IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS WHEN INSTALLING, OPERATING AND MAINTAINING YOUR
CONDITIONER, OR WHEN SETTING THE TIMER
CALL TOLL FREE:1-866-725-9662
visit www.ecopurewaterproducts.com
Systems tested and certied by NSF International
against NSF/ANSI Standard 44
for water softener performance
Systems tested and certied by the Water Quality
Association against CSA B483.1.
or
.
Printed on recycle d paper
Part No. 7308695 (Rev. E 2/24/10)
WATER CONDITIONER WARRANTY
Warrantor: North Star Water Conditioning, 1890 Woodlane Drive, St. Paul, MN 55125--2913
Warrantor guarantees, to the original owner, that:
For a period of one (1) year after installation, all parts will be free of defects in materials and workmanship, and will perform their normal
functions.
Limited ten (10) year warranty, from date of purchase, the salt tank and fiberglass mineral tank will not rust, corrode, leak, burst, or in any
other manner, fail to perform their proper functions.
Limited three (3) year warranty, after installation, the electronic control board and valve body will be free of defects in materials and workmanship, and will perform their normal functions.
If, during such respective period, a part proves to be defective, Warrantor will ship a replacement part, directly to your home, without charge.
After the first year, labor necessary to maintain this product is not covered by the product warranty.
Damage to any part of this water conditioner because of misuse, misapplication, neglect, alteration, accident, installation or operation contrary
to our printed instructions, or damage caused by any unusual force of nature such as, but not limited to, freezing, flood, hurricane, tornado, or
earthquake is not covered by this warranty. In all such cases, regular parts and service charges will apply.
Weassume no warranty liability in connection with this water conditioner other than specified herein. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties,
expressed or implied, including warranties of fitness for a particular purpose. We do not authorize any person or representative to assume for
us any other obligations on the sale of this water conditioner.
Should a defect or malfunction occur, contact your contractor. If you are unable to contact your contractor, return the part, freight prepaid, directly
to the factory at the address below. Enclose with the part a full description of the problem, with your name, full address, date purchased, model
and serial numbers, and selling contractor’s nameand address. We will repair or replace the part and return it to you at no cost if our repair department determines it to be defective under the terms of the warranty.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.
This water conditioner is manufactured by North Star Water Conditioning, 1890 Woodlane Drive, St. Paul, MN 55125-- 2913; customer information
telephone no. 1-- 800--693--1138.
One Year Full Warranty:
Limited Warranties:
General Conditions
SAFETY GUIDES
FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONSCAREFULLY. FAILURE TO INSTALL THE S OFTENER PROPERLY VOIDS
THE WARRANTY.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN INSTALLATION, READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL. THEN, OBTAIN ALL THE MATERIALS AND TOOLS
YOU WILL NEED TO MAKE THE INSTALLATION.
CHECK LOCAL PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL CODES. THE INSTALLATION MUST CONFORM TO THEM. CODES IN
THE STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS REQUIRE INSTALLATION BY A LICENSED PLUMBER. FOR INSTALLATION, USE
PLUMBING CODE 248--CMR OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
USE ONLY LEAD--FREE SOLDER AND FLUX FOR ALL SWEAT--SOLDER CONNECTIONS, AS REQUIRED BY STATE
AND FEDERAL CODES.
USE CARE WHEN HANDLING THE SOFTENER. DO NOT TURN UPSIDE DOWN, DROP, OR SET ON SHARP PROTRUSIONS.
DO NOT LOCATE THE SOFTENER WHERE FREEZING TEMPERATURES OCCUR. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TREAT WATER OVER 120°F. FREEZING, OR HOT WATER DAMAGE VOIDS THE WARRANTY.
AVOID INSTALLING IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT. EXCESSIVE SUN HEATMAY CAUSE DISTORTION OR OTHER DAMAGE TO
NON--METALLIC PARTS.
THE SOFTENER REQUIRES A MINIMUM WATER FLOW OF 3 GALLONS PER MINUTE AT THE INLET. MAXIMUM AL-LOWABLE INLET WATER P RESSURE IS 125 PSI. IF DAYTIME PRESSURE IS OVER 80 PSI, NIGHTTIME PRESSURE
MAY EXCEED THE MAXIMUM. USE A PRESSURE REDUCING VALV E IF NECESSARY. ( ADDING A PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE MAY REDUCE THE FLOW.)
THE SOFTENER WORKS ON 24 VOLT--60 Hz E LECTRICAL P OWER ONLY. BE SURE TO USE THE INCLUDED TRANSFORMER AND PLUG IT INTO A NOMINAL 120V, 60 CYCLE HOUSEHOLD OUTLETTHAT IS GROUNDED AND PROPERLY
PROTECTED BY AN OVER CURRENT DEVICE SUCH AS A CIRCUIT BREAKER OR FUSE. IF TRANSFORMER IS REPLACED, USE ONLY THE AUTHORIZED SERVICE, CLASS II, 24 VOLT, 10VA TRANSFORMER.
THIS SYSTEM IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED FOR TREATING WATER THAT IS MICROBIOLOGICALLY UNSAFE OF
OF UNKNOWN QUALITY WITHOUT ADEQUATE DISINFECTION BEFORE OR AFTER THEY SYSTEM.
EUROPEAN DIRECTIVE 2002/96/EC REQUIRES ALL ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT TO BE DISPOSED OF ACCORDING TO WASTE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (WEEE) REQUIREMENTS.
THIS DIRECTIVE OR SIMILAR LAWS ARE IN PLACE NATIONALLY AND CAN VARY FROM REGION TO REGION.
PLEASE REFER TO YOUR STATE AND LOCAL LAWS FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF THIS EQUIPMENT.
2
UNPACKING / INSPECTION
The softener is shipped in one carton .
It is completely
except as required at
Be sure to check the entire sof tener for any shipping
damage or parts loss. Also note damage to the shipping cartons. Contact the transportation company
assembled at the factory,
installation.
for all damage and loss claims.The manufacturer is
not responsible for damages in transit.
