GE GXSF27E01 Owner’s Manual

www.GEAppliances.com

Safety Information ........... 2

Installation Instructions ...3-1 o

Step-by-step instructions .... 6-10

Operating Instructions

Breaking a salt bridg_ ........ 19

Cleaning the nozzle and

venturi assembly ............ 19

Features ................... 13

Service .............. 11, 14-16

V(ater softener system ..... 11-16

Care and Cleaning ......... 17

Troubleshooting Tips ..... 18-20

Consumer Support

Consumer Support . . .Back Cover

Parts list/catalog ......... 92-25

V_'arranty (U.S.) ............. 96

_'arrantv (Canada) .......... 97

Water

Sistema

La secci6n en espa#ol empieza en la pagioa 29

Softening

System

ModelGXSF27£

Suavizante

de Agua

Modelo GXSF27E

System tested and certified by NSF International against NSF!ANSI Standard 44 fl)r the chemical reduction (laims specitied on the per/brmance data sheet.

Sistema probado y certiticado pot NSF International contra norma 44 de NSF/ANSI para las afirmaciones de reduccidn de los productos qufmi(os especi/icadas en la hoja de datos

de flmcionamiento.

Write themodelandserial

numbers here:

Model # Serial #

To find these numbers, lift the cover and look on the

rim below the control panel.

7247182 215Cl173P009 49-50150 02-05Jfl

IMPORTANTSAFETYINFORMATION.

READALLINSTRUCTIONSBEFOREUSING.

WARNING!

For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of electric shock, property damage or personal injury.

SAFETYPRECAUtiONS

_: Check and cmnl)ly with vour state and local

codes. You must tollow ti/ese guidelines.

::Ji::Use care when handling the water softening

s_:stem. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag or set on sharp protrusions.

?_:Water softening systems using sodimn chloride

(salt) for recharge add sodium to the water:

Persons on sodium restricted diets should consider the added sodium as part of their overafl intake.

Potassium chloride can be used as an alternative to sodium chloride in your softener

The _ater softening system _orks on 24 xolt-60 Hz

electrical power only. Be sure to use only the

included transformer

iJi::Transformer must be )luo,_ed into indoor

120 xolt, grotmded outlet only.

_: Use clean water softening salts only, at least

99.5% pm'e. NUGGET, PEI,I,ET or coarse SOLAR salts are recommended. Do not use rock,

block, granulated or ice cream making salts. They contain dirt and sediments, or mush and

cake, and will create maintenance problems.

::Ji::Keep the salt hole cover in place on the softener

tmless servicing the trait or refilling with salt.

A WARNING:oo.o, use with water that is

microbiologically unsati _ or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection befi)re or after

the system.

PROPERINSTALLAtiON

This water softening system must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation Instructions before it is used.

_: Install or store where it will not be exposed to

temperatures beh)w fl'eezing or exposed to any type of weather: Water fi'eezing in the system will

break it. Do not attempt to treat water over 100°E

::Ji::Do n0tinstall in direct sunlight. Excessive sun or

heat may cause distortion or other damage to non-metallic parts.

Properly ground to cent)tin with all governing codes and ordinances.

Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat- solder connections, as required by state and

federal codes.

_: Softener resins may degrade in the presence

of chlorine above 1 ppm. If you have chlorine in excess of this ainount, you inay experience

reduced life of the resin. In these conditions, you may wish to consider pro'chasing a (;E

point-ofent_ T household filtration system with a chlorine reducing filte_:

A WARNING:Disc.,-d.lluilusedpax'ts

and packaging material alter installation. Small parts remaining after the installation

could be a choke hazard.

Tile water softening s}:stem requires a minimum water flow of three galhms per minute at the inlet.

Maximum allowable inlet water pressm'e is 125 psi. ]f daytime pressm'e is over 80 psi, nighttime

pressm'e may exceed the maximmn. Use a pressm'e reducing \:dye to reduce the flow if necessarx:

READANDFOLLOWTHISSAFETYINFORMAtiONCAREFULLY.

SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS

Installation instructions.

A_ CAUTION: Certain plumbing skills are needed for installation. If you are unsure about

any part of the installation of this product, consult a professional plumber.

Unpacking and Inspection

Be sure to check the entire softener for any shii)ping damage or parts loss. Also note

(lamage to tile shii)ping cartons. Contact the transportation company for all damage and

loss claims. The ii/antlf_lCttli'ei" is not responsible fl)r damages in transit.

Important Installation Recommendations

Read entire manual. Failure to follow all guidelines and rules could cause personal injury or

property damage.

_: Before you 1)egin installation, read these

Installation Instructions completely. Then, obtain all tile materials and tools you will

need to make the installation. Failm'e to

properly install the softener voids the

W[I IT[I n IV.

::Ji::Check local codes. Tile installation m ust

conform to them.

::Ji::In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,

Plumbing Code 248 CMR shall be adhered to. Consult with your licensed plumber.

::J?::Use only lead-h'ee solder and flux for all

sweat-solder connections, as required bv state and federal codes.

_: Connect tile soliener to tile main water

supply pipe before or ahead of the water

heater. DO NOT RUN HOT WATER THROUGH

THESOFTENER.Temperature of water

passing through tile softener illtlst be less than 120°F.

Small parts needed to install tile softener are packaged either in a bag or on a cardboard

sheet. To avoid loss of the small parts, kee I) them packaged tmtil you are ready to use them. Be StlYe not to discard components hidden in

packaging.

Maximum allowable inlet water pressm'e is

195 psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime pressure may exceed tile

maximmn. Use a pressure reducing wflve if necessary: (Adding a pressure reducing wflve may reduce tile flow.)

::Ji::Tile softener works on 24 volt-60 Hz

electrical power only. Be sure to use tile

included transformer. Be sure tile electric

outlet and transformer are in an inside

location to protect ['l'OlIl i/loisttlre.

_: See Where to Install the Softener section fl)r

more derails.

A WARNING:Do use with water

that is microbiologically tmsafe or of

tmknown quali W without adequate

disinfection befi)re or atier the system, The water should be tested periodically

to verif)' that tile system is peril)truing satistactorilv.

