Triple pH Neutral + 0.1 Micron Ultra Fine Cyst Parasite + Bacteria Reduction Undersink Water Filter (GT1-38TMAFCC)
- Ideal Undersink Solution for Tank/Rain/Potable Bore Water*
- Recommended for Caravans, Camper Vans and Motorhomes
- Filtration to 0.1 Micron Helps Protect Against Paracytic Cysts and Reduce Bacteria
- Calcite Alkalising Cartridge Balances the pH of Acidic Water Sources (i.e. Rainwater)
Triple pH Neutral + 0.1 Micron Ultra Fine Cyst Parasite + Bacteria Reduction Undersink Water Filter (GT1-38TMAFCC)
System Contains:
- 1x 4 Stage Under Sink Water Filter System, Filters Included
- 1x Standard Faucet Tap
- 1x Opening Handle
- 1x Installation Kit with DM Fit Angle Stop Valve - Compliant to NSF/ANSI 61
- Please note: This filter is not suitable for gravity-fed systems, we recommend at least 50 psi pressure when using this filter.
Ultra-fine filtration is here and changing the way we filter water. The ability to filter water right down to 0.1 microns, takes away the need for powered UV appliances for the disinfection of bacteria, parasites and viruses. This is of particular relevance in older homes where power points are not readily found under sinks, or in caravans and camper vans.
This system was designed in an "outside-in” direction so the life of the filter is enormously extended, but like all filtration the dirtier the water, the faster the cartridge will expire.
Disclaimer: Do not use this system to filter microbiologically unsafe water or water of unknown quality without adequate disinfection. We recommend dosing your tank with a product such as Hydrosil Ultra 7.5% Water Sanitiser to ensure full protection against microbiological contamination in your pipework and filter system, and to help prevent biofouling within the filter.
Stage 1: 5 Micron Sediment Filter
Best suited for tank water. Anywhere where there is a heavy level of debris or sediment in the water, which may cause standard filters to block prematurely, this sediment filter can do the job.
We choose to use this sediment filter over all other types due to:
- High performance
- High flow rate
- High load capacity
- Inability to grow bacterial slime
- Compliant to National Sanitation Foundation/ANSI Standard No. 42, FDA and EU Food Grade Requirements
Stage 2: 0.1 Micron Absolute Ultrafine Sediment, Carbon + Bacteria Reduction Filter
This cartridge is ideal for tank water applications, filtering out sediment and silt, followed by chemical reduction down to 5 microns using a 100% Coconut Carbon Block to reduce chlorine, volatile organic chemicals, pesticides and hazardous chemicals, and finishing with a 0.1-micron filter to protect against bacteria, viruses and parasitic cysts like Giardia & Cryptosporidium. Enjoy the sweet, mild taste of water as it should be!
- 0.1 Absolute Micron Filters Sediment, Chemical + Bacteria
- Sediment & Turbidity Reduction with 5-10 Micron Pleated Membrane
- Chemical Reduction with 5 Micron Premium Coconut Carbon Block
- Bacterial Reduction with 0.1 Micron Hollow Fibre Membrane
- Independently Lab Tested For Log8 Reduction (i.e. a 99.999999% reduction) of E.Coli & P.Aeruginosa Bacteria
- Compliant to National Sanitation Foundation/ANSI Standard No. 42 & 53, FDA and EU Food Grade Requirements
Stage 3: 5 Micron Bacteriostatic Silver Impregnated 100% Coconut Carbon Block - Chemical Taste and Odour Filter
The perfect carbon block filter is made from 100% Coconut Shell Carbon, which creates what many believe to be the sweetest tasting water. The unique pore structure of this carbon is well suited for chemical absorption, including VOC’s, while reducing chlorine and chemicals that contribute to taste and odour.
This high quality 100% Coconut Carbon filter is the exact filter we use as our frontline carbon filter. As a rule, it is difficult to find 100% coconut carbon filters. Most lower priced filters on the market are a blend of coconut carbon and coal-based carbon. The problem with coal-based carbon is that it has a shorter life and often results in a less palatable flavour. We use this 100% coconut carbon filter in all of our pre-assembled kits.
Features Polypropylene ends and meshing rather than rubber (which has a tendency to harbour bacteria). Polypropylene is designed with this in mind, resulting in long life and pure water. NO BAD SMELLS OR TASTES. This filter is truly as good as it gets!
Carbon filtration is the best form of filtration for chemical extraction due to the longer and more thorough contact time the water has with the carbon, which in turn provides an extremely comprehensive method of chemical removal. We HIGHLY recommend this method of filtration for chemical taste and odour extraction.