Small parts, needed to install the softener, are in a
parts bag. To avoid loss of the small parts, keep
them in the parts bag until you are ready to use
them.
Place the softener as close as possible to the
pressure tank (well system) or water meter (city
water).
Put the softener in a place water damage is least
likely to occur if a leak develops. The manufacturer will not repair or pay for water damage.
Place the softener as close as possible to a oor
drain, or other acceptable drain point (laundry
tub, sump, standpipe, etc.).
Connect the softener to the main water supply
pipe BEFORE or AHEAD OF the water heater.
DO NOT RUN HOT WATER THROUGH THE
SOFTENER.Temperature of water passing
through the softener must be less than 120 _F
(49 _C).
Keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft
water and salt.
Do not install the softener in a place whe
ould freeze. Damage caused by freezing is
c
not covered by the warranty.
re it
A 120 volt electric outlet, to plug the included
transformer into, is needed within 10 feet of the
softener. The transformer has an attached 10
foot power cable. Be sure the electric outlet
and transformer are in an inside location, to
protect from wet weather.
If installing in an outside location, you must take
the steps necessary to assure the softener,
installation plumbing, wiring, etc
pro
tected from the elements, contamination,
vandalism, etc., as when installed indoors.
Keep the softener out of direct sunlight.The
sun’s heat may soften and distort plastic parts.
"TOOLS, PIPE and FITTINGS, OTHER MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED (see page 6) . . . . . . . .
In and out tt ings included with the softener are 1”
(nominal) copper sweat tubes. To maintain full valve
ow, 1” pipes to and from the softener ttings are
recommended. You should maintain the same, or
larger, pipe size as the water supply pipe, up to the
softener inlet and outlet.
Drain hose (3/8” inside diameter) is needed for the
valve drain. See step 5 on page 8.A 15’ length of
hose is included with some models.
If a rigid valve drain is needed, to comply with
plumbing codes, you can buy the parts needed (see
page 8) to connect a 1/2 in. copper tubing drain.
., are as well
Use copper, brass, or galvanized pipe and ttings.
Some c
shut-ovalves. Bypass valves let you turn owater
to the softener for repairs if needed, but still have
water in the house pipes.
You must rst decide how to run in and out pipes to
the softener. Look at the house main water pipe at
the point where you will connect the softener. Is the
pipe soldered copper, glued plastic, or threaded
brass/galvanized? What is the pipe size?
or 3
A length of 3/8” or 7/16” inside diameter hose is
needed for the salt tank drain. A 7’ length of hose is
included with som
needed, you can buy good quality, thick--wall, exible hose at most hardware stores or supply houses.
Nugget or pellet water softener salt is needed to ll
the brine tank (see page 9, 10 and 16).
Now look at the typical installation illustration on
page 6. Use it as a guide when planning your particular ins
to the softener valve inlet tting.The valve is
marked IN and OUT.
tallation. Be sure to direc t raw, hard water
dels. If a longer length is
e mo
5
TYPICAL SOLDERED COPPER or CPVC INSTALLATIONS
soft water
120 Volt
outlet
Use if water supply flows from the left.
Include single or 3 -- valve bypass.
hard water
hard water to
outside faucets
HARD
WATER
FROM
SOFTENER
OUTLET
TO SOFTENER
INLET
Note: To install with threaded plumbing, buy 1”
adaptors, either sweat solder or compression, to connect to the 1” copper tubes.
INSTALLATION USING 3 -- VALVE BYPASS
(BRINE TANK NOT SHOWN)
BYPASS
valve
CROSS -- OVER
SOFT
WATE R
1” copper tube (2) *
o--ring seal (2) *
Bypass Valve *
clip (4) *
* included with softener -- Pipe and
fittings, represented by dash lines,
supplied by installer.
OUTLET
valve
INLET valve
D for soft water SERVICE:
-- O p e n the inlet and outlet
valves.
-- C l o s e the bypass valve.
D for hard water BYPASS:
-- C l o s e the inlet and outlet
valves.
-- O p e n the bypass valve.
clip (2) *
1” copper tube (2) *
o--ring seal (2) *
VALVE
INLET
6
INSTALLATION STEPS
1.INSTALL BYPASS VALVE and/or COPPER
TUBES:
NOTE: Before installing the coppertubes or bypass valve,
be sure the turbine and support are rmly in place, in the
valve outlet. Blow into the valve port and observe the turbine for free rotation.
turbine support
sensor port
turbine
"Slide copper tubes, with lubricated o--ring seals
in place , into the valve inlet and outlet ports, Figure
1A.
-- OR --
"Push t he bypass valve, with lubricated o--ring
seals in place, into the valve inlet and outlet ports,
Figures 1A and 1C.
"Snap the two large plastic clips in place, from the
top down, Figures 1A and 1B.Be sure they snap
into place. Pull on the copper tubes, or bypass
valve, to make sure they are held securely in
place.
2. INSTALL THE BRINE TANK OVERFLOW FIT-
TINGS:
"Insert the rubber grommet into the 3/4” diameter
hole in the brine ta
"Push the barbed end of th e hose adaptor elbow
into the grommet.
nk sidewall, see page 9.
FIGURE 1
A
INLET
clip (2)
B
bypass valve or
copper tube
clip (2)
copper tubes (install in softener valve or bypass valve)
OUTLET
bypass
valve
clip
cross section of
valve inlet or outlet
3. MOVE THE SOFTENER ASSEMBLY (CAB-
INET MODEL), OR RESIN TANK (TWO TANK
MODEL) INTO INSTALLATION POSITION:
"Be sure the installation surface is level and
smooth. If needed, place the tank on a section of
3/4” thick (min.) plywood. Then, place shims under
the plywood as needed to level the softener.
4. PLUMB IN AND OUT PIPES TO AND FROM
SOFTENER:
CAUTIONS:Observe all of th e following cautions
while you connect inlet and outlet plumbing.
"Turn othe house water supply valve and
open faucets to relieve pre
"BE SURE RAW,
TO THE VALVEINLET PORT.
