Philips Compact Water Station, Hot & Cold ADD5981GR Setup and Installation Guide

Getting your new Philips Compact Water Station, Hot & Cold ADD5981GR/79 set up? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together some simple videos and instructions to help make the whole process easy for you. Just follow the steps, and we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to get your water station sorted. Soon, you'll be enjoying fresh, filtered water in no time!

In this video, we’ll walk you through how to set up your Philips Compact Water Station, Hot & Cold ADD5981GR/79 from start to finish. You’ll see how to prepare and pop in the filter cartridge and get your head around the general maintenance guide to keep things running perfectly. Following these steps means you’ll be enjoying beautifully filtered water, day in and day out. 

1. Remove the packaging. Its surface may have some carbon powder, but this is normal. These particles are harmless and are washed off during the preparation process.
2. Soak the filter cartridge in clean water for 15 minutes. Shake the filter cartridge slightly to wash the carbon powder on the surface.

To ensure the best performance, please change the filter cartridge according to the 'Filter Lifetime Indicator' or the suggested replacement cycle (after 100 litres or every 30 days, whichever comes first).

• Clean and install the filter cartridge as per the 'Preparing the Filter Cartridge' instruction above.
• Reset the lifetime by long pressing the 'Filter Lifetime Reset' button for three seconds.

Filter Lifetime Indicator flashes: the filter is about to reach the end of life.

Filter Lifetime Indicator lights up constantly: the filter reaches the end of life.

Even the most reliable gadgets can have their off days. If your Philips Compact Water Station is not working right, don't worry—most of the common little hiccups are surprisingly easy to fix yourself. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you sort out some of the more frequent issues you might come across.

First things first, let's check the obvious. Is the machine definitely plugged into a working socket and switched on at the wall? It’s a basic step, but one we all miss sometimes.

Next, have a look at the water tank. Your water station has a clever safety feature that stops it from running dry, which protects the internal parts. If the water level is sitting below the minimum line, just top it up.

Another crucial step to check, especially when you need hot water at 40°C or higher, is the safety lock. For safety, the appliance requires you to press the ‘Safety Lock’ button to unlock it before it dispenses hot water. If this lock is not disengaged, the dispenser will not release the hot water.

More often than not, a slow flow means the filter is getting a bit clogged. If your tap water has a lot of sediment or you're in a hard water area, the filter might fill up faster than its usual 30-day or 100-litre cycle. If you've noticed the flow has slowed right down, it’s probably time for a new filter, even if the indicator light hasn’t come on yet.

It’s also a good idea to check the dispenser nozzle—the little spot where the water comes out. Sometimes, mineral deposits can build up there. A quick wipe with a soft cloth or a gentle scrub with a small brush should do the trick. If the build-up is a bit stubborn, a cloth dampened with a touch of vinegar will help dissolve it.

Give the whole system a good flush. This is especially important when the machine is brand new or if you haven't used it for a while. Just fill the tank and discard the first two or three full tanks of filtered water. This will rinse out the new filter and the internal system nicely.

Also, give the water tank a regular clean. It’s best to wash it out with warm, soapy water to stop any biofilm from building up, which can create an odd taste. Rinse it out thoroughly and make sure it's completely dry before you pop it back in and refill it.

To make sure your Philips Compact Water Station has a long, efficient life and keeps giving you top-quality water, here are a few best practices to keep in mind.

Always fill it with clean, drinkable tap water. The filter is designed to make your standard tap water taste better, not to treat water from unsafe sources. Using water from a river or bore, for instance, can clog the filter in no time and might even damage the machine.

It's also best to avoid using softened water. Some water softeners add sodium to the water, and the filter isn't designed to remove it, which could affect the final taste.

Keep an eye on that filter. The indicator light is a great guide, but your local water quality really does play a part. If you notice the flow slowing down or a change in taste before the light pings on, it’s a good idea to just change the filter proactively.

Wipe down the outside of the machine regularly with a soft, damp cloth. This will keep it looking neat and free from dust and kitchen splashes. Try to avoid using any harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive sponges.

It's also a great habit to wash the removable water tank at least once a week with some mild dish soap and warm water. Just be sure to rinse it well to get rid of any soap residue before you fill it back up.

Place your water station on a stable, level surface. This stops it from tipping over and helps all the internal parts work as they should.

Try to find a cool, dry spot for it, away from direct sunlight or other heat sources like your oven or stove. This helps the cooling system run more efficiently and stops any nasties from growing in the tank.

And finally, if you have little kids at home, always use the hot water safety lock. It’s a simple step that helps prevent any accidental burns.

Everything you need to get your Philips water station running smoothly is right here. But if you do happen to get stuck or have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to help.