- Compliant to National Sanitation Foundation/ANSI Standard No. 42, FDA and EU Food Grade Requirements
What is Silver Impregnated (Bacteriostatic) Carbon and how does it work?
Contrary to popular belief, carbon does not filter out bacteria. Whilst carbon effectively removes odours and taste issues from water, carbon ash is actually a source of nourishment for bacteria, making wet carbon filters a breeding ground for microbial contamination. This, unfortunately, causes biofouling of the filter cartridge which can lead to premature blockage, putrid tastes and odours and worse - illness as a result of ingesting the bacteria that has passed through the cartridge and into your drinking water! Using a rotten filter can make you seriously sick - so if in doubt - chuck it out!So, how does Silver Impregnation inhibit the growth of bacteria in a carbon filter? When bacteria come into contact with silver, the silver ions puncture the bacteria's cell membrane and wreak havoc by binding to and denaturing the bacteria's DNA. The sulphydryl group already within the bacterial cell also reacts with the silver, producing a silver sulphur complex that immobilises the respiratory and reproductive activity of the bacterial cell. Interestingly, Silver Impregnation has an incredibly long-lasting effect, as the dead bacteria then leach the silver molecules back into their environment, effectively killing neighbouring live bacteria as they die.
Dead bacteria store the microscopic silver particles within their cells (see above image of dead bacteria with silver nanoparticles (white spots), making them deadly to live bacteria. (Source: "Antibacterial Activity of Silver-Killed Bacteria: The "Zombie" Effect" (2015), https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25906433/).
Disinfection For Protection Against Bacteria
For sanitation against common water-borne bacteria/viruses in rainwater and potable bore water (i.e. *bore water that has been tested to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and deemed suitable for drinking purposes per the Guidelines’ aesthetic, health and safety recommendations), we recommend dosing your water source with a product such as Hydrosil Ultra 7.5% Water Sanitiser. Dosing with a disinfectant will ensure residual protection against microbiological contamination/biofouling in your pipework and/or filter system.
Stage 4: Calcite/Carbon pH Neutralisation Cartridge
It's quite common and natural for tank water to be acidic, if you are running standard filtration this cartridge can be added as a final stage before the faucet to again neutralize the low pH. Therefore, neutralizing the pH of acidic water has fast become a standard requirement as the general population become more aware of the benefits of drinking alkaline water. Guaranteed to raise the pH to neutral 7 pH - but our testing has shown that we are reaching much higher pH or around 8.4 - 8-9 at least while the cartridge is new.
Replacement Filters - Every 6-12 Months or as required:
Optional Add On: Inline Magnetic Water Conditioner (Never needs replacing)
The effects of magnetization on the physicochemical properties of water have been well documented in scientific literature for several decades, with findings ranging from the application of magnets to reduce the growth of limescale in pipes, through to the documentation of magnetically treated water being used to improve the quality and quantity of fruit yield in capsicum plants and increasing the level of oxygen in water to improve hatch rate of fish eggs.
Faucet Tap Options
All of our under-sink filter systems come with a dedicated drinking water faucet tap as standard – which means you will need to drill a hole into your sink or benchtop to install it. Alternatively, you can swap out your current faucet for a 3-way mixer tap, which includes all 3 lines in the one faucet (Hot, Cold & Filtered) – this is a great option for those who don’t want to drill (i.e. if you have a stone benchtop), and it also looks nice and minimalistic. If you would like to explore our range of faucets and mixer taps in better detail, please click the below:
INSTALLATION - Please note this system is WaterMark Certified to Australian plumbing standards (AS/NZS 3497), and will need to be installed by a licensed plumber. Simply order online with free shipping to your home, and once it arrives any local licensed plumber will be able to do the installation (the system also comes with instructions)!
***IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT WATER SANITATION***
Disclaimer: Do not use or drink microbiologically unsafe water or water of unknown quality without adequate disinfection.
FSA’s Recommendation for Rain/Tank/Potable Bore Water*
If you use Rain/Tank Water and Potable Bore Water (*i.e bore water that has been tested to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and deemed suitable for drinking purposes per the Guidelines’ aesthetic, health and safety recommendations), please see below our recommended filtration schedule to ensure safe drinking water:
- External Sediment + Carbon Pre-Filtration to Prevent Tank Clogging + Improve Initial Taste & Odour
- Tank Dose with HydroSil Ultra 7.5% for Protection Against Bacteria & Viruses
- Undersink <1 Micron Absolute Filter for Protection against Parasites & (Optional) Coconut Carbon for Improved Final Taste & Odour
Read on for a full explanation of why we recommend this as the minimum standard of filtration for treating Rain/Tank/Potable Bore Water for drinking.
