GE GXSH45V, GXSH40V User Manual
Safety Information ............. 2
Specifications
and Performance Claims ........ 3
About the Softener .......... 4-6
Before you Start ............... 7
Installation Requirements .....8-10
Installation Instructions .......11-15
Programming the Softener . . . 16-21
SYSTEM
Care and Cleaning .........22, 23
Routine Maintenance .......... 24
Before you call for Service . . 25-28
Exploded View/Parts List ....31-34
Warranty (U.S.) ............... 35
Warranty (Canada) ........... 36
Systems tested and certified by NSF International
against NSF/ANSI Standard 44 for the chemical
reduction claims specified on page 3, and certified
to NSF/ANSI 372.
OWNER’S MANUAL
AND INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS
Model GXSH40V,
GXSH45V
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.
Systems Tested and Certified by the Water Quality
Association against CSA B483.1.
R
C
If you have any questions or concerns when installing or maintaining
your water softener, call our toll free number at 800-952-5039 (US)
or 866-777-7627 (Canada), or visit www.geappliances.com. When you
call, please be prepared to provide the model and serial number of your
product. This information can be found on the rating decal located on
the rim under the salt cover.
USA
WATER SOFTENING
GE is a trademark of the General Electric Company. Manufactured under trademark license.
7350854 49-50283-9 04-17 GEA
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed
WARNING
to minimize the risk of electric shock, property damage or
personal injury.
WARNING
A copper or galvanized cold water pipe may be
used to ground electrical outlets in the home.
Failure to maintain this ground path may result in
an electric shock hazard. If the cold water pipe
is used to ground electric outlets, please refer to
Installing the Ground Wire section before cutting
the pipe.
Check and comply with your state and local
codes. You must follow these guidelines.
Use care when handling the water softening
system. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag
or set on sharp protrusions.
Water softening systems 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 an alternative to sodium chloride in
your softener.
Use only lead-free solder and flux for all
sweat-solder connections, as required by
state and federal codes.
This water softening system must be properly
installed and located in accordance with the
installation instructions before it is used.
Keep the salt hole cover in place on the
softener unless servicing the unit or refilling
with salt.
In the state of California: You must turn
the Salt Efficiency Feature setting to ON.
This may initiate more frequent recharges.
However it will operate at 4,000 grains per
pound of salt or higher. To turn on the Salt
Efficiency Feature, follow the instructions in
the “Salt Saver” section of this manual
WARNING
with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of
unknown quality without adequate disinfection
before or after the system.
WARNING
unused parts and packaging material after
installation. Small parts remaining after the
installation could be a choke hazard.
The water softening system works on 24 volt-
electrical power only. Be sure to use
60 Hz
the included external power supply.
External power supply must be plugged into
an indoor 120 volt, grounded outlet only.
Use clean water softening salts only, at least
99.5% pure. NUGGET, PELLET or coarse
SOLAR salts are recommended. Do not use
rock, block, granulated or ice cream making
salts. These types of salts may contain dirt
and sediments that might mush or cake,
creating maintenance issues for the water
softener.
Avoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive
heat may cause distortion or other damage to
non-metallic parts.
If installing the water softener outdoors, do
not locate where it will be exposed to wet
weather, direct sunlight, extreme hot or cold
temperatures, or other forms of abuse.
In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
Plumbing Code 248 CMR shall be adhered
to. Consult with your licensed plumber.
Do not use
Discard all
READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
2
Specifications and Performance Claims
This model is efficiency rated. The efficiency rating is valid only at the minimum stated salt dose. The softener has
a demand initiated regeneration (D.I.R) feature that complies with specific performance specifications intended to
minimize the amount of regenerant brine and water used in its operation.
The softener has a rated salt efficiency of not less than 4,000 grains of total hardness exchange per pound of salt
(based on sodium chloride), and shall not deliver more salt than its listed rating or be operated at a sustained maximum
service flow rate greater than its listed rating. This softener has been proven to deliver soft water for at least ten
continuous minutes at the rated service flow rate. The rated salt efficiency is measured by laboratory test described
LQ16)$16,6WDQGDUG7KHVHWHVWVUHSUHVHQWWKHPD[LPXPSRVVLEOHHIILFLHQF\WKDWWKHV\VWHPFDQDFKLHYH
Operational efficiency is the actual efficiency after the system has been installed. It is typically less than the efficiency,
due to individual application factors including water hardness, water usage, and other contaminants that reduce the
softener’s capacity.
