Nova water filtration system

[4litehous]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

[Pugchief]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

Lots of threads on TOTV about Nova. Never heard this before.

[jrref]

You can replace the system with an Express Water system.

Call Chuck 440-823-4273 he can do this for you.

But that said, I find it hard to believe what they told you. The only time I've ever seen a problem with the canisters is when someone tries to change the filters themselves and because they are very heavy when filled with water, the homeowner tends to drop them which damages the bottom. Another thing that doesn't make sense is you can buy these Big Blue canisters on Amazon for about $50 each but they are not the exact fit for the Nova system so not sure why they quoted you $400.

[Michigan State Fan]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

Which system comes with the lifetime warranty?

[jrref]

Which system comes with the lifetime warranty?

The filter canisters shouldn't need replacement after 3 years. They should last the lifetime of the filter. These canisters are rated for 125 psi so there should be no reason for them to fail since I've never seen water pressures here in the Villages near that pressure. If you did I would think other water appliances in your home would be failing as well. In addition, there are thousands of Nova filters installed in the Villages for over 20 years so if they were failing we would know about it.

[Pugchief]

Another thing that doesn't make sense is you can buy these Big Blue canisters on Amazon for about $50 each but they are not the exact fit for the Nova system so not sure why they quoted you $400.

Please clarify this comment. If they don't fit Nova, what good are they? Or are you simply providing a cost comparison? I would think you could buy similar cannisters somewhere for less.

Agree with others that there is no reason these cannisters should fail unless they are dropped. They're pretty sturdy. Changing the filters is DIY, no need to pay for labor. But good advice to put a cushion of some sort below as you remove them.

[Pugchief]

The filter canisters shouldn't need replacement after 3 years. They should last the lifetime of the filter. These canisters are rated for 125 psi so there should be no reason for them to fail since I've never seen water pressures here in the Villages near that pressure. If you did I would think other water appliances in your home would be failing as well. In addition, there are thousands of Nova filters installed in the Villages for over 20 years so if they were failing we would know about it.

I think you mean the lifetime of the SYSTEM. The filters only last about a year for full timers.

[CFrance]

There have been a number of threads which were positive and the judges deleted them.

Can't say neg comments against paid advertisers.

:censored::censored:
There were some negative threads as well, including some who said PM me and I'll tell you stuff about Nova.


All I know is we have fantastic tasting water, no water spots, and a Nova system still going strong after 7 years.
And I don't work for Nova. (He did have the same Beneteau 35S5 sailboat we did, though...)

[Pat_RI]

There were some negative threads as well, including some who said PM me and I'll tell you stuff about Nova.


All I know is we have fantastic tasting water, no water spots, and a Nova system still going strong after 7 years.
And I don't work for Nova. (He did have the same Beneteau 35S5 sailboat we did, though...)
I’ve had them for 10+ years without any issues and still think it was worth the investment.

[daca55]

I’ve had Nova filter system installed for about 12 years and never had a problem with them. They change my filters every year. They are prompt and professional. Very satisfied customer.

[wincherr]

I have the Nova (and I’m a fan) but I did have a leak in one of the canisters. The Technician that came out said it was due to the pressures in TV and that they were evaluating a pressure regulator to recommend to their customers. I think I had all three canisters replaced but can’t remember the cost.

[Gunny2403]

In my opinion Nova is a bit of a scam. You do not need to replace filters yearly.

[Ken D.]

In my opinion Nova is a bit of a scam. You do not need to replace filters yearly.
It depends on how many gallons run through your system, my filters were filthy after two years.

[Janie123]

In my opinion Nova is a bit of a scam. You do not need to replace filters yearly.
Filters should be changed at 26000 gallons or yearly. At about 9-10 months, the wife said the water tasted funny. I changed the filters and she was happy. since, I had a meter added to the system to measure the quantity going thru the filters… sprinklers do not go thru the filters.

[retiredguy123]

Filters should be changed at 26000 gallons or yearly. At about 9-10 months, the wife said the water tasted funny. I changed the filters and she was happy. since, I had a meter added to the system to measure the quantity going thru the filters… sprinklers do not go thru the filters.
Most houses in The Villages have a separate meter for the potable water. So, your water bill will show you how much potable water you are using.

[Gn'Me]

Neighbor had 2 blown Nova canisters in just a few years. Pin hole leaks but water streaming out pretty good. Unacceptable. We'll see how long my system holds up.

