WaterRower Maintenance: How Often to Change Water and Why It Matters

How often should I change the water in my WaterRower?

Maintaining optimal water quality in your WaterRower's tank is crucial for performance and longevity, with the general recommendation being to change the water and add a purification tablet every 6 to 12 months, or annually, depending on usage and environmental factors.

Understanding Your WaterRower's Water Tank

The WaterRower utilizes a unique water flywheel system to provide a smooth, self-regulating, and infinitely variable resistance. The water within the tank is integral to this mechanism, providing the natural, fluid resistance that mimics the dynamics of rowing on water. Unlike open systems, the WaterRower's tank is largely sealed, which helps minimize evaporation and contamination, but does not eliminate the need for periodic maintenance.

The Primary Recommendation for Water Changes

WaterRower, the manufacturer, advises that the water in your machine's tank should be changed and treated with a purification tablet approximately every 6 to 12 months, or at least once per year. This recommendation assumes regular use of the provided WaterRower purification tablets. The tablets contain algaecides and biocides designed to inhibit the growth of algae, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can thrive in stagnant water.

Factors Influencing Water Change Frequency

While the 6-12 month guideline is standard, several factors can necessitate more or less frequent water changes:

• Usage Frequency: A WaterRower used daily or multiple times a week may require more frequent water changes (closer to the 6-month mark) compared to one used sporadically. Higher usage can introduce more microscopic particles or agitation, potentially accelerating biological growth.
• Environmental Conditions:
  • Direct Sunlight Exposure: If your WaterRower is positioned where it receives direct sunlight, even for part of the day, algae growth can be significantly accelerated. Sunlight provides the energy for photosynthesis, allowing algae to flourish.
  • Humidity and Temperature: Extremely humid or warm environments can also contribute to a faster degradation of water quality.
  • Dust and Airborne Particles: While the tank is sealed, microscopic dust or spores can still potentially enter over time, especially if the tank is not completely airtight or during maintenance.
• Water Source Quality: While tap water is generally acceptable for initial filling, using distilled water can extend the time between changes as it lacks the minerals and impurities found in tap water that could potentially contribute to buildup or feed microorganisms. However, even with distilled water, purification tablets are still essential.
• Consistency of Tablet Usage: Skipping purification tablet applications will inevitably lead to faster contamination and the need for more frequent water changes. The tablets are the primary defense against biological growth.
• Visible Contamination: Any signs of discoloration (green, brown, cloudy), an unpleasant odor, or visible particulate matter (like stringy algae or sediment) indicate an immediate need for a water change, regardless of the last maintenance date.

Why Water Quality Matters

Maintaining clean, treated water in your WaterRower tank is not just about aesthetics; it's fundamental to the machine's performance, longevity, and your overall user experience:

• Optimal Resistance and Smooth Operation: Clean water ensures the water flywheel can move freely and efficiently, providing consistent and smooth resistance. Contaminated water, especially with significant algae growth, can slightly impede the impeller's movement.
• Prevention of Algae and Bacterial Growth: Unchecked biological growth can lead to unsightly green or brown discoloration, unpleasant odors, and potentially even damage to internal components over long periods if sediment builds up.
• Preservation of Tank Integrity: While rare, severe, long-term neglect of water quality could theoretically contribute to residue buildup on the tank's interior surfaces, potentially affecting the clarity and lifespan of the polycarbonate.
• Hygiene and Aesthetics: A clear, clean water tank enhances the visual appeal of your WaterRower and provides a more pleasant and hygienic workout environment.

How to Change and Treat Your WaterRower Water

Changing the water is a straightforward process that typically takes less than 30 minutes:

1. Gather Supplies: You will need the WaterRower siphon pump (included with your machine), a large bucket or container (at least 5 gallons/20 liters capacity), a clean cloth, and a fresh WaterRower purification tablet. Distilled water is recommended for refilling.
2. Position the Rower: Elevate the front of the rower slightly (e.g., on a block or sturdy book) to allow the water to drain more easily towards the front of the tank.
3. Drain the Water: Remove the tank stopper. Insert the long tube of the siphon pump into the tank, ensuring it reaches the bottom. Place the shorter tube into your bucket. Squeeze the bulb of the pump to initiate the siphon action. Drain all the water.
4. Inspect and Clean (If Needed): Once drained, inspect the inside of the tank for any residue or buildup. If present, you can use a soft cloth or sponge (non-abrasive) to gently wipe the interior. For stubborn algae, a very mild solution of white vinegar and water (rinse thoroughly afterwards) can be used, but this is rarely necessary if tablets are used regularly.
5. Refill the Tank: Using the siphon pump, carefully refill the tank with fresh water (preferably distilled water) to the marked fill line. The fill line is usually indicated on the side of the tank or a sticker near the tank.
6. Add Purification Tablet: Once the tank is refilled, drop one WaterRower purification tablet into the water. Replace the tank stopper securely.
7. Do NOT use chlorine bleach, pool chemicals, or other harsh cleaning agents. These can damage the tank material or internal components. Only use genuine WaterRower purification tablets as they are specifically formulated for the tank material and water composition.

Recognizing When Water Needs Changing

Even if you adhere to the 6-12 month schedule, be vigilant for these signs that indicate your water needs immediate attention:

• Discoloration: The most obvious sign is if the water turns green (algae), brown, or cloudy.
• Unpleasant Odor: A musty or swampy smell emanating from the tank.
• Visible Growth: Stringy bits of algae, sediment, or other particulate matter floating in the water.
• Reduced Clarity: If the water is no longer crystal clear and appears murky.

Beyond Water: Other WaterRower Maintenance Tips

While water quality is paramount, remember that comprehensive maintenance extends the life of your WaterRower:

• Wipe Down Regularly: After each use, wipe down the rails, seat, and handle with a damp cloth to remove sweat and dust.
• Check Straps and Bungees: Periodically inspect the drive strap and recoil bungee for signs of wear and tear.
• Clean Under the Seat: Dust and debris can accumulate on the rails under the seat.
• Store Properly: When not in use, the WaterRower can be stored upright, which is excellent for space-saving and keeps dust away from the rails.

Conclusion and Best Practices

For optimal performance, longevity, and hygiene, prioritize the regular maintenance of your WaterRower's water tank. Adhering to the manufacturer's recommendation of changing the water and adding a purification tablet every 6 to 12 months, coupled with diligent observation of your water's clarity and odor, will ensure your WaterRower continues to provide a smooth, effective, and enjoyable rowing experience for years to come. Consistency in this simple maintenance task is key to preserving the integrity and function of this exceptional fitness machine.