Patent Publication Number: US-7718054-B2

Title: Water treatment system

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates generally to water treatment systems, and, more particularly, to in-home water treatment systems. 
     Water treatment devices are generally used to treat water in a home or building for human consumption. At least some known water treatment devices include a filter for filtering particles from the water. At least some other known water treatment devices include a water softener assembly for removing hardness minerals from the water. In addition, at least some known water treatment devices include taste and odor filters for reducing chlorine or odor causing material from the water. At least some other known water treatment devices include mercury and lead filters for removing mercury and lead from the water. Furthermore, at least some other known water treatment devices include disinfection devices for removing, killing or inactivating microorganisms such as bacteria, virus, cysts, protozoa, and the like from the water. 
     However, consumers typically purchase specific individual components to assemble an array of water treatment devices that are specific to water quality concerns of consumers. Generally, the individual devices are plumbed together to form the array of components. This array of components typically occupies a large area within a home or building. Additionally, each individual component in the array, functions independently from the other components, thus increasing the difficulty of maintaining the overall water treatment system in the consumers home or building. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including a plurality of water treatment components selected from a group of a particulate filter component, a taste and odor filter component, a lead and mercury filter component, a water softener component, and a water disinfection component. The water treatment system also includes a plurality of interfaces for coupling to the selected water treatment components, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between the selected components, the plumbing lines comprising a system water inlet and a system water outlet. 
     In another aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including a water softener component, at least one filter component, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between the water softener component and the filter component. The plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to the water softener component and the filter component for controlling the flow of water within the system. 
     In a further aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including a water softener component, a water disinfection component comprising an ultraviolet lamp, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between the water softener component and the water disinfection component. The plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to the water softener component and the water disinfection component for controlling the flow of water within the system. 
     In yet another aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including at least one filter component, a water disinfection component comprising an ultraviolet lamp, and plumbing lines providing flow communication between the filter component and the water disinfection component. The plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to the filter component and the water disinfection component for controlling the flow of water within the system. 
     In yet a further aspect, a modular water treatment system is provided including a plurality of filter components. Each filter component includes a valve for controlling the flow of water through the filter component. Plumbing lines provide flow communication between the plurality of filter components, and the plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is operatively coupled to the plurality of filter components for controlling the valves to control the flow of water through the plurality of filter components. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of an exemplary water treatment assembly. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the water treatment assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of the water treatment assembly shown in  FIG. 1  without a back wall and side walls. 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of an exemplary water treatment flow pattern of the water treatment assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view of an exemplary control system applicable to the water treatment assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 8  is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 9  is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 10  is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 11  is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 12  is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary control scheme of a controller for the control system shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of an alternative water treatment assembly. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the alternative water treatment assembly shown in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a filter wrench for use with the water treatment assemblies shown in  FIGS. 1 and 13 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  is a front view of an exemplary water treatment assembly  10 . Water treatment assembly  10  includes a housing or cabinet  12  enclosing a plurality of water treatment elements, or modules, therein. In the exemplary embodiment, water treatment assembly  10  includes a particle filter module  14  including at least one particle or sediment filter (not shown) for gross particle reduction. Assembly  10  also includes a taste and odor removal module  16  including a taste and odor filter (not shown) and a lead and mercury removal module  18  including at least one lead and mercury filter (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, water treatment assembly  10  includes less than all, or a combination of, modules  14 ,  16  and  18 . In the exemplary embodiment, assembly  10  includes at least one additional modular compartment  20  to facilitate housing additional filter modules depending on the users particular water quality needs. Modular compartment  20  includes a by-pass sump and may be upgraded with a module similar to the other modules previously described. Alternatively, water treatment assembly  10  includes multiple modular compartments  20  that may be upgraded at a later date or in response to a determined water quality after installation of assembly  10 . In the exemplary embodiment, assembly  10  includes a water softener sub-assembly  22 . 
     Assembly  10  includes doors  24  hingedly mounted to housing  12 . Doors  24  allow access to the plurality of water treatment elements. In the exemplary embodiment, doors  24  include a latch to retain doors  24  in a closed position. It is to be understood that the present invention is applicable, not only to water treatment assemblies which form a stand alone device, such as water treatment assembly  10 , but to other forms of water treatment assemblies as well, such as, but not limited to, central water treatment systems. Therefore, water treatment assembly  10  is provided by way of illustration rather than limitation, and accordingly there is no intention to limit application of the present invention to any particular water treatment assembly, such as water treatment assembly  10 . 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded view of water treatment assembly  10 . Water treatment assembly  10  includes a main inlet  26  and a main outlet  28 . Water is channeled through assembly  10  from main inlet  26 , through-the plurality of water treatment elements, and eventually to main outlet  28 . Water is supplied to main inlet  26  from plumbing lines (not shown) in the user&#39;s home or building. The water supplied to main inlet  26  is typically below a useable quality desired by the user. Specifically, the water supplied to main inlet  26  may include particles, minerals, bacteria, and the like. Water treatment assembly  10  facilitates removing these undesirable elements to increase the quality of water consumed by the user. The water exiting assembly  10  at main outlet  28  is generally of a higher quality than the water entering assembly  10  at main inlet  26 . 
     Housing  12  includes a front panel  30 , a cabinet front  32 , a base  34 , a back wall  36  connected between two side walls  38 , and a top cover  40 . Top cover  40  may include two cover pieces for separately accessing and/or servicing the various components, such as, for example, water softener sub-assembly  22  or modular compartments  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20 . Base  34  supports the water treatment elements thereon. Doors  24  are hingedly coupled to side walls  38 . Alternatively, doors  24  may be slidably coupled to side walls  38  or front panel  30 . Optionally, doors  24  may be locked in the closed position. Front panel  30  cooperates with cabinet front  32  to form a front portion  42  of housing  12 . Front panel  30  is removable for accessing the various water treatment elements of assembly  10 . Front panel  30  includes a display  43  for displaying information to the user, such as information relating to the operational status of the various components or water treatment elements. Display  43  includes a keypad or touch screen (not shown) such that a user may interact with display  43  and thus assembly  10 . 
