WaterRower: Algae Removal, Prevention, and Maintenance Guide

How to get algae out of WaterRower?

To effectively remove algae from your WaterRower's tank, you must completely drain the existing water, thoroughly clean the interior with a diluted bleach solution or specialized purification tablets, rinse the tank meticulously to eliminate all residue, and finally refill it with distilled water and a new purification tablet to inhibit future growth.

Understanding Algae Growth in Your WaterRower

Algae, microscopic photosynthetic organisms, can develop in the water tank of your WaterRower, transforming the clear water into a cloudy, green, or even brown unsightly mess. While the WaterRower tank is largely sealed, it is not entirely hermetic, allowing for environmental factors to influence water quality.

Key factors contributing to algae growth include:

• Light Exposure: Direct or indirect sunlight provides the energy algae need to photosynthesize and grow. Placing your rower near a window is a primary culprit.
• Water Quality: Tap water, while potable, contains minerals and organic matter that can serve as nutrients for algae. Distilled water is generally preferred due to its purity.
• Temperature: Warmer water temperatures can accelerate algae reproduction rates.
• Lack of Purification: Without a consistent presence of purification tablets, the water becomes an ideal breeding ground for microbial life.
• Infrequent Water Changes: Stagnant water, even with tablets, can eventually foster growth if not refreshed periodically.

While algae growth primarily affects the aesthetic appeal of your rower, severe cases can potentially impact the longevity of the machine's components and harbor unwanted bacteria, compromising the hygiene of your workout environment.

Prevention is Key: Best Practices to Avoid Algae

Proactive measures are far simpler and more effective than reactive cleaning. Implementing the following practices will significantly reduce the likelihood of algae formation:

• Utilize WaterRower Purification Tablets: These tablets, often containing chlorine, are specifically designed to inhibit microbial growth, including algae and bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for dosage and frequency (typically one tablet every 2-6 months, depending on use and environment).
• Use Distilled Water for Refills: When initially filling your tank or topping it off, opt for distilled water. Its lack of minerals and impurities minimizes the nutrient source for algae, making it a less hospitable environment for growth.
• Strategic Rower Placement: Position your WaterRower away from direct sunlight or bright windows. If this is not possible, consider a protective cover when the rower is not in use to block light exposure.
• Regular Water Monitoring: Periodically check the water clarity in your tank. If you notice any cloudiness or discoloration, it's an early indicator that a tablet might be needed or a water change is due.
• Maintain a Stable Environment: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations around your rower, as this can also stress the water quality and promote microbial activity.

Step-by-Step Guide: Removing Algae from Your WaterRower Tank

If algae has already taken hold, a thorough cleaning is necessary. Proceed with caution and attention to detail to ensure effective removal and prevent damage to your machine.

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• WaterRower siphon pump (included with your rower)
• Two large buckets (approx. 5-gallon capacity each)
• Soft, non-abrasive cloths or sponges
• Distilled white vinegar (optional, for mineral deposits)
• Household bleach (unscented, non-splash, 5-6% sodium hypochlorite) or WaterRower cleaning tablets (e.g., blue dye tabs)
• Funnel (optional, for refilling)
• Fresh distilled water (approximately 15-20 liters for a full refill)
• New WaterRower purification tablet(s)

2. Drain the Tank Completely:

• Place one empty bucket on the floor next to your WaterRower.
• Insert the siphon pump's long tube into the tank and the shorter hose into the bucket.
• Pump the siphon handle until water begins to flow into the bucket.
• Continue siphoning until the tank is as empty as possible. You may need to tilt the rower slightly to get the last bit of water out. Discard the algaefilled water responsibly.

3. Initial Rinse and Agitation:

• Pour a small amount of clean tap water (or distilled water for a cleaner rinse) into the now-empty tank.
• Gently rock the rower back and forth and side to side to swish the water around, dislodging any loose algae.
• Siphon out this rinse water into the second bucket. Repeat this process 1-2 times until the rinse water appears less green.

4. Apply the Cleaning Solution:

• Option A: Using Diluted Bleach (Recommended for established algae):
  • Mix a solution of 1 part household bleach to 100 parts water (e.g., 10 ml bleach per 1 liter of water). A common recommendation is 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of bleach per tank.
  • Carefully pour this diluted bleach solution into the WaterRower tank. Do NOT use concentrated bleach directly.
  • Gently rock the rower to ensure the bleach solution coats all internal surfaces.
• Option B: Using WaterRower Cleaning Tablets (For mild algae or as a maintenance clean):
  • Drop 1-2 WaterRower blue dye cleaning tablets into the tank.
  • Fill the tank with 1-2 liters of tap water to help dissolve the tablets and create a concentrated cleaning solution.

5. Allow for Soaking Time:

• Let the cleaning solution sit in the tank for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2-4 hours (for bleach). For tablets, follow the product instructions, which may suggest a similar soaking period.
• During this time, periodically rock the rower to agitate the solution and ensure continuous contact with affected areas. For stubborn algae, a soft, long-handled brush (like a bottle brush, ensuring it's non-abrasive) can be carefully used to scrub interior surfaces if accessible through the fill port, but this is rarely necessary.

6. Thorough Rinsing (Crucial Step):

• Siphon out the cleaning solution completely into a separate bucket.
• Rinse the tank repeatedly with clean tap water. Pour in 2-3 liters of water, rock the rower, and siphon it out. Repeat this rinsing process at least 3-5 times to ensure all traces of bleach or cleaning tablet residue are removed. Any residual bleach can damage the tank materials over time.
• After the final rinse, siphon out as much water as possible.

7. Refill the Tank:

• Using a funnel, carefully refill the WaterRower tank with fresh distilled water to the recommended fill line (typically indicated on the tank or by the water level sticker). This usually requires 17-19 liters.
• Immediately add a new WaterRower purification tablet to the freshly filled tank. This is essential to prevent future algae growth.

8. Final Inspection:

• Visually inspect the water for clarity. It should be sparkling clean.
• Check for any leaks and ensure the tank cap is securely fastened. Your WaterRower is now ready for use.

Post-Cleaning Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Maintaining a clean WaterRower tank is an ongoing process. Adhere to these practices to keep your water clear and your machine in optimal condition:

• Regular Tablet Administration: Stick to the recommended schedule for adding purification tablets (every 2-6 months) based on your usage and environmental conditions.
• Monitor Water Clarity: Make it a habit to glance at the water in your tank before each workout. Early detection of cloudiness allows for prompt action.
• Strategic Storage: When not in use, store your WaterRower in an upright position in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. If storing horizontally, ensure it's still out of direct light.
• Annual Full Water Change: Even with regular tablet use, consider a full water change with fresh distilled water and a new tablet once a year to refresh the system and remove any accumulated impurities.

The Importance of a Clean WaterRower for Performance and Health

Beyond aesthetics, a clean WaterRower tank contributes significantly to the overall user experience and the longevity of the equipment.

• Optimal Performance: Clear water ensures smooth movement of the paddles, contributing to the consistent resistance and quiet operation that WaterRowers are known for. Algae buildup can theoretically impede this, though usually minimal.
• Machine Longevity: Preventing organic buildup protects the internal components from potential degradation or clogging, extending the lifespan of your investment.
• Hygiene and Health: A clean tank prevents the proliferation of bacteria and other microorganisms, creating a more sanitary environment for your fitness routine.
• Aesthetics and Motivation: A clear, pristine water tank is visually appealing and can enhance your motivation to engage with your fitness equipment.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your WaterRower remains a clean, efficient, and enjoyable tool for your fitness journey.