[Normal]

Nova filters and the softer are junk. You get what you pay for. Ask them for the book sometime on your softener…they will come back with,”it’s a little complicated let me just walk you through on the phone or we can come out.” We had a system put in by them only to be extremely disappointed. The installation leaked after a couple of years and they charged us about a hundred dollars to fix their poor quality installation. Skip over them at all costs!

[jrref]

Please clarify this comment. If they don't fit Nova, what good are they? Or are you simply providing a cost comparison? I would think you could buy similar cannisters somewhere for less.



I was simply providing a cost comparison. The Nova filter canister has a different seal at the top than the "regular" big blue canisters you can purchase on Amazon. Not better or worse, just different. I'm not sure if there is a replacement you can buy on Amazon but again I haven't done a lot of research on the topic. Maybe someone can find one.

After thinking about this more, the canister shouldn't fail unless it was dropped or mishandled. Water pressure at 125psi or greater is pretty dangerous. I understand why Nova may think its water pressure related but it also could be from faulty canisters from the manufacturer. I'm sure they are doing their best to investigate.

[retiredguy123]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.
To clarify, there is no way for either Nova or the OP to know what pressure the canisters experienced, unless the water pressure was constantly being monitored. Sometimes there are pressure spikes that can exceed 125 psi, but it is impossible to determine if this ever happened. It is pure speculation.

[David114]

When getting my filters changed last month tech advised one canister was cracked, suggested replacing all three. Told me new ones came with 3 yr warranty. Scheduled replacements, canisters were $90 each installed, or $270. That did not include the filters. Mine were six years old.

[jrref]

To clarify, there is no way for either Nova or the OP to know what pressure the canisters experienced, unless the water pressure was constantly being monitored. Sometimes there are pressure spikes that can exceed 125 psi, but it is impossible to determine if this ever happened. It is pure speculation.

Agreed! And that's the problem with this whole topic. But don't you agree if there were these pressure spikes that the homeowner may see other indications in their water appliances?

[GladysM2024]

I am not the company the Op is using, but Jadon’s Water Ststems has a lifetime warranty on our dual certified whole house softening:filtration units.

[Normal]

When getting my filters changed last month tech advised one canister was cracked, suggested replacing all three. Told me new ones came with 3 yr warranty. Scheduled replacements, canisters were $90 each installed, or $270. That did not include the filters. Mine were six years old.

Made in China garbage. Culligan is the way to go IMO

[LonnyP]

7 years with NOVA and counting. No such problems.

[junction29]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

We have had Nova filters for 12 years and had no problems with them or Nova.
Great system, great price and NO I do not have any relationship with Nova

[jrref]

I checked with other whole house filter companies and all warrenty for 1 year. I'm sure there are exceptions but everyone uses a similar filter canister so maybe the companies that warrenty longer are more expensive to cover the longer warranty? I would think the guy warranting for life isn't having any failures. And BTW all these components are made in China.

But at the end of the day, if these filter canisters were failing I would think we would see complaints all over the internet which there are none and a ton of complaints from the thousands of installs here in the Villages where there are not many.

[retiredguy123]

Agreed! And that's the problem with this whole topic. But don't you agree if there were these pressure spikes that the homeowner may see other indications in their water appliances?
It's possible, but not guaranteed. The water heater has a pressure relief valve that will trip if the water pressure exceeds 150 psi. I once owned a water heater where the relief valve was tripping as evidenced by water in the overflow pan, but nothing else in the house seemed to be affected. I installed an expansion tank, and it solved the problem.

I don't think it is proper for Nova to blame high water pressure for a damaged canister, when they really don't know if that is what caused the damage. Even though the canisters are rated at 125 psi, I would expect the canisters to withstand a few pressure spikes that exceed 125 psi.

[John Sarubbi]

I have had Nova system in my garage for at least3-4 years and have had no such problem?????

[mike234]

I’ve had Nova filter system installed for about 12 years and never had a problem with them. They change my filters every year. They are prompt and professional. Very satisfied customer.
i change mine every 2-3 years. between the 5 of us, it only took 6 hours. very easy..

[Pugchief]

i change mine every 2-3 years. between the 5 of us, it only took 6 hours. very easy..

Huh?
What do you mean "between the 5 of us"?
And why would it take more than half an hour to change the filters?

