Frequently Asked Questions About the CQ-1000

What is the filtering media?
KDF 55, crystalline quartz, and special polyester sediment trapping material (Poly-flow)

How does KDF work in removing chlorine?
As chlorinated water flows through the unit the dissimilar metals in KDF, (copper and zinc), create a galvanic or electrolytic reaction, which causes the two chlorine ions to combine with a zinc ion to form a harmless chloride. KDF does not hold the chlorine; it changes chlorine from an element into a harmless compound.

How much KDF is in the filter?
There are 14.5 ounces of KDF Media.

What is the advantage of Crystalline Quartz?
Our specially washed and sun dried quartz crystals help to "energize" the water by reducing the water's surface tension. This allows for an increase in the sudsuing and lathering of soaps and shampoos. The water has a "lighter" feel, similar to the feeling of softened water.

Are any ingredients harmful or toxic?
No. KDF is commonly used in drinking water and water treatment systems. The virgin crystalline quartz is washed and sun-cured. Our polyester material is water industry approved and used in drinking water filters.

How much chlorine will the filter remove?
The CQ-1000 will typically remove more than 90% of the free chlorine. Reduction levels of 95% or above are not uncommon, but no chlorine reduction shower filter can remove consistently at 95% because of temperature and water flow variations.

Do you have to back flush the filter?
No. The CQ-1000's Poly-flow material and dispersal fins have been designed to eliminate the need for back flushing.

How do you address water quality?
The cleaner your water the longer and more efficient the filter will be. If heavy levels of sediment and particulate matter are present in the water the KDF media can become clogged making it more difficult to create the electrolytic reaction required for dechlorination. Some sediment and turbidity will inevitably enter the filter, however the filter is specially designed to minimize the effects with it's exclusive sediment trapping screen located in the inlet and the Poly-flow material, both trap large particulate matters as it enters the filter.

Will the CQ1000 remove lead or other heavy metals?
There is not conclusive data to date that KFD can remove lead or other metals when used in shower filters. While KDF has been proven to remove lead and other heavy metals under specific conditions, those conditions are very different from those present shower filters. No tests have yet been done on high flow rate in short-bodied filters such as a 2 to 3 inch shower filter.

How long will the CQ1000 last and how many gallons will it filter?
The ability of any KDF shower filter to reduce chlorine is a function of the quality of the water (i.e. sediment and turbidity levels). As a result, it is difficult to measure precisely in gallons of water. KDF will dechlorinate longer in clean water than in murky water. While it is difficult to measure precisely we can estimate average usefulness. We expect that the CQ1000 filter cartridge will have an effective life of six to nine months for a family of four, or an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 gallons of usage. The CQ-1000 body should last for several years with proper care.

How many gallons will the CQ1000 filter per minute?
This depends on the shower had attached. The CQ1000 has been designed and engineered to work most effectively with the high quality low-flow shower heads that conform to the required 2.5 gallons per minute flow rate specified by the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992. If flow rates exceed 2.5gpm the contact time required for maximum chlorine conversion will be reduced. For this reason we recommend only high quality, low flow shower heads for any shower filter application.

What shower heads does the CQ1000 come with?
We believe strongly that a good quality head will maximize the filtering process this is why the shower head is and integral part of our filter design. The CQ1000 comes standard with the high quality chrome plated fixed action designer shower head by Whedon. The CQ1000 is also available with a massage action head by Amcor, or without a shower head. Hand held units are available with either a fixed action or massage action spray.

Can I use my own shower head with the CQ1000?
Yes, but only a good quality, low flow shower head that has been purchased since 1995. This guarantees conformity to the U. S. Energy Policy Act, and that you have a water delivery at no more than 2.5 gpm at 80 PSI. Hand held units also may be attached to the filter.

Is the CQ1000 easy to install?
Yes, simply screw the filter inlet onto your existing shower arm. It does not require the use of plumber's tape for leak sealing. Be careful not to ovet tighten, this may cause the housing to crack.

Is the CQ1000 filter cartridge easy to replace?
Yes, simply unscrew the body cap, pull out the existing filter cartridge, check for proper seating of 'O' rings and pop in the replacement cartridge (part # RCCQ).

What is the recycling policy?
Mail prepaid to the address on the box. There is no discount on new filters when one has been returned for recycling. The cost of recycling offsets any cost savings.