For Protection Against Bacteria/Viruses
Bacteria (such as E.Coli) can colonize in the stagnant water and result in harmful illnesses when consumed. For sanitation against common water-borne bacteria/viruses in rainwater and potable bore water*, we, therefore, recommend dosing your tank with a product such as Hydrosil Ultra 7.5% Water Sanitiser to ensure protection against microbiological contamination/biofouling in your pipework and/or filter system.
HydroSil is a food-grade silver-activated, hydrogen-peroxide based water sanitiser, which acts to oxidise bacteria and viruses, without leaving any dangerous residues behind. HydroSil sanitizes and protects your tanks and water storage devices, making rainwater and potable bore water safe and suitable for human consumption. HydroSil is not a chlorine-based chemical like most sterilisers on the market today. It is non-toxic, and safe to use around your home and family.
Dosage Rate: HydroSil should be dosed at a rate of 200mL per 1000L of water. To scale down to tank size, you will require 20mL per 100L.
Buy Hydrosil Ultra 7.5% Here:
For Protection Against Parasites/Protozoa
Ingesting waterborne parasites (Protozoan Cysts) such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia (which flourish in raw water sources such as rain water tanks and bores), are a common cause of gastroenteritis. Whilst Chlorine can inactivate Giardia with a moderate dose and contact time, Chlorine has a negligible effect on Cryptosporidium unless dosed in excess of the acceptable Chlorine limit per the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (Version 3.6, pp. 200).
For protection against these common cysts, we, therefore, recommend under sink filtration down to at least 1 Micron (Absolute) or smaller (i.e. with Reverse Osmosis or the Caware 0.1 Micron Absolute 3-in-1 Sediment, Chemical + Bacteria Reduction Filter). Such fine filtration, used along with regular sanitation (i.e. with HydroSil Ultra 7.5%) is a cost-effective and safe drinking water solution for rain water and potable bore water*, and is perfect for casual disinfection requirements such as when travelling in a caravan.
Why UV Disinfection is NOT Recommended for Travelling/Casual Use
You may have read that Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection is one of the safest and most effective methods for treating drinking water, as it has a minimal effect on drinking water’s composition and taste, whilst killing 99.9% of microbiological contaminants. It's true that UV is highly effective at inactivating the DNA cells of water-borne micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses, and is excellent at killing chlorine-resistant parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium.
However, as effective as they are, please note that UV systems are generally NOT recommended for caravanning and casual use, for the following reasons:
- UV Systems require electrical input and typically need to be left on 24/7 to prevent degradation of the UV lamp (not ideal for infrequent use).
- UV radiation also heats up the UV chamber and, in some cases, requires a constant flow of fresh water and a thermal release valve to release the hot water (which is not ideal on a small water tank).
- UV Systems also contain fragile glass components (not ideal for travelling).
Type | Water Filter |
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Dimensions:
Width: 365mm
Height: 360mm
Depth: 130mm
Return Policy
Due to the nature of the products we sell, a strict return policy is in place. We work with food-grade certified materials that must be un-opened and un-used, so as to be able to be re-sold. This policy falls in line with the Australian Consumer Law, which is designed to protect BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS.
You may receive a refund or credit of equal amount, less the Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fee, if applicable, and any other deductions that are relevant.
- 30-Day Returns Policy: Returns will not be accepted without prior approval or after 30 days of the invoice date.
- Wrongly Purchased Items/Changes of Mind Policy: Wrongly Purchased Items, or Change of Mind Purchases may be returned for a merchandise credit. This applies to, but is not limited to purchases of products that are:
- The Wrong Size;
- The Wrong System;
- The Wrong Replacement Pack;
- Due to a Change of Mind;
- Due to Buyer Error, whereby the buyer has failed to conduct proper due diligence (including contacting FSA prior to purchase in order to clarify the relevant technical specifications, compatibility, requirements etc.) to ensure the product purchased from us is the correct product for their requirements.
- Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fees Policy: All returns will incur a 17.5% restocking fee OR an out-of-pocket shipping expense fee, whichever is greater.