[mike234]

Huh?
What do you mean "between the 5 of us"?
And why would it take more than half an hour to change the filters?
alcohol, etc

[Pugchief]

alcohol, etc

:beer3: LOL

Well, for future reference:
one person, no booze, 30 minutes

But your way sound way more fun.

[herbaru]

No water spots! do you have the water softener too?

There were some negative threads as well, including some who said PM me and I'll tell you stuff about Nova.


All I know is we have fantastic tasting water, no water spots, and a Nova system still going strong after 7 years.
And I don't work for Nova. (He did have the same Beneteau 35S5 sailboat we did, though...)

[SusanStCatherine]

Our Nova softener busted at about the two year mark. Resin spewed out onto our driveway and landscaping. Nova came out and charged us $50 to rebuild the part inside the tank that busted. We cannot control the softener ourselves which is disappointing. We have lots of spots despite having the Nova whole house filters as well. We are looking at other softeners and Pegasus is looking good.

[Normal]

Our Nova softener busted at about the two year mark. Resin spewed out onto our driveway and landscaping. Nova came out and charged us $50 to rebuild the part inside the tank that busted. We cannot control the softener ourselves which is disappointing. We have lots of spots despite having the Nova whole house filters as well. We are looking at other softeners and Pegasus is looking good.

Pegasus is on our radar too. Nova broke right around the 3 year mark for us.

[Sparky99]

Nova - thumbs up!

[Driller703]

In my opinion Nova is a bit of a scam. You do not need to replace filters yearly.

So don’t replace them.

[RTrevilian]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

I have a had the same issue with the canisters. My system is approximately 5 years old and I have had to replace all 3 canisters at different times in the last year.
Like you they want to blame it on water pressure. I monitor my system practically every day and the pressure hardly ever exceeds 60 psi. In each case I have asked if it was possible that my canisters were a bad batch and they explain it was due to water pressure. I think the system it was a waste of money. My neighbor across the street tested his water before buying a system and it was in acceptable limits.

[jrref]

For the Villagers who are having cannister issues with their Nova filter, have you checked to make sure, if you have a tank hot water heater that the expansion tank is not defective? These only last about 5 years then need to be replaced. If your expansion tank is defective, that could also cause excessive pressure in your water system and potentially cause the Nova Filter or any filter cannister for that matter to fail.

All you need to do is tap on the top and bottom of the expansion tank with a metal screwdriver and if the sound is the same thud then the tank needs replacing.

[rickaslin]

i change mine every 2-3 years. between the 5 of us, it only took 6 hours. very easy..

What size is a replacement filter for Nova? Should I buy the tool that loosens the blue filter holder?

[CFrance]

I have a had the same issue with the canisters. My system is approximately 5 years old and I have had to replace all 3 canisters at different times in the last year.
Like you they want to blame it on water pressure. I monitor my system practically every day and the pressure hardly ever exceeds 60 psi. In each case I have asked if it was possible that my canisters were a bad batch and they explain it was due to water pressure. I think the system it was a waste of money. My neighbor across the street tested his water before buying a system and it was in acceptable limits.
I find hard water that smells bad, tastes bad and makes my skin itch to be unacceptable, no matter who says it's "in acceptable limits." Your neighbor either gets his water from a different source or is much m ore forgiving. I'll stick with my Nova system.

[BillyGrown]

Made in China garbage. Culligan is the way to go IMO

Fro tec water softeners are made in Guandong China

https://frotecpure.en.alibaba.com/

I had to look it up.

[Pugchief]

What size is a replacement filter for Nova? Should I buy the tool that loosens the blue filter holder?

Nova sells the replacement filters and wrench directly to consumers. You can stop by their warehouse SW of SR44 and Powell. If you are going to DIY, you need the wrench, but it's not expensive and it is reusable.

[JMintzer]

Pegasus is on our radar too. Nova broke right around the 3 year mark for us.

We have a Pegasus system. It came with the (resale) house. We have their tech come out every 12-18 months for service and so far, so good (6-7 years)...

[TSO/ISPF]

Neighbor had 2 blown Nova canisters in just a few years. Pin hole leaks but water streaming out pretty good. Unacceptable. We'll see how long my system holds up.

If you're considering their water softener system be aware that the water will be shut off in the house unless you manually bypass the softener during regeneration. Just had it installed and discovered it when using the sink at 2 AM this morning. It is explained in their installation document I hadn't read at that point.