"Be sure to use bypass valve(s).
NOTE: CHECK LOCAL PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL CODES. THE INSTALLATION MUST CONFORM
TO THEM. In the state o f Massachusetts, plumbing code 248--CMR of Massachusetts shall be adhered to.
Consult with your licensed plumber.
ssure in the pipes.
HARD WATERIS DIRECTED
clip snaps into place
between larger diameter rings
o--ring
C
Bypass Valve turned
downward fo r connection to oor level plumbing.
IN
OUT
7
INSTALLATION STEPS, continued
"If making a sold ered copper installation,do all
sweat soldering before connecting pipes to the
softener ttings.Torch heat will damage plastic
parts.
"When turning threaded pipe ttings onto plastic
ttings, use care not to cross--t hread.
"Use pipe joint compound on a ll external pipe
threads.
"Support inlet and outlet plumbing in some manner (use pipe hangers) to keep the weight oof the
valve ttings.
5. INSTALL GROUNDING CLAMP (IF NEEDED):
"To maint ain electrical ground continuity in the
house cold water piping, install the inc
clamp as shown. Be sure the pipe s are clean under
the clamps, to assure good contact.
FIGURE 2
ground clamp
luded ground
6. CONNECT AND RUN THE VALVE DRAIN
HOSE:
"Ta ke a le ngth of 3/8” inside diameter hose and
attach to the valve drain tting.
"Locate the other end of the hose at a suitable
drain point...oor drai n, sump, laundry tub, etc.
Check and comply with local codes.
IMPORTANT: If a longer length of hose is needed,
buy and use high quality, thick--wall hose that will
not easily kink or collapse. The water softener will
not work if water cannot exit this hose during regenerations.
"Tie or wire the hose in place at the drain point.
Water pressure will cause it to whip during the backwash and fast rinse cycles of regeneration. Also pr
v
ide an air gap of at least 1--1/2” between the end of
the hose and the drain point. An air gap prevents
possible siphoning of sewer water, into the softener,
if the sewer should back up.
o-
FIGURE 3
valve drain
hose
overow
drain hose
drain tting
adaptor
inlet -- outlet pipes
for soft water
valve drain
hose
PULL OUT
‘‘service’’
PUSH IN
for bypass
"If raising the drain hose overhead is requ ired to
get to the drain point, do not ra ise higher than 8’above the oor . Elevating the hose may cause a
back--pressure that could redu ce brine draw during
regenerations.
CONNECTING A RIGID VALVEDRAIN TUBE
To adapt a copper drain tube to the softener, buy a compression tting (1/4 NPT x 1/2”O.D. minimum tube) and needed tubing from
your local hardware store.
1/4” NPT thread
1-- 1/2”
air gap
barbs
Clip
Cut barbs from valve drain elbow (pull clip
and remove drain valve elbow from valve)
To standpipe, sump,
laundry tub or other
1-- 1/2”
air gap
approved drain.
continued
Compression tting 1/4 NPT x
1/2” O.D. tube
1/2” outside diameter
copper tube
SUMP
1-- 1/2”
air gap
8
FLOOR DRAIN
LAUNDRY
TUB
STANDPIPE
1-- 1/2” air gap
INSTALLATION STEPS, continued
7.CONNECT AND RUN THEBRINE TANK
OVERFLOW HOSE:
This drain is for safety only. If the b rine tank should
over--ll with water, the excess is carried to the drain.
"Attach a length of hose (included with some models) to the drain elbo w, installed in step 2, page 7.
Use a hose clamp to hold it in place.
"Locate the ot her end of the hose at the drain
point. Do not elevate this hose higher than the elbow on the brine tank. Do not tee this hose to the
valve drain hose.
8. ON TWO TANK MODELS, CONNECT BRINE
TUBING:
"Route the brine tubing out, through the largest
hole in the brine ta
to the nozzle housing, as shown in Figure 4, using
a nut--ferrule. Tighten the nut, by hand only.
FIGURE 4
nozzle/venturi
nut--ferrule
brine
valve tubing
nk sidewall. Connect the tubing
hose
adaptor
grommet
D. Place by
as follows. KEEP SO FT WATER FAUCETS OPEN.
1. SINGLE BYPASS VALVE:SLOWLY , pull the
valve stem outward to ‘‘service’’, pausing several
times to allow the softener to pressurize slowly.
2.3-- VALVE BYPASS: Fully close the bypass
valve and open the outlet valve. SLOWLY,open
the inlet valve, pausing several times to allow the
softener to pressurize slowly.
E. After about three minutes, open aHOT water
faucet for one minute, or until all air is expelled, then
close.
F. Close both cold water faucets.
G. Check your plumbing work for leaks
away, if a ny are fo und. Be sure to observe previous
caution notes.
H. Turn on the gas or electric supply to the water
heater. Light the pilot, if applicable.
s valve(s) in‘‘service”, EXACTLY
pas
and x rig
ht
10. ADD WATER AND SALT TO THE BRINE
TANK :
"Remove the salt storage area cover. Add about
three ga llons of water into the tank. Do not add intothe brinewell.
brinewell
over-
ow
drain
hose
to oor
drain
9. FLUSH PIPES, EXPE L AIR FROM SOFTENER,
AND TEST YOUR INSTALLATION FOR WATER
LEAKS:
CAUTION: To avoid water or air pressure damage to softener inner parts, be sure to do the following steps exactly as listed.
A. Fully open two cold, soft water faucets nearby
the softener.
B. Place bypass valve(s) in‘‘bypass’’position. On
a single valve, slide the stem inward to BYPASS,
see page 8. On a 3--valvesystem, close the inlet
and outlet valves, an d open the bypass valve, see
page 6.
C.Fully ope n the house main water pipe shuto
valve. Observe a steady ow from both opened faucets.
"Fill the tank with NUGGET, PELLET or coarse
SOLAR water softener salt.Do not use rock, block,
granulated, and ice cream making salts, orsalt with
iron removi ng additives.Also see page 16.Salt
storage capacity is 20 0 lbs or more (varies by mod-
el). For best results, EcoPure rec
tonR System Saver R Pellets for use in this water
softener.