6SHFL¿FDWLRQV
Model GXSH40V GXSH45V
Rated Capacity* (Grains@ Salt Dose) 11,700 @ 2.3 lbs
31,500 @ 8.7 lbs.
40,000 @ 15.1 lbs.
5DWHG(I¿FLHQF\*UDLQV3RXQGRI6DOW#0LQLPXP6DOW'RVH 5,090 @ 2.3 lbs. 5,050 @ 2.6 lbs.
:DWHUXVHGGXULQJ5HJHQHUDWLRQJDOORQVJUDLQV
Total Water Used per Regeneration @ Maximum Salt Dose 37.0 gallons 43.0 gallons
$PRXQWRI+LJK&DSDFLW\,RQ([FKDQJH5HVLQOEFXIW
Resin Tank Nominal Size (in., dia. x height) 9 x 40 10 x 40
Service Flow Rate (gpm) 9.5 9.5
Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow (psig) 12.7 10.3
Water Supply Maximum Hardness (gpg) 110 160
Water Supply Maximum Clear Water Iron (ppm)*** 8 10
Water Pressure Limits (minimum-maximum psi)**** 20-125 20-125
Water Temperature Limits (minimum-max. °F) 40-120 40-120
Maximum Flow Rate to Drain (gpm) 2.3 2.3
13,200 @ 2.6 lbs
35,500 @ 9.9 lbs.
45,100 @ 17.0 lbs.
7KHVHV\VWHPVFRQIRUPWR16)$16,IRU
the specific capacity claims as verified and
substantiated by test data.
* Testing was performed using pellet grade
sodium chloride as the regenerant salt.
** Efficiency rating is valid only at the lowest
stated salt dosage. These softeners were
HIILFLHQF\UDWHGDFFRUGLQJWR16)$16,
*** Extent of iron removal may vary with
conditions. The capacity to reduce clear
water iron is substantiated by WQA test
data. State of Wisconsin requires additional
treatment if water supply contains greater than 5 ppm clear water iron. Refer to Cleaning Iron Out of the
Water Softening System section.
&DQDGDZRUNLQJSUHVVXUHOLPLWV±NJFP
Contaminant
Barium PJ/ PJ/
5DGLXP S&L/ S&L/
7HVWSDUDPHWHUVLQFOXGHS+ ÀRZUDWH JSP
and dynamic pressure = 35±5 psig
2
.
Performance Claims
,QÀXHQW
Challenge
Level
able Product Water
Maximum Allow-
Level
3
About the water softener system
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.
AUTOMATIC HARD WATER BYPASS
DURING RECHARGE
During recharge the water softener is
automatically put in bypass mode allowing hard
water to be available to the home. Once the
softener is recharged water is directed back
through the softener to be conditioned.
After a period of time, the 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 (factory setting)
by the water softening system control, and
consists of five stages or cycles. These are
FILL, BRINING, BRINE RINSE, BACKWASH
and FAST RINSE.
However, you should avoid using HOT water
because the water heater will fill with the
hard water.
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.
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.
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.
FAST RINSE
Backwash is followed by a fast flow of water
down 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.
4
About the water softener system
NORMAL OPERATION, CONTROL
DISPLAYS
During normal operation, the present time of
day and AM or PM and DAYS TO EMPTY
show in the control display area.
FEATURE: OPTIONAL RECHARGE
CONTROLS
Sometimes, a manually started recharge may
be desired or needed. Two examples:
You have used more water than usual (house
guests, extra washing, etc.) and you may run
out of soft water before the next recharge.
The system ran out of salt.
Use one of the following features to start a
recharge immediately, or at the next preset
recharge start time.
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 24 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.
The system will automatically recharge at the
preset recharge time as needed.
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Touch (do not hold) the RECHARGE 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.
If the time is flashing after a long power outage,
the water softening system 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 DIAGNOSIS
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.
