How to Winterize an Aqua2use System (Plus Maintenance & Troubleshooting Tips)

What You're Winterizing (and Why Freeze Protection Matters)

The Aqua2use GWDD is designed to manage variable greywater flows (showers, lavatories, laundry) using settling, screening, and multi-stage Matala filter media. Many installations also use a submersible pump pack controlled by a sealed Electronic Pump Controller (EPC) and two magnetic micro-floats for automatic operation.

Important: Aqua2use systems are not freeze-proof. Operating Temp: 32–104°F (0–40°C). If water in the tank, pump, discharge line, or irrigation lines freezes, it can damage components. Winterization is required whenever your site can reach freezing temperatures.

Before You Start: Safety & Tools Checklist

Safety first 

• Turn power off and unplug the unit before opening the lid or removing components.
  
• Do not spray water on the electrical control box/EPC during cleaning.
  
• Wear protective gloves and avoid skin contact with greywater.

Tools & supplies

• Bucket (for pump storage)
• Clean water source + hose (gentle rinse)
• Flathead screwdriver (helpful for certain pump checks)
• Towels / rags
• Basic hand tools (as needed for your fittings)

Step-by-Step: How to Winterize Your Aqua2use

Use this checklist any time freezing conditions are possible. The goal is simple: route greywater to bypass/sewer, then fully drain and remove water-holding components.

1. Turn off power.
   Unplug the unit (and confirm it cannot run while you're working).
2. Set the diverter to bypass/sewer.
   This prevents greywater from entering the unit during the winter.
3. Drain the tank completely.
   Use the drain fitting to empty the tank. Make sure residual water is removed.
4. Remove the pump pack, EPC, and floats (if applicable).
   Carefully lift components out and place them on a towel or protected surface.
5. Clean components.
   Gently rinse filter media and clean the pump intake area. Avoid wetting electrical enclosures.
6. Store the pump correctly (critical).
   Store the pump in a bucket of clean water in a frost-free location to protect pump seals.
7. Store tank + filters indoors (or protected from freezing).
   If indoor storage isn't possible, ensure everything is fully drained and insulated from freeze exposure.

RV antifreeze / propylene glycol note

You may see homeowners ask about adding RV antifreeze. The manufacturer, Matala, does not provide official data for this use. Propylene glycol may not damage certain materials, but it is not recommended inside the pump set, and you should not store the pump in glycol.

Winterization "done right" checklist

Spring Startup: De-winterizing Checklist

When freezing risk is over, use this quick startup process to confirm everything is clean, reassembled, and operating normally.

1. Inspect irrigation lines for damage, leaks, cracked fittings, or blocked emitters.
2. Inspect pump pack + EPC (cord condition, EPC enclosure dry, floats move freely).
3. Clean the tank and filters before returning to service.
4. Reinstall pump and EPC, reconnect piping, and verify all seals/gaskets are seated.
5. Perform a manual EPC float test (see troubleshooting section).
6. Partially fill the tank to confirm normal pump start/stop behavior and discharge.
7. Return diverter to greywater mode once operation is confirmed.

General Maintenance Schedule (Filters, Tank, Pump, EPC)

Aqua2use systems are designed for low-maintenance operation, but every site is different. Occupancy, laundry use, lint load, and detergent choice can change how often service is needed. Below is a practical schedule based on typical household use.

Routine filter & tank cleaning intervals (typical)

Signs it's time to clean

• Reduced discharge pressure
• Pump running longer than usual
• Visible lint buildup on intake pads/screens
• More frequent cycling
• Buildup or sediment accumulation in the tank

How to clean filters + tank (overview)

1. Set diverter to bypass/sewer.
2. Unplug the system.
3. Open the lid and remove filter media (keep the color order for reinstall).
4. Gently rinse filters until they're clean (avoid high-pressure damage).
5. Clean the pump intake and remove any lint/sediment.
6. Remove remaining residual water/sediment from the bottom of the tank.
7. Reinstall filters in correct order and reassemble.
8. Restore power and return diverter to greywater mode once verified.

Pump + EPC quick checks

• Monthly: floats move freely, intake clear, lid/fitting gaskets sealed, EPC box dry, diverter set correctly.
• Every 6 months: inspect pump intake/impeller area, check power cord, inspect EPC/wiring condition, rinse tank bottom.

Water chemistry guidance (practical)

• Normal household soaps/detergents are typically compatible.
• Avoid dumping harsh chemicals down greywater-connected drains.
• As a general guideline, maintain pH in a typical household range (approximately 6-8).

Troubleshooting Guide

1) Pump does not turn on

1. Confirm power (try a different device in the outlet) and use a surge protector.
2. Check floats (they must move freely and not be stuck in lint/slime buildup).
3. Clean the pump intake screens and remove debris.
4. Perform the EPC float test (manual test):
   A1: Pump OFF
   A2: Lift low float - pump stays OFF
   A3: Lift low + high floats - pump turns ON
   A4: Release high float, keep low float lifted - pump stays ON
   A5: Release low float - pump turns OFF

If behavior is incorrect at any step, replace the pump.

2) Pump hums but impeller won't spin (often after freezing)

This is a common symptom after a freeze event. In many cases, the impeller is stuck. After power is disconnected, the bottom strainer plate can be removed and the impeller gently rotated with a screwdriver until it spins freely. Do not force it. If resistance/noise persists, the pump may require replacement.

3) Pump starts and immediately stops

• Most often: float obstruction, EPC misread, or unstable voltage.
• Clean around floats, repeat the EPC float test, and confirm your supply voltage is stable.

4) Tank overflowing

• Confirm diverter position (greywater vs bypass).
• Confirm plumbing orientation: inlet and overflow ports must be installed correctly and clear of obstructions.
• Clean intake screen and perform the EPC float test.

5) Reduced flow / can't keep up with inflow

• Clean filter media and confirm it is seated properly with no bypass gaps.
• Inspect irrigation lines for blockages/kinks and ensure the system is designed correctly for head/line length.
• Flush irrigation lines and check emitters if you're seeing uneven distribution.

EPC controller note

The EPC is a sealed component and should never be opened. If moisture is present inside the EPC enclosure, the recommended remedy is replacement of the pump pack/EPC assembly.

FAQ

When should I winterize?

Winterize any time freezing temperatures are possible at the unit location or along connected piping/irrigation lines. When in doubt, winterize early — freeze damage happens fast.

Do I really need to remove the pump?

Yes. Removing and properly storing the pump (submerged in clean water in a frost-free location) helps protect pump seals and internal components.

How often do I need to clean the filters?

Typical intervals range from about every 3-6 months depending on household size and usage. If you notice reduced pressure, longer pump runs, or visible lint buildup, service sooner.