     Upper and lower filter compartments  44  extend from front panel  30  and house modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20 . Filter compartments  44  are accessible through door  24  and are sized and oriented to allow unobstructed access to filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  for repair or replacement. Specifically, filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  are removable from filter compartments  44  without requiring that filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  be tilted. However, water spilled from filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  is caught in a catch basin of compartments  44 . A water softener sub-assembly access door  46  is also positioned within front panel  30 . Access door  46  is rotatably mounted to front panel  30 . Alternatively, access door  46  could be slidably mounted to front panel  30 . Alternatively, access door  46  could be eliminated altogether. Front panel  30  includes a disinfection module access door  31  for accessing disinfection module  62  for repair and replacement of disinfection module  62 . 
     In assembly  10 , each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  includes a filter support  48  for supporting a respective filter sump  50 . The respective filters (not shown) are positioned within each filter sump  50 . Additionally, each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  includes a water inlet (not shown) and a water outlet (not shown). Each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  is coupled in flow communication with one another, and main inlet and outlet  26  and  28 , respectively, by a plurality of plumbing lines  52 . Plumbing lines  52  define interfaces for the various water treatment components. Each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  is coupled to a filter bracket  54  which facilitates supporting and/or aligning each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  within compartments  44 . Filter bracket  54  is coupled to top cover  40 . Alternatively, each filter module  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  could be coupled to front panel  30 . 
     Water softener sub-assembly  22  includes a brine tank  56 , and a resin tank  58  positioned in brine tank  56 . Resin tank  58  is coupled in flow communication with filter modules  14 ,  16 , and  18 , and/or other water treatment assembly elements, at an interface by plumbing lines  52 . Moreover, brine tank  56  is coupled in flow communication with resin tank  58  such that brine tank  56  regenerates resin tank  58  during a regenerating cycle. Brine tank  56  includes an opening  60  positioned adjacent access door  46 . Salt may be added to brine tank  56  through opening  60  and access door  46 . 
     Water treatment assembly  10  includes a disinfection module  62  which facilitates disinfecting the water flowing through water treatment assembly  10 . Specifically, disinfection module  62  substantially eliminates microbiological contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cysts and protozoa in the water. Disinfection module  62  is coupled in flow communication and interfaces with the various water treatment elements by plumbing lines  52 . Disinfection module  62  is accessible through access panel  31  to facilitate removal or repair of disinfection module  62 . In assembly  10 , disinfection module  62  is an ultraviolet reactor and includes an ultraviolet lamp or bulb  64  emitting ultraviolet light to inactivate or kill micro-organisms. In an alternative embodiment, disinfection module  62  could include a filter element (not shown) that mechanically filters the microbial contaminants. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, disinfection module  62  includes a control switch  65  for controlling an operation state of bulb  64 . For example, control switch  65  is coupled to controller  68 , and controller  68  limits or restricts power to bulb  64  based on an input from control switch  65 . As such, the risk of exposure to a user is substantially reduced, if not eliminated. In the exemplary embodiment, control switch  65  is operatively coupled to doors  24  or access panel  31  and transmits a signal to controller  68  when doors  24  or access panel  31  are opened. Controller  68  restricts power to bulb  64  when doors  24  or access panel  31  is opened, thus powering down or de-energizing lamp  64  during a maintenance procedure. Alternatively, control switch  65  is coupled directly to disinfection module  62 , such that manipulation of disinfection module  62 , for example, during cleaning or maintenance, would restrict power to UV bulb or lamp  64 . 
     In operation, a by-product of the light produced by bulb  64  is heat. The amount of heat in the water, and thus the temperature of the water is a function of the reactor temperature, the ambient temperature, the temperature of the incoming water, and the flow rate of the water through the reactor. The amount of heat produced in the water may be monitored by measuring the temperature of the water within or exiting the reactor and/or the temperature of the reactor surface and correlating that temperature to a temperature of the water contained within the reactor. 
     Controller  68  also operates based on signals generated by a sensor representative of a water temperature in water treatment assembly  10 . Controller  68  controls a cooling system or process using a control algorithm to limit the heating of the water being treated, such that the water delivered to an end-user does not exceed an acceptable temperature. The cooling system includes a cooling device  67 , such as a fan, which cools the reactor surface, thus extracting heat from the water. Controller  68  facilitates limiting the temperature rise of the water in the reactor while bulb  64  is on and disinfection module  62  is operating by detecting when the temperature is above a warm set point and turning on the fan. If the temperature exceeds a hot set point, representing a maximum allowable temperature, controller  68  turns lamp  64  off and turning on the fan to reduce the temperature of the water in the reactor. In another embodiment, the cooling system includes a flush valve  69 , such as, for example, a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) valve. The cooling system operates the flush valve based upon time, flow and/or temperature inputs. When the temperature of the water is above a threshold, controller  68  opens flush valve  69 . A predetermined volume of water is flushed from the reactor, thus replacing the water in the reactor with cooler water. The volume of water may be controlled by opening the valve for a predetermined amount of time, or by measuring the volume of water flushed. For example, controller  68  includes a timer. The control algorithm checks the timer. Once the predetermined time has elapsed, flush valve  69  is opened for n seconds. The timer is reset, and the process is repeated. Additionally, when the temperature of the water or the reactor are above a predetermined amount, flush valve  69  is opened for a certain time or to flush a certain volume of water, and the timer may then be reset. The cooling system also includes a thermal shut-off device  71  coupled to lamp  64 . In operation, when the temperature of the water or the temperature of lamp  64  is at or above a predetermined level, shut-off device  71  reduces or ceases power to lamp  64  until the water temperature drops below another predetermined temperature. 