_: Use care when handling tile softener.

Do not ttlFn upside down, drop, drag

OI" set on shay l) l)I'otI'/Isions.

_: Small parts remaining after tile installation

could be a choke hazard. Discard safely.

Installation instructions.

Plan How You Will Install the Softener

You must first decide how to mm in and out pipes to the softener. I,ook at the house

main water pipe at the point where you will connect the soiiener. Is the pipe soldered

coppe_; glued plastic or threaded galwmized? What is the pipe size?

.4,WARNING:Use..l, le,,d.,ee

solder and flux to prevent lead poisoning.

Where to Install the Softener

::Ji::Place the sottener as close as possible to a

sewer drain, or other acceptable drain point

or standpipe.

::Ji::It is recommended to kee I) outside thucets

on hard water to save sott water and salt.

_: Do not install the softener in a place \_here it

could fi'eeze. Freeze damage is not covered by

the warranty.

_: Do not install the softener where it would

block access to the water heater or access to

the main water shutott.

Put the softener in a place where water damage is least likely to occur if a leak

develops. The manufacturer will not repair or pay for water damage.

See Yypical Installation Illustration, Fig. 1. Use this as a guide when planning yore" particular installation. Be sure to direct the incoming hard

water supply to the softener valve inlet fitting.

The valve is marked IN and OUT See illustration on page 5 to help you prepare.

_: A 120-volt electric outlet is needed to plug

in the included transtormer. The sottener

has a 10 toot power cable. If the outlet is remote (up to 100 filet), use 18 gauge wire

to connect. Be sure the electric outlet and

transformer are in an inside location, to protect from wet weather. Be sure the outlet is

unswit('hed to prevent accidental shutolt.

_: If installing in an outside location, you must

take the steps necessary to assure the sotiene_;

installation plumbing, wiring, etc., are as well protected ti'om the elements (stmlight,

rain, wind, heat, cold), contamination,

wmdalism, etc., as when installed indoors.

Outdoor installation is not recommended, and voids the warranty.

_: Keep the softener out of direct sunlight.

The sun's heat may distort non-metallic parts and may damage the electronics.

Toolsand Materials Required for Installation

_: In and out fittings included with the softener

are 3/4" (nominal) Col)per sweat tubes. You should maintain the same, or larger,

pipe size as the water supply pipe, up to the sottener inlet and outlet.

Use the included bypass valve to install the

sottener. The bypass wflve allows you to turn

off water to the soltener fin" servicing, but

still have water in the house pipes. The in and out fittings referred to above connect to

the bypass valve with the included nuts and

wash ers.

::Ji::Use coI)pet; brass or galwmized pipe and

fittings. Some codes may also allow CPVC plastic pipes.

If additi(mal drain hose is needed tot wove

and salt tank drains, it can be ordered from

GE Parts at 800.626.2002.

::Ji::If a rigid wdve drain is needed to comply

with plmnbing codes, you can buy the parts

needed to connect a 1/2" coI)per tubing or

plastic pipe drain.

::Ji::Clean nugget or pellet water sottener salt is

needed to fill the brine tank, see Step 8 in

the Step-by-Step Installation Instructions.

Typical Installation Illustration

24V transf(

Salt hole cover

Softwater

120-voltoutlet

Brinewell

,_. HAl

/V47_RP/PE

-_ "_'---Hardwater

"_-__...._L Hardwaterto

outsidefaucets

_ Union (not supplied) (2)

(_-_ Installation nut (2)

_ opper tube, 3/4" (2)

Washer (2)

_assValve

• Pulloutfor softwater service

INLET

Drain

NOTE: See Drain Hose Connections section.

• Pushin for bypass

NOTE:Fittingssuppliedare for 3/4" copperplumbing.If youhave

1" plumbing,do notusethe coppertubes andnutsincluded.Buy1" NPTfemale adaptersandconnectdirectlytothe

1" NPTmalethreadsof the bypassvalve.

Fig. 1 CROSSOVER

Useifwater supplyflows fromthe left.

Includesingleor3-valvebypass.

Hard water

Fromsoftener,

)utlet

,_ To softener

inlet

Softwater

Optional 3-Valve Bypass Installation Illustration

Adapters for this installation are not supplied with the softener. Toorderthese adapters,call GEParts800.626.2000.(Askfor Part# WS6OX10006.)

Softwater ,_..,_ ...... MAIN

Bypassvalve

120-voltoutlet ¢4

24V I_l! Outletvalve transformer

Salthole

Drain

I_RPIPE outsidefaucets

_-___-_ ____

Inlet valve

(2) • Openthebypassvalve

Coppertube,3/4" (2)

Washer(2)

Installation adapter (2)(see above)

NOTE:Fittingssuppliedarefor 3/4" copperplumbing.If youhave 1" plumbing,donot usethecoppertubes andnutsincluded.Buy1" NPTfemale adaptersandconnectdirectlytothe 1" NPTmalethreadsof the adapter.

Hardwaterto

.... _ Hardwater

3-Valve BypassSystem

Forsoft water service:

• Opentheinlet and outletvalves

• Closethebypassvalve

Forbypasshardwater:

• Closetheinlet and outletvalves

Fig. 2 CROSSOVER

Useifwater supplyflows fromthe left.

Includesingleor3-valvebypass.

Hardwater (_

Fromsoftener1' outlet

_, Tosoftener

inlet

Softwater

Step-by-step installation instructions.

i_g:Turn off the gas or electric suppl) to the water heateL in the possibilit} that the water _i_. 3A

heater ma} be drained while draining pipes.

i:g:Turn off the water supp]) to pipes to be cut and drain tile house water pipes, i:g:Open both hot and cold timcets at tile lo_vst location possible.

NOTE:For easier installation, remove file top covei; Release 9 clips at rear of tile cove_: Rotate coxvr ti)rward and lift up.

