Spectra Watermakers Z-ION FOR AUTO SYSTEM ZION-AUTO

$1,420.00

Overview
Product Specs
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Spectra Watermakers Z-ION for Automated Systems (ZION-AUTO)

ZION-AUTO is the Spectra ZION membrane protection system designed for automated / controller-driven watermakers (MPC, Spectra Connect, Remote Manual, and similar systems that manage flush cycles through the control logic). During your system’s fresh water flush, Z-ION produces silver/copper ions that circulate through the plumbing and membrane(s) to help prevent biological growth, reduce “rotten egg” odors during storage, and keep the system in a more “ready-to-run” state between uses.

Automated system version Works with controller-managed flush Protects up to ~30 days per treatment Low power draw during flush Helps eliminate black filters + odor

Common storage issue Z-ION helps prevent: stagnant water left inside a watermaker can allow bacteria to grow, discolor filters, and create sulfur odors (rotten egg smell). Z-ION helps break that cycle by disinfecting the system during the flush using ionization.

Best results come from using Z-ION on a consistent schedule and keeping prefilters maintained.

What ZION-AUTO Does (and Who It’s For)

Built for automated/controller systems - the watermakers controller runs the flush cycle and Z-ION treatment as part of that routine.
Disinfects the RO circuit by dosing ions into the fresh water flush stream as water passes through the Z-ION generator bowl.
Extends storage interval - Z-ION treatment is typically repeated about every 30 days when the boat/system is sitting.
Reduces restart headaches - helps prevent odor and biological growth that can cause unpleasant first-start conditions.

How It Works (Simple)

Your system runs a fresh water flush through the controller (manual button or scheduled routine, depending on system).
During flush flow, Z-ION energizes the electrode assembly and releases silver/copper ions into the flush water.
The ionized water circulates through the filters, plumbing, and membrane(s), inhibiting growth that causes odor and fouling.
That treatment helps keep the system cleaner for up to about 30 days before the next treatment.

Automated Flush - What You Do

Use your controller’s normal flush function (button command or programmed cycle).
Z-ION treats automatically during flush flow once integrated correctly.
Many systems run around ~15 minutes per flush (varies by model/controller settings).
Repeat about every 30 days when the watermaker is not being run regularly.

If you’re unsure whether your controller is running Z-ION as part of the flush, we can help confirm wiring/logic based on your model and revision.

Key Benefits

Cleaner storage - helps prevent black filters and sulfur odors between uses.
Less chemical dependence - many users reduce how often they need to pickle during normal storage intervals.
Low power draw - power is primarily used during the flush/treatment cycle.
Better long-idle reliability - especially helpful for boats that sit for weeks at a time.
Controller-friendly - designed to integrate with automated watermakers and their flush logic.

Product Specs

Spec	Details
System Type	Automated / controller-based systems (MPC, Spectra Connect, Remote Manual, similar)
Voltage	12V or 24V DC (varies by configuration)
Power Use (Active)	Low draw during flush/treatment cycle (commonly referenced around ~15W)
Power Use (Standby)	Very low standby draw
Typical Protection Interval	Up to ~30 days per treated fresh water flush (storage time varies by conditions)
Electrode Assembly Life	Typically 2-3 years (replaceable)

Maintenance (What to Plan For)

Generator bowl carbon filter: plan to replace about every 6 months (or sooner if performance indicates).
Electrode/rod assembly: typical lifespan is 2-3 years depending on usage and water conditions.
Service reminder: some Z-ION controls trigger a service reminder after a set number of cycles.

Compatibility Notes

ZION-AUTO is intended for systems where a controller manages the flush routine.
If your system is truly manual/analog (flush valve + manual on/off), use ZION-MAN instead.
Some older controller generations or plumbing layouts may require small integration or plumbing kits - we can confirm by model/serial.

Downloads and Resources

FAQ

What is the difference between ZION-AUTO and ZION-MAN?

ZION-AUTO is designed for automated / controller-driven systems where the flush cycle is managed by the controller. ZION-MAN is for manual/analog systems where you open/close the flush valve and power Z-ION during the flush.

How long will one Z-ION treatment protect my system?

Each treated fresh water flush typically protects the system for up to about 30 days. Storage time can vary with temperature, contamination level, and the prior condition of the system.

Does Z-ION eliminate the need for SC-1 pickling chemical?

For many users, Z-ION reduces how often they need to pickle during normal 30-day storage intervals. If you plan to leave the system idle longer than ~30 days, you may still need to pickle with SC-1 (or winterize with propylene glycol where appropriate). Z-ION does not prevent freezing.

How does ZION-AUTO replace older discontinued Z-ION models?

Older Z-ION part numbers were often named around a specific watermaker family. Today, the most reliable way to choose the modern equivalent is based on how your watermaker is controlled:

Automated/controller systems: ZION-AUTO is the correct modern equivalent in most cases.
Manual/analog controls: use ZION-MAN.

Some older installations may also require a plumbing update kit (especially pre-2009 layouts) or service components if the bowl/rod is worn. Share your watermaker model + serial and we can confirm the exact replacement path.

How do I know Z-ION is working on an automated system?

During a flush cycle, Z-ION should indicate normal operation via its LED status pattern (varies by revision).
If odors/black filters persist, the system may need troubleshooting, cleaning, or electrode service.
We can help verify correct integration (wiring/logic/plumbing) if you share your controller type and photos.

What if the Z-ION shows a fault (red LED) or shuts down?

A fault indication can point to low/high DC voltage, wiring issues, fuse problems, or a connection fault. Verify DC supply, polarity, fuse, and connectors. If you need help, contact us with your system model and photos.

Will Z-ION protect against freezing?

No - Z-ION does not prevent freezing damage. In freezing climates you should winterize/pickle appropriately (often with propylene glycol).

Z-ION Related Parts

Common related parts for upgrades, retrofits, and service:

ZION-MAN - Z-ION for manual/analog systems
ZION-Farallon - Z-ION protection kit for Farallon systems
KIT-ZION-PLUMB - PRE 2009 Z-ION plumbing kit
SUB-ZION-BA - Z-ION bowl assembly (bowl w/o rod)
SUB-ZION-ELECTB - Z-ION generator bowl
SUB-ZION-RA - Z-ION rod assembly w/thread fitting

Related Parts

Questions?

Visit our Contact Page to speak to our watermaker experts.

We ship internationally - contact us for a shipping quote.

Daily Watermakers, Inc. is an authorized dealer for Spectra Watermakers.

Additional Info

Daily Watermakers, Inc. is an authorized dealer for Spectra Watermakers. View their website for more information: https://www.spectrawatermakers.com/us/us/support/contact

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