with backwash valves transitioning from filtration mode slowly, or not fully from one position to another, can be a couple different issues.

The most common is the “Y” strainer or screen inside the “Y” strainer plastic housing. The basic function of the “Y” stainer is to take a portion of the incoming source water from the inlet manifold, clean the water, and send a portion of the flow and pressure that is responsible for operating the hydraulic portion of the filter system.

Valve actuation, is competed by water from the hydraulic pick-up and Y strainer is sent down to the solenoid valves, and when energized water is sent into the backwash valve diaphragm causing it to move from one position to another. If the Y strainer screen is dirty or damaged, water flow is hindered and system operation is limited. The most common outcome is the backwash valve will be stuck in open or closed position or possibly not fully transitioning from one location to another 100% of the time.

6. What is the service filtration rate, & why is it important.?

The service filtration rate and source water quality are crucial for choosing the right unit for your filtration project. To size a unit, divide the total flow rate by the square footage of each tank. Filtration rates can range from 25 GPM per sq. ft. for standard systems to 2-3 GPM per sq. ft. for specialized media. Always consult a product specialist to ensure the equipment meets your needs, as improper sizing can lead to poor performance or equipment damage.

7. Why is having the required flow & pressure, critical during a backwash sequence?

Proper flow rate and pressure during a backwash cycle are essential to lift and clean the media bed fully. If either is insufficient, the bed may remain dirty, leading to shorter filtration cycles and excessive, wasteful backwashing. This increases water usage and reduces system efficiency.

8. Do I need power to operate my filter station?

Yes, a standard filtration system does require 120V to the transformer in order to operate correctly. If power is not available on the site Everfilt® does offer solar panel kits for these type of applications. ( please note the solar function is not compatible with electric valve operation )

9. Can I make field repairs on my Everfilt filtration systemS Interior / Exterior coating?

The simple answer is YES, although there is different precautions and steps to adhere to based on the type of coating used on the filtration system you have. Please consult with factory or reference the downloads page of www.everfilt.com for specific details and instructions.

10. How much Chlorine do I need to inject FOR my I-series IRON REMOVAL filtration system?

The calculation is fairly simple, 50gpm x 1ppm iron = 0.016180541 gallon per hour. For a more detailed report, we recommend submitting a water report to our engineering department for further review and an in depth solution will be provided to ensure optimal results.

11. Does Everfilt only offer Hydraulic actuated valves?

No, Everfilt® has many options for Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Electric actuated valves, to ensure the exact fit and specification is provided for your project. Custom inputs and features are also available.

12. What if I can’t find what I need in your product offering?

We encourage conversations with our sales and engineering team. Everfilt® has produced filtration equipment since 1978. Chances are we have built or designed something similar to what you are looking for. All general inquiries can be sent to everfilt@everfilt.com for further review and assistance.

13. What is the difference between a Non-Latching & Latching Solenoid valve?

1. Latching Solenoid:

Mechanism: A latching solenoid uses a magnetic field (usually from a permanent magnet) to hold the solenoid in one position after the electrical power is removed.
Power Efficiency: It requires power only for switching states (to move the solenoid between two positions). Once in a position, it stays latched without continuous power.
Common Use: Latching solenoids are often used in applications where power efficiency is critical, such as in battery-powered devices or systems that require a stable position over long periods, without continuous energy consumption.

Example: In a latching solenoid, you might apply power to move the solenoid to an "on" position, and it stays there until power is applied again to return it to the "off" position.

2. Non-Latching Solenoid:

Mechanism: A non-latching solenoid requires a continuous electrical current to maintain its position. When power is removed, the solenoid automatically returns to its default position, (either extended or retracted depending on design).
Power Efficiency: Non-latching solenoids consume power continuously to hold their position, making them less energy-efficient compared to latching solenoids.
Common Use: These solenoids are used in applications where constant control and movement are necessary, such as in valves or actuators that need to return to a resting state when power is off.

Example: In a non-latching solenoid, power is applied to move the solenoid, and once the power is cut off, it returns to its default state automatically.