1.INSTALLBYPASSVALVE

• Remo_v plastic shipping plug and wire fi'om valve outlet.

supportare firmly in placeinthe I utlet

NOTE:Besuretheturbineand ' __;_;

port and observe the turbine valveoutlet. Blowinto the valve _ Ta_blsn:p;_[

for free rotation, t

• Push the b}pass vane (lubricate o4"ing seals with silicone g_'ease) into both ports of the valve as shown in Fig. 3%

• Snap the 2 lm'ge plasdc clips in place, fi'om the top, down as sho_m in Figures 3A ml(t 3B, Be sure they snap into place. Pull on the bypass valve to make sure it is held securely in place.

Z MOVETHESOFTENERASSEMBLYINTOINSTALLATIONPOSITION

Be sure file installation suriiJce is lexel and smoofll. Sharp objects under the rank ma)

ptxxlcttxre it. If needed, place tile tmlk on a section of 3/4" thick (minimum) pb'_)od.

Then, place shims under the pl)'_)od as needed to level the softener

3.PLUMB "IN" AND "OUT" PIPESTOAND FROMSOFTENER

Drain Fitting

Hg3B

SIDE VIEW

i-c--- Clip

O-ringseal goesinto

the outer grooveonly.

Theclip snapsintothe innergroove(seebelow).

Clip

Valvebody

inletor outlet

Bypassvalve

(pushall the way in)

Bypass valve

END

,&CAUTION:Obser.eall tle ca,.,,,lsas,o. o,nle.,lle anal

outlet phmlbing'. See illustrations on page 5. Fig.3C

• BE SURE INCOMING HARD WATER SUPPIX IS DIRECTED TO THE SOFTENER VA[YE INLET PORT. If house water flow is from the left, use a plumbing crossover as sho_m in Fig. 1, pag> 5. If house water flows up from tile

floor lexvl, ttxrn tile bypass valxe upside ctoxm as shoxm in Fig. 3C.

• If making a soldered copper installation, do all sweat soldering before connecting pipes to the bypass valve. Torch heat will dmnage plastic pm'ts.

• _'\]len turning threaded pipe fittings onto plastic fittings, use care not to cross-thread.

• Use piI)ejoint compound on all exmrnal pipe threads,

• Supl)ort inlet and outlet phmlbing in some manner (txse pipe hangers) to keep the

weight off of the valve fittings. Fig. 4[

4 CONNECTANDRUN THEVALVEDRAINHOSE

• Use file In'ovided drain hose (20' length included) to attach to the valxe drain fitting. To keep wamr presstxre ti'om blowing the hose oft; use a hose clamp to secure in place. Cut the necessm? length and use the remainder in Step 5.

• i z)cate the other end of the hose at a stfitable chain point (floor chain, sump, launch 3 tub, etc,) that mrminams at the sewex: Check and comply with local codes.

IMPORTANT'.If more drain h()se is needed, it should be orctexed from GE Parts at

800.626,2002, The water softener will not work if water cannot exit this hose during

recharge.

• Tie or wire the hose in place at the chain point. High water pressure will cause it to whip during the back-wash and thst rinse cycles of rechargv. Also provide an air gap of at least 1½" between the end of the hose and the drain point. An air gap pre_vnts possible siphoning of sewer water into the soflenex; if the sewer should "back-up."

• Elevating the chain hose ma) cause back pressure that could reduce the brine draw during rechaxge. If raising the chain line overhead is reqtfired to get to the drain point, measure the inlet water pressure to the softener first. For inlet pressures between 20 and 50 psi, do not raise higher dlan 8' abo_e the floox: For inlet

6' presstxre above 50 psi, the drain line ma) be raised to a maximmn height of 14'.

O_U connectto floor

Valvedrainhose

FLOORDRAIN

Turnbypassvalve

upsidedownto

levelplumbing

gap

#,4.CONNECTINGA RIGIDVALVEDRAINTUBE

To adapt a copper drain tube to the soiteneL use a hack_m to cut the barbed end fl'om the

drain fitting as shown in Fig. 4A. Rotale file drain fitting st) file cutting blade clears file xahe housing u) pre\ent damage to valve. But a compression fitting (1/4" fi:male pipe thread x l/2"

O.D. robe) and needed tubing fi'om p)ur It)cadhardware store.

5.INSTALLTHEBRINETANKOVERFLOWRT"I'INGSANDHOSE

• Insert tt/e rubber gxommet into tile 3/4" diameter hole in tile brine tank sidewall as sho_ql in

Fig. 5.

• Push the end of tile hose adapter elbow into tile gxonm/et as shown in Fig. 5.

• Attach a length of hose (use remaining hose Ii'om Stop 4) to the hose adapter e/bo_. Use a

hose clamp to hold it in place.

• I_ocam tile other end of the hose at the drain point. DO NOT ELEVATE this hose higher than

the elbowson tile bdne rank.

IMPORTANT:DONOTTEEOVERFLOWHOSETOVALVEDRAINHOSE.

NOTE:This drain is %I" safieff only. If the cabinet (brine rank) should o\er-Iill with watel; tile excess is carried m the drain.

6.INSTALLGROUNDINGCLAMP

If plumbing is metal, to maintain electrical gromld continuity in tile house cold water piping, iusmll tile included gTotmd clamp as sho_n ill Fig. 6.

• (;lean pipe with emery paper in the area _dmre the clamp is to be iusmlled.

• Install grounding clamps as shoxnl, making sure damps fit li'eely arotmd pipe.

• Make sure lock x<@mr is ill place.

• Handtighten scre_, then one more fll[Imrn with scre_ddver

NOTE:When repladng ml existing soltenel; also replace grounding clamps. If removing soltener completel b hard-plumb the water line with same t_pe of pipes as the

original to assure plumbing inmgrit} and ground confimlit_ over the lile of the home.

Z FLUSHPIPES,EXPELAIRFROMSOftENERANDTESTYOURINSTALLATIONFOR

WATERLEAKS

CAUTION:To avoid water or air pressure damage to softener inner parts, be sure

to do the following steps in exact order.

• Fully open 2 cold soft water faucets nearby the softener.

• Place bypass valve in "bypass" position by puslfing the stem inwaxd.

• Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff valve. Observe a steady flow from both faucets

opened in step A, above.