- This fee is in place to cover the administrative expense incurred in processing the return and/or the out-of-pocket expenses incurred by us in shipping the item to you. FSA may use its discretion to determine the restocking fee. Please note this policy falls in line with the ACL, and is designed to protect us as the seller from losses incurred due to buyer error. This means that you will NOT receive a full refund of the original purchase price - you will bear the cost of shipping the product back to us, and then you will receive a credit equal to the purchase price of the product LESS the Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fee. Please refer to our Shipping Policies (below) for further clarification.
- Low-Value Returns: Please note that with low-value items, sometimes the cost of sending the item back to us may be more expensive to you, than simply keeping the item. For example, let's say you have ordered 3x meters of the wrong-sized tubing for your needs and paid $12.00. If, for example, it cost us $7.69 to send the item to you, and it would cost you $7.69 to send the item back to us, overall you would be $3.38 worse off (due to incurring $7.69 to send the item back to us, and having $7.69 taken out of the credit) than if you had kept the item and re-ordered the correct product for your needs.
- Shipping Policies:
- Free Shipping Offer: As part of our offer of Free shipping Australia-Wide, FSA reserves the right to select the most cost-effective courier to effect delivery of the product to you. We make no guarantee as to how long an item will take to arrive due to unforeseen circumstances outside of ours/the couriers' control, including but not limited to: Staff Shortages, Supply Chain Demand, Extreme Weather Events etc.
- Express Shipping Policy: If you require an item on an urgent or Express basis, it is your (the buyer's) responsibility to contact us directly by telephone on [phone removed by eBay] prior to purchase, in order that we may quote you the options available for Express Delivery to your nominated address, and to organise additional payment for this Express Service. Express Shipping is not included in our offer of free shipping - this service will come at an additional cost payable by the buyer.
- Late Shipping Policy: Given that we offer the option for customers to organise Express Shipping with us prior to purchase, cancellations or refunds will NOT be issued on the basis of late or delayed shipping where the customer has opted for our Free Shipping offer. If the item (sent via Free Shipping), arrives late and the buyer wishes to return the item on this basis, the buyer will be liable for the cost of returning the product to us and a Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fee will be applicable to the return, as per the listed returns policy line items above. The customer will be issued a merchandise credit.
- Our offer of Free Shipping does not apply to Returns: Whilst we offer Free Shipping, this does not mean that there is no cost to ship the product - obviously, a shipping expense is incurred, and as with all e-commerce operators that offer Free Shipping, the cost of shipping the product from our warehouse to your nominated shipping address is built into the price of the product. The offer of Free Shipping therefore only applies to the act of FSA supplying the product to you, and does not cover the cost of returning the product from the customer to FSA.
- Returned to Sender Items: In the case of the buyer being unavailable to sign, refusing delivery, or the item being sent back to us for whatever reason, FSA may, at its discretion, pass the cost of the product being Returned to Sender (i.e. being returned back to us), back onto the buyer. Refer to Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fees (above).
- Lost Parcels: If an item is deemed to be LOST IN TRANSIT by the courier, the customer is entitled to a replacement product or refund in line with the ACL. In the case of a replacement product, FSA reserves the right to send the replacement product in line with its Free Shipping offer. If you do require the replacement item urgently, please get in touch with our customer service team directly to organise Express Shipping.
- Product Damage & Product Faults: Any damage to products that are not reported to FSA within 48 business hours of receipted delivery is not covered under our transit warranty. Return shipping is to be paid by the buyer to the address provided by FSA. It is recommended that the customer applies a transit warranty to the return freight item/s, in case of damage.
- Faults: Should the item appear faulty or doesn’t work as described, you must supply written/photographic/video evidence of the fault to us, so that we may assess whether the unit/item must be returned for testing (if requested). If testing is requested, return postage is to be paid by the buyer.
- If the unit/item is deemed to be faulty, compensation will be provided for the postage cost (proof of cost required).
- If the unit/item is deemed to be in working order and as described, the buyer will be responsible for the cost of return postage of the product from FSA's premises, back to the buyer.
- Minor Damage: Any damages (minor, that can be repaired) will incur a fee, that will be deducted from the total refund which will be equal to the cost of the replacement parts (List Price) and labour charges (if applicable) to repair the system(s). This will be separate from the Restocking/Out-of-Pocket Shipping Expense Fees.
- Major Damage: Any damage considered to be major and not feasible for repair may be refused and the return request will be void. The customer will be responsible for the return freight or disposal of the damaged unit.
- Faults: Should the item appear faulty or doesn’t work as described, you must supply written/photographic/video evidence of the fault to us, so that we may assess whether the unit/item must be returned for testing (if requested). If testing is requested, return postage is to be paid by the buyer.
