Learning how to fill water rower tank is the first step to enjoying a smooth, effective workout on your machine. Filling your WaterRower’s tank requires clean water and a few basic tools to achieve the proper resistance level for your workouts. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering supplies to making final adjustments, ensuring you get it right the first time.
A properly filled tank is crucial for the machine’s performance and your safety. Too little water and the resistance will be too light; too much and it can strain the machine. We will cover everything you need to know.
How To Fill Water Rower Tank
This section provides the complete, step-by-step procedure. Before you start, make sure your WaterRower is on a level surface. This ensures an accurate fill level and prevents the machine from rocking during use.
Gather Your Tools And Materials
You do not need many specialized items. Having everything ready before you start makes the process quicker and cleaner.
- A clean bucket or large container (2-3 gallon capacity is ideal).
- A funnel with a wide opening. The one provided by WaterRower is best, but a standard automotive funnel works.
- A measuring cup or jug for precise water addition.
- Fresh, clean water. Tap water is generally fine, but distilled water can minimize mineral buildup over time.
- A towel or cloth for any spills.
- The fill tube and cap that came with your WaterRower.
Step-By-Step Filling Instructions
Follow these steps in order for the best results. Take your time, especially if this is your first time filling the tank.
Step 1: Position The Rower And Locate The Tank
Place your WaterRower on a flat, stable floor. Slide the seat back to access the tank cover at the front of the machine. The tank is the large, clear plastic cylinder under the wooden or metal frame.
Step 2: Remove The Tank Cap And Insert The Fill Tube
Unscrew the black plastic cap on the top of the tank. It may be tight, but it should turn counterclockwise. Insert the clear plastic fill tube firmly into the opening. The funnel will sit in the top of this tube.
Step 3: Begin Adding Water Slowly
Place your funnel into the fill tube. Start pouring water slowly from your bucket or measuring jug. A slow pour prevents air bubbles from getting trapped inside the tank, which can affect the feel of the rowing stroke.
Watch the water level rise inside the clear tank. It is helpful to have good lighting so you can see the markings.
Step 4: Fill To The Recommended Level
Most WaterRower models have a marked fill line. For standard workouts, fill the tank to the “17” or “18” mark, which denotes liters. This level is suitable for most adults. For a lighter resistance, you can fill slightly lower; for heavier resistance, fill slightly higher, but never exceed the maximum line, usually near “24”.
If your tank lacks clear markings, a general rule is to fill it about three-quarters full. The water should be level with the middle of the WaterRower logo on older models.
Step 5: Remove The Tube And Secure The Cap
Once the desired water level is reached, carefully remove the fill tube. Some water may drip, so have your towel handy. Wipe the rim of the tank opening, then screw the black cap back on tightly. Ensure it is snug to prevent any leaks during vigorous rowing.
Step 6: Perform A Final Check
Gently rock the rower from side to side. This helps to settle the water and release any remaining large air bubbles. Check the water level one more time after it settles. Add a small amount more water if the level has dropped slightly from the initial fill.
Choosing The Right Water Level For You
The water level directly controls the resistance. More water means more mass to move, resulting in a heavier feel. Your ideal level depends on your fitness goals and strength.
- Lower Water Level (15-17 Liters): Provides lighter resistance. Ideal for beginners, longer endurance sessions, technique practice, or rehabilitation.
- Medium Water Level (17-19 Liters): The standard recommendation. Offers a good balance of resistance and smoothness for general fitness and interval training.
- Higher Water Level (19-21 Liters): Creates a heavier, more challenging stroke. Best for strength building and high-intensity workouts for advanced users. Never fill past the maximum indicated line.
You can experiment within the safe range to find what feels best for you. The beauty of the WaterRower is that you can adjust this later by adding or removing water.
Essential Maintenance After Filling
Filling the tank is just one part of ownership. Proper maintenance keeps your rower performing well for years and prevents common issues.
Adding Water Treatment
To control algae and bacterial growth inside the tank, WaterRower recommends using a water purification tablet. This is a small, chlorine-based tablet that you drop into the tank after filling.
- Fill the tank to your desired level.
- Drop one purification tablet into the water through the fill hole before replacing the cap.
- The tablet will slowly dissolve, keeping the water clear for 6-12 months.