5
About the water softener system
WATER CONDITION INFORMATION
IRON
Iron in water can cause stains on clothing
and plumbing fixtures. It can negatively affect
the taste of food,drinking water, and other
beverages. Iron in water is measured in parts
per million (ppm). The total* ppm of iron, and
type or types*, is determined by chemical
analysis. Four different types of iron in water
are:
Ferrous (clear water) iron
Ferric (red water) iron
Bacterial and organically bound iron
Colloidal and inorganically bound iron
(ferrous or ferric)
Ferrous (clear water) iron is soluble and
dissolves in water. This water softener will
reduce moderate amounts of this type of iron
(see specifications).**Ferrous (clear water)
iron is usually detected by taking a sample of
water in a clear bottle or glass. Immediately
after taking, the sample is clear. As the water
sample stands, it gradually clouds and turns
slightly yellow or brown as air oxidizes the iron.
This usually occurs in 15 to 30 minutes.
When using the softener to reduce Ferrous
(clear water) iron, add 5 grains to the hardness
setting fore very 1 ppm of Ferrous (clear water)
iron. See “Set Water Hardness Number”
section.
Ferric (red water), and bacterial and organically
bound irons are insoluble. This water softener
will not remove ferric or bacterial iron. This
iron is visible immediately when drawn from a
faucet because it has oxidized before reaching
the home. It appears as small cloudy yellow,
orange, or reddish suspended particles. After
the water stands for a period of time,the
particles settle to the bottom of the container.
Generally these irons are removed from water
by filtration. Chlorination is also recommended
for bacterial iron.
Colloidal and inorganically bound iron is of ferric
or ferrous form that will not filter or exchange
out of water. This water softener will not remove
colloidal iron. In some instances, treatment
may improve colloidal iron water. Colloidal iron
water usually has a yellow appearance when
drawn. After standing for several hours, the
color persists and the iron does not settle,but
remains suspended in the water.
SEDIMENT FILTER (BUILT IN)
Sediment is fine, foreign material particles
suspended in water. This material is most
often clay or silt. Extreme amounts of sediment
may give the water a cloudy appearance. The
built in sediment filter keeps larger particles
of sediment from entering the home plumbing
system. As water passes through the softener,
the larger sediment particles are collected in
the integrated basket and then rinsed to the
drain before each regeneration. The sediment
filter feature provides added protection for water
using appliances by reducing the chance of
larger particles entering the various products
valves and screens.
IMPORTANT: The sediment filter is not
intended to replace pretreatment filtration. For
problem water applications, additional sediment
filtration is recommended.
CHLORINE
S
oftener resins may degrade in the presence
of chlorine above 2 ppm. If you have chlorine
in excess of this amount, you may experience
reduced life of the resin. In these conditions, you
may wish to consider purchasing a GE point-ofentry household filtration system with a chlorine
reducing filter.
* Water may contain one or more of the four
types of iron and any combination of these.
Total iron is the sum of the contents.
** Capacity to reduce clear water iron is
substantiated by WQA test data.
6
Before you start
BEFORE YOU START
The water softener requires a minimum water flow of 3 gallons per minute at the inlet. 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). If your home is equipped with a back flow preventer, an
expansion tank must be installed in accordance with local codes and laws.
The water softener uses a direct plug-in external power supply (included). Be sure to use the
included power supply and plug it into a nominal 120V, 60 cycle household outlet that is in a
dry location only, grounded and properly protected by an over current device such as a circuit
breaker or fuse.
Do not use this system to treat water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without
adequate disinfection upstream or downstream of the system.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR INSTALLATION
Pliers
Screwdriver
Razor knife
Two adjustable wrenches
Teflon tape
INSPECT SHIPMENT
Make sure all the parts shown below are present. Additional parts must be purchased to complete
the installation.
Also inspect and note any damage to the shipping carton.
Remove and discard (or recycle) all packing materials. To avoid loss of small parts, we suggest you keep
the small parts in the parts bag until you are ready to use them.
Thoroughly check the water softener for possible shipping damage and parts loss.
Discard all unused parts and packaging material after installation.
WARNING
Small parts remaining after the installation could be a choke hazard.
2 fittings to connect household plumbing to 1”
NPT threads on softening adaptors.
Additional installation parts may be required:
• UL-approved grounding clamps and
6-gauge copper grounding wire.
NOTE: Failure to comply with these installation instructions will void the product warranty,
and the installer will be responsible for any service, repair or damages caused thereby.
Bypass Valve Drain Hose Clips
Hose Clamps Overflow
Adapter
Grommet O-rings
Installation
Adaptors
Silicone
Grease
7
Installation Requirements
LOCATION REQUIREMENTS
Consider all of the following when selecting an
installation location for the water softener.