Note: If the softener is installed in a humid basement
or other damp area, it is better to ll the tank with less
salt, more frequently (see salt b ridging in the maintenance section). Eighty to 100 lbs of saltwill last for
several months, depending on water hardness,
family size, and model of softener.
om
mends Mor-
11. CONNECT TO ELECTRICAL POWER:
"The softener works on 120 volt, 60 Hz electric
power. The included transfo rmer changes standard
120 volt AC house power to 24 volts. Plug the trans-former into a 120 v olt outlet only.Be sure the outlet is always ‘‘
mistake.
live’’ so it can not b e switched oby
12. PROGRAM THE ELECTRONIC DEMAND
TIMER
, page 10.
9
PROGRAMMING THE ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER
display
RECHARGE
button
ELECTRONIC
DEMAND
WATER CONDITIONER
up
button
down
button
SELECT
button
" TIMER SETTINGS REQUIRED...upon installation, and after an extended power outage (see Pro-
gram Memory, page 19).
NOTES:
D WHEN THE TRANSFORMER IS PLUGGED INTO THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET (STEP 11, PAGE 9), a
flashing 12:00AM and PRESENT TIME show in the display area. Program the timer as instructed below. If
----isflashing, use the UP + button to set the model code (See Table at top of Page 4). If you pass by
the correct model code, use the DOWN -- button. Then, press the SELECT button and program the timer below. If the wrong model code shows for your model, see Manual Initiated Electronic Diagnostics on page 20.
D A ‘‘beeper’’ sounds while pressing buttons for timer programming. One beep signals a change in the timer
display. Repeated beeps means the timer will not accept a change from the button you have pressed, and
you should use another button.
D To set the timer, you will use the UP +,DOWN-- and SELECT buttons.
" SET PRESENT TIME OF DAY
NOTE: If the words PRESENT TIME do not show in the display, press the SELECT button until they do.
1. Press the UP or DOWN button to set. The UP
button moves the display ahead; the DOWN
moves the time backward.
NOTE: Each press of the buttons changes the
time by one minute. Holding the buttons in
changes the time 32 minutes each second.
If the present time is between noon and midnight,
be sure PM shows.
10
If the present time is between midnight and noon,
be sure AM shows.
2. When the present time shows, press SELECT
to set.
PROGRAMMING THE ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER, continued
" SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER
NOTE: If a flashing 25 (factory default) and the word HARDNESS do not show in the display, press SELECT
until they do.
1. Press the UP or DOWN button to set your water
hardness number in the display. DOWN moves the
display down to 1. UP moves the d isplay up to the
maximum, which depends on the model.
NOTE: Each press of a button changes the display
by 1 between 1 and 25. Above 25, the display
changes 5 at a time; 25, 30, 35, etc. Holding a button in changes the numbers twice each second.
See the specified maximum hardness, page 4.
2. When your water hardness number shows,
press SELECT to set.
You can get the grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of
your water supply from a water analysis laboratory,
or call and ask your local water department, if you
are on a municipal supply.
NOTE: If your water supply contains iron, increase
the hardness setting to compensate for it, as follows: Add 5 to the hardness for each 1 ppm of iron.
" SET REGENERATION (STARTING) TIME
NOTE: RECHARGE TIME and a flashing 2:00 AM (factory default) should show in the display. This is a good
time for regeneration to start (over in about 2 hours) in most households because water is not in use. HARD
WATER is bypassed to house faucets during regeneration. ... See Automatic Bypass on page 14.
If no change is needed, go to step 2. To change this time, if desired, do step 1.
1. Press the UP or DOWN button to set the desired
regeneration start time.
Be sure to observe the AM or PM, as you did when
setting the time o f day.
NOTE: Each press of the buttons changes the time
by one hour. Holding the buttons in changes the
time twice each second.
2. Press the SELECT button once more.
The display shows the present time of day.
The special features of your timer are explained on page 18.
TO COMPLETE THE INSTALLATION, DO THE SANITIZING PROCEDURES
ON THE NEXT PAGE.
11
SANITIZING PROCEDURES
Care is take n at the factory to keep your water softener clean and sanitary. Materials used to make the
softener will not infect or contaminate your water
supply, and will not cause bacteria to form or grow.
However, during shipping, storage, insta lling and
operating, bacteria could get into the softener. For
this reason, sanit izing as follows is suggestedw
when installing.
1. Be sure to complete all installation steps, includ-
ing timer programming.
2. Pour about 3 oz. (6 ta blespoons) of common
5.25% household bleach (Clorox, Linco, Bo Peep,
White Sail, Eagle, etc.,)into the brinewell(Figure
4, page 9).
3. Use the REGENERATE, OR RECHARGE, NOW
feature, on the timer, to start an immediate regeneration. The bleach is drawn into and through the
water softener to sanitize it. This sa nitizing regeneration is over in about two hours. Then, soft water
is available for your use.
NOTE: Sanitizing is recommended by the Water Quality Asso-
ciation for disinfe
periodic sanitizing.
cting. On some water supplies, they suggest
NOTE: When the above sanitizing regeneration is over, all remaining bleach is ushed from
the conditioner and your house COLD water supply is fully soft immediately. However, yourwater heater is lled with hard water and, as hot water is used, it will rell with soft water.
When all the hard water is replaced, in the water heater, hot only, and mixed hot and cold water
will be fully soft. If you want totally soft water immediately, after the above regeneration, drain
the water heater until the water runs cold. If you do drain the water heater, use extreme care
Man’s very existence depends on water. It is one of
the basic commodities o ife. Water is best as nature
provides it, is a common misconception. Practically
all natura l water needs renement or treatment to
make it safe to drink or more satisfactory to use.