• Place bypass valve in the "service" position I_NACTLYas follows. I@'EP SO_3" WATER

FAUCETS OPFN. SLOWLY pull or slide the valve stem (out) towaxd the service position, pausing several times to

allow the softener to pressurize slowly.

• After about 3 minutes, open a HOT water faucet for 1 minute, or mlfil all air is expelled, then

dose. NOTE: If water appears cloudy or has salt}'"u_ste,allow to run for several more minutes, or until cleaI:

• Close all water faucets.

• Check your plumbing won for leaks and fix rigbt awayif any axe fomld. Be sure to observe

previous caution notes.

• Tunl on the gas or eledric supply to the water beater. Light the pilot, if applicable.

Fig4A

Bg5_

1/4" NPTthreads

1/2" O.D. coppertuhe (notfurnished

Cutbarbs fromdrain

fitting

-_@°mmet/i Donotconnectto

Compressionfitting, 1/4" NPTX 1/2" O.D.tube

(notfurnished)

££_,,-_ Hoseadapter

e--- Hoseclamp

] \\valve drainhose.

Overflow.i_&_ drainhose

I _ Tosewerdrain

Tovalveinlet

Fromvalveoutlet

8.ADD WATERANDSALTTOTHEBRINETANK

• LiR tile salt hole cove£ Add about 3 g'4llons of _<_terinto tile rank.

Do not add into the brineweg.

• Fig rank wifll NUGGET, PELI.ET or coarse SOI.AR wamr softener salt

with a purit_ of 99.5% or hi0_er Do not use rock, block, gramdated and ice cream-making salts, or salt with iron-removing additives

(except for Diamond (2I')rS_] _ Red"Out c'>brand salt). Maximum sdt

su)rage capacity is approximatel} 200 Ibs. Keep the salt hole co\er closed unless set\icing the unit or refilling with salt.

NOTE:Ifthe softener is installed ill a humid basement or other damp area, it is bettor m flUthe tank with less salt, more frequently. Eight} to 100 Ibs. of salt will last tor se\eral months, depending on _<_mr

hardness, fiunily size and water softening S}rSml_ modeh

9.CONNECTTOELECTRICALPOWER

• To gain access to the U'ausfbrmer/po_er cord assemb(v, remo_e the salt hole co\er fi'om tile softener. Undip the mt)s on the rear of tile top co\er and rotate the cover 11pwaYdstOremox e. DO NOT PUI 1_

OR DISCONNECT WIRING.

• The softener works on 94 xolta;(lHz electric powei: The included transf6rmer dmnges standard 120-xoltAC house power to 24 \oiLs.

Plug, the transformer into a 120-volt outlet only. Be sure tile outlet is alwa}s/i\e so it cannot be switched offb} mistake.

• Replace tile top cmer

• Replace tile salt hole cover

Step-by-step installation instructions.

Programming the Control

CONTROL SETTINGS REQUIRED upon installation and alter an extended power outage.

NOTES:

::Ji::X4_HEN THE T1L_tNSFORMER IS PI,UGGED INTO THE

EI,ECTRI(:AI, OUTI,ET, 12:00 PM (flashing), and PRESENT

TIME is displayed. Program tile control as instructed bel_m'.

If __--I_-- -is flashing, use tile Up • button to set tile correct model code as fi)llo_vs: S1_2 fin" GXSF27E. If wm

pass by tile correct code nmnbe_; use tile DOWN • i)utton. Then press the MODEbutton to accept the correct model.

_: A "beep" sounds while pressing buttons tor control

programming. One beep signals a change in the control display: Repeated beeps mean tile control will not accept

a change ti'om tile button you have pressed, and you should select another button.

::Ji::To program tile control, p)/i will tlse tile UP •, DOWN •

and MOOEbuttons.

_: Use the MODEbutton to select the desired control fimction.

SETPRESENT TIME OFDAY

I. Press tile MODEbutton until PRESENT

TIMEappeax_ in tile display.

2.Press Lrp • or DOWN • button to set.

The UP button ad\m_ces tile time; tile DOWN button inoves tile time in i'eveiNe.

If tile present time is between noon and midnight, be sure PM sho_vs in the display. If the present time is between

midnight and noon, be sure _] shows in tile display:

NOTE:Each press of an UP • or DOWN • button changes the time bv one minute. Holding the button changes the time

at a rapid rate.

3. \_]/en the present time is correct, press MODE to accept.

_PM

U.CO

I'JO

PRESeNT'ME

I !.-IF'_

v30

PRESENT_M_

SET WATERHARDNESS NUMBER

I. Pressthe MODEbutton until

HARDNESSappeax_in the display.

2. Press UP • or DO_VN • button to set your water hardness nmnber in tile display. DOWN decreases tile hardness xdue.

UP increases tile hardness xdue.

NOTE'Each press of a button changes tile 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 tile nulnbei_ at a rapid rate.

3. When the display sho_vs yore" water hardness (in grains per gallon), press MODEm accept.

NOTE."If there is dear water iron in your water supply, you will

need to increase the haacd_mss setting by 5 for each 1 ppm of

clear water iron in your water supply.

You cm_ get the grains per gallon (gpg) haacd_mss of your water

supply from a water m_aJysis laboratory. If you are on a

municipal supply, call your local water department. Or call

Legend Tecl_fical Services, an independent laboratory, to request a water haaxlness test kit at 1.800.826.8553, extension

47. If your report shows hamd_mss in parts per million (ppm) or milligrmns per liter (rag/l), shnply divide by 17.1 to get the

equivalent nmnber of grains per gallon.

SETRECHARGE(STARTING)TIME

I. Press the MODE button until l _£_E!IjRECHARGETIMEappea_ in tile display.

NOTE.'A flashing 2:00 _/I (ii_cto_y delimit)

shouM show in the display: This is a good time tot recharge to start (takes about 2 houi_) in most households because water

is not in use. HARD X_;_TER is b}passed to house tinlcets dm-ing rechmge.

If no chm_ge is needed, go to step 3. To change the rechmge starting time, tollow step 2.

2.Press UP • or DOX4'N • button to set tile desired rechaxge

start time. Be sure to observe tile f_dVIor PM as w)u did when setfng the time ot day,

NOTE.'Each press of a button changes tile time by l horn; Holding tile buttons in changes tile time at a rapid rate.