Do not locate the water softener where
freezing temperatures occur. Do not
attempt to treat water over 120ºF. Freezing
temperatures or hot water damage voids
the warranty.
To condition all water in the home, install
the water softener close to the water supply
inlet, and upstream of all other plumbing
connections, except outside water pipes.
Outside faucets should remain on hard water
to avoid wasting conditioned water and salt.
A nearby drain is needed to carry away
regeneration discharge (drain) water. Use a
floor drain,laundry tub, sump, standpipe, or
other options(check your local codes). See
“Air Gap Requirements” and “Valve Drain
Requirements”sections.
The water softener uses a direct plug-in
external power supply (included). Be sure
to use the included power supply and plug
it into a nominal 120V, 60 cycle household
outlet that is in a dry location only, grounded
and properly protected by an over current
device such as a circuit breaker or fuse.
Always install the water softener between
the water inlet and water heater. Any other
installed water conditioning equipment should
be installed between the water inlet and
water softener (See Figure below).
If installing the water softener outdoors, do
not locate where it will be exposed to wet
weather, direct sunlight, extreme hot or cold
temperatures, or other forms of abuse.
PROPER ORDER TO INSTALL WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT
Untreated Water to
Cold Water to House
Hot Water to House
Outside Faucets
DO NOT RUN HOT WATER THROUGH THE
SOFTENER. Temperature of water passing
through the softener must be less than 120° F.
Avoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive sun
heat may cause distortion or other damage to
non-metallic parts.
When installing in an outside location you
must take steps necessary to assure the
softener, installation plumbing and wiring, are
protected from the elements, direct sunlight,
contaminantion, vandalism, insects, vermin, etc.
Do not install the softener where it would block
access to the water heater or access to the
main water shutoff.
DIMENSIONS
IN
3-3/4"
OUT
IN - OUT
41-1/2"
Optional
Sediment
Filter
22-7/16"
TOP VIEW
City Water Supply
Shut off
valve
Pressure
Tank
OR
14-7/16"
47-5/8"
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
Water
Heater
Water
Softener
Well Water Supply
Well
Pump
8
Installation Requirements
PLUMBING CODES
All plumbing must be completed in accordance
with national, state and local plumbing codes.
In the state of Massachusetts: The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts plumbing
code 248-CMR shall be adhered to. A licensed
plumber shall be used for this installation.
AIR GAP REQUIREMENTS
A drain is needed for regeneration water (See
Figure 1). A floor drain, close to the water
softener, is preferred. A laundry tub, standpipe,
etc. are other drain options. Secure valve
GUDLQKRVHLQSODFH/HDYHDQDLUJDSRI´
between the end of the hose and the drain.
This gap is needed to prevent back flow of
sewer water into the water softener. Do not put
the end of the drain hose into the drain.
´
air gap
FLOOR
DRAIN
Drain
Hose
´
air gap
STANDPIPE LAUNDRY
Drain
Hose
TUB
Drain
Hose
´
air gap
Figure 1
VALVE DRAIN REQUIREMENTS
Using the flexible drain hose (included) (see
Figure 2), measure and cut to the length
needed. Flexible drain hose is not allowed in
all localities (check your plumbing codes). If
local codes do not allow use of a flexible drain
hose, a rigid valve drain run must be used.
3XUFKDVHDFRPSUHVVLRQILWWLQJ137[
LQPLQLPXPWXEHDQG´WXELQJIURP\RXU
local hardware store. Plumb a rigid drain as
needed (See Figure 3).
NOTE: Avoid drain hose runs longer than 30
feet. Avoid elevating the hose more than 8 feet
above the floor. Make the valve drain line as
short and direct as possible.
FLEXIBLE DRAIN LINE
´1377KUHDG
%DUEVIRU
Drain hose adapter
Ǝ
I.D. tubing
Hose clamp
Drain hose
Figure 2
RIGID DRAIN LINE
Compression fitting
Clip
Ǝ NPT thread
Barbs
137[Ǝ2'
tube (not provided)
Cut barbs from valve drain
elbow (pull clip and remove
drain valve elbow from valve)
9
ƎRXWVLGH
diameter
copper tube
(not provided)
Figure 3
Installation Requirements
INLET/OUTLET PLUMBING
REQUIREMENTS
Always install either a single bypass valve
(provided),as shown in Figure 4, or, if desired,
parts for a 3 valve bypass system (not included)
can be purchased and assembled, as shown in
Figure 5. Bypass valves allow you to turn off
water to the softener for maintenance if needed,
but still have water in house pipes.