Municipal water supplies come from surface reservoirs, such as lakes and rivers, or from underground
reservoirs. Usually, municipalities chlorinate the water to make it safe to drink. Sediment is removed by
ltration. Tastes and odors are reduced or eliminated. The water is conditio ned to comply with cer-
The earth’s water suppl y cycle start s in the upper
cloud layers. As it falls to the earth as rain or snow,
it picks up impurities and gases from the atmosphere. Landing on earth, it seeps over and through
the ground, disso lving earth minerals. Passing
through limestone, it dissolves calcium and magnesiu
m, the h
ardness minerals. Iron deposits impart
iron to the water. Acidity and sediments are other
water conditions.
tain specications. However, hardness minerals,
tastes and odors are not always reduced to the most
desirable levels.
Underground reservoir
s prov
ide our private water
supplies. Because the water is raw and untreated,
it can have varying a mounts of hardness, iron,
tastes, odors, acidity, or combinations of these. Different localities and water levels aect mineral content.
Water conditioning is the treatment o our general
conditions. These are:Hardness ,Iron,Acidity,
Sediments .
HARDNESSis a term to describe the presence of
calcium and magnesium minerals in water. A chemical analysis accurately measures the amount of
minerals in grain weight. For example, one gallon of
water with ve grains per
lon (gp g) hardness has
gal
dissolved minerals, that if solidied, about equals
the size of one ord inary aspirin tablet. One gallon of
water, 25 gpg hard, has a mineral content equal in
size to 5 aspirin tablets. Water hardness varies
greatly across the count ry. It generally contains from
3 to 100 gpg.
Hard water aects living in general. Hardness minerals combine with soap to make a soap curd. The
curd greatly reduces the cleaning action of soap.
Precipitated hardness minerals form a crust on
cooking utensils, appliances, and plumbing xtures.
Even the tastes o oods are aected. A water s
e
ner removes the hardness minerals to eliminate
oft-
these problems, and others.
Sodium Information: Water softeners using sodium
chloride (salt) for regeneration add sodium to the
water. Persons on sodium restricted diets should
consider the added sodium as part of t heir overall intake.
IRON in wate r is measured in p arts per million
(ppm). The total* ppm o ron, and type or types*, is
determined by chemical analysis. Fou r dierent
types o ron in water are:Ferrous (clear water),
2
Ferric (red water),Bacterial and organically
4
bound iron,
iron (ferrous or fe
Water may contain one or more of the four types o ron
*
and any combination of these. Total iron is the sum of the
contents.
1
¡Ferrous (clear water) iron is soluble and d issolves
Colloidal and inorganically bound
rric
).
1
3
in water. It is usually detected by taking a sample of
water in a clear bottle or glass. Immediately after taking, the sample is clear. As the water sample stands,
it gradually clouds and turns slightly yellow or brown
as air oxidizes the iron. This usually occurs in 15 to
30 minutes. A water softener will remove moderate
amounts of this type o ron (see specications).
2
Ferric (red water), andBacteri
3
ly bound irons are insoluble. This iron is visible immediately when drawn from a faucet because it has
oxidized before reaching the home. It appears as
small cloudy yellow, orange, or reddish suspended
particles. After the water stands for a period of time,
the particles settle to the bottom of the container.
Generally these irons are removed from water by
ltration. Chlorination is also recommended for bacterial iron.
al a
nd organical-
continued
13
WATER AND WATER CONDITIONING, continued
4
Colloidal and inorganically bound iron is o erric
or ferrous form that will not lter or exc hange out of
water. In some instances, treatment may improve
colloidal iron water, but always CONSULT A QUALIFIED WATER CHEMISTRY LAB b efore attempting
to treat it. Colloidal iron water usually has a yellow
appearance when drawn. After standing for several
hours, the color persists and the iron does not settle,
but remains suspended in the water.
Iron in water causes stains on clothing and plumbing
xtures. It negatively a ects the taste o ood, dr
ing wa
hydrogen sulde, and sometimes industrial wastes.
ter, and other beverages.
ACIDITY or acid water is caused by carbon dioxide,
ink-
It is corrosive to plumbing, plumbin g xtures, water
heaters, a nd other water using appliances. It can
also damage and cause p re ma ture failure of seals,
diaphragms, etc., in water ha ndling equipment.
A chemical analysis is needed to measure the degree of acidity in water. This is called the pH of water.
Water testing below 6.9 pH is acidic. The lower the
pH read ing, the greater the acidity. A neutralizer lter or a chemical feed pump are usually recommended
SEDIMENTis ne, foreign material particles suspended in water. This material is most ofte n clay or
silt. Extreme amounts of sediment may give the water a cloudy appearance. A sediment lter normally
corrects this con dition.
at acid water.
to tre
HOW THE WATER SOFTENER WORKS
SOFT WATER SERVICE, AND REGENERATION, see illustrations, page 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SERVICE
When the softener is providing soft water, it is called
“Service”. During service, hard water ows from the
house main water pipe into the softener. Insid e the
softener resin tank is a bed made up of thousands
of tiny, plastic resin beads
through the bed, each bead attracts and holds the
hardness minerals. This is called ion-exchanging. It
is much like a magnet attracting and holding metals.
Water without the hardness minerals (soft water)
ows from the softener and to the h ouse pipes.
After a period of time, the resin beads become
coated with hardness minerals and t hey have to be
cleaned. This cleaning is called regeneration, or recharge. The Ultra demand timer automatically determines whe n regenerations occur. Regeneration
is started at 2:00 a.m. (factory setting) by the softener timer, and consists of 5 stages or cycles. These
are: FILL
and FAST RINSE.
FILL: Salt, dissolved in water, is called brine. Brine
is needed to clean the hardness minerals from the
resin beads. To make the brine , water ows into the
, BRINING, BRINE RINS
REGENERATION
ard water passes
. As h
E, BACKWASH,
salt storage area during the ll stage as shown on
page 15.
BRINING:During brining, brine travels from the
salt storage area, into the resin tank. Brine is the
cleaning agent needed to remove the hardness minerals from the resin beads. The hardness minerals,
and brine are discharged to the drain.
The nozzle and venturi create a suction to move the
brine, mainta
resin cleaning with the least salt.