3. Press the MODE button to accept.

-_Hn

I-t

Optional Control Settings

The controller display has several options and teatures.

SYSTEM/ELECTRONICDIAGNOSTICS

This display contains s?'stem diagnostics infimnation to assist in troubleshooting n r-tr'f

problems with the _Ailtei" Sot_tenei: See 0B P page 15.

To access the Sysmm Diagnostics, press and hold the MODE

b/itton li)i" 3 seconds.

To return to the nomml displa 5 press the MODEbutton 2 times.

' blUU----

SALTEFFICIENCY

X._]mn the SALT EFFICIENCYflmmre is ON, the unit will operate at a salt efficiency ot at least 4000 grains of hardness removed

per l)otmd of salt. This mode of operation is the most efficient setting tot salt usage, because the system will tend to rechmge

more olten, with less salt usage. Turning the feature OFF will tend to lengthen the time between recharge cycles, which will provide the most eftident usage of water; but may use more

salt. The degree ot difli_rence between these two cycles is highly dependent on the water usage and hardness at a particular

insmllation. NOTE: Califi)rnia Regulations require this teature to be ON for

installations in Califiwnia. To access the Salt Eflicienc}; press and hold

the MODEbutton fin" 3 seconds. The System Diagnostics display will al)l)ea_:

Press the MODEbutton again and the Salt

Efficiency display will ai)i)em: To change the setting, press the UP • or

DOWN • buttons to toggle the leature ON or OFF. Press the MODE bumm to

accept.

i.................................OFF°']

ERRORSIGNALS

I r- n

]f there is an error code detected, the displa_ ] I-.7.I- I- U I

will flash Err to signal that the sottener L.............................................................................................................

requires se_Ti('e. See page 14 ti)r inflmnation m assist in troubleshooting

error codes. Once the problem is corrected, disconnect the transfom_er fi'om the wall outlet momentarily, and plug it back

in. The nomml display will apl)ea_: The motor may rim fin" several minutes, as the unit resets. If the problem is not

corrected, the error code will reappear in 6 minutes.

Step-by-step installation instructions.

Sanitizing Procedures

Tocomplete the installation, do the following

sanitizing procedures.

Care is taken at the factory to kee I) your water sotiener clean and sanitary: Materials

used to make the sotiener will not infect or contaminate vour water supply and will not

cause bacteria to t()i'ill OI" gI'oW, However, during shipping, storage, installing and

operating, bacteria could get into the softeuer. For this reason, sanitizing as

tollows is suggested when installing.

NOTE: Smfitizing is recommended by the

Water Quality Association for disinfecting.

I. Be sm'e to complete all installation steps,

including programming the control.

2. Pour about 3/4 oz. (1 ½ tablespoons) of common 5.25% unscented household bleach

(Clorox, I,inco, Be Peel), White Sail, Eagle,

etc.) into the brinewell. Refer to illustration on page 5.

3. IMPORTANT." Press and hold lot 3 seconds the taceplate RECHARGE@ button to start

an immediate recharge. RECHARGEbegins to flash in the displa> The bleach will be

drawn through the water softener, and out the drain. This process rakes approximately

2 hours.

4. If, after sanitization, water fl'om the house

fimcet tastes salty or has a slight col(n; this is a preservative ti'om the resin tank. Tm'n on

the cold sott water fimcets and drain tin" a tew minutes or until clear.

NOTE:When the sanitizing recharge is ovex, all remaining bleach is flushed from the

conditioner and veto" house COlD water supply is hilly soft im m ediatel> However, yam" water

heater is filled with hard water and as hot water is used, it will refill with soft water. When all the

hard water is replaced in the water heater, hot only and mixed hot and cold water will be hilly

soil If you want totally salt water imm ediatel> after the above recharge, drain the water heater

tmtil the water runs cold.

A WARNING:,,,,(),,dod,aiuthe

water heater, rise extreme care as the hot water could catlse burus. Turu the water

heater off prior to draining.

Specifications/Dimensions

Rated Cat)acity* 11,100 grains with 2.2 lbs. oI sah

23,700 grains with 7.0 lbs. of salt

28,900 grains widl 11.7 lbs. of salt Rated E/l]ciencv':* 5,070 grains!lb. @ 2.2 lbs. of salt Amotmt of tligh Cat)acity Resin (lbs!cu./1) 38.0/0.73 Resin Tank Nominal Size (in., dia. x heigh0 8 x 40 Service Flow Rate (gt)m) 6.5 \rater Supply Maximmn IIardness (gpg) {)5 \rater Supply Maximmn Clear Water Iron (t)pm)':** 4 \rater Pressure 15mils (min.-max. psi)**** 20-125 Pressure Drop at Rated Service Iqow (psig) 11 Water Temt)eratm:e limits (min.-max. OF) 40-120

Maximum Flow Rate to Drain (glint) 2.0

These b}btems con[oll// to NSFiANSI 44 for the specific capacity claims as xs.rified and substantiated b_ test data. * _l_sting was performed using pellet grade sadiron chlolide as the regene_ant salt.

** E_ciency rating is valid only at the lowest sta_d salt dosage. These softeners were e_cien(_ l_t_(1 acco_ling to

NSF/ANS144.

_'_"*: Extel/t of h'Oll rl.ml)\_ll ma} \_1 i_ith COllditil)ns. The _apa(ity to r(,t-hlce deal !_at(,l" ill)n is stlbstantiated 1)_

_'(_\ test data. State of Wis(onsin lequiles additional treatmellt if _att,r supply contains gl_atel" tha]l 5 ppm (lear watel iron. [se of Diamond (;i _tal _ Red-()/It _ o_ Stlper hen ()tit _ _dll implmv iron lenlo_al. Reler to

Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System section.