[jrref]

If you're considering their water softener system be aware that the water will be shut off in the house unless you manually bypass the softener during regeneration. Just had it installed and discovered it when using the sink at 2 AM this morning. It is explained in their installation document I hadn't read at that point.

Most water softeners do this unless there is an automatic bypass installed. Generally, more expensive units have this feature.

[BillyGrown]

Most water softeners do this unless there is an automatic bypass installed. Generally, more expensive units have this feature.

Most water softeners regenerate, the brine tank needs flushed and refilled to get rid of the hardened minerals. The cheaper softeners are difficult to mandate scheduling and a little less user friendly. High end softeners are Wi-Fi connected and can regenerate on demand. Regenerating at night is typical and not some high end luxury lol.

[jrref]

Most water softeners regenerate, the brine tank needs flushed and refilled to get rid of the hardened minerals. The cheaper softeners are difficult to mandate scheduling and a little less user friendly. High end softeners are Wi-Fi connected and can regenerate on demand. Regenerating at night is typical and not some high end luxury lol.

I think you misunderstood my comment. What I was trying to say is, automatic bypass valves which will keep water available during regeneration are mostly found on higher priced units. Any you are right, the user interface on most systems are very criptic but once you set up your softener, there is no reason to go in and change the settings.

If you had a phone app for your softener to change the settings what would you use it for?

The only thing I can say is useful is to know when to refill the brine tank with salt vs going over to the tank periodically and taking a look or setting an alert on you calendar each month.

[DrMack]

Water softeners are an add on and not necessarily needed in the villages. My mom has lived here 20 some years without one. There isn’t calcium build up on faucets, the shower walls are clean and the water heater has only been changed out one time. Beware of salesmen that tell you that you need one. I haven’t met anyone yet who needed one here. In my opinion they are a gimmick and certainly not a necessity.

[jrref]

Water softeners are an add on and not necessarily needed in the villages. My mom has lived here 20 some years without one. There isn’t calcium build up on faucets, the shower walls are clean and the water heater has only been changed out one time. Beware of salesmen that tell you that you need one. I haven’t met anyone yet who needed one here. In my opinion they are a gimmick and certainly not a necessity.

It's not that they are "needed" but some may prefer it since our water generally has a hardness of 10-13. Sort of in the middle, not too soft and not too hard.

[DrMack]

It's not that they are "needed" but some may prefer it since our water generally has a hardness of 10-13. Sort of in the middle, not too soft and not too hard.

In other words, just right.

[jrref]

In other words, just right.

Like the 3 bears LOL. If you are used to soft water then it's too hard. If you are used to hard well water then its fine.

[GeneJ]

Six years, with filters replaced by Nova annually, and now they say I need to get a complete new system! I'm guessing that the Complete New System will just be 3 new canisters. But $270 to replace 3 plastic housings is high and I don't see how the pressure got over 100 psi. Even if it did I don't see why it would crack the bottom of the canisters.

They also suggested I get a water pressure regulator for an additional $150. I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I like to go fishing but this process seems a little fishy to me!

[jrref]

Six years, with filters replaced by Nova annually, and now they say I need to get a complete new system! I'm guessing that the Complete New System will just be 3 new canisters. But $270 to replace 3 plastic housings is high and I don't see how the pressure got over 100 psi. Even if it did I don't see why it would crack the bottom of the canisters.

They also suggested I get a water pressure regulator for an additional $150. I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I like to go fishing but this process seems a little fishy to me!

So what Village do you live in?
Did you try calling the water department to find out if it's possible for the water to go over 100psi unless something is wrong?

I can understand Nova looking at your canisters and seeing cracks and guessing the water pressure was high at some point but since all these canisters all have the same psi ratings, even if you buy new or another brand unless you find out the reason for the failure, you will be back in the same boat and having to put on a water pressure regulator.

[Bobnfl]

Do people install their systems outside or in the garage? if installed outside are they UV resistant? Do you need to cover them? Why does Nova reps say they will be ok outside?

[jrref]

Do people install their systems outside or in the garage? if installed outside are they UV resistant? Do you need to cover them? Why does Nova reps say they will be ok outside?
Are you sure they said that? I find it hard to believe because regardless if the cannisters are UV resistent, they use a steel mounting frame and metal covered gauges. My guess is after a year the mounting frame and gauges would be all rusty. As for the water softener, I'm positive the control is not water proof so that would fail eventually unless you covered it.