Returns are not accepted on special order items unless the manufacturer allows it. Applicable fees will apply.
If you have any questions about our return policy, please contact us before purchasing. This will also help to ensure you purchase the correct product that suits your requirements.
Can I install my Water Filter on my own or do I need a Plumber?
For quality assurance and Insurance reasons, we always recommend using a licenced plumber who is familiar with water filtration. This ensures that the installation runs smoothly and is professional. If you fancy yourself reasonable at DIY type projects, we provide you with all the necessary components and instructions you need to conduct the installation yourself. Our technical support team are contactable during business hours on 1300 888 008 should you have any queries about installation.
Will Undersink Water Filters Remove Fluoride?
Standard Undersink filters will not remove fluoride from the water, we recommend using reverse osmosis as it is the safest, and most effective way of removing Fluoride from the water. There are proclaimed Fluoride Removal Cartridges on the market however they use a material called Activated Alumina which will remove Fluoride up to approx. 80% while the filter is new, but will then rapidly depreciate to the point where it is no longer effective. The other down side to the Activated Alumina cartridges is, they have a tendency to leach heavy metals into the water when the filter ages. If you do not keep a strict routine for filter replacement, it may be introducing dangerous heavy metals into your drinking water.
What are Undersink filters for?
There are a few different models of Undersink filter that each have their own specific purpose. The most common model of Undersink filter you will come across is a Sediment + Coconut Carbon configuration. As the name suggests, they have a dual action, the first filter will remove dirt/particles and sediment, while the Coconut Carbon filter absorbs chemicals from the water such as Chlorine.
Some systems elect to use a Dual Coconut Carbon Set up to double the contact time with the water. As we know that carbon efficiency is majorly to do with Contact Time adding more carbon to a system can greatly increase its ability to remove hazardous chemicals, Tannins, Tastes and odours.
Can an Undersink Water Filter remove Chloramine?
Chloramine Injection has recently been introduced into many council regions over Australia, including on the Gold Coast where FSA is based. Chloramine presents a number of issues in regards to drinking water including but not limited to; dissolving of heavy metals such as lead into the water, release of ammonia gas and adverse skin reactions. As previously mentioned, the more carbon the better. Chloramine is very hard to remove by normal means and it is removed in 2 staged. The first carbon filter acts to break open the Chloramine which in turn, releases the other various residual gasses into the water, the second carbon can then easily extract and absorb all remaining residuals, effectively removing the dangerous Chloramine from your drinking water.
How often should I change the filter cartridges?
Undersink Water Filter Cartridges should be changed anywhere between 6-12 months. You will usually notice a distinct change in taste of the water if you have the filters in too long. This signifies that the Coconut Carbon Cartridge is no longer working to its full capacity and is beginning to allow residual amounts of chemicals through into your drinking water. As a rule, you should not leave your filters in for longer than 12 months regardless if you are on town OR rain water.
What is filter protection equipment, and do I need to use it?
Filter Protection Equipment is an important part of water filtration. Our products are sourced from experienced and reliable manufacturers and also carry the highest level of certification in the water filtration industry. Regardless of Brand, Make, Model or Country of manufacture, water filtration will ALWAYS be the weakest point in your plumbing. The three main causes of water filtration failure are; Overnight pressure surges, Intense Water Hammer Pressure Impacts, and thermal expansion. All of which can be addressed and prevented with a few simple pieces of equipment. A Pressure Limiting Valve is used to buffer the incoming pressure to the Australian Regulation Pressure of 500kPA. This is the minimum requirement for most insurance and warranty validation and is essential when used on Town mains / municipal water. A Water Hammer Arrestor is a copper tube looking device which is commonly found in the laundry (If you have one). It acts to absorb and dissipate pressure spikes in your water lines. Pressure spikes occur from appliances such as the washing machine or dishwasher and can magnify the water pressure tenfold which can cause serious damage to water filtration components. Water hammer gets the name by the distinct sound you hear when the shockwaves rattle loose copper pipes or worn out valves. This is something that is essential to be addressed immediately before installing water filtration. A Pressure Relief Valve is as it sounds. It is pre-set to open once the pressure reaches 110PSI, shooting that pressure/water down the drain line and easing the pressure in your water filter. This is a requirement if you intend to hook up your water filter to a fridge, chiller or ice maker. They are also a good idea to help relieve residual pressure from pressure surges (even if you have a PLV + water hammer arrestor).