***:*: Canada _o_;ing p_ essm'e limits: ] .4-7.0 kg/tm _.

(;XSF27E

3 3/8"

,NLETOOTLET/°-\

477:"

411/4" .,_._ 16"--_,-

About the water softener system. GEAppliances.com

Service

When tile water softening s):stem is providing sott water, it is called "Service." During service,

hard water flows fl'om the house main water pipe into the water sottening system. Inside the

water sottening system resin tank is a bed made up of thousands of tiny; plastic resin beads. As

hard water passes through the bed, each bead attracts and holds tile hard minerals. This is

called ion-exchanging. ]t is much like a magnet attracting and holding metals. _hter without hard minerals (soft water) flows fl'om tile water

softening system and to the house pipes.

_Mter a period of time, tile resin beads become coated with hard minerals and they have to be

cleaned. This cleaning is called recharge. Recharge is started at 2:00 AM (Iactory setting)

by tile water softening system control, and consists of five stages or cycles. These are

FILL, BRINING, BRINE RINSE BACKWASH and FAST RINSE.

Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Recharge

For emexgency needs, hard water is awfilable to tile home dm'ing tile recharge cycles.

Fill

Salt dissolved in water is called brine. Brine is needed to clean tile hard minerals fl'om resin

beads. To make tile brine, water flows into tile salt storage area during tile fill stage.

However,youshouldavoid usingHOTwater becausethe water heater will fill with the

hardwater.

Backwash

Dm'ing backwash, water travels up through

the resin tank at a tast flow rate, flushing accumulated iron, dirt and sediments fl'om

tile resin bed and to tile drain.

Brining

During brining, brine travels from tile salt storage area into tile resin tank. Brine is tile

cleaning agent needed to remove hard minerals fl'om tile resin beads. Tile hard minerals and

brine are discharged to tile drain. The nozzle and venturi create a suction to

move the brine, maintaining a very slow rate to get the best resin cleaning with the least salt.

Brine Rinse

After a pre-measured amount of brine is used, the brine wdve closes. _'Ker continues to flow

in tile same path as dm'ing brining, except fin. tile discontinued brine flow. Hard minerals and

brine flush fl'om tile resin tank to tile drain.

Fast Rinse

Backwash is tollowed by a last flow of water down through the resin tank. The tast flow

flushes brine fl'om tile bottom of tile tank, and packs the resin bed.

_Mter thst rinse, tile water sottening system rettlrns to sott water selwice.

About the water softener system.

Breaking a Salt Bridge

Sometimes, a hard crest or salt bridge forn_s in the salt storage area. It is usually caused by high

humidity or the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges, an empty space torms between tile

water and salt. Then salt will not dissolve in the water to make brine.

If tile brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if wm have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top,

but the bridge is under it. The following is the best way to check tot a salt bridge.

Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of tile tank. Take a broom handle or like tool,

and carefully push it down into the salt, working it up and down. If tile tool strikes

a hard object (be s/tt'e it's not tile bottom or sides of the tank), it's most likely a salt bridge.

Carefltllv break the bridge with the tool. Do notpound on tile walls of tile tank.

If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out. Then fill the tank with nugget or pellet

salt only: In lmmid areas, it is best to fill with less salt, inore often to prevent a salt bridge fl'om limning.

Pushtool intosalt bridgeto break

Pencil

mark

Broom handle

bridge

Waterlevel

Cleaning the Nozzle and Venturi Assembly

A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the

water softening system to work properly. This

small trait makes tile suction to move brine fl'om tile salt storage area to tile resin tank

dm'ing recharge. If it becomes plugged with sand, dirt, etc., tile water softening s):stem

will not work and you will get hard water. To get to tile nozzle and venturi, remove

the water softening system top covet'. Be sure the water softening system is in service cycle

(no water pressure at nozzle and venturi).

Then, while holding the nozzle and venmri housing with one hand, remove tile cap. i,ifl

out tile screen sui)port and screen, then tile nozzle and venturi. Wash and rinse tile parts in

warm water tmtil clean. If needed, use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Also check and

clean the gasket. NOTE: Some models have a small flow plug

located in tile nozzle and venmri, and/or a small cone shaped screen in the housing.

Be sure to check and clean these parts, if vo m" model is so eq uiI)ped.

Carefltlly replace all parts in tile correct order. I,ightly lubricate the o-ring seal with clean

silicone grease or petroleum.jelly and place in position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only.

Do not overtighten the cap.

Cap

9/Screen

Nozzle& Venturi housing

IMPORTANT"Besuresmallholesin the gasketare centereddirectlyoverthe smallholesinthe nozzleand venturihousing.

*Install with numberedsideup,concavesidedown.

Normal Operation, Control Displays

During normal operation, tile present time of dav and AM or PM show in the control display

area. When tile demand comlmter determines a recharge is needed, RECHARGE TONIGHT

begins to flash in tile display ahmg with tile present time. RECHARGETONIGHTflashesuntil

tile next recharge start time, then changes to RECHARGE, which flashes until the recharge

is {)vex',

Feature: Optional Recharge Controls

Sometimes, a manually started recharge may be desired or needed. Two examples:

::_)::YOIX have txse(1 XlXOX'e wateI" than txstxal

(house guests, extra washing, etc.) and

VO/X may xxxxl otxt of sott water befi)l'e tile

next recharge.

_: Tile system ran o/xt of salt.

Use one of tile fl)llowing teatures to start a recharge immediately, or at the next preset

recharge start time,

GEAppliances.com

RECHARGETONIGHT

Toud/ (do not hold) tile RECHARGE @ button. RECHARGE TONlGHT flashes in tile control

display area. A recharge will occur at tile next preset recharge start time. If you decide to

cancel this recharge, touch tile same button

once XllOl'e.

RECHARGENO W

Press and hold tile RECHARGE 0 button until RECHARGE NOWstarts to flash in tile control

display area. Tile water sottening system begins an immediate recharge and, when ()vex"in

about two hours, you will have a new suI)ply of soft water. Once started, you cannot cancel this

rechaxge.

Feature: Memory

It electrical power to tile water soltening system is interrupted, tile control display is blank, and

tile blue indicator light is off; but tile control

keeps correct time fin" about 6 hours. When power is restored, you have to reset tile present

time only if tile display is flashing. All other settings are maintained and never require

resetting unless a change is desired.