3LSHILWWLQJVPXVWEH´PLQLPXP
Use:
Copper pipe
Threaded pipe
PEX (Crosslinked Polyethylene) pipe
CPVC plastic pipe
Other pipe approved for use with potable
water
IMPORTANT: Do not solder with plumbing
attached to installation adaptors and single
bypass valve. Soldering heat will damage the
adaptors and valve.
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE
Pull out for “Service”
(Soft water)
Push in for
“Bypass”
Installation
adaptors
Figure 4
3-VALVE BYPASS SYSTEM
For soft water service: Open the inlet and
outlet valves and close the bypass valve.
For bypass hard water: Close the inlet and
outlet valves and open the bypass valve.
3 VALVE BYPASS
Bypass
Valve
Outlet
Valve
From Water
Softener
To Water
Softener
Inlet
Valve
Figure 5
WARNING
A copper or galvanized cold water pipe may be
used to ground electrical outlets in the home.
Failure to maintain this ground path may result in
an electric shock hazard. If the cold water pipe
is used to ground electric outlets, please refer to
Installing the Ground Wire section before cutting
the pipe.
10
Installation Instructions
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
Hard Water
to Outside
Faucets
IncomingHard Water
Plug-in
Transformer
To
Controller
Drain Hose
Adapter
Valve Drain
Hose*
Brine Tank
(Salt Storage)
*Do not connect the water
softener valve drain hose to
the brine tank overflow
Clamp
(not included)
Top
Cover
Figure 6
Overflow
Adapter
Floor Drain
Ground Wire
(not included)
Conditioned
Water
Main Water Pipe
Ground Clamp
Bypass Valve
Assembly
Inlet
Brine Tank
Overflow Hose*
Lubricated
O-ring
Secure Valve Drain
Hose in place over Floor
Drain
´
air gap
Clips
Outlet
Clips
NOTE: See “Air Gap Requirements”
section.
Figure 7
Pipe
1” NPTF Sweat
Adaptor (not
included)
1” NPTM
Threaded
Adaptor
O-ring
Single By-
pass Valve
• Remove plastic shipping plug and wire from valve outlet.
Turbine
Valve outlet
Plastic shipping plug
Turbine shaft and support
Figure 8
NOTE: Be sure the turbine and support are firmly in place
in the valve outlet. Blow into the valve port and observe the
turbine for free rotation.
11
Installation Instructions
TURN OFF WATER SUPPLY
1. Close the main water supply valve, located
near the well pump or water meter.
2. Open all faucets to drain all water from
house pipes.
NOTE: Be sure not to drain water from the
water heater, as damage to the water heater
elements could result.
INSTALL THE BRINE TANK OVERFLOW
ADAPTER
Install the brine tank overflow grommet and
DGDSWHULQWKH´GLDPHWHUKROHLQWKHEDFN
of the salt storage tank sidewall, (see Figure 9).
NOTE: The brine tank overflow adapter accepts
HLWKHU´RU´,'KRVH.
INSTALL THE BYPASS VALVE
NOTE: For easier installation, remove the top
cover. Release 2 clips at rear of cover. Rotate
cover forward and lift up.
1. Remove two clips from the water softener
valve inlet and outlet ports and visually check
and remove any debris, (see Figure 7).
2. Make sure the turbine assembly spins freely
in the”out” port of the valve, (see Figure 8).
3. If not already done, put a light coating of
silicone grease (provided) on the single
bypass valve o-rings, (see Figure 7).
4. Push the single bypass valve into the
softener valve as far as it will go. Snap the
two large holding clips into place, from the
top down, (see Figure 7 and 10).
IMPORTANT: Be sure the clips snap firmly into
place so the single bypass valve will not pull
out.
MOVE THE WATER SOFTENER INTO
PLACE
WARNING
Excessive Weight Hazard
Use two or more people to move and
install water Softener Failure to do so
can result in back or other injury.
1. Move the water softener into the desired
location. Set it on a solid, level surface.