BRINE RINSE:After a pre--measured amount of
brine is used, the brine valve closes. Water continues to ow in the same path as during brining, except for the discontinued brine ow. Hardness minerals and brine ush from the resin tank, to the drain.
BACKWASH:During backwash, water travels up
through the resin tank at a fa st ow rate, ushing accumulated iron, d irt, and sediments from the resin
bed and to the drain.
FAST RINSE:Backwash is fo llowed by a fast ow
of water down t hrough the resin t
ushes brine from the bottom of the tank, and packs
the resin bed.
After fast rinse, the softener returns to soft wat er
service.
ining
a very slow rate to get the best
ank
. The fast ow
AUTOMATIC HARD WATER BYPASS DURING REGENERATION
For emergen cy needs,hardwater is available to
the home during the regener ation cycles. However,
14
you should avoid using HOT water because the water heater will rell with the hard water.
WATER FLOW THROUGH SOFTENER
SOFT WATER SERVICEFILL
salt storage
tank (salt
not shown)
brine valve
soft water
OUT
hard water
IN
resin tank
resin bed
salt storage
tank
brine valve
soft water
OUT
fill water
hard water
IN
brine valve
BRINING / BRINE RINSEBACKWASHFAST RINSE
nozzle &
venturi
hard water
bypass OUT
brine
hard water
IN
drain
hard water
bypass OUT
hard water
IN
drain
resin bed lifted
and expanded
soft water
OUT
hard water
IN
drain
15
GENERAL WATER SOFTENER MAINTENANCE
CHECKING THE SALT STORAGE LEVEL, AND REFILLING (also see page 9) ..............
Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for each
and every regeneration. The water for making brine
is metered into the salt storage area by the softener
valve and timer. However, you must keep the tankfull of salt. In humid areas, it is best to fill with less
salt, more often.
WHEN TO ADD SALT: Check the salt level a few
weeks after you install the softener and every week
after that. Add when the brine tank is from 1/3 to 1/2
full. Never allow the softener to use all the salt before
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the
salt storage area. It is usuallycaused by high humidity or the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges,
an empty space forms between the water and salt.
Then salt will not dissolve in the water to make brine.
If the brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if you
have a salt bridge.Salt is loose on top, but the bridge
is under it. The following is the best way to check for
a salt bridge.
Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of the
tank. Take a broom handle, or like tool, and careful-ly push it down into the salt, working it up and down.
If the tool strikes a hard object (be sure it’s not the
bottom or sides of the tank), it’s most likely a salt
bridge. Carefully break the bridge with the tool. DO
NOT pound on the walls of the tank.
you refill it. Without salt, you will soon have hard water.
Use clean water softener salt only, at least 99.5%
pure. NUGGET, PELLET or coarse SOLAR salts are
recommended. Do not use rock, block, granulated,
and ice cream making salts. They contain dirt and
sediments, or mush and cake, and will create maintenance problems. For best results, EcoPure recommends MortonR System SaverR Pellets for use
in this water softener.
push tool into salt
bridge to break
1” -- 2”
Pencil
Mark
Broom Handle
Salt
Salt Bridge
Water Level
If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out.
Then fill the tank with nugget or pellet salt only. For
best results, EcoPure recommends MortonR Sys-
tem SaverR Pellets for use in this water softener.
Your water softener takes hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) out of the water. Also, it can
control some (see specifications, page 4) “clear
water” iron. With clear water iron, water from a faucet is clear when first put into a glass. After 15 to 30
minutes, the water begins to cloud or turn rust colored. A water softener WILL NOT remove any iron
that makes the water cloudy or rusty as it comes
from the faucet (called red water iron). To take red
water iron out of water, or over the maximum of clear
16
water iron, an iron filter or other equipment is needed. Your local dealer has trained people to help you
with iron water problems.
If your water supply has clear water iron, periodic
resin bed cleaning is needed. Clean the bed at least
every six months,or more often if iron appears inthe
soft water between treatments. Follow directions on
the resin bed cleaner container.
A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the softener to work right.This small unit makes the suc-
tion to move brine from the salt storage area to the
resin tank during regene ration. If the nozzle and
venturi becomes plugged with sand, silt, dirt, etc.,
the softener will not work and you will get hard water.
Screen Support
Cap
O--ring Seal
To get to the nozzle and venturi, remove the softener
top cover. Be sure the soft ener is in serv ice cycle (no
water pressure at nozzle and venturi). Then, while
holding the nozzle & venturi housing with one hand,
turn o
ap. Lift out the screen support and
the c
screen, then the nozzle and venturi. Wash and rinse
the parts in warm water until clean. If needed, use
a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Also check and
clean the gasket.
NOTE: Models in this ma nual have a small ow plug
located in the nozzle a nd venturi, and a small cone
shaped screen in the housing. Be sure to check and
clean these parts.
Carefully replace all parts in the correct order. Lubricate the o-ring seal with silicone grease and place
in position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only.
Do not over-tighten and break the cap or housing.
SERVICE CHECKLIST
NO SOFT WATER
Screen
Nozzle & Venturi
Gasket
IMPORTANT:Be sure small
holes in the gasket are cen-tered directly over the small
holes in the nozzle & venturi
housing.
*Flow Plug
(HVDC)
Nozzle & Venturi
Housing
*Install with numbered side
up, concave side down.
WATER INTERMITTENTLY HARD
*Flow Plug
(EP1 for Model
Screen
EP 6225)
No salt in storage tank:See page 16 to ref ill, th en
start a regeneration, or recharge.
Transformer unplugged at wall outlet, or disconnected from timer:Reconnect to electrical power
and start a regeneration, or recharge.
Fuse blown, circuit breakerpopped, or circuit
mistakenly switched o:Check and resolve as
needed. Then, start a regeneration, or recharge.
Plumbing bypass valve(s) in ‘‘bypass’’ position:
Refer to page 6 or 8 and position valve(s) for ‘‘service’’ to direct soft water to house pipes. Then, start
a regeneration, or recharge.