If tile time is flashing after a long power outage, tile water softening system continues to work

as it should to provide you with sott watex: However, rechaxge may occm" at the wrong time

of day/mtil you reset tile control to tile correct tim e of (lay

Feature/Service: Automatic Electronic Diagnostics

Tile control computer has a sell=diagnostic flmction for tile electrical system (except

input power and water xl/etex'). Tile computer monitors tile electronic components and

circuits fin" correct operation. If a malflmction

OCC/XIN_ aXl ex'x'ox" code al)l)eax's ixl tile

control display.

Tile chart on Error Codes shows tile error codes that could appear and possible reasons fi)r each

code. See Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics

to flu'tiler isolate tile deflect.

About the water softener system.

Service: Electronic Demand Time Features and Service

ERRORCODEDISPLAYED ERR05 POSSIBLEDEFECT • Control

Toremove an error code:

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 tollowing visual checks.

VISUALCHECKS: I. Is there electrical power to the outlet the

water softening system transformer is

plugged into?

ERR01

• Motor inoperative

• Wiring harness or connection

to switch

• Positionswitch

• Control

Unplugtransformer

Z Correctdefect.

3.Plugtransformerin.

4. Waitfor at least6minutes.Theerror code will return if the reasonfor theerror codewas not corrected.

ERR02

•Position switch

• Control

ERR03

• Motor inoperative

orwiring harness

• Control

2. Is there sufticient salt in the storage tank?

3. Is the sottener bypass wove directing water

for sott water service?

4 Is the valve drain hose open to the drain,

not more than 8' above the sottener, and unobstructed? If hose is above 8', see page 6,

section 4.

If you do not find a problem with the visual checks, continue below

ERR04

•Position switch or wiring

harness

• Control

CONTROLSHOWS I Electricalpowerwasoff.

WRONGTIMEANDDAY, _ Resetthecorrecttimeof

AND/ORSFLASHNG. day.

CONTROL_ powerto control [ NEEDED DISPLAY (outlet,transformer, I POWEROKI___ I CONTROL

BLANK. powercable,all

CONTROLDISPLAYSHOWSI CORRECTTIMEANDDAY

AND SSTEADY

l Checkelectrical I__.C NOPOWER].__ REPAIRAS

connections). I DEFECTIVE

Domanual

diagnostics.

Investigatereasonfor I powerloss.

Domanual

diagnosticsto verifyproper

I functon.

Service: Manually Initiated Electronics Diagnostics

I. To enter diagnostics, press and hold the

MODE button until (000 --) shows in the

display.

A The fixst 3 digits indicate water meter

operation as fi)llo_:s:

_: 000 (steady) = soft water not in

use...no flow through the metei:

--OPEN A NEARBYSOFTWATERFAUCET--

?_:000 to 199 (continual) = repeats display fin" each

gallon of water passing through the Ineter

switch

..Sensor

l':neSitchesOR

Water Switch(B) Meter(A)

housing

GEAppliances.com

_._lfile in this diagnostic screen, the following infi)m_ation is available and may be benefidal for wuious reasons.

This inlom_afion is retained by the computer fl'om the fi_t time electrical power is applied to the control.

::Ji::Press and hold the UP button to display the mmg)er

of days this control has had electrical power applied.

?_:Press and hokl the DOWN button to display the

number cff regenerations initiated by this control since the SR code number was entered.

2. Press the MOOEbutton and hold in three

se('on(ls until a SelM('e ]_atino (-o(le_ 5R ' ''_| | appea_ in the display, f f

Forcorrect water softeningsystem operation,the modelcodemustbeSR22formodel GXSF27E.

Toreset the code, press the UP or DOWN button until the

COITeCt ntllIlbeF shows.

Valye-_ outlet

If you don't get a reading in the display; with fimcet open, pull the sensor fl'om the wflve outlet port. Pass

a small magnet back and fi)rth in front of the sensm:

You should get a reading in the displa> If you get a

reading, shut off' water suppl B tmhook the in and Grit plumbing and check the turbine fin" binding.

The letter (P) and dash (es) indicate POSITION switch operation. The letter appearing ineans the switch is closed; the dash means the switch is open. Use the

RECHARGE@ (RECHARGETONIGHT-RECHARGENOW)

button to manually ad\ance the valve into each cycle and check correct switch operation.

CORRECTSWITCH

DISPLAYS

VALVECYCLESTATUS

Valvein service,fill, brining,backwash orfast rinseposition.

Valverotatingfrom one positionto another

support

andshaft

3. Press the MODEbutton to return m the present time display, If the code was changed, make ALL the timer settings.

NOTE"It the c(>ntrol is left in a diagnostic display (>ra

flashing display when setting times or hardness, present time automatically retm'ns if a button is not pressed within fi)m"

minutes.

About the water softener system.

Service: Manually Advance Recharge Check

NOTE:The control display must show a steady

time (not flashing).

I. Press the RECHARGE @ button and hold in

fin" three seconds. RECHARGE NOWbegins to flash as tile water soDening system enters tile

fill cycle of recharge. Remove the brinewell cover and, using a flashlight, observe fill

water entering tile brine tank. If water does

not enter tile tank, look fl)r an obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug or brine tubing.

See Care and Cleaning of the Water Softener System section.

2.ADer obser\ing fill, press tile RECHARGE @

button to move tile water softening system into brining. A slow flow of water to the drain

will begin. Veritk' brine draw fl'om tile brine

tank by shining a flashlight into the brinewell and observing a noticeable drop in the liquid

level over an extended period of time.

NOTE: Be sm'e a salt bridge is not preventing water fl'om contacting salt. See Care and

cleaning of the water softening system section. If the water softening system does not draw brine,

check:

i_i' nozzle and/or venttlri dirty or deflective.

N defective nozzle and venmri seal. _: nozzle and venturi not seated propedy

on gasket.

_: other inner wdve defect (rotor seal, rotor

and disc, wave washe_; etc.).

::Ji::restricted drain (check drain fitting and

hose).

NOTE:If water system pressure is low, an

elevated drain hose may cause back pressure, stopping brine draw.