If you use distilled water, the risk of biological growth is lower, but a tablet is still a good precaution. Without treatment, you may notice green algae forming inside the tank over time.
Checking For And Removing Air Bubbles
Small air bubbles are normal and will collect at the top of the tank. However, large amounts of air can make the stroke feel uneven or “sloshy.”
To remove excess air, simply tip the rower back so the tank is vertical (have someone help you). Then, tip it forward and side-to-side a few times. This allows the air to escape out the top vent hole in the cap. You might hear a hissing sound as the air is released.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, problems arise during or after the filling process. Here are solutions to the most frequent issues.
Water Level Is Too Low Or Too High
If you underfilled the tank, the resistance will feel very light. To add more water, simply remove the cap and use your funnel to add water in small increments until you reach the correct level.
If you overfilled the tank, you need to remove some water. You can use a small siphon pump or a turkey baster to draw water out through the fill hole. Be careful not to introduce dirt. Another method is to carefully tilt the rower over a bucket while the cap is off, but this is messy and requires two people.
Discolored Or Dirty Water
Over months or years, water can become cloudy or discolored from algae, mineral deposits, or dust. If this happens, you should drain and refill the tank.
How To Drain A WaterRower Tank
- Place your rower near a floor drain or on a patio, or have a large bucket ready.
- Lay the rower on its side with the fill cap facing your collection bucket.
- Unscrew the tank cap. The water will begin to drain out.
- You may need to gently rotate the tank or tip the rower to get all the water out.
- Once empty, you can rinse the tank with clean water if desired before refilling it with fresh, treated water.
Unusual Noises During Rowing
A properly filled tank should produce a smooth, swooshing sound. If you hear gurgling, knocking, or a sloshing sound, it usually indicates too much air in the system.
Follow the air bubble removal steps mentioned earlier. Also, ensure the tank cap is sealed tightly. A loose cap can let air in during the stroke, creating noise and reducing resistance consistency.
Long-Term Care And Best Practices
Taking good care of your WaterRower ensures it remains a reliable piece of equipment. These tips go beyond the initial fill.
When To Change The Water
Even with purification tablets, you should plan to change the water in your tank periodically. A good schedule is to drain and refill the tank every 12 to 18 months. If you see visible algae or cloudiness, change it immediately.
Changing the water refreshes the purification treatment and gives you a chance to inspect the tank interior for any debris.
Storing Your Water Rower
If you need to store the rower for an extended period, it is best to drain the tank completely. This prevents any chance of freezing if stored in a cold garage, which could crack the tank. It also stops biological growth during storage.
Store the rower upright in a dry place. When you’re ready to use it again, simply refill the tank following the standard procedure.
Cleaning The Tank Exterior
Keep the clear plastic tank clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the plastic. For stubborn marks, a mild soap solution is safe. A clean tank lets you easily monitor the water level and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind Of Water Should I Use In My WaterRower?
You can use ordinary tap water. For the best long-term results and to minimize mineral scale, using distilled or demineralized water is recommended. If you use tap water, adding the WaterRower purification tablet is especially important to prevent algae.
How Often Do I Need To Add More Water?
You should check the water level every few months. A small amount of evaporation is normal over time. You may need to add a cup or two of water to bring it back to the original level. The tank system is largely sealed, so if you are losing significant amounts of water, check for leaks around the cap or tank seals.
Can I Use Something Besides Water In The Tank?
No. You should only use water, and optionally the official water treatment tablets. Do not add salt, antifreeze, or any other fluids. These can damage the tank plastic, corrode internal components, and void your warranty. The machine’s resistance is calibrated for the density of water.
My Tank Has Green Spots. What Should I Do?
Green spots are algae. This happens when water treatment tablets are not used or have expired. You should drain the tank completely, as described earlier. You can wipe the inside gently with a soft cloth if needed. Then, refill with fresh water and immediately add a new purification tablet to prevent it from returning.
Is It Hard To Move The Rower Once It Is Filled?
A filled WaterRower is heavy due to the water weight. However, all models are designed to be tipped upright and rolled on wheels, similar to a dolly. Always move the rower in its upright position; do not try to carry it horizontally when full, as this can strain the frame and cause leaks.