CQE-CT-00138 - Water Softener Crystal Quest - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Countertop Water Filter System (Water Softener compatible cartridges)
Brand	Crystal Quest
Model	CQE-CT-00138
Filter Cartridge Dimensions (Standard)	2-7/8" x 9-3/4" (7.3 cm x 24.8 cm)
Operating Pressure Range	30-60 psi (2.1-4.2 bar)
Operating Temperature Range	40-85°F (4.4-29.4°C)
Rated Service Flow	0.3-0.5 gpm
Water Supply Requirement	Potable cold water only
Installation	Countertop, connects to faucet via diverter valve
Key Features	Replaceable filter cartridges for various contaminants (carbon, sediment, fluoride, nitrate, arsenic); swivel spout; optional prefilter
Filter Cartridge Replacements	Multiple options with life expectancies from 6-36 months, depending on type
Maintenance	Flush cartridge after installation and after periods of non-use; replace cartridge as needed
Cleaning	Clean housing with mild soap and water; lubricate O-rings with cooking oil (not coconut oil)
Safety Warnings	Do not use with microbiologically unsafe water; protect from freezing; do not install on hot water line
Included Accessories	Diverter valve, adapters, wrench, spout, tubing, clamps, O-rings
Warranty	One-year limited warranty against defects
Country of Origin	USA
Certifications	WQA certified (implied from manual)
Power Requirement	None (manual operation)
Weight (Approximate)	Not specified; typical countertop units ~2-3 lbs

Frequently Asked Questions - CQE-CT-00138 Crystal Quest

What is the Crystal Quest CQE-CT-00138?

The Crystal Quest CQE-CT-00138 is a countertop water filter system designed to reduce various contaminants from your drinking water. It uses replaceable filter cartridges tailored to your specific water quality needs.

How do I install the system on my faucet?

First, remove the aerator from your faucet. Determine the thread type and screw the appropriate adapter into the faucet. Then, screw the diverter valve onto the faucet, ensuring the gasket is positioned correctly. Finally, attach the tubing using the provided clamp and place the filter on the countertop.

Can I use this system with hot water?

No, the system is designed for cold water only. Do not install on a hot water line, as it may damage the filter and cause safety hazards.

How often should I replace the filter cartridge?

Filter cartridge life varies by type and usage. Typically, carbon block cartridges last 12-18 months, while specialty cartridges like fluoride removal or SMART PLUS can last 6-36 months. Replace when you notice a change in taste, odor, or reduced flow.

Why is my water cloudy after installing a new cartridge?

Cloudiness is caused by air trapped in the new cartridge. It is harmless and will clear after a few minutes of use. Let the water sit in a glass for 5 minutes to see the cloudiness disappear from the bottom up.

What should I do if there is a leak between the base and housing?

Turn off the faucet and unscrew the housing. Check that both O-rings are clean, lubricated with non-petroleum oil (e.g., cooking oil, not coconut oil), and undamaged. Apply thread seal tape to the sump threading and reassemble. If the leak persists, contact technical support.

Can I use this system with well water?

Yes, but ensure the water is microbiologically safe or adequately disinfected before or after the system. Have your well water tested by a reputable lab to determine appropriate filtration.

How do I flush the system after a long period of non-use?

After prolonged non-use (e.g., vacation), let the water run for 5-6 minutes before using. Repeat if necessary to flush any stagnant water.

What replacement cartridges are available for this model?

Several cartridges are available, including Coconut Carbon Block, Sediment, SMART PLUS, Ceramic, Fluoride Removal, Nitrate Removal, and Arsenic Removal variants. All are 2-7/8" x 9-3/4" size.

Is there a warranty for this product?

Yes, the Crystal Quest CQE-CT-00138 comes with a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover replacement cartridges unless defective upon receipt.

USER MANUAL CQE-CT-00138 Crystal Quest

Crystal Quest® Countertop Replaceable Water Filter Systems INSTALLATION AND OPERATION GUIDE

Illustration of industrial water pumps and valves on a kitchen sink, no text or symbols present

ONLINE WARRANTY INFORMATION

CrystalQuest.com/warranty.html

Copyright 2020

Crystal Quest®

All rights reserved

MADE IN THE USA

i IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Please read all instructions and precautions before installing and using your Crystal Quest ® Countertop Water Filter.
  • Numbered diagrams correspond with numbered steps.
• Use this system on a potable (safe-to-drink) COLD water supply only. Do not install on hot water line.
• Do not use non-Crystal Quest ^ircledR replacement cartridges.
• Do not use non-Crystal Quest ® parts or modify/tamper with unit.

WARNING: Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system. Systems certified for cyst reduction may be used on disinfected water that may contain filterable cysts. CAUTION: Filter must be protected against freezing which can cause cracking of the filter and water leakage.

NOTE:

• Filter cartridge life varies depending on filter type, usage, and water conditions. The replacement filter cartridge used with this system has a limited service life. Changes in taste, odor, or reduced flow of the water being filtered can indicate that the cartridge should be replaced.
• The contaminants or other substances removed or reduced by these systems are not necessarily in your water. Ask your local water municipality for a copy of their water analysis or have your private well tested by a reputable water testing lab.
• After prolonged periods of non-use (such as during a vacation), it is recommended that the system be flushed thoroughly. Let water run for 5-6 minutes before using. Repeat if necessary.