3.Again, press tile RECHARGE@ button to ino_,e

tile water soDening system into backwash. I,ook for a fhst flow of water fl'om tile drain

hose. A slow flow indicates a plugged top distributor, backwash flow i_lug or drain hose.

4. Press tile RECHARGE@ button to Inove tile

water soDening s):stem into tast rinse. Again

look for a tast drain flow. Allow the water soDening system to rinse for a few minutes

to flush out any brine that mav remain in the resin tank fl'om the brining cycle test.

5. To return tile water soDening system to

set\ice, press tile RECHARGE @ button.

Care and cleaning of the water softening system. CEappliancescem

Checking the Salt Storage Level and Refilfing

Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed fin" each and every recharge. Tile water for making brine is metered into tile salt storage area by

tile water softening system wflve and control.

However, you must keep the tank supplied

with salt.

When to refill with salt: Check tile salt level a

tew weeks after you install tile water softening system and periodically after that. Refill when

tile tank gets less than 1/3 flfll. In hmnid areas it is best to refill with less salt and more often,

to avoid torming a salt bridge (see page 12). Never allow the softening system to use all the

salt befi_re you refill it. X4]thout salt, you will soon have hard water.

Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System

Your water softening system takes hardness

minerals (calcimn and magnesimn) out of the water. Also, it can control some (see the

Specification Guidelinessection) "clear water"

iron. With clear water iron, water from a fimcet is clear when fi_t put into a glass. After 15 to

30 minutes, tile water begins to chmd or turn ItlSt colored. A water softening s):stem will not

remove any iron that makes tile water chmdv or rusty as it comes fl'om tile fimcet (called red

water iron). To take red water iron out of water;

or over tile IllaxiIlltlIll of clear watei" ii'on,

an iron filter or other equipment is needed.

Use clean water softening salts only; at least

99.5% pure. NUGGET, PEI,I,ET or coarse SOI,AR salts are recommended. Do not use rock,

block, granulated or ice cream making salts.

They contain dirt and sediments, or mush and cake, and will create maintenance problems.

A CAUTION:Waterso,teningsa,twith

ironremovingadditives:Some salts may have

an additive to hel I) tile water softening system handle iron in tile water SUl)l)ly.

Although this additive may hel I) to kee I) the water softening system resin clean, it may

also release corrosive tirades that weaken and shorten tile lift _ of some water softening

systeln parts. GE recomn/ends using only Dianmnd Crx:stal <': Red*O/W: brand salt.

IMPORTANT"It is important to mix tile resin bed

cleaner with water (tollowing tile manufacturer's instructions), pour it into tile brinewell tube

(see page 5) and recharge tile softener

immediately. Do not pour tile resin bed cleaner in with the salt, as it will not be as efli_cdve in

cleaning tile resin, and can catlse damage to tile softener if it is left in tile brine tank ,fi:,r an

extended period due to tile corrosive gases that are fl)rmed.

GE recommends using only Diamond Crystal '_ Red*Out e_brand salts with h'on Fighter '_

additive to hel I) kee I) the resin bed clean of clear iron. If vour water SUl)ply has clear water

iron, periodic resin bed cleaning is needed. GE reconllnends using Super Iron Out '_brand

resin bed cleaner to thoroughly clean veto" resin bed if veto" iron content is high. Clean tile bed at least every six months, or more

often if iron appears in tile soft water between cleanings.

Before you call for service...

Troubleshooting -tips Save time and money! Review the charts on the following pages first andyou may not need to carl

for service.

NO SOFF WATER--Most Common Problems:

Check the following before calling for service:

• Not enough salt--should be at least 1/3 fifll.

• Bypass valve in "Bypass" position--lmob should be in the "OUT" (service) position.

• Hardness setting mo low. Check hardness setting and adjust. Verify hardness of supply wamr fiom local wamr company, wamr test or call the (;E Answer Cenmr

• Salt Bridge--salt solidifies above wamr level so that brine wamr is not in contact with salt. See the Breaking a Salt Bridgesection.

Problem Possible Causes What To Do

No soft water Faucet or fixture where smnple was

taken not plumbed to soft water

NOTE"Be sure sample is from a faucet that does not mix soft and hard water.

For example, a single lever kitchen faucet, if the cold side is plumbed to hard water.

No salt in the brine taafl¢ or salt bridged

Transformer unplugged at wall outlet or power cable to softener not com_ected.

Fuse blown or circuit breaker popped on circuit to electrical outlet.

Electrical outlet on a circuit that can be switched off

Mmmal bypass valve ha bypass position " Be sure tile b)])ass xalxe stein is positioned propelty, with tile

Valve drain hose pinched, plugged, elevated too high or otherwise

restricted

" To couselwe salt, tile installer Ina) have isolated sonle fixtures

(outside timcets, toilets, etc.) fl'om soft _ter From the outlet of tile water sottening s}stem, trace tile water flow path, in house phunbiI_g. If sod water is not directed to a tilucet

or tixmre where wanted, consult a phunber

Check fin" a salt bridge oi, if tile tank is elnpt); refill with recoullneuded salt. Press (fi)r 3 secouds) tile RECHARGE

button to staxt an immediate recharge and restore sod water suppl}:

" Check fi)r a loss of electrical power to tile water soflelfing

system, due to any ot these conditions and correct as needed.

With tile power supply restored, observe tile ti_ceplate tilne

display and read Programmingthe Controlsection. NOTE:Theelectricaloutletfor thesoftenershouldbe continuously

liveso# cannotbe accidentally switched of_

knob in tile OUT position. Obserxe instrucfioi_s on tile decal at the end of the stein.

" An} restliction in this drain hose ma) prevellt proper

operation of tile nozzle aud xeutulJ aud reduce or prexent blJue draw duriug rechar ,e

Nozzle mid venturi dirty, incorrectly assembled or dmnaged

• Reter to Cleaningthe Nozzle and VentudAssemblyinstructions.

_]th water pressure to tile water sottelfiug s)'stem off', take tile nozzle assembly apart. Inspect, clean and replace as

needed. Any toreigu particle(s), scratches, nicks, etc., in the passages can preveI_t operatk)I_. Be sure holes in file gasket are

centered O\reI" holes in file housing,

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