     Water treatment assembly  10  includes a by-pass valve  66 . By-pass valve  66  facilitates channeling water from main inlet  26  to main outlet  28  to by-pass each of the plurality of water treatment elements. Alternatively, by-pass valve  66  could facilitate bypassing water softener sub-assembly  22  such that water only flows through filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20 . In assembly  10 , water softener sub-assembly  22  is bypassed to flush filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  after a filter change. Alternatively, by-pass valve  66  could facilitate bypassing filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  and channel water to water softener sub-assembly  22 , such that water softener sub-assembly  22  may undergo a regeneration process. In asembly  10 , by-pass valve  66  is an electromechanical valve which is automatically activated. Alternatively, by-pass valve  66  could be activated mechanically by a user. 
     Controller  68  is operatively coupled to main inlet  26 , main outlet  28 , and by-pass valve  66 . Controller  68  facilitates controlling the flow of water through water treatment assembly  10 . In the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  is coupled to filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20 , water softener sub-assembly  22 , and/or disinfection module  62  for controlling and/or monitoring the flow of water therethrough. Controller  68  is also coupled to a plurality of sensors (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) that monitor the flow of water through water treatment assembly  10 , and generate signals relating to water characteristics. For example, the sensors may monitor the flow rate, pressure, or temperature of the water through assembly  10 . The sensors monitor the water quality of the water channeled through assembly  10 , such as by measuring water turbidity. The sensors may also monitor other characteristics of the water flowing through assembly  10 . Signals are transmitted to controller  68  relating to such water characteristics, and the flow of water or the operation of the water treatment elements of assembly  10  is controlled by controller  68  in response to such signals. 
     In assembly  10 , controller  68  is additionally coupled to display  43 . Controller  68  sends signals to and/or receives signals from display  43  relating to the operational status of water treatment assembly  10 . Alternatively, a user may interact with and/or controls water treatment assembly  10  via a wireless communication, such as, for example, via a wireless communication device or via the internet, or the like, which facilitates remotely monitoring assembly  10 . 
     Water treatment assembly  10  includes housing  12 , particle filter module  14 , taste and odor removal module  16 , lead and mercury removal module  18 , one modular compartment  20 , disinfection module  62 , and water softener sub-assembly  22 . Alternatively, the water treatment assembly could include housing  12 , particle filter module  14 , taste and odor removal module  16 , lead and mercury removal module  18 , one modular compartment  20 , and water softener sub-assembly  22 . In yet another embodiment, the water treatment assembly include housing  12 , particle filter module  14 , taste and odor removal module  16 , two modular compartments  20 , and water softener sub-assembly  22 . Other embodiments including other combinations of water treatment assembly components are also contemplated by the present invention. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a rear portion  70  of water treatment assembly  10 .  FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary configuration of water treatment assembly  10  having main inlet  26 , filter modules  14 ,  16 , and  18 , by-pass sump  20 , water softener sub-assembly  22 , disinfection module  62 , and main outlet  28  arranged in series and coupled to one another by plumbing lines  52 . 
     Particle filter module  14  is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of main inlet  26 . Taste and odor removal module  16  is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of particle filter module  14 . Lead and mercury removal module  18  is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of taste and odor removal module  16 . Each module  14 ,  16  and  18  facilitates removing contaminants from the water prior to channeling water to water softener sub-assembly  22 . By-pass sump  20  is in flow communication with modules  14 ,  16  and  18 , and with water softener sub-assembly  22 . Water is channeled through by-pass sump  20  and downstream therefrom to water softener sub-assembly  22 . In an alternative embodiment, an additional filter element replaces by-pass sump  20  and is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of lead and mercury removal module  18 . The additional filter element is used to further treat the water prior to being channeled to the water softener sub-assembly  22 . 
     Resin tank  58  of water softener sub-assembly  22  is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18 , and  20 . Particulates and minerals are thus removed from the water and sediment build up in the resin within resin tank  58  is reduced. Additionally, chlorine is removed from the water, extending the life of water softener sub-assembly  22 . In an alternative embodiment, filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18 , and  20  are positioned downstream of water softener sub-assembly  22 . Moreover, disinfection module  62  is in flow communication with and positioned downstream of water softener sub-assembly  22 . As such, additional hardness minerals are removed from the water, thereby reducing scale build up within disinfection module  62 . As a result, a larger volume of water may be channeled through water softener sub-assembly  22  between regeneration and/or service cycles. However, in alternative embodiments, disinfection module  62  is positioned upstream of water softener sub-assembly  22  and/or filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18 , and  20 . 
     In an alternative embodiment, taste and odor removal module  16  and/or lead and mercury removal module  18  are positioned downstream of resin tank  58 , and upstream of disinfection module  62 . As a result, the water is first channeled through water softener sub-assembly  22 , thus removing hardness minerals and extending the useful life of taste and odor removal module  16  and/or lead and mercury removal module  18 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment, water treatment assembly  10  includes drain lines  72  extending from upper and lower filter compartments  44  to brine tank  56 . Drain lines  72  facilitate draining water from respective compartments  44  to brine tank  56 , such as, for example, water spilled from filter sumps  50  during a filter change. Drain lines  72  are coupled to brine tank  56  at a position above a water level of brine tank  56  during normal operating conditions, such that water does not flow from brine tank  56  into compartments  44 . Drain lines  72  extend between disinfection module  62  and brine tank  56  such that water may be drained from disinfection module  62  to brine tank  56  upon servicing of disinfection module  62 . Additionally, as described in more detail below, water is drained from disinfection module  62  to brine tank  56  when the temperature of the water in disinfection module  62  is above a predetermined temperature. 
