Problem with RO unit

[jamal-188]

I finally figured it was time to change out all the cartridges in my Aqua FX RO/DI unit. I didn't realize it was going to cost $120+ for everything I needed so I thougth I would try and salvage the parts from my old RO unit that was a POS that leaked constantly. It was only used to make a small amount of water so I figured the RO membrane, carbon and micron filter would still have some life left in them. I switched them over to my baraccuda and flushed it for probably 15minutes total. I filled and drained the holding tank several times but my TDS meter still says 7. I didn't have a DI cartridge replacement so I just left it off because it looked gross, could this be a problem?

BTW, my tap water is about 160 and when the unit was unit I got TDS readings of 0-2.

 

[quarryshark]

I would guess thats the problem. I just changed everything on mine, I feel you pain. $$

 

[jamal-188]

I put the DI cartridge on from the ebay unit and now the TDS meter says 0-1 I think these recycled parts will hold me over until I get some $$ for new parts.

How often do you flush your membrane and for how long? How often shoud the membrane and other components be replaced? I know it varies depending on how bad your water is but a rough guess.