I've never seen a Nova system installed outside.

I have seen another manufacturers water softener installed outside but it had a special cover.

[Kenswing]

So what Village do you live in?
Did you try calling the water department to find out if it's possible for the water to go over 100psi unless something is wrong?

I can understand Nova looking at your canisters and seeing cracks and guessing the water pressure was high at some point but since all these canisters all have the same psi ratings, even if you buy new or another brand unless you find out the reason for the failure, you will be back in the same boat and having to put on a water pressure regulator.
The pressure absolutely can go over 100psi and does so on occasion.

[jrref]

The pressure absolutely can go over 100psi and does so on occasion.

Well there you go. That's dangerous so I guess a pressure regulator is in order to solve the problem.

I would still call the water department and see what they have to say.

[Miboater]

I've had two neighbors across the street that had their Nova under-sink reverse osmosis filter canisters break within 2 weeks of each other. The first one just left for a two week vacation and flooded their house. They had to have their flooring replaced along with baseboards and a few cabinets. The other neighbor was in his garage and heard a pop and found water gushing from under his sink. Luckily he caught it fast with no damage but a lot of mopping. Nova was blaming high water pressure and installed pressure regulators. I'm across the street and never seen my pressure over 70 psi but admit I don't check it on a regular basis.

[jrref]

I've had two neighbors across the street that had their Nova under-sink reverse osmosis filter canisters break within 2 weeks of each other. The first one just left for a two week vacation and flooded their house. They had to have their flooring replaced along with baseboards and a few cabinets. The other neighbor was in his garage and heard a pop and found water gushing from under his sink. Luckily he caught it fast with no damage but a lot of mopping. Nova was blaming high water pressure and installed pressure regulators. I'm across the street and never seen my pressure over 70 psi but admit I don't check it on a regular basis.
Please don't tell us which Village you are in. :confused:

[Miboater]

Please don't tell us which Village you are in. :confused:

I'm in Hawkins. These filters were just under 4 years old.

I believe there was another incident with the same filter canister down the street but that was second hand info.

[jrref]

I think if someone does install a pressure regulator it would be good if they share what they installed, which company installed it and how much it cost so those here can benefit from the experience.

That said, I still feel the Villages water must have some way of limiting the water pressure to our homes to avoid situations like this. This is why it's important to tell us which Village you are from so we can figure out if the problem is in a specific area supplied by a specific source or not.

[Bobnfl]

Are you sure they said that? I find it hard to believe because regardless if the cannisters are UV resistent, they use a steel mounting frame and metal covered gauges. My guess is after a year the mounting frame and gauges would be all rusty. As for the water softener, I'm positive the control is not water proof so that would fail eventually unless you covered it.

I've never seen a Nova system installed outside.

I have seen another manufacturers water softener installed outside but it had a special cover.

Yes when they were installed I asked if it could go outside and was told That the red relief buttons needed to be covered so I covered them. When they did a filter change I was told the canisters needed to be replaced because of UV damage. So now I must change them. I had an outside water system before nova and never had this problem. I am disappointed in Nova system at this time. I also found out the time before when they changed the filters they put them in backwards.

[Malsua]

The pressure absolutely can go over 100psi and does so on occasion.


Domestic fixtures are nominally rated to 80psi. I.e. this is the pressure they can expect to run without issue.

If you are seeing pressures well above 80, there is something else going on. I have seen pressure hitting around 100 in a home with a failed expansion tank on the water heater.

If the supply side was exceeding even 90psi, toilet valves and sinks everywhere would be failing constantly in that neighborhood.

Certain neighborhoods have a lot of pressure relief valves that start popping off between 75-80. I see these in a lot of homes off BV, north of LSL. These relief valves are in some other areas too, but practically every home up that way has them.

I am a licensed, certified and working home inspector. I get into a lot of homes. I have never found any home with a functional expansion tank where the pressure exceeded 80psi.

[jrref]

Domestic fixtures are nominally rated to 80psi. I.e. this is the pressure they can expect to run without issue.

If you are seeing pressures well above 80, there is something else going on. I have seen pressure hitting around 100 in a home with a failed expansion tank on the water heater.