     In use, during a filter change, filter compartment  44  captures water spilled from filter sumps  50  as filter sumps  50  are removed. Water spilled is then channeled from compartment  44  into brine tank  56  via drain lines  72 . In an alternative embodiment, water spilled is channeled from compartment  44  directly into a drain. As a result of such arrangements, minimal water is spilled outside of water treatment assembly  10  during the filter change, making it more convenient for the user to maintain water treatment assembly  10 . After a filter change, water is channeled through water treatment assembly  10  to flush the various water treatment elements. By-pass valve  66  is utilized to by-pass various elements such as water softener sub-assembly  22  and disinfection module  68 . As described above, a drain line  72  also extends between disinfection module  62  and brine tank  56  such that water may be channeled from disinfection module  62  to brine tank  56 , such as during maintenance of disinfection module  62  and/or when the temperature of disinfection module is above a predetermined amount. Additionally, when the temperature of disinfection module  62  is above a predetermined amount, water may be channeled to the drain by a bypass system. 
     During a regenerating cycle of resin tank  58 , a predetermined amount of water in brine tank  56 , including spilled water from filter compartment  44  and/or disinfection module  62 , is channeled to resin tank  58  for regenerating the resin within resin tank  58 . After regenerating the resin, water is channeled from resin tank  58  to the drain (not shown). 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view of an exemplary water flow path through the various water treatment elements of water treatment assembly  10 . Water supplied to main inlet  26  is channeled to particle filter module  14 . Particle filter module  14  facilitates removing particulates, minerals, and other contaminants from the water channeled therethrough. As a result, the contaminants are not channeled through the downstream water treatment elements, thus reducing build up, blockage and/or clogging of the elements, thereby reducing the number of filter changes required. 
     Water is then channeled through taste and odor removal module  16  for removing chemicals such as chlorine, particles, and other contaminants causing reduced water quality relating to taste and/or odor of the water. Water is channeled through lead and mercury removal module  18  for removing minerals and metals, specifically lead and mercury, from the water. More specifically, lower quantities of minerals and metals such as lead and mercury in the water leads to higher quality water for the end user. Additionally, water is channeled through modular compartment  20 , and more particularly, the bypass sump of modular compartment  20 . In the exemplary embodiment, a flush valve is positioned downstream of modules  14 ,  16  and  18  and compartment  20  for directing water to a drain. The filters in modules  14 ,  16  and  18  and compartment  20  may be flushed without sending the water through water softener sub-assembly  22 . 
     After water is channeled through modules  14 ,  16  and  18  and compartment  20 , the water is channeled through water softener sub-assembly  22 , and particularly resin tank  58 , for removing hardness minerals from the water. More specifically, lower quantities of hardness minerals in the water leads to higher quality water for the end user. 
     Water is then channeled through disinfection module  62  for removing, killing or inactivating contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cysts, protozoa, other microbes, and the like from the water. Specifically, disinfection module  62  includes ultraviolet lamp  64  which produces ultraviolet light for reducing, and in some instances, substantially eliminating bacteria, virus, cysts, protozoa, other microbes, and the like from the water. In the exemplary embodiment, disinfection module  62  is positioned downstream of the other water treatment elements to prevent scale build up within disinfection module  62 . Water is then channeled from disinfection module  62  to bypass valve  66  and main outlet  28 . In alternative embodiments, water may be channeled to bypass valve  66  from water softener sub-assembly  22  or from modules  12 ,  16  and  18  and compartment  20 . As such, at least some of the downstream components may be bypassed. 
     In another embodiment, water is channeled from the various water treatment elements to a drain. Specifically, the drain is in flow communication with water treatment assembly  10 . Excess water from the various components, such as, for example, water softener sub-assembly  22 , disinfection module  62 , filter modules  14 ,  16  or  18 , and open compartment  20  is channeled to the drain. In the exemplary embodiment, the water is channeled into brine tank  56 , and the excess water is then channeled to the drain. In another embodiment, excess water within brine tank  56  and/or resin tank  58  produced during a regeneration sequence is channeled to the drain. 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic view of an exemplary control system  80  applicable to water treatment assembly  10 . Control system  80  is controlled by controller  68 . As described above, controller  68  is coupled to the various water treatment elements. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  is operatively coupled to valves at main inlet  26 , main outlet  28 , and by-pass valve  66 . Additionally, controller  68  is coupled to sensors  82  within water treatment assembly  10 . Controller  68  is also operatively coupled to filter modules  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20 , water softener sub-assembly  22 , and/or disinfection module  62 . For example, controller  68  may be coupled to control valves (not shown) of each water treatment element. In the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  is coupled to display  43  and information relating to the operational status of the various water treatment elements is transmitted to display  43 , such that a user may view such information. Controller  68  monitors the system functions, filter capacity and the flow of water through each component of water treatment assembly  10  and transmits signals to display  43  relating to such activities. Additionally, user inputs entered via the touch pads or touch screen of display  43  to initiate control functions and/or status queries are transmitted to controller  68 . 
     As described above, water treatment assembly  10  includes a plurality of sensors  82  monitoring the operational status of the water treatment elements and the status of the water channeled through plumbing lines  52  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). In the exemplary embodiment, sensors  82  include flow rate sensors, pressure sensors, or sensors configured to determine an amount of contaminants within the water. Each sensor  82  transmits a signal to controller  68  when a predetermined condition is met, such as, for example, when the flow rate of the water is below or above a predetermined amount, when the water pressure drop across a filter or the system is above a predetermined amount, or when a predetermined amount of contaminants is detected by sensor  82 . In the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  alerts a user of such predetermined condition by displaying such information on display  43 , or by sounding an alarm relating to such condition. Additionally, controller  68  prevents certain non-critical alarms during a pre-selected time period, i.e. during the night time. 