Timer not programmed:See pages
Nozzle & venturi dirty, or salt in storage tank
bridged: See page 16 and above to clean. Then,
start a regeneration, or recharge.
10 a
nd 11.
Possible increase in water hardness:
See page
11.
Hot water used w hen softener is regenerating:
The water heater will rell with hard water, see Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Regenerations,
page 14.
Leaking faucet or toilet valve: A small leak will
waste hundreds of gallons of water in just a few
days. Fix all water leaks immediately.
17
ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER FEATURES, AND SERVICE
NOTE: SEE P AGE 10 TO SET THE TIMER TO THE CORRECT TIME OF DAY, WATER HARDNESS NUMBER, AND RECHARGE START TIME.
Sometimes, a manually started regeneration (recharge) may be desired, or needed. Two examples are:
... You have used more water than usual (house guests, extra washing, etc.) and you may run out of soft water
before the next regeneration.
... You did not refill the storage tank with salt before it was all gone.
Use one of the following features to start a regeneration immediately, or at the next preset regeneration start
time.
RECHARGE NOW
Press and hold in the RECHARGEbuttonuntilRE-CHARGE NOW starts to flash in
the time display area. The softener begins an immediate regeneration, and when
over in about two hours, you will have a new supply
of soft water. Once started, you cannot cancel this
regeneration.
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Press and release the RECHARGE button, and RECHARGE TO-NIGHT flashes in the time display
area. A regeneration will occur at
the next preset regeneration start time. If you decide to cancel thisregeneration, touch the same button once more.
EcoPure Demand water softeners regenerate only while water is used and softening capacity must be restored. For this reason, the softener will not regenerate when you are away from home for extended periods.
If electrical power to the softener is interrupted, the
time display is blank, but the timer keeps correct
time for about 6 hours. When power is restored, you
have to reset the present time only if the display is
flashing. All other settings are maintained and never require resetting unless a change is desired.
If the time is flashing after a long power outage, the
softener continues to work as it should to provide
you with soft water. However, regenerations may occur at the wrong time of day until you reset the timer
to the correct time of day, page 10.
When this feature is ON, the unit will operate at salt
efficiencies of 4000 grains of hardness per pound of
salt or higher. (May recharge more often using
smaller salt dosage and less water). Press and hold
the SELECT button for 3 seconds until the following
screen is diplayed.
Press and release the SELECT button once and the
SALT EFFICIENCY display shows. Use the UP /
Down buttons to change the ON / OFF displays.
Press SELECT once more to return to normal operating screens. When this is ON the efficiency icon
will show in the upper right hand corner of the dis-
play.
18
ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER FEATURES, AND SERVICE, continued
Your water softener has a “High Efficiency” feature with a n “ON” or “OFF” setting. This softener setting
is shipped in the “OFF” position, which utilizes the maximum rated capacity while most often achieving
maximum salt efficiencies. When installing this unit in the State of California, you MUST turn this setting
to the “ON” position which may initiate more frequent recharges, however it will operate at 4000 grains
per pound of salt or higher.
If you wish to turn the Salt Efficiency feature “ON” (
icon will show in display), follow the instructions
The timer computer has a self--diagnostic function
for the electrical system (except input power and
water meter). The computer monitors the electronic
components and circuits for correct operation. If a
malfunction occurs, an error code appears in the
timer display.
The following chart (below) shows the error codes
code. While an error code is displayed, all timer buttons are inoperable except for the SELECT button.
SELECT remains operational so the service person
can make the Manual Initiated
Electronic Diagnostics to further
isolate the defect, and check the
water meter.
that could appear, and possible defects for each
ERROR CODE DISPLAYED
Err 01Err 03Err 04Err 05
POSSIBLE
DEFECT
' wiring harness, or connection to switch ' position switch ' motor inoperative ' valve defect causing high torque
TO REMOVEANERRORCODE:(1)unplugtransformer(2)correct defect(3
Wait for at least 12 minutes. The error code will return if the reason for the error code was not corrected.
' timer (PWA)
transformer in(4
service: TIMER / SOFTENER, SERVICE CHECKOUT PROCEDURE .................
If you are not getting soft water, and an error code
is not displayed, use the procedures below to find
the problem. First, make the following visual checks.
VISUAL CHECKS: (1) Is there electrical power to
the outlet the softener transformer is plugged into?
(2) Is there salt in the storage tank? (3) Is the plumbing bypass valve(s) directing water for soft water
service? --see page 6-- (4) Is the valve drain hose
open to the drain, not elevated too high, and unobstructed? If you do not find a problem with the visual
checks, continue below.
NO SOFT WATER
TIMER DISPLAY BLANK
TIMER DISPLAY SHOWS CORRECT
TIME AND DAY, AND IS STEADY
TIMER SHOWS WRONG TIME
AND DAY, AND/OR IS FLASHING
Check electrical power to timer
(outlet, transformer, power
cable, all connections).
Do manual
diagnostics
Electrical power was of f. Reset the correct time of day.
NO POWER
POWER OKAY
Investigate reason for power
loss. Be sure outlet for softener
cannot be switched off.
REPAIR AS
NEEDED
TIMER
DEFECTIVE
Do manual diagnostics to verify
proper function.
19
ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER FEATURES, AND SERVICE, continued
1. To enter diagnostics, press and hold the SELECT
button until (000 -- --) shows in the display.
(A) The rst 3 digits indicate water meter operation
as follows:
000 (steady) = soft water not in use …no ow
through the meter.
— OPEN A NEARBY SOFT WATER FAUCET —
000 to 199 (continual) for Model EP 6225
= repeats display for each gallon of water
passing through the meter.
(B) The letter (P) and dash(es) indicate POSITION
switch operation. The letter appearing means the
switch is closed; the dash means the switch is open.
Use the RECHARGE button to manually advance
the valve into each cycle and check correct switch
operation.
CORRECT
SWITCH
DISPLAYSVALVE CYCLE STATUS
-- --
-- P
Valve in service, ll, brining,
backwash or fast rinse position.