If the supply side was exceeding even 90psi, toilet valves and sinks everywhere would be failing constantly in that neighborhood.

Certain neighborhoods have a lot of pressure relief valves that start popping off between 75-80. I see these in a lot of homes off BV, north of LSL. These relief valves are in some other areas too, but practically every home up that way has them.

I am a licensed, certified and working home inspector. I get into a lot of homes. I have never found any home with a functional expansion tank where the pressure exceeded 80psi.

When Nova installs their system they always check the expansion tank if there is a tank hot water system installed but most people never do any maintenance on their until it fails, including the expansion tank. Typiclly they only last 5ish years then need to be replaced and that's if they were installed properly with the correct air pressure.

[jrref]

Yes when they were installed I asked if it could go outside and was told That the red relief buttons needed to be covered so I covered them. When they did a filter change I was told the canisters needed to be replaced because of UV damage. So now I must change them. I had an outside water system before nova and never had this problem. I am disappointed in Nova system at this time. I also found out the time before when they changed the filters they put them in backwards.

Which outdoor water system did you have installed without any problem because I haven't seen any like the Nova system with the three canisters that are rated for outdoor installation.

[Pugchief]

The pressure absolutely can go over 100psi and does so on occasion.

If that is the case, why doesn't Nova automatically install a water pressure regulator and add an additional $150 to the cost of a complete system?

I've had Nova in my garage for 3 years. No issues so far. I do my own filter changes. But if this is really an issue, seems like they should just install them universally rather than end up with angry customers.

[jrref]

If that is the case, why doesn't Nova automatically install a water pressure regulator and add an additional $150 to the cost of a complete system?

I've had Nova in my garage for 3 years. No issues so far. I do my own filter changes. But if this is really an issue, seems like they should just install them universally rather than end up with angry customers.

I think this problem is relatively new and Nova is Just trying to deal with it best they can. I think if you order a new system, they will offer or ask you to get pressure regulator, but I’m not 100% sure.

[Bobnfl]

Yes when they were installed I asked if it could go outside and was told That the red relief buttons needed to be covered so I covered them. When they did a filter change I was told the canisters needed to be replaced because of UV damage. So now I must change them. I had an outside water system before nova and never had this problem. I am disappointed in Nova system at this time. I also found out the time before when they changed the filters they put them in backwards.

Which outdoor water system did you have installed without any problem because I haven't seen any like the Nova system with the three canisters that are rated for outdoor installation.

I have the 3 filter system that they installed outside 4 years ago.

[Pugchief]

I think this problem is relatively new and Nova is Just trying to deal with it best they can. I think if you order a new system, they will offer or ask you to get pressure regulator, but I’m not 100% sure.

Or....was there a defective lot of canisters? No way to know.

If it's a "new" problem, why haven't water pressure spikes been a problem historically? Are the pressure spikes "new"? Or are the current run of canisters unable to handle the pressure like previous ones did?

[retiredguy123]

I think this problem is relatively new and Nova is Just trying to deal with it best they can. I think if you order a new system, they will offer or ask you to get pressure regulator, but I’m not 100% sure.
Typically, a pressure regulator is a one way device that will control the incoming water pressure to the house. However, if the pressure increase is caused by a defective expansion tank, the pressure regulator will not control the pressure inside the house and at the filtration system equipment.

[Pugchief]

However, if the pressure increase is caused by a defective expansion tank, the pressure regulator will not control the pressure inside the house and at the filtration system equipment.

Yep. Which doesn't explain why this is a "new" problem. Weren't expansion tanks failing before?

[jrref]

Yep. Which doesn't explain why this is a "new" problem. Weren't expansion tanks failing before?

When I said it was a "new" problem I meant, I hadn't heard anyone complain about it before. When I purchased my home here in the Villages four years ago, I did a lot of research on Nova and no one mentioned this problem and I've not heard anything until recently on TOTV. As I mentioned, I know they always check the expansion tank if the homeowner has one at installation but very few ever maintain that. And if it was the expansion tank causing the problem, why wouldn't we have heard about this years ago? Nova has thousands of systems installed in the Villages for 10+ years now.

My "guess" is 1) Maybe there was a shipment of canisters that were faulty. They all come from China so I'm not sure how you guarantee 100% quality. 2) Something new with our water system causing a problem with high pressures because we should not be seeing pressures that high at the water supply.