     Over time, the various the operating efficiency of the water treatment elements may decrease to a point near or even below a desired working capacity or rated capacity of the element. Water treatment assembly  10  monitors the efficiency and effectiveness of the elements and indicates to a user when the various elements need replacement or maintenance. Additionally, water treatment assembly  10  may restrict water flow to a user if the water quality is below a predetermined threshold. In the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  is operatively coupled to by-pass valve  66 , and controls the operation thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, controller  68  activates by-pass valve  66  to divert the waterflow from water treatment assembly  10  when sensors  82  detect that one of the water treatment elements is beyond the working capacity. The water is diverted to a drain such that the water is not delivered to a user. Alternatively, rather than activating by-pass valve  66 , controller  68  shuts down water treatment assembly  10  upon detection that one of the water treatment elements is beyond the working capacity. As such, water having a reduced quality is not delivered to the user. In another embodiment, controller  68  activates by-pass valve  66  to bypass resin tank  58  of water softener sub-assembly  22  when flushing filter modules  14 ,  16 , and  18  upon a filter change. Alternatively, controller  68  transmits a signal to display  43  to indicate to a user that by-pass valve  66  should be mechanically activated. 
       FIG. 6  is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Sensor  82  is a flow meter and measures total flow of water through a particular water treatment element. The flow meter is coupled to a plumbing line  52  upstream of the element. Alternatively, the flow meter may be downstream of the element. The flow meter determines a flow rate of the water through such water treatment element by measuring  102  the flow rate. Sensor  82  then transmits a signal to controller  68  based on the measured flow rate. Controller  68  determines a total amount of flow through each element. Controller  68  then determines  104  if the flow rate exceeds a filter capacity. If the capacity is exceeded, then an alarm or filter change indicator is activated  106 . Additionally, controller  68  activates a valve to shut off flow to or from the particular water treatment element. If the capacity is not exceeded, controller  68  determines or calculates  108  an operational state of the element, such as a level of sediment collected in the element, and determines whether or not to replace the corresponding element. For example, controller  68  determines  110  the amount of sediment build up based on an amount of flow, such as a volume of water, through the particular water treatment element. When the total flow exceeds the rated capacity of the element or when the determined sediment level is above a predetermined amount, then controller  68  determines that the element needs to be replaced. An alarm or filter change indicator is activated  112 , and/or a valve to shut off flow to or from the particular water treatment element is activated. 
       FIG. 7  is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Sensor  82  is a water pressure sensor. Each water pressure sensor is coupled to a plumbing line  52  both upstream and downstream of a particular water treatment element. The pressure sensor determines a change in pressure of the water through such water treatment element by measuring  116  the pressure upstream and downstream of the element. Sensor  82  then transmits a signal to controller  68  based on the measured pressure. Controller  68  determines an amount of pressure reduction or change in pressure of the water through the element. Controller  68  then determines  118  if the change in pressure is above a predetermined set point. Controller  68  thus detects an operational state of the element, such as a level of sediment collected in the element, and determines whether or not to replace the corresponding element by determining a change in pressure through the element. If the change in pressure is above the set point, then controller  68  determines that the element is clogged and needs to be replaced. An alarm or filter change indicator is activated  120 , and/or a valve to shut off flow to or from the particular water treatment element is activated. 
       FIG. 8  is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Sensor  82  is a water softener monitoring sensor. The water softener monitoring sensor measures  124  incoming and outgoing water mineral content or water hardness. Optionally, the-mineral content level is displayed  126 . Sensor  82  transmits a signal to controller  68  relating to the measured mineral contents, and controller  68  determines when the resin in resin tank  58  requires regeneration based on the measured mineral content. Controller  68  thus controls the operational mode of water treatment assembly  10  to perform a regeneration cycle. For example, controller  68  calculates  128  a resin efficiency, such as a resin loading or a remaining capacity, based on a change in mineral content and determines  130  if the level is below a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, controller  68  calculates  128  a resin efficiency based on a measured mineral content downstream of water softener sub-assembly  22 . If the efficiency is below a threshold level, then controller  68  will initiate  132  a regeneration cycle. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, because water disinfection module  62  is downstream of water softener sub-assembly  22  and may be negatively impacted by organic compounds in the water, such as by the organic compounds absorbing UV light and reducing the efficiency of water disinfection module  62 , resin tank  58  is regenerated. For example, a regeneration cycle is performed after water softener sub-assembly  22  operates for a predetermined amount of time, or if water softener sub-assembly  22  has been idle for a predetermined amount of time. In another embodiment, a regeneration cycle is performed after water softener sub-assembly  22  has treated a predetermined volume of water. Alternatively, a regeneration cycle is performed based on a measured amount of organic compound in the water. As a result of regeneration, the resin in resin tank  58  is flushed and the amount of organic compounds in the water is decreased. Disinfection module  62  is not overloaded and operates efficiently. In other embodiments, the amount of organic compounds is reduced by draining or filtering the water from resin tank  58 . 
       FIG. 9  is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Sensor  82  is a water disinfection element sensor. Sensor  82  determines  136  an ultraviolet light level or an intensity of ultraviolet lamp  64 . Controller  68  then determines  138  if the level is below a predetermined amount. If the level is below a predetermined amount, water flow from water treatment assembly  10  is shut off  140 . In the exemplary embodiment, an ultraviolet lamp replacement indicator is activated  142  based on the level determined by controller. For example, an alarm may be sounded or an LED may be activated indicated maintenance is required. Additionally, by comparing intensity values over time, lamp degradation is monitored by controller  68 . 
     In an alternative embodiment, sensor determines  136  an amount of microbes within the water downstream of disinfection module  62  and transmits a signal relating to the amount of microbes to controller  68 . For example, sensor  82  is a particle sensor or a turbidity sensor. Controller  68  thus determines an operational status or efficiency of ultraviolet lamp  64  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) and when ultraviolet lamp  64  needs to be replaced or the system cleaned. For example, controller  68  determines  138  if the microbe level is above a predetermined amount. If the level is above a predetermined amount, water flow from water treatment assembly  10  is shut off  140 . Alternatively, an intensity of ultraviolet lamp  64  may be changed to reduce the amount of microbes in the water. An ultraviolet lamp replacement indicator is activated  142  based on the level determined by controller. For example, an alarm may be sounded or an LED may be activated indicated maintenance is required. 