CONNECTING DIVERTER VALVE TO FAUCET

graph TD
    A["1. Remove the aerator from faucet."] --> B["2. Determine the type of thread on your faucet and screw adapter into faucet. Tighten manually."]
    B --> C["3. Screw the diverter valve onto the faucet and turn until tight. Make certain that gasket (already installed in diverter valve) is positioned securely between the diverter valve and the faucet (or adapter). Rotate diverter valve stem to desired position. Swivel collar may need to be retightened."]
    C --> D["4. Use the large clamp to tighten unit hose to the faucet. Place the water filter in desired location on countertop conveniently next to sink. Insert spout into spout housing and push it down firmly."]
    D --> E["5. Use the large clamp to tighten unit hose to the faucet. Place the water filter in desired location on countertop conveniently next to sink. Insert spout into spout housing and push it down firmly."]

NOTE: Adapters are included which will fit most faucets. To create a tight seal, you may need to use the gasket from your faucet's aerator in addition to the washers included with the adapters. If the adapters do not fit, consult your local plumbing or hardware supplier for assistance in obtaining the correctly threaded adapter.

Optional Prefilter available for all countertop models

OPERATION

• A drinking water cartridge may contain carbon fines (very fine black powder). After installation, flush the cartridge 3-4 times per flush for 5-10 minutes to remove the fines before using the water. Repeat as required.
• It is recommended that you run the tap at least 20 seconds prior to each use for drinking or cooking purposes.
• During initial use, your water may appear cloudy. This cloudiness is caused by air that has been trapped in the cartridge. If the water sits for 5 minutes in a glass, you will notice the cloudiness disappear from the bottom up. This phenomenon is not harmful and will clear up in time as the remaining air is flushed from the cartridge.

OPERATING SPECIFICATIONS

Pressure Range: 30-60 psi (2.1-4.2 bar)

Temperature Range: 40-85°F (4.4-29.4°C)

Rated Service Flow: 0.3-0.5 gpm

TROUBLESHOOTING

A. Leaks between base and housing:

• Turn off faucet and unscrew base of housing.
• Check to make sure both O-rings are clean, lubricated with non-petroleum oil (do not use coconut oil) and undamaged. Replace if necessary.
• Use thread seal tape around sump threading.
• Reinsert cartridge into base according to the directional arrow on the cartridge which indicated "This End Downward Towards Cap" and screw on sump using sump wrench. Be careful not to cross-thread or overtighten. If leak persists, contact Technical Support at [e-mail].

B. Diverter valve will not release:

• Unscrew diverter valve from faucet.
• Soak in white vinegar up to one hour to remove scale build-up a nd rinse.

C. Decreased f ow or return of bad taste/odor:

- Replace filter cartridge.

FILTER CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT

A. Turn off faucet. Unscrew the top of the housing using sump wrench (Fig 1). Water may spill when housing is removed. Empty excess water into sink. Set top of filter housing aside.
B. Pull out filter cartridge to remove from the base. Clean top and base of filter housing with warm water, mild dish soap and a soft cloth. Do not use harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners or wire brushes, as they may damage the system.
C. Set base of filter on counter. Insert new filter cartridge according to the directional arrow on the cartridge which indicates "This End Towards Cap". Seat securely into filter base (Fig 2).

NOTE: Make sure both black O-rings are present on the filter housing. Also, make sure to lubricate O-rings with cooking oil. (Do not use coconut oil).

D. Screw top of filter housing onto base and tighten with sump wrench until very snug.

E. Turn on water and the diverter handle. Flush the cartridge 3-4 times for 5 to 10 minutes to remove any media fines before using water.

(Fig. 1)

(Fig. 2)

REPLACEMENT PARTS

CQE-RC-04000 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Coconut Based 5-Micron Carbon Block Filter Cartridge (12-18 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04001 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Pleated Cellulose Sediment Cartridge (12-18 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04002 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

SMART PLUS Filter Cartridge (18-36 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04005 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Ceramic Water Filter Cartridge (2-3 years with proper cleaning)

CQE-RC-04006 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Fluoride Removal Filter Cartridge (12-18 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04049 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Fluoride Removal + SMART Filter Cartridge (6-12 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04007 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Nitrate Removal Filter Cartridge (12-18 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04050 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Nitrate Removal + SMART Filter Cartridge (6-12 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04008 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Arsenic Removal Filter Cartridge (12-18 months lifetime expectancy)

CQE-RC-04051 2-7/8" x 9-3/4"

Arsenic Removal + SMART Filter Cartridge (6-12 months lifetime expectancy)

Filter Housing (1)

Wrench (2)

Spout (3)

O-ring (4)

Filter Cartridge (S)

Divertor Valve (6)

Tubing (7)

Clamp (8)

Optional Prefilter (9)

Base (10)

ONE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

CRYSTAL QUEST® warrants your CRYSTAL QUEST® Countertop Replaceable Water Filter System for one year from the date of purchase against all defects in materials and workmanship when used in compliance with the manual. This warranty does not include replacement cartridges unless defective upon receipt. CRYSTAL QUEST® disclaims all implied warranties including, without limitation, warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. If for any reason the product proves to be defective within one year from the date of purchase, please call for assistance. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other legal rights which vary from state to state. CRYSTAL QUEST® assumes no responsibility for incidental or consequential damages, for damages arising out of misuse of the product, or the use of any unauthorized attachment. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. Should service be required during or after the warranty period or should you have any questions regarding how to use your CRYSTAL QUEST® Countertop Replaceable Water Filter System, contact our Technical Support Department at [e-mail], Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Eastern Time.

KEEP THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE AND UNIT MAINTENANCE

Online warranty information

http://crystalquest.com/warranty.htm

Product design is subject to change without notice.

For further assistance, contact your Crystal Quest dealer

or visit us at www.crystalquest.com

To view the latest edition of the Countertop Replaceable Water Filter System, visit CrystalQuest.com

Please note all drawings, pictures, colors and sizes are approximate for illustrative purposes only and may not exactly resemble the end product.