The only way to debug this is for those who can see the pressure over 80+ psi for example, they need to turn on the water in the house and then tell us what the gauge says. If the pressure only drops a little then the high pressure is coming from the supply. If it drops a lot then it's something in the home like a bad expansion tank.

[Pugchief]

My "guess" is 1) Maybe there was a shipment of canisters that were faulty. They all come from China so I'm not sure how you guarantee 100% quality.

This is my "guess" also. It's the most logical explanation. Occam's Razor.

[Kelevision]

I bought a Nova filtration system for my new home three years ago. The filters need to be changed every year. They arrived today to change the filters but informed me that the bottom of the canisters are soft and cracked, and most likely will start leaking if not changed for new canisters. To put new canisters on with filters, the cost is almost 400.00. He told me it was from water pressure surges. I informed him that the pressure was always at 80, 10 less than the maximum permitted pressure, and I don't believe surges would cause this issue. The warranty was only for a year. I feel their equipment is of poor quality. I called another company that is installing a filtration and softening water system at this moment, and it has a lifetime warranty. Wish I knew this issue that I have been told is a well-known issue with Nova systems three years ago.

I’ve had them for 4 years and never had any issues. I have my filters changed every 6 months.

[biker1]

Every 6 months may be a bit of overkill. I believe they use standard 20"x4.5" filters. I have a dual canister 20" x 4.5" system with a 5 micron pleated sediment filter and a 5 micron carbon block filter. The main purpose of the sediment filter is to extend the life of the carbon block filter by removing any sediment that would clog the carbon block filter. The pleated sediment filter can be hosed off and reused. Given the chlorine level in The Villages, the amount of water we use daily, and the chlorine absorption specs of the carbon block filter, I replace the carbon block filter every 2 years. At that time, I hose off the sediment filter but it is always pretty clean. I do replace the pleated sediment filter after 6 years ( two hose offs). I have tested the water at 2 years for chlorine leakage and found none so 2 year replacements on the carbon block filter is fine.

I’ve had them for 4 years and never had any issues. I have my filters changed every 6 months.

[jrref]

Every 6 months may be a bit of overkill. I believe they use standard 20"x4.5" filters. I have a dual canister 20" x 4.5" system with a 5 micron pleated sediment filter and a 5 micron carbon block filter. The main purpose of the sediment filter is to extend the life of the carbon block filter by removing any sediment that would clog the carbon block filter. The pleated sediment filter can be hosed off and reused. Given the chlorine level in The Villages, the amount of water we use daily, and the chlorine absorption specs of the carbon block filter, I replace the carbon block filter every 2 years. At that time, I hose off the sediment filter but it is always pretty clean. I do replace the pleated sediment filter after 6 years ( two hose offs). I have tested the water at 2 years for chlorine leakage and found none so 2 year replacements on the carbon block filter is fine.

It really depends on where you live in the Villages. Some may need a change once a year. I have a friend who does what you do but goes every 5 years no problem. I have another friend who's trying to go 10 years.

[biker1]

The chlorine level in The Villages potable water is advertised. Carbon block filters are spec'd to handle a specific amount of chlorine. How much potable water you use is easy to determine from your water bill. The calculation of how often to change the carbon block filter is a simple calculation. 5 years or 10 years between filter changes, unless you use very little water, if almost certainly outside the spec for a 20"x4.5" carbon block filter. However, people are free to do whatever they want, regardless of whether it makes any sense.

It really depends on where you live in the Villages. Some may need a change once a year. I have a friend who does what you do but goes every 5 years no problem. I have another friend who's trying to go 10 years.

[Pugchief]

The chlorine level in The Villages potable water is advertised. Carbon block filters are spec'd to handle a specific amount of chlorine. How much potable water you use is easy to determine from your water bill. The calculation of how often to change the carbon block filter is a simple calculation. 5 years or 10 years between filter changes, unless you use very little water, if almost certainly outside the spec for a 20"x4.5" carbon block filter. However, people are free to do whatever they want, regardless of whether it makes any sense.

Nova recommends changing the filters every 26,000 gallons. I asked how they determined that figure and the answer was basically that they are dirty enough at that point to be icky and inefficient.

If someone has a better MEASURABLE metric, please share. Saying 2 years or 5 years is meaningless since every household has different usage needs. A home of 4 people that lives in TV year around is vastly different than a single person that snowbirds.

