The ITEHIL HW-150B is a powerhouse of purification, but looking at user reviews, it clearly has a “learning curve.” Many users report two specific frustrations: the battery takes forever to charge, and the pump mysteriously shuts off after 10 seconds.
Before you label it a “expensive sculpture” and start the return process, let’s troubleshoot these issues. Often, the problem isn’t the machine—it’s the physics.
Problem 1: “It Takes All Day to Charge!”
The Symptom: You plug the unit in using the USB-C cable, but the lights barely blink, and it’s still not full after 8 hours.
The Reality: You are likely using a low-wattage “cube” charger meant for an old smartphone (5W or 10W).
The Fix: Upgrade your brick.
The HW-150B contains a massive 12,000mAh battery. Trying to fill this with a standard 5W phone charger is like trying to fill a swimming pool with a garden hose—it will work, but it will take forever.
* Pro Tip: As noted by experienced users, use a 100W USB-C PD (Power Delivery) Charger. With a high-speed charger (like those used for laptops), you can slash charging time down to 90 minutes. If you are relying on solar panels, ensure they have a USB-C PD output, not just a standard USB-A port.
Problem 2: “It Shuts Off After 10 Seconds!”
The Symptom: You turn it on, the pump hums, water spits out, and then—silence. The red light flashes.
The Cause: This is usually a safety feature triggered by Air Locks or Intake Blockage. The pump senses it’s running dry or working too hard.
The Fix: Prime the system.
1. Check the Intake: Ensure the intake hose is fully submerged. If you are drawing from a shallow source, the pre-filter might be sucking in air or mud.
2. Force the Air Out: Before connecting the RO membrane, run the system to flush water through the lines. Air bubbles trapped in the fine RO membrane can cause back-pressure that trips the sensor.
3. Inspect Filters: If the pre-filter is clogged with algae or mud, the pump strains to pull water. Clean or replace the pre-filter mesh.
Problem 3: “The Water Flow is Slow”
The Symptom: It’s filtering, but it’s a trickle.
The Reality: This is Reverse Osmosis. It is supposed to be slow.
The Explanation: Unlike a gravity filter where water flows through big holes, RO forces water through a solid sheet of material at the molecular level. It takes immense pressure.
* Expectation Management: Plan for about 10-15 minutes per gallon. This is not a device for instant gratification. Set it up at camp, fill your jerry can while you cook dinner, and let it do its work.
Maintenance Mode: Keeping It Alive
Because this system processes water so finely, maintenance is key to longevity.
* Backflush is Not Enough: Unlike hollow fiber filters, you can’t just backflush an RO membrane easily. The best defense is a good offense—use the pre-filter religiously.
* Storage: Never store the unit wet for long periods. If the membrane dries out with dirty water inside, bacteria can grow, or minerals can crystallize, ruining the filter. Follow the manual’s procedure for flushing clean water through before long-term storage.
Conclusion
The ITEHIL HW-150B is a professional-grade tool disguised as consumer gear. It demands more attention than a simple squeeze filter, but the reward—virus-free, chemical-free water anywhere on earth—is worth the extra effort. Treat it like a machine, feed it the right power, and it will keep you hydrated for years.