     In another alternative embodiment, sensor  82  determines an efficiency level of a mechanical microbiological disinfection filtration media. Specifically, sensor  82  measures a pressure differential across the filtration membrane or sensor  82  measures a particle count in the water before and after filtration. In one embodiment, controller  68  shuts off the flow of water if the UV level is below a predetermined amount. 
       FIG. 10  is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Controller  68  may be used to detect sensor drift. For example, sensor  82  is a light intensity sensor, and sensor  82  measures  146  an intensity of ultraviolet lamp  64 . Controller  68  stores the measured values. In the exemplary embodiment, sensor  82  is used to measure sensor drift to diagnose a faulty sensor. A rolling average of lamp intensity is computed by controller  68 . The rolling average is used for determining lamp degradation over time. At time T(n)=X, the change in lamp degradation is compared  148  to a stored value based on the particular lamp  64  used. The stored value is based on manufacturer&#39;s specifications. Controller  68  determines  150  if the change in lamp degradation is greater than the stored value, within a certain percentage. If the change is greater than the stored value, then a first derivative of the lamp degradation is calculated  152 . Controller  68  then determines  154  if the derivative is greater than the derivative of the store value at a future time, such as in 30 days. If the derivative is greater than the stored value of the future derivative, then controller  68  activates  156  an alarm or an indicator that the sensor is drifting. In an alternative embodiment, lamp  64  is pulsed, and the intensity is measured when the lamp power is on, when the lamp power is off, and when the lamp power is on again. The intensity values are compared to determine if the sensor is drifting. 
       FIG. 11  is a flow diagram illustrating a further exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . The control scheme is related to a backup system that determines if sensor  82  is faulty, if controller  68  is faulty, or if the signals or transmissions between sensor  82  and controller  68  is faulty. Sensor  82  is a light intensity sensor, such as, for example, a photodiode, and sensor  82  measures  146  an intensity of ultraviolet lamp  64 . Sensor  82  transmits  170  a signal to controller  68 , which functions as a primary controller. A signal relating to the light intensity is also transmitted  172  to a secondary or backup controller (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, both signals are generated by the same sensor  82 . In an alternative embodiment, the signals are generated by different sensors  82 . The intensity signals are compared  174  with one another. If the signals are different from one another by more than a predetermined amount, such as, for example, five percent, then a timer is started  176  for N seconds. A rolling average of each signal is calculated  178 . After N seconds, the average signals are compared  180 . If the signals are different from one another by more than a predetermined amount, such as, for example, five percent, then controller  68  activates  1182  an alarm or an indicator and/or shuts off water flow. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary control scheme of controller  68 . Sensor  82  is a filter identification sensor. The identification sensor recognizes  158  an identification chip (not shown) embedded within a particular water treatment element. The identification sensor recognizes the identification chip on the element and transmits  160  a signal with the identification information to controller  68 . Controller  68  automatically recognizes the presence and/or type of element included in water treatment assembly  10 . Controller  68  also recognizes  162  when the element is changed, and/or when a new element is installed into water treatment assembly  10 . For example, the identification chip may include information relating to a date of manufacture, a date of installation or first use, or a capacity or use of the element, such as an amount of water channeled through the element. When a new element is installed, the identification chip indicates to the sensor that the element is a new element. Alternatively, a bar code could be used and the sensor could be a bar code reader. 
       FIG. 13  is a front view of an alternative embodiment, water treatment assembly  200 . Water treatment assembly  200  includes a housing or cabinet  212  enclosing a plurality of water treatment elements, or modules, therein. Water treatment assembly  200  includes a particle filter module  214  including at least one particle or sediment filter (not shown), a taste and odor removal module  216  including a taste and odor filter (not shown), a lead and mercury removal module  218  including at least one lead and mercury filter (not shown), and an additional compartment  220  for mounting additional filter modules depending on the user&#39;s particular water quality needs. Assembly  200  also includes a disinfection module  222 . In yet another alternative embodiment, disinfection module  222  could be deleted. 
     In contrast to water treatment assembly  10  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), water treatment assembly  200  does not include a water softener disposed within housing  212 . It is appreciated, however, that assembly  200  may be connected to a free standing water softener (not shown) located outside assembly  200  by plumbing lines (not shown). Therefore, water treatment assembly  200  is provided by way of illustration rather than limitation, and accordingly there is no intention to limit application of the present invention to any particular water treatment assembly, such as water treatment assembly  200 . 
     Water treatment assembly  200  is wall mounted, and includes a main inlet  224  and a main outlet  226 . Water is channeled through assembly  200 -from main inlet  224 , through the plurality of water treatment elements, and eventually to main outlet  226 . Water supplied to main inlet  224  is typically below a useable quality desired by the user, and water treatment assembly  200  facilitates removing at least some undesirable elements from the water channeled therethrough to increase the quality of the water. 
     Housing  212  includes two doors  230  hingedly coupled thereto. Alternatively, doors  230  may be slidably coupled to housing  212 . Housing  212  further includes an upper and a lower filter compartment  232  defined in a left portion thereof, a disinfection module compartment  234  defined in a right portion thereof, and a display  236  for displaying information to the user, such as information relating to the operational status of the various water treatment elements. When doors  230  are closed, doors  230  cover filter compartments  232  and disinfection module compartment  234 , respectively. 
     Upper and lower filter compartments  232  receive modules  214 ,  216 , and  218  therein, respectively. Filter compartments  232  are accessible through doors  230 , and are sized and oriented to allow unobstructed access to filter modules  214 ,  216 , and  218  for repair or replacement of filter modules  214 ,  216 , and  218 . Specifically, filter modules  214 ,  216 , and  218  are removable from filter compartments  232  without tilting of filter modules  214 ,  216 , and  218 . Each filter compartment  232  includes a tray  238  removably positioned therein and located below each module  214 ,  216 , and  218 . Each tray  238  facilitates collecting water spilled from modules  214 ,  216 , and  218  during a filter change. Spilled water is collected in tray  238 , and tray  238  may be removed from filter compartments  232  to discard collected water into a drain (not shown). 
     Disinfection module compartment  234  is accessible through doors  230 , and receives disinfection module  222  therein. Disinfection module compartment  234  includes a latch or clamp  240  extending outward therefrom. Latch  240  may hold a portion of disinfection module  222  in a snapping manner, such that disinfection module  222  is substantially vertically positioned in module compartment  234 . It is appreciated, however, that the location and the structure of latch  240  may be varied in alternative embodiments. 
     Each filter module  214 ,  216 , and  218  includes a filter support  242  for supporting a respective filter sump  244 . The respective filters (not shown) are positioned within each filter sump  244 . Each filter module  214 ,  216 , and  218  is coupled in flow communication with one another, and main inlet and outlet  224  and  226 , respectively, by a plurality of plumbing lines (not shown). Each filter sump  244  is threadably coupled to the corresponding filter support  242 . Each filter sump  244  further includes a plurality of holding ribs  246  extending outward from an outer surface  248  thereof. Holding ribs  246  facilitate grasping filter sump  244  such that filter sump  244  may be rotated with respect to corresponding filter support  242  for mounting or removal therefrom. Filter sumps  244  may be removed without tilting, thus reducing spillage during filter changes. 
     Due to the limited space within module compartment  234 , the disinfection elements may not be removable from disinfection module  222  for maintenance or replacement or removal may be difficult. As such, disinfection module  222  is rotatably positioned within disinfection module compartment  234 , and is accessible from the front of housing  212 . Disinfection module  222  is coupled in flow communication with the various water treatment elements, and/or main inlet and outlet  224 ,  226  by the plumbing lines (not shown), and includes a plurality of disinfection elements which facilitate disinfecting the water flowing therethrough. Disinfection module  222  is held by latch  240  of module compartment  234 , and is substantially vertically secured within module compartment  234 , which is referred to as a normal state or operational state of disinfection module  222 . In the operational state, disinfection module  222  occupies most of the space within module compartment  234  along the longitudinal direction. As such, the disinfection elements can not be removed when disinfection module  222  is in the operational state. 
     Water treatment assembly  200  includes housing  212 , particle filter module  214 , taste and odor removal module  216 , and two modular compartments  220 . In another embodiment, water treatment assembly  210  includes housing  212 , particle filter module  214 , taste and odor removal module  216 , lead and mercury removal module  218 , and one modular compartment  220 . In yet another embodiment, water treatment assembly  210  includes housing  212 , particle filter module  214 , taste and odor removal module  216 , lead and mercury removal module  218 , one modular compartment  220  and disinfection module  222 . However, other embodiments including combinations of water treatment assembly components are available, such as a water softener sub-assembly, or a valve for receiving plumbing lines for a water softener sub-assembly. 
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of water treatment assembly  200  showing disinfection module  222  in an extended state or maintenance state. Disinfection module  222  is disengaged from latch  240 , and is rotated outward from the operational state (shown in  FIG. 13 ). In the extended state, disinfection module  222  may be accessed for maintenance or replacement. 
     Disinfection module  222  includes an elongated tube body  260  housing an elongated ultraviolet lamp or bulb  262  therein, an end cap  264  threadably coupled to a top end of tube body  260 , and a rotatable cradle  266  for receiving the bottom end (not shown) of tube body  260 . In an alternative embodiment, disinfection module  222  includes a filter element (not shown) that mechanically filters microbial contaminants from the water flowing therethrough. 
     Tube body  260  includes a water inlet (not shown) and a water outlet (not shown), and water is channeled through tube body  260 . Ultraviolet lamp  262  is longitudinally positioned within tube body  260  for removing, killing or inactivating microbiological contaminants, such as bacteria, virus, cysts and protozoa from the water channeled through tube body  260 . Ultraviolet lamp  262  is removable from tube body  260  along the length of tube body  260  for maintenance or replacement. 
     Water treatment assembly  200  includes at least one safety feature to protect a user from exposure to ultraviolet light from lamp  262 . For example, a control switch (not shown) may be coupled to end cap  264  and may transmit a signal to the controller when end cap  264  is removed. As such, the controller restricts power to ultraviolet lamp  262  when end cap  264  is removed. The user is thus not exposed to ultraviolet light when the lamp  262  is-removed. In another embodiment, water treatment assembly  200  includes a sensor interlock (not shown) on door  230 , such that, when door  230  is opened, power to lamp  262  is restricted. 
     End cap  264  is threadably coupled to tube body  260 , and is removable from tube body  260  for providing access to ultraviolet lamp  262  and/or the filter element received in tube body  260 . Ultraviolet lamp  262  is fixed to end cap  264 , when end cap  264  is disengaged with tube body  260 , ultraviolet lamp  262  can be pulled out from tube body  260  together with end cap  264 . Additionally, end cap  264  may engage with latch  240  (shown in  FIG. 13 ) to retain disinfection module  222  in the retracted state (shown in  FIG. 13 ), and end cap  264  may disengage with latch  240  to allow disinfection module  222  to rotate to the extended state. Alternatively, end cap  264  may separate from ultraviolet lamp  262 , when end cap  264  is removed from tube body  260 , ultraviolet lamp  262  can then be pulled out from tube body  260  for maintenance or replacement. 
     Cradle  266  includes a T-shaped tube  267  having two coaxially formed hubs  268  at ends of tube  267 . Tube body  260  is seated within tube  267 . Hubs  268  are rotatably mounted to posts (not shown) formed in disinfection module compartment  234 . Cradle  266  may rotate with respect to the axis of hubs  268 , sometimes referred to as the rotation axis, which facilitates disinfection module  222  rotating between the normal state (shown in  FIG. 13 ) and the extended state. Tube  267  is coupled in flow communication with the various water treatment elements through a plumbing line (not shown) extending therethrough. Specifically, the plumbing line in tube  267  includes an inlet extending through one of hubs  268  and an outlet coupled to tube body  260 . Water is channeled into tube body  260  through T-shaped tube  267 . An o-ring seal (not shown) is positioned at the inlet of the plumbing line in tube  267 , to prevent water leakage when tube  267  rotates together with cradle  266 . 