Valve rotating from one position
to another.
C. While in this diagnostic screen, the following information is available and may be benecial for various reasons. This information is retained by the
computer from the rst time electrical power is applied to the face plate.
If you don’t get a reading in the display, with faucet
open, pull the sensor fromthe valve outlet port. Pass
a small magnet back and forth in front of the sensor.
You should get a reading in the display. If you get a
reading, unhook the in and out plumbing and check
the turbine for binding.
NOTE: If the face plate is left in a diagnostic display (or a ashing
display when setting times or hardness), present time automatically
returns if a button is not pressed within 4 minutes.
…Press the UP button to display
the number of days this face plate
has had electrical power applied.
…Press the DOWN button to display the number of regenerations
initiated by this face plate sincethe
model code was entered.
2. Press the SELECT button and
hold in 3 seconds until a model
code appears in the display.
For proper softener operation, the code must be
set corre ct
ly for yo
ur model (See Table at top of
Page 4).
To reset the model code , press the UP or DOWN
button until the correct number shows.
3. Press SELECT to return the present time display.
If the model code was changed, make ALL the
timer settings,pages 10 and 11.
20
ELECTRONIC DEMAND TIMER FEATURES, AND SERVICE, continued
This check veries proper operation of the va lve
motor, b rine tank ll, brine draw, r egeneration ow
rates, and other controller functions.First, make
the initial checks, and the manual initiated diagnostics.
2. After observing ll, press the RECHARGE button
to move the softener into brining. A slow ow of water to the drain will beg in. Verify brine draw from the
brine tank by shining a ashlight into the brinewell
and observing a noticeable drop in the liquid level.
NOTE: The f ace plate display must show a steady
time (not ashing).
1. Press the RECHARGE button and hold in for 3
seconds. RECHARGE NOW begins to ash as the
softener enters the ll cycle of r egene ration. Remove the brinewell cover and, using a ashlight, observe ll water entering t
he brine ta
nk.
If water does not enter the tank, look for an ob-
NOTE: Be sure a sa lt bridge is not preventing water
with salt contact.
If the softener does not draw brine …
…nozzle and/or venturi dirty or defective.
…nozzle and venturi not seated properly on gasket.
…restricted drain (check drain tting and hose).
…defective nozzle and venturi seal.
…other inner valve defect (rotor seal, rotor & disc,
wave washe
r, etc
.).
NOTE: If water system pressure is low, an eleva ted
drain hose may cause back pressure, stopping
brine draw.
3. Again, press the RECHARGE button to move the
softener into backwash. Look for a fast ow of wa ter
from the dra in hose.
A slow ow indicates a plugged top distributor,
backwash ow plug, or drain hose.
4. Press RECHARGE to move the softener into fast
rinse. Again look for a fast drain ow. Allow the so ftener to rinse for a few minutes to ush out any brine
that may remain in the resin tank from the brining
cycle test.
5. To return t he softener to service
, pres
s RE-
CHARGE.
WIRING SCHEMATIC
TRANSFORMER
120V
"
POSITION SWITCH
24V
A
grnbrn
BACK OF FACEPLATE TIMER
VALVE MOTOR
WATER METER SEN SOR
21
SOFTENER REPAIR PARTS
(Model EP 6225)
28
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
29
23
1
14
15
2
13
Valve Assembly
(see pages 24 -- 27)
3
4
6
7
5
8
9
10
12
11
37
22
30
35
36
34
33
32
24
31
25
26
27
SOFTENER REPAIR PARTS
z
(Model EP 6225)
KEY
NO.
107105047Repl. Bottom Distributor
110502272Resin, 53 lbs (1 cu ft)
12
PART
NO.
37176292Clamp Section (2 req.)
47088033Clamp Retainer (2 req.)
57112963O--ring Seal Kit
6--O-- ring Seal, 2--7/8 in. x 3--1/4 in.
7--O-- ring Seal, 13/16 in. x 1--1/16 in.
8--O-- ring Seal, 2--3/4 in. x 3 in.
97077870Top Distributor
7113058
Resin Tank, 8in. dia x 4 0 in.,
Model EP 6225
DESCRIPTION
KEY
NO.
197155115Brinewell Cover
207082150Wing Nut, 1/4 -- 20
217100819Brinewell
227003847O--ring
237148875Screw
24
251103200Hose Adaptor
269003500Grommet
270900431Hose Clamp
287248706Ground Clamp Assembly
29
PART
NO.
7114800
7116488
DESCRIPTION
Repl. Brine Tank, Model EP 6225
Brine Valve Assembly,
Model EP 6225
7180314
13
7180291
14
7302720
157303213Repl. Electronic Control Board (PWA)
167275907Transformer
7180437
17
Bottom Cover,
Model EP 6225
Faceplate Cover, Model
EP 6225 (also order following decal)
If you have a defective part or assembly under warranty, please fill in a parts return tag. Cut
out the tag, complete all information requested, and include it with the defective part when you
return it to the place where you purchased the conditioner.
PARTS RETURN TAG
CUSTOMER’S NAME
STREET ADDRESS
CITYSTATEZIP CODE
CONDITIONER MODEL NUMBERSERIAL NUMBER
DATE PURCHASEDDATE PART FAILED
North Star
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
PARTS RETURN TAG
CUSTOMER’S NAME
PARTS RETURN TAG
CUSTOMER’S NAME
STREET ADDRESS
CITYSTATEZIP CODE
CONDITIONER MODEL NUMBERSERIAL NUMBER
DATE PURCHASEDDATE PART FAILED
North Star
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
PARTS RETURN TAG
CUSTOMER’S NAME
STREET ADDRESS
CITYSTATEZIP CODE
CONDITIONER MODEL NUMBERSERIAL NUMBER
DATE PURCHASEDDATE PART FAILED
North Star
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
STREET ADDRESS
CITYSTATEZIP CODE
CONDITIONER MODEL NUMBERSERIAL NUMBER
DATE PURCHASEDDATE PART FAILED
North Star
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
28
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