[jrref]

Nova recommends changing the filters every 26,000 gallons. I asked how they determined that figure and the answer was basically that they are dirty enough at that point to be icky and inefficient.

If someone has a better MEASURABLE metric, please share. Saying 2 years or 5 years is meaningless since every household has different usage needs. A home of 4 people that lives in TV year around is vastly different than a single person that snowbirds.

The 26,000 gallons that Nova came up with is their measurement given what the filters are rated for and the quality of the water here in the Villages. If we had well water, the recommendation would be different for example.

That said, you are right. Depending on how much water you use will depend on when to change the filters. So, what you need to consider is first, how fast is the sediment filter getting dirty in your home since sediment varies in different areas of the Villages? Most here in the Villages are not going to open their filters to check. You can't clean the carbon filter so you can measure your water to see when you start to see chlorine and then change them. Or you can just say I'll change them once a year and not worry about the $125 or whatever Nova charges. Remember, no matter what anyone tells you, these filters are very heavy when filled with water so if you get the tool and try to change the filters yourself, be very careful because when you unscrew them, they are going to drop off the mount like a rock and you can get hurt.

The question you need to ask yourself is for $125 or whatever Nova charges, is that money worth the trouble of trying to test and or guess when you need to change your filters which may vary since the sediment and chlorine levels change a lot here in the Villages? If not, then just change them yourself or have Nova do it once a year. If you find the filters are clean after a year, do it every 1 1/2 or 2 years if you want for example. Here in Osceola Hills mine and my neighbor's filters looked mildly dirty after a year for a couple of years then this year after a year they were very bad. I tried to clean mine and it was a mess they were so dirty so I just changed them.

[biker1]

Based on the specs of the carbon block filters I use and the chlorine levels in The Villages potable water, the carbon block filters, that I use, are good for approximately 40,000 gallons. This is essentially 2 years, rounding up a bit, for the amount of water we use. The 5 micron pleated sediment filter, in front of the carbon block filter, can be hosed off and is typically pretty clean at 2 years. I suspect the amount of sediment in the potable water in The Villages varies somewhat; our water is very clean now but it was pretty dirty for the first 2 years we were in the house (new construction area). I do occasionally measure the chlorine level to check and this interval has been fine. YMMV.


Nova recommends changing the filters every 26,000 gallons. I asked how they determined that figure and the answer was basically that they are dirty enough at that point to be icky and inefficient.

If someone has a better MEASURABLE metric, please share. Saying 2 years or 5 years is meaningless since every household has different usage needs. A home of 4 people that lives in TV year around is vastly different than a single person that snowbirds.

[Pugchief]

The 26,000 gallons that Nova came up with is their measurement given what the filters are rated for and the quality of the water here in the Villages. If we had well water, the recommendation would be different for example.

That said, you are right. Depending on how much water you use will depend on when to change the filters. So, what you need to consider is first, how fast is the sediment filter getting dirty in your home since sediment varies in different areas of the Villages? Most here in the Villages are not going to open their filters to check. You can't clean the carbon filter so you can measure your water to see when you start to see chlorine and then change them. Or you can just say I'll change them once a year and not worry about the $125 or whatever Nova charges. Remember, no matter what anyone tells you, these filters are very heavy when filled with water so if you get the tool and try to change the filters yourself, be very careful because when you unscrew them, they are going to drop off the mount like a rock and you can get hurt.

The question you need to ask yourself is for $125 or whatever Nova charges, is that money worth the trouble of trying to test and or guess when you need to change your filters which may vary since the sediment and chlorine levels change a lot here in the Villages? If not, then just change them yourself or have Nova do it once a year. If you find the filters are clean after a year, do it every 1 1/2 or 2 years if you want for example. Here in Osceola Hills mine and my neighbor's filters looked mildly dirty after a year for a couple of years then this year after a year they were very bad. I tried to clean mine and it was a mess they were so dirty so I just changed them.

Guessing is silly. If you agree that 26,000 gallons is reasonable, simply monitor your monthly water bill. I track mine on a spreadsheet that adds and totals cumulative usage. When I get to 26,000 I buy new filters and swap them out myself. Yes they are heavy. Put an upside down bucket or similar with a folded towel underneath the canister before you unscrew. This is not a difficult job for anyone with even a minimal amount of handiness, and you will save some $$$.