     Disinfection module  222  further includes a plurality of plumbing lines  270  connected in series. Plumbing lines  270  are coupled in flow communication with each other, and are rotatable with respect to each other. One terminating plumbing line  270  is coupled with the water outlet of tube body  260 , and another terminating plumbing line  270  is coupled with main outlet  226  or other water treatment elements. Plumbing lines  270  form a flexible flow path between disinfection module  222 , and main outlet  226  or other water treatment elements. When disinfection module  222  is in the normal state (shown in  FIG. 13 ), plumbing lines  270  rotate toward each other, and are retracted and positioned behind disinfection module  222  within disinfection module compartment  234 . When disinfection module  222  is in the extended state, plumbing lines  270  rotate away from each other, and are substantially aligned with one another. A plurality of o-ring seals (not shown) are positioned between each plumbing line  270  to prevent water leakage. Alternatively, a plurality of slip ring seals may be positioned between each plumbing line  270 . Also, plumbing lines  270  may be interconnected via a quick disconnect style connection, a flexible tube, or the like. 
     In operation, water supplied to main inlet  224  is channeled to particle filter module  214  for removing particulates, minerals, and other contaminants from the water channeled therethrough. Water is then channeled through taste and odor removal module  216  for removing chemicals such as chlorine, particles, and other contaminants causing reduced water quality relating to taste and/or odor of the water. Water is then channeled through lead and mercury removal module  218  for removing minerals, specifically lead and mercury, from the water. Water is then channeled through disinfection module  222  for removing, killing or inactivating contaminants such as bacteria, virus, cysts, other microbes, and the like from the water. Specifically, water is channeled through the plumbing line in tube  267 , into tube body  260 , and then through each plumbing line  270 . Water is then channeled from disinfection module  222  to main outlet  226 . It is appreciated that, water treatment elements of water treatment assembly  200  may be monitored and operated in a similar manner as water treatment assembly  10  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), and the flow path of water treatment assembly  200  may be varied in alternative embodiments. For example, water may be channeled through a water softener (not shown) located outside water treatment assembly  200  before being channeled through disinfection module  222 . Alternatively, water may be channeled to an alternative external water treatment device. 
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a filter wrench  280  for use with water treatment assemblies  10  and  200  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 13 . Filter wrench  280  includes a wrench body  282  extending between a first end  284  and a second end  286 . A filter sump removal portion  288  is positioned at first end  284 , and an end cap removal portion  290  is positioned at second end  286 . 
     Wrench body  282  includes an elongated groove  292  defined along a longitudinal direction on a side face  294  thereof, and adjacent second end  286 . Wrench body  282  also includes a rectangular recess  296  defined on side face  294  and adjacent groove  292 . 
     Filter sump removal portion  288  is substantially ring-shaped, and includes a circumferential inner surface  298 . Alternatively, filter sump removal portion  288  could include an open side such that portion  288  is c-shaped. A plurality of protrusions or teeth  300  extend inward from inner surface  298 , and are spaced at a predetermined distance with respect to each other. Inner surface  298  is sized to fittingly surround filter sump  244  (shown in  FIG. 13 ), and protrusions  300  are configured to engage holding ribs  246  (shown in  FIG. 13 ) of filter sump  244 . Ring-shaped filter sump removal portion  288  may be insert into filter compartments  232  and cooperate with filter sump  244 , to rotate filter sump  244  with respect to filter support  242  (shown in  FIG. 13 ), thus removing filter modules  214 ,  216 , and  218  from water treatment assembly  200 . 
     End cap removal portion  290  includes a substantially ring-shaped flexible portion  302  having a first end  304  and a second end  306 . A lever  308  extends from first end  304  of flexible portion  302  and wrench body  282  extends from second end  306  of flexible portion  302 . Alternatively, end cap removal portion  290  could include an open side such that portion  290  is c-shaped. End cap removal portion  290  is sized to receive end cap  264  (shown in  FIG. 13 ) of disinfection module  222  (shown in  FIG. 13 ). 
     Flexible portion  302  also includes a staggered inner surface  310  which is configured to surround and grasp end cap  264  of disinfection module  222 . Lever  304  may rotate outward or inward to enlarge or reduce the size of flexible portion  302 , and end cap removal portion  290  may be loosened or tightened about end cap  264  when flexible portion  302  surrounds end cap  264 . End cap removal portion  290  may grasp and rotate end cap  264  for removal or replacement of end cap  264 . In the exemplary embodiment, lever  304  further includes a rectangular head portion  312 . Lever  304  may rotate into groove  292  of wrench body  282 , and head portion  312  may be retained within recess  296 . Lever  304  is rotated and secured into wrench body  282 , which facilitates handling wrench body  282  when using filter sump removal portion  288  to mount or detach filter modules. A filter wrench  280  is thus provided which can provide maintenance to water treatment assembly  10  or  200  by use of a single tool. Specifically, filter wrench  280  has multiple sized ends for removing various sized components of water treatment assembly  10  or  200 . 
     The above-described assembly provides a cost-effective and reliable method and apparatus for water treatment. Specifically, the modular design of the water treatment assembly allows a user to treat the water and particular contaminants within the water which may be specific to that user. The assembly includes a controller and a plurality of sensors to facilitate maintaining, repairing and replacing each of the components of the assembly on an as-needed basis. 
     Exemplary embodiments of water treatment assemblies are described above in detail. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather each component may be utilized independently and separately from other components described herein. Each component can also be used in combination with other water treatment assemblies. 
     While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims.