GE GXSF30H02, GXSF30H01 Owner’s Manual

Safetg information ............. 2

installation Instructions ...s-12

Step-bg-step instructions ....... 6-12

Operating Instructions

Breaking a salt bridge ............. 1/4

Cleaning the nozzle and

venturi assemblg ................. 14

Features ......................... !5

Service .................... 13, 16-18

Water softener sgstem ........ 16-18

Care and Cleaning ............ 19

Troubleshooting Tips ...... 20-22

ge.com

Water Softening

Sgstem

Model GXSF30H

Sistema Suavizante

de Agua

Consumer Support

Consumer Support ....... Back Cover

Parts list/catalog .............. 23-26

Warrantg (U.S.) ................... 27

Warrantg (Canada) ............... 28

Sgstem tested and certified bg NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standard 44 for the chemical reduction claims specified on the performance data sheet.

Sistema probado g certificado par NSF International contra norma 44 de NSF!ANSI para las afirmaciones de reducci6n de los productos quimicos especificadas en la hoja de datos de

funcionamiento.

Mode!o GXSFgOH

La secci6n en espafiol empieza en la p_gina 29

Write the model and serial numbers here:

Model # Serial #

To find these numbers, lift the

cover and look on the rim below the control panel.

7283918 215Cl173P021

49-50177 06-06 JR

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

;i WARNING!

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

SAFETYPRECAUTIONS

::Ji::Check and complg with gour state and local codes.

You must follow these guidelines.

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

sgstem. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag or set on sharp protrusions.

?_:Water softening sgstems using sodium chloride

(salt) for recharge add sodium to the water.

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

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

?_:The water softening sgstem works on 24 volt-60 Hz

electrical power onlg. Be sure to use only the

included transformer.

iJi::Transformer must be plugged into an indoor

120 volt, grounded outlet onlg.

::Ji::Use clean water softening salts onlg, at least 99.5%

pure. NUGGET,PELLETor coarse SOLARsalts are recommended. Do not use rock, block, granulated

or ice cream making salts. Theg contain dirt and sediments, or mush and cake, and will create

maintenance problems.

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

unless servicing the unit or refilling with salt.

WARN ING: DOnot usewith water that

is microbiologicallg unsafe or of unknown qualitg without adequate disinfection before or after the

sgstem.

PROPERINSTALLATION

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

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

temperatures below freezing or exposed to ang tgpe of weather. Water freezing in the sgstem will

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

::Ji::Do not install in direct sunlight. Excessive sun or

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

?_:Properlg ground to conform with all governing

codes and ordinances.

!;_:Use onlg lead-free solder and flux for all

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

?_:Softener resins mag degrade in the presence of

chlorine above 2 ppm. If gou have chlorine in excess of this amount, gou mag experience reduced life

of the resin. In these conditions, gou mag wish to consider purchasing a GEpoint-of-entrg household

filtration sgstem with a chlorine reducing filter.

A WARNING: Discard all unused parts

and packaging material after installation. Small

parts remaining after the installation could be

a choke hazard.

Thewater softening sgstem requires a minimum water flow of three gallons per minute at the inlet.

Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125 psi. If dagtime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime pressure

mag exceed the maximum. Usea pressure reducing valve to reduce the flow if necessarg.

READAND FOLLOWTHISSAFETYINFORMATIONCAREFULLY.

SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS

nstructlons Model G×SF30H

iJns'a"a:ionIwaterso'tenin0systemI

I [_ Questions? Call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) or Visit our Website at: ge.com I

WARNING: Read entire manual. Failure to follow all guides and rules could cause personal

injurg or propertg damage.

• Check with gour state and/or local public works department for plumbing codes. You must follow their guides as gou install the Water Softening sgstem.

NOTE: Failure to complg with these installation instructions will void the product warrantg, and the installer will be responsible for ang service, repair or damages caused therebg.

BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION

Read these instructions completelg and carefullg.

• IMPORTANT - savetheseinstructions

for local inspector's use.

• IN PORTANT - Observeallgoverning

codes and ordinances.

• Note to Installer- Besure to leave these instructions with the Consumer.

• Note to Consumer- Keep these instructions for future reference.

• Proper installation is the responsibility of the installer.

• Product failure due to improper installation is not covered under the Warranty.

• A shutoff valve must be available or added near the installation point.

IMPORTANT INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS

• In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Plumbing Code 248 CMR shall be adhered to. Consult with your licensed plumber.

• Useonlg lead-free solder and flux for all sweat- solder connections, as required bg state and

federal codes.

IMPORTANT INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS (CONT.)

• Use care when handling the softener. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag or set on sharp protrusions.

Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125 psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime pressure may exceed the maximum. Use a pressure reducing valve if necessary. (Adding a pressure reducing valve may reduce the flow.)

The softener works on 24 volt-60 Hz electrical power onlg. Be sure to use the included

transformer. Be sure the electric outlet and transformer are in an inside location to protect

from moisture.

• See Where to Install the Softener section for more details.

AWARNI NG:Do not use with water

that is microbiologicall9 unsafe or of unknown qualitg without adequate disinfection before or after the system. The water should be tested

periodicallg to verify that the system is performing satisfactorily.

• Small parts remaining after the installation could be a choke hazard. Discard safelg.

• Connect the softener to the main water supplg 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°R

Installation Instructions

UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

Be sure to check the entire softener for ang shipping damage or parts loss. Also note damage to the shipping cartons. Contact the transportation compang for all damage and loss claims. The manufacturer is not responsible for damages

in transiL

Small parts needed to install the softener are packaged either in a bag or on a cardboard sheet. To avoid loss of the small parts, keep them packaged until gou are readg to use them. Be sure not to discard components hidden in packaging.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED

FOR INSTALLATION

• Pliers

Screwdriver

• Teflon tape

• Razor knife

Two adjustable wrenches

Additional tools may be required if modification to home plumbing is necessarg.

In and out fittings included with the softener are !" NPT male adapters. You should maintain the same, or larger, pipe size as the water supplg

pipe, up to the softener inlet and outlet. Then,

use the necessarg adapters to connect the water supplg to the !" NPT male adapters.

Use the included bgpass valve to install the softener. The bgpass valve allows gou to turn off water to the softener for servicing, but still have water in the house pipes. The NPT male adapters

referred to above connect to the bgpass valve with the included plastic clips.

WHERE TO INSTALL THE SOFTENER

Place the softener as close as possible to a sewer drain, or other acceptable drain point or standpipe.

It is recommended to keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft water and salt.

Do not install the softener in a place where it could freeze. Freeze damage is not covered bg the warrantg.

Do not install the softener where it would block access to the water heater or access to the main water shutoff.

Putthe softener in a place where water damage is least likelg to occur if a leak develops. The manufacturer will not repair or pag for water damage.

A &20-volt electric outlet is needed to plug in the included transformer. The softener has a !0-foot

power cable. If the outlet is remote (up to !00 feet), 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 unswitched to prevent accidental shutoff.

If installing in an outside location, gou must take the steps necessarg to assure the softener, installation plumbing, wiring, etc., are as well protected from the elements (sunlight, rain, wind,

heat, cold), contamination, vandalism, etc., as when installed indoors. Outdoor installation is

not recommended, and voids the warrantg. Keep the softener out of direct sunlight.

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

Use appropriate fitting/pipe material (i.e., copper, brass, galvanized or CPVC) to connect the !" NTP plastic adapters to the house plumbing.

If additional drain hose is needed for valve and salt tank drains, it can be ordered from GE Parts at 800.626.2002, part number WS07X!0004.

If a rigid valve drain is needed to complg with

plumbing codes, gou can bug the parts needed to connect a 1/2" copper tubing or plastic pipe drain. See Step 4.

Clean nugget or pellet water softener salt is

needed to fill the brine tank. See Step 8.

Installation Instructions

PLAN HOW YOU WILL INSTALL THE

SOFTENER

You must first decide how to run in and out pipes to the softener. Look at the house main water pipe at the point where gou will connect the softener.

Is the pipe soldered copper, glued plastic or

threaded galvanized2 What is the pipe size2

TYPICAL INSTALLATION ILLUSTRATION

-&WARNING: Use onlg lead-free solder and

flux to prevent lead poisoning.

See Typical Installation Illustration. Use this as a guide when planning gour particular installation. Be sure to direct the incoming hard water supplg to the softener valve inlet fitting. The valve is marked

IN and OUT.

OPTIONAL 3-VALVE BYPASS

INSTALLATION ILLUSTRATION

Hard water

Soft water

24V Hard

transformer Inlet water

120-volt valve outlet

to outside

Pip E faucets

Fig. 1

from the left. Include single

water

From

softener t

outlet

CROSSOVER

Use if water supply flows

or 3-valve bypass.

To softener inlet

Soft

water

Fig. 2

from the left. Include single

Hard--.................::i-_-T.

water

From

softener t outlet

CROSSOVER

Use if water supply flows

or 3-valve bypass.

?Tn_e_°ft ener

1" NPT male

"q_"'--add pter (2)

_, O-rings (2)

INLET Clips (2)

3-Valve Bgpass Sgstem For soft water

service:

• Open the inlet

For bypass hard

water:

• Close the inlet

• Open the

Soft

water

and outlet valves Close the

bypass valve

and outlet valves

bypass valve

Installation Instructions

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

• Turn off the gas or electric supplg to the water heater, in the possibilitg that the water heater mag be drained while draining pipes.

• Turn off the water supplg to pipes to be cut and drain the house water pipes.

• Open both hot and cold faucets at the lowest location possible.

NOTE: For easier installation, remove the top cover.

Release 2 clips at rear of cover. Rotate cover

forward and lift up.

I_1 INSTALL BYPASS VALVE

• Remove plastic shipping plug and wire from valve outlet.

"'_ Valve outlet

• _J support

NOTE: Be sure the turbine and support are firmlg in place in the valve outlet. Blow into the valve port

and observe the turbine for free rotation.

• Push the bgpass valve (lubricate o-ring seals with silicone grease) into both ports of the valve as

shown.

Clips __

Turbine

Turbine shaft and

:! Outlet . NPT

[_ MOVE THE SOFTENER ASSEMBLY

INTO INSTALLATION POSITION

Before sliding softener in position, be sure the installation surface is level and smooth. Sharp objects under the tank mag puncture it. If needed, place the tank on a section of 5/4" thick (minimum) plgwood. Then, place shims under the plgwood as

needed to level the softener. Slide softener into position.

Drain fitti K_ _clip

n_g_ I/ _ adapter _nlet --_-, _._ Bypass

O-rings_ '_ "'---valve

O-ring seal goes into the outer groove only. The clip snaps into the inner groove (see below).

• Snap the 2 large plastic clips in place, from the top down, as shown.

SIDE Clip VIEW END

VlEW

Valve bod, Bypass valve inlet or )ush all the wag in)

• Push the NPT adapters (lubricate o-ring seals with silicone grease) into both ports of the valve as shown.

• Snap the 2 large plastic clips in place, from the side, as shown. 6

Installation Instructions

131 PLUMB "IN" AND "OUT" PIPES

TO AND FROM SOFTENER

,CAUTION: Observe all of the following

cautions as gou connect inlet and outlet

plumbing. See Typical Installation Illustration.

• BE SUREINCOMING HARD WATER SUPPLY IS

DIRECTEDTO THE SOFTENER VALVE INLET PORT. If house water flow is from the left, use a

plumbing crossover as shown in Tgpical

Installation Illustration. If house water flows up

from the floor level, turn the bgpass valve upside down as shown.

Turn bypass valve upside

down to connect to

floor level plumbing

tOUT

• With the softener in place, determine the

correct length of piping required to connect the household plumbing to the NPT male adapter.

141 CONNECT AND RUN THE VALVE

DRAIN HOSE

Use the provided drain hose (20' length included) to attach to the valve drain fitting. To keep water pressure from blowing the hose off, use supplied spring clamp to secure in place. Cut the necessarg length and use the remainder in Step 5.

Locate the other end of the hose at a suitable drain point (floor drain, sump, laundrg tub, etc.)

that terminates at the sewer. Check and complg with local codes.

IMPORTANT: If more drain hose is needed, it should be ordered from GE Parts at 800.626,2002,

part number WS07X10004, The water softener will not work if water cannot exit this hose

during recharge.

• Tie or wire the hose in place at the drain point, High water pressure will cause it to whip during

the back-wash and fast rinse cgcles of recharge. Also provide an air gap of at least 1-112"

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."

• Remove softener from installation space.

• If making a soldered copper installation, do all sweat soldering before connecting pipes to the NPT adapters and bypass valve. Torch heat will damage plastic parts.

• When turning threaded pipe fittings onto plastic fittings, use care not to cross-thread.

• Use Teflon Tape on all external pipe threads.

• Support inlet and outlet plumbing in some manner (use pipe hangers) to keep the weight off of the valve fittings.

• Slide softener back into position.

• Make final connections to the bgpass valve and snap clips into place.

Be sure the clips for the bypass valve and NPT adapters snap into place. Pull on the bypass valve and NPT adapters to make sure the parts are held securely in place.

Installation Instructions

F_ CONNECT AND RUN THE VALVE

DRAIN HOSE (CONTJ

• Elevating the drain hose may cause back pressure that could reduce the brine draw during recharge. If raising the drain line overhead is required 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 than 8' above the floor. For inlet pressure above 50 psi, the drain line may be raised to a maximum height of 14'.

Blue indicator light

[_ INSTALL THE BRINE TANK

OVERFLOW FITTINGS AND HOSE

• Insert the rubber grommet into the 3/4" diameter hole in the brine tank sidewall as shown.

• Push the end of the hose adapter elbow into the

grommet us shown.

• Attach a length of hose (use remaining hose from

Step 4) to the hose adapter elbow. Use a hose clamp to hold it in place.

• Locate the other end of the hose at the drain point. DO NOT ELEVATEthis hose higher than the

elbow on the brine tank.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT TEE OVERFLOW HOSE TO VALVE DRAIN HOSE,

NOTE: This drain is for safety only. If the cabinet (brine tank) should over-fill with water, the excess is carried to the drain.

11½" air gap

FLOOR DRAIN

CONNECTING A RIGID VALVE DRAIN TUBE To adapt a copper drain tube to the softener, use

a hacksaw to cut the barbed end from the drain fitting as shown. Rotate the drain fitting so the

cutting blade clears the valve housing to prevent damage to valve. Bug a compression fitting (1/4" female pipe thread x 1/2" O.D. tube) and needed tubing from your local hardware store.

1/4" NPT

threads

7_t_/,,,_./ Barbs 1/2" O.D. copper

jj Hose

_y _----- adapter

___i Hose

_ t i clamp

Grommet II Do not connect

/I to valve drain

I \\hose.

Overflow ---_ drain hose _To acceptable

I "_drain

Cli_:-/€'p / tube (not provided)

Cut barbs from drain fitting

Compression fitting

1/4" NPT x 1/2" O.D.

tube (not provided)

Installation Instructions

16] INSTALL GROUNDING CLAMP

-ADANGER: Failure to properly attach

ground clamp could result in electrical shock.

If plumbing is metal, to maintain electrical ground continuity in the house cold water piping, install the included ground clamp as shown.

• Clean pipe with emery paper in the area where

the clamp is to be installed.

Install grounding clumps us shown, making sure clamps fit freely around pipe.

Make sure lock washer is in place. Hundtighten screw, then one more full turn with

screwdriver.

NOTE: When replacing an existing softener, also replace grounding clamps. If removing softener completely, hard-plumb the water line with same type of pipes as the original to assure plumbing integrity and ground continuity over the life of

the home. To valve inlet

171 FLUSH PIPES, EXPEL AIR FROM

SOFTENER AND TEST YOUR INSTALLATION FOR WATER

LEAKS ICONT.)

• Place bypass valve in the "service" position EXACTLY as follows. KEEP SOFT WATER FAUCETS

OPEN. SLOWLY pull or slide the valve stem tout) toward

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 until all air is expelled, then close. NOTE: If water appears cloudy or has salty

taste, allow to run for several more minutes, or until clear.

• Close all water faucets. Check your plumbing work for leaks and fix

right away if any are found. Be sure to observe previous caution notes.

Turn on the gas or electric supply to the water

heater. Light the pilot, if applicable.

Ground i clamp

From valve

outlet

171 FLUSH PIPES, EXPEL AIR FROM

SOFTENER AND TEST YOUR INSTALLATION FOR WATER LEAKS

-4,CAUTION: Toavoidwateror 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 pushing the stem inward.

I_ ADD WATER AND SALT TO THE

BRINE TANK

• Lift the salt hole cover. Add about 3 gallons of water into the tank. Do not add into the brinewell.

Fill tank with NUGGET, PELLET or coarse SOLAR

water softener salt with a purity of 99.5% or higher. Do not use rock, block, granulated and ice cream-making salts, or salt with iron-removing additives (except for Diamond Crystal ®Red•Out ® brand salt). Maximum salt storage capacity is approximately 200 Ibs. Keep the salt hole cover closed unless servicing the unit or refilling

with salt.

NOTE: If the softener is installed in a humid basement or other damp area, it is better to fill the

tank with less salt, more frequently. Eighty to 100 Ibs. of salt will last for several months, depending on water hardness, family size and water softening system model.

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

Installation Instructions

_] CONNECT TO ELECTRICAL POWER

To gain access to the transformer/power cord assemblg, remove the salt hole cover from the softener. Unclip the tabs on the rear of the top cover and rotate the cover upward to remove. DO NOT

PULL OR DISCONNECT WIRING.

• The softener works on 24 volt-60Hz electric power. The included transformer changes

standard !20-volt AC house power to 24 volts. Plug the transformer into a 120-volt outlet onlg.

Be sure the outlet is alwags live so it can not be

switched off bg mistake.

• Replace the top cover.

Replace the salt hole cover.

PROGRAMMING THE CONTROL

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

NOTES:

• WHEN THE TRANSFORMER IS PLUGGED INTO THE

ELECTRICALOUTLET, 12:00 PM (flashing), and

PRESENT TIME is displaged. Program the control as instructed below.

If -_ - - - ,s flashing, use the UP • button to set the correct model code as follows: F30 for

GXSF30H. If gou pass bg the correct code number, use the DOWN • button. Then press the MODE button to accept the correct model.

• A "beep" sounds while pressing buttons for control programming. One beep signals a change in the control displag. Repeated beeps mean the control will not accept a change from the button gou have pressed, and gou should select another button.

• To program the control, gou will use the UP •,

DOWN • and MODE buttons.

• Use the MODE button to select the desired control function.

SET PRESENT TIME OF DAY

Press the MODE button until

PRESENTTIME appears in the

displag.

Press UP • or DOWN • button to set. The UP button

I I 1.3C A_

advances the time; the DOWN

button moves the time in

L PRESENT TIME

reverse.

If the present time is between noon and midnight, be sure PMshows in the displag. If the present

time is between midnight and noon, be sure AM

shows in the displag. NOTE: Each press of an UP • or DOWN • button

changes the time bg one minute. Holding the button changes the time at a rapid rate.

When the present time is correct, press MODE to accept.

SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER

1. Press the MODE button until HARDNESS appears in the CIS

displag.

2. Press UP • or DOWN • button

to set gour water hardness number in the displag. DOWN decreases the hardness value.

UP increases the hardness value.

NOTE: Each press of a button changes the displag bg 1, between 1 and 25. Above 25, the displag changes 5 at a time (25, 30, 35, etc.). Holding a button in changes the numbers at a rapid rate.

1.1 tl

n.DO

PRESENT _ME

HARDNESS

Installation Instructions

SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER (CONT.)

3. When the displag shows gour water hardness (in grains per gallon), press MODE to accept.

NOTE: If there is clear water iron in your water supply, you will need to increase the hardness setting bg 5 for each 1 ppm ofclearwater iron in your water supply.

You can get the grains per gallon (gpg} hardness of your water supply from a water analysis laboratory. If you are on a municipal supply, call your local water department. Or call Legend

Technical Services, an independent laboratory,

to request a water hardness test kit at

1.800.949.8220, option 4. If your report shows

hardness in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (rag/I), simply divide by 17.1 to get the equivalent number of grains per gallon.

SET RECHARGE (STARTING) TIME

1.Press the MODE button until r

RECHARGE TIME appears in the / _-I.rll-I "M

d isplag, k................................._°;_i:u.............................

NOTE: A flashing 2:00 AM (factorg default) should show in the displag. This is a good time for recharge to start (takes about 2 hours)

in most households because water is not in use.

HARD WATER is bgpassed to house faucets during

recharge. If no change is needed, go to step 3. To change the

recharge starting time, follow step 2.

2. Press UP • or DOWN • button to set the desired

recharge start time. Be sure to observe the AM or PM as gou did when setting the time of dag.

NOTE: Each press of a button changes the time bg

1 hour. Holding the buttons in changes the time at

a rapid rate.

3. Press the MODE button to accept.

OPTIONAL CONTROL SETTINGS

The controller displag has several options and features.

SYSTEM/ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS This display contains system

diagnostics information to assist in troubleshooting problems with the Water Softener. See page 17.

To access the Sgstem Diagnostics, press and hold the MODE button for 3 seconds.

To return to the normal displag, press the MODE button 2 times.

SALT EFFICIENCY When the SALT EFFICIENCY feature is ON, the

unit will operate at a salt efficiencg of at least 4000 grains of hardness removed per pound of salt. This mode of operation is the most efficient setting for salt usage, because the sgstem will tend to recharge more often, with less salt usage. Turning the feature OFF will tend to lengthen the time between recharge cgcles, which will provide the most efficient usage of water, but nag use more salt. The degree of difference between these two cgcles is highlg dependent on the water usage and hardness at a particular installation.

NOTE: California Regulations require this feature to be ON for installations in California.

To access the Salt Efficiencg, press and hold the MODE button for 3 seconds. The Sgstem

Diagnostics displag will appear. Press the MODE button again and

the Salt Efficiencg displag will

appear.

To change the setting, press the

UP • or DOWN • buttons to toggle the feature

ON or OFK Press the MODE button to accept.

!_1 IJ LJ --

nnn P

LT,-,

NCC

urr

ERROR SIGNALS

If there is an error code detected,

the displag will flash Err to signal that the softener requires service.

See page Z6 for information to assist in troubleshooting error codes. Once the problem is corrected, disconnect the transformer from the wall outlet momentarilg, and plug it back in. The normal displag will appear. The motor mag

run for several minutes, as the unit resets. If the problem is not corrected, the error code will

reappear in 6 minutes.

Er rl] I

SANITIZING PROCEDURES

Installation Instructions

To complete the installation, do the following

sanitizing procedures. Care is taken at the factory to keep your water

softener clean and sanitary. Materials used to make the softener will not infect or contaminate your water supplg and will not cause bacteria to form or grow.

However, during shipping, storage, installation and operation, bacteria could get into the softener. For this reason, sanitizing as follows is suggested when installing.

NOTE: Sanitizing is recommended bg the Water Oualitg Association for disinfecting.

1. Be sure to complete all installation steps, including

programming the control.

2. Pour about 3/4 oz. (lY_ tablespoons) of common

5.25% unscented household bleach (Clorox, Linco, Bo Peep, White Sail, Eagle, etc.) into the brinewell.

Refer to illustration on page 5.

3. IMPORTANT: Press and hold for 3 seconds

the faceplate RECHARGE @ button to start an

immediate recharge. RECHARGE begins to flash in

the display. The bleach will be drawn through the

water softener, and out the drain. This process takes approximatelg 2 hours.

4. If, after sanitization, water from the house faucet tastes salty or has a slight color, this is a

preservative from the resin tank. Turn on the cold

soft water faucets and drain for a few minutes or

until clean

NOTE: When the sanitizing recharge is over, all remaining bleach is flushed from the conditioner and your house COLD water supply is fully soft immediatelg. However, your 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 fullg soft. If you want totallg soft water immediatelg, after the above recharge, drain the

water heater until the water runs cold.

ZI,WARNING:,fyoudodrainthewater

heater, use extreme care as the hot water could

cause burns. Turn the water heater off prior to draining.

SPECIFICATIONS/DIMENSIONS

GXSF30H

Rated Capacity* 11,800 grains with 2.3 Ibs. of salt

25,300 grains with 7.4 Ibs. of salt

50,200 grains with 12.5 Ibs. of salt Rated Efficiency** 5,120 grains/lb. @ 2.3 Ibs. of salt Amount of High Capacity Resin (Ibs/cu. ft) 40.6/0.78 Resin Tank Nominal Size {in., dia. x height) 8 x 40 Service Flow Rate (gpm) 7.5 Water Supply Haximum Hardness (gpg) 95 Water Supply Maximum Clear Water Iron (ppm)*** 7 Water Pressure Limits (min.-max. psi)**** 20-125 Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow (psig) 14 Water Temperature Limits (min.-max. °F) 40-120 Haximum Flow Rate to Drain (gpm) 2.0

This system conforms to NSF/ANS144 for the specific capacity claims as verified and substantiated bg test data * Testing was performed using pellet grade sodium chloride as the regenerant salt

** Effidencg rating is valid only at the lowest stated salt dosage This softener was effidencg rated according to

NSF/ANS144

*** Extent of iron removal may vary with conditions, The capadtg to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by WOA

test data, State of Wisconsin requires additional treatment if water supply contains greater than 5 ppm clear water

iron Use of Diamond Crystal ® Red,Out ® or Super Iron Out ®will improve iron removal Refer to Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System section,

**** Canada working pressure limits: 14-70 kg/cm 2

3%" I--

i..__ i I_u..I

INLET-

OUTLET

471A"

41 I/4"

About the water softener system, ge.com

Service

When the water softening system is providing soft water, it is called "Service." During service,

hard water flows from the house main water pipe into the water softening system. Inside the water

softening 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 the hard minerals. This is

called ion-exchanging. It is much like a magnet attracting and holding metals. Water without hard minerals (soft water) flows from the water

softening system and to the house pipes.

After a period of time, the resin beads become coated with hard minerals and theg have to be

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

by the water softening system control, and consists of five stages or cgcles. These are FILL,

BRINING, BRINE RINSE, BACKWASH and FAST RINSE.

Automatic Hard Water Bgpass During Recharge

For emergencg needs, hard water is available to the home during the recharge cgcles.

Fill

Salt dissolved in water is called brine. Brine is needed to clean the hard minerals from resin

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

However, gou should avoid using HOT water because the water heater will fill with the hard

water.

Backwash

During backwash, water travels up through the resin tank at a fast flow rate, flushing

accumulated iron, dirt and sediments from the resin bed and to the drain.

Brining

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

agent needed to remove hard minerals from the resin beads. The hard minerals and brine are

discharged to the 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 valve closes. Water continues to flow in

the same path as during brining, except for the discontinued brine flow. Hard minerals and brine

flush from the resin tank to the drain.

Fast Rinse

Backwash isfollowed by a fast flow of water dawn through the resin tank. The fast flow flushes brine from the bottom of the tank,

and packs the resin bed. After fast rinse, the water softening system

returns to soft water service.

About the water softener sgstem.

Breaking a Salt Bridge

Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the salt storage area. It is usuallu caused bu high

humidity or the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges, an empt Uspace 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 Uou have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top, but the bridge is under it. The following isthe best

wag to check for a salt bridge. Salt should be loose all the wag to the bottom of

the tank. Takea broom handle or like tool, and carefullu 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 likelu a salt bridge. Carefullu break the

bridge with the tool. Do not pound on the walls of the tank.

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

only. In humid areas, itis best to fill with less salt,

more often to prevent a salt bridge from forming.

Push tool into salt bridge to break

Pencil mark

Broom handle

bridge

Water level

Cleaning the Nozzle and Venturi Assemblg

A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the water softening system to work properly. This

small unit makes the suction to move brine from the salt storage area to the resin tank during

recharge. If it becomes plugged with sand, dirt, etc., the water softening sustem will not work

and Uouwill get hard water. To get to the nozzle and venturi, remove the

water softening sustem top cover. Be sure the water softening sustem is in service cgcle (no

water pressure at nozzle and venturi). Then, while

holding the nozzle and venturi housing with one

hand, remove the cap. Lift out the screen support and 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;Some models have a small flow plug

located in the nozzle and venturi, and/or a small cone shaped screen in the housing. Be sure to

check and clean these parts, if uour model is so equipped.

Carefullu replace all parts in the correct ordeE Lightlu lubricate the o-ring seal with clean

silicone grease or petroleum jellu and place in

position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only. Do not overtighten the cap.

Cap -_

O-ring seal _0

Screen --_._ @

support

Screen

*Flow plug _

Nozzle & __ _ Screen

Venturi _ _--

Gasket _v=_

plug

*Flow -_l__

Nozzle & Venturi

housing

IMPORTANT: Be sure smoll holes in the gasket are centered directlg over the small holes in the nozzle and venturi housing.

*Install with numbered side up, concove side down.

Normal Operation, Control Displays

During normal operation, the present time of day and AM or PM show in the control display area.

When the demand computer determines a recharge is needed, RECHARGE TONIGHT begins

to flash in the display along with the present time. RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes until the next

recharge start time, then changes to RECHARGE, which flashes until the recharge is over.

Feature: Optional Recharge Controls

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

::Ji::You have used more water than usual (house

guests, extra washing, etc.) and you mag run out of soft water before the next recharge.

!i::iThe sgstem ran out of salt. Use one of the following features to start a

recharge immediately, or at the next preset recharge start time.

ge.com

RECHARGE TONIGHT Touch (do not hold) the RECHARGE 0 button.

RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes in the control

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

this recharge, touch the same button once more.

RECHARGE NOW Press and hold the RECHARGE _ button until

RECHARGE NOW starts to flash in the control

display area. The water softening system begins an immediate recharge and, when over in about

two hours, you will have a new supply of soft water Once started, you cannot cancel this

recharge.

Feature: Memory

If electrical power to the water softening system is interrupted, the control display is blank, and

the blue indicator light is off, but the control keeps correct time for about 6 hours. When

power is restored, you have to reset the present time only if the display and blue indicator light

are flashing. All other settings are maintained and never require resetting unless a change is

desired.

If the time isflashing after a long power outage, the water softening sgstem continues to work as

it should to provide you with soft water. However, recharge may occur at the wrong time of day

until you reset the control to the correct time of day.

Feature/Service: Automatic Electronic Diagnostics

The control 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 control display.

The chart on Error Codes shows the error codes that could appear and possible reasons

for each code. See Monuollbl Initiated Electronics Diognostics to further isolate the defect.

About the water softener system.

Service: Electronic Demand Time Features and Service

ERRORCODE DISPLAYED ERR03 ERR04 ERR05

POSSIBLEDEFECT • Control

Toremove an error code: 1. Unplugtransformer.

ERR01

• Motor inoperative

• Wiring harness or

connection to switch

• Position switch

• Control

Z Correctdefect. & Plug transformer in.

4. Wait for ot leost 5 minutes. The error code will return if the reasonfor theerror code was not corrected.

ERR02

•Position switch

•Control

•Motor inoperative

or wiring harness

•Control

•Position switch or

wiring harness

• Control

Service: Timer/Softener, Service Checkout Procedure

If gou are not getting soft water, and an error code is not displaced, usethe procedures below

to find the problem. First make the following visual checks.

VISUAL CHECKS:

1.Is there electrical power to the outlet the water softening sgstem transformer is plugged into?

CONTROL SHOWS WRONG TIME AND DAY,AND/OR IS FLASHING.

Electricalpower was I Investigate reason for

off. Resetthe correct _ Ipower oss.

time of dag.

Checkelectrical power to control

CONTROL DISPLAY BLANK.

transformer,

.._ (outlet,

power cable,all connections).

"-_"C POWEROK--_- I CONTROL

Z Isthere sufficient salt in the storage tank?

3. Isthe softener bypass valve directing water for soft water service?

4. Is the valve drain hose open to the drain,

not more than 8' above the softener, and unobstructed? If hose is above 8', see

page 8, step 4.

tf bloudo not find a problem with the visual

checks, continue below.

INO POWERI.__. REPAIRAS

NEEDED

DEFECTIVE

diagnostics

Domanual

to verifg function.

i proper

CONTROL DISPLAY SHOWS CORRECTTIME

AND DAYAND IS

STEADY.

Domanual diagnostics.

Service: Manually Initiated Electronics Diagnostics

ge.com

1.To enter diagnostics, press and hold the MODE button until (000 - -) shows in the

Turbine Szjtches 1

displag.

A The first ] digits indicate water meter

operation asfollows:

Water Switch (B) Meter

::J_::000 (steady)= soft water not in

use_.noflow through the meter.

--OPEN A NEARBY SOFT WATER FAUCET--

::J_::000 to 199 (continual)=repeats display for each

gallon of water passing through the meter.

switch

Valve-_-

outlet

..Sensor

housing

and shaft

If you don't get a reading in the display, with faucet open, pullthe sensorfrom the valve outlet port. Pass

a small magnet back and forth in front of the sensor. Youshould get a reading in the display. If you get a

reading,shut off water supply,unhook the in and out plumbing and check the turbine for binding.

The letter (P)and dash(es)indicate POSITIONswitch

operation. Theletter appearing means the switch is closed;the dash means the switch isopen.Usethe

RECHARGE0 (RECHARGETONIGHT-RECHARGENOW) button to manually advance the valve into each cycle and

check correct switch operation.

(A)

pport

While in this diagnostic screen,the following information is available and may be beneficial for various reasons.This

information is retained by the computer from the first time electrical power isapplied to the control.

?_:Pressand hold the UP button to display the number

of days this control hashad electrical power applied.

?_:Pressand hold the DOWN button to display the

number of regenerations initiatedby this control sincethe SRcode number was entered.

2. Press the MODE button and hold in three seconds until a Service Rating code

appears in the displag,

For correct water softening system operation, the model code must be F30 for model

GXSF3OH,

To reset the code, press the UP or DOWN button until the correct number shows.

3, Press the MODE button to return to the present time displag,

If the code was changed, make ALL the timer settings.

NOTE: If the control is left in a diagnostic display or a

flashing display when setting times or hardness, present time automatically returns if a button is not pressed within four

minutes.

5 i'--EI-"/

I I

CORRECTSWITCH

DISPLAYS

-p

VALVECYCLESTATUS

Valvein service,fill,brining,backwash or fast rinse position.

Valverotating from one position to another

About the water softener system.

Service: Manuallg Advance Recharge Check

NOTE:The control display must show a steady

time (not flashing).

1. Pressthe RECHARGE@ button and hold in for three seconds. RECHARGENOW begins to 3.

flash as the water softening system enters the fill cycle of recharge. Remove the brinewell

cover and, using a flashlight, observe fill water entering the brine tank. If water does not enter

the tank, look for an obstructed nozzle, venturi, 4. fill flow plug or brine tubing. See Coreand

Cleaning of the Water Softener System section.

2. After observing fill, press the RECHARGE@

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

will begin. Verify brine draw from the 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 sure a salt bridge is not preventing water from contacting salt. SeeCore and

cleoning of the water softening system section.

If the water softening system does not draw brine, check:

::Ji::nozzle and/or venturi dirty or defective. ::J_::defective nozzle and venturi seal.

::Ji::nozzle and venturi not seated properly

on gasket.

::Ji::other inner valve defect {rotor seal, rotor and

disc, wave washer, etc.).

?_:restricted drain {check drain fitting and

hose).

NOTE:If water sgstem pressure is low, an elevated drain hose mag cause back pressure,

stopping brine draw.

Again, press the RECHARGE0 button to move the water softening sgstem into backwash.

Look for a fast flow of water from the drain hose. A slow flow indicates a plugged top

distributor, backwash flow plug or drain hose. Press the RECHARGE0 button to move the

water softening sgstem into fast rinse. Again look for a fast drain flow. Allow the water

softening sgstem to rinse for a few minutes to flush out ang brine that mag remain in

the resin tank from the brining cgcle test.

To return the water softening sgstem to

service, press the RECHARGE_ button.

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