IMPORTANT: Do not place shims directly
under the salt storage tank to level the softener.
The weight of the tank, when full of water and
salt, may cause the tank to fracture at the shim.
Salt
Cover
Brinewell
Cover
Brine
Tank
Stand
Tube
Brine
Valve
Assembly
Nozzle Venturi
Nut - Ferrule
Brinewell
Float Stem
Figure 9
Note: Unit is shown with top cover
removed.
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE
If connecting to floor
level plumbing, install
the bypass valve turned
downward, as shown.
CORRECT ASSEMBLY
Clip
Outside diameter of
water softener valve
inlet & outlet
Outside diameter
of clip channel on
single bypass valve
Figure 10
NOTE: Be sure all 3 tabs of the clip go through the
matching holes on the water softener valve inlet or outlet, and fully into the channel on the single bypass valve.
Make sure that the tabs are fully seated.
12
Assembly
Hole
Grommet
Brine Tank
Overflow
Adapter
Brine
Tubing
Installation Instructions
COMPLETE INLET AND OUTLET
PLUMBING
A copper or
WARNING
be used to ground electrical outlets in the home.
Failure to maintain this ground path may result in an
electric shock hazard. If the cold water pipe is used to
ground electric outlets, please refer to Installing the
Ground Wire section before cutting the pipe.
IMPORTANT: This water softener has a nonmetallic valve system. Installing it on metal
plumbing will break electrical continuity, which
may interrupt grounding for the home. You must
restore electrical continuity in your metal plumbing
system.
If you install a 3-valve bypass system (Figure 5),
electrical continuity will be maintained. If you
install the non-metallic bypass valve (Figure 11),
please refer to the Installing the Ground Wire
section before cutting the pipe.
galvanized cold
water pipe may
Figure 11
Measure, cut, and loosely assemble pipe and
fittings from the main water pipe to the inlet and
outlet ports of the water softener valve. Be sure to
keep fittings fully together, and pipes squared and
straight.
BE SURE INCOMING HARD WATER SUPPLY IS
DIRECTED TO THE SOFTENER VALVE INLET
PORT.
NOTE: Inlet and outlet are marked on the water
softener valve. Trace the water flow direction to
be sure hard water is to inlet.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to fit, align and support
all plumbing to prevent putting stress on the
water softener valve inlet and outlet. Stress from
misaligned or unsupported plumbing may cause
damage to the valve.
• 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.
13
If solder is
WARNING
connection use only lead free solder and
flux to prevent lead poisoning.
• When turning threaded pipe fittings onto
plastic fittings, use care not to cross-thread.
• Use Teflon Tape on all external pipe threads.
Complete the inlet and outlet plumbing for the
type of pipe you will be using. Secure ground
clamp to metal pipes.
used to make
pipe
INSTALLING THE GROUND WIRE
NOTE: If your house plumbing is plastic, it
would not be used as a grounding path, and
this step should be skipped.
IMPORTANT: A copper or galvanized cold water
pipe is often used to ground electrical outlets
in the home. Grounding protects you from
electrical shock. The water softener may have
broken this ground path. To restore connection,
install a 12”-long, 6-gauge copper wire across and
WLJKWO\FODPSXVLQJ8/DSSURYHG´±´EURQ]H
grounding clamps at both ends as shown (Figure
12). Zinc clamps should not be used on copper
plumbing. Wire and clamps may be purchased
separately from your local hardware store.
1. Clean copper pipe and ends of wire with
emery paper. Bare wire is recommended. If
insulated wire is used, is should be stripped
´DWHDFKHQGEHIRUHFOHDQLQJZLWKHPHU\
paper.
2. Attach bronze clamps to pipe. Tighten
screws.
3. Attach to clamps as shown. Tighten screws.
Ground Wire
Clamp (2)
Figure 12
NOTE: If you are installing a sediment filter or
other item(s) into the plumbing system, along
with the water softener, be sure to restore
electrical continuity across all removed metal
pipe sections.
Installation Instructions
INSTALL VALVE DRAIN HOSE
0HDVXUHDQGFRQQHFWWKH´GUDLQOLQH
(provided) to the water softener valve drain
fitting. Use a hose clamp to hold the hose in
place.
NOTE: Avoid drain hose runs longer than 30
feet. Avoid elevating the hose more than 8 feet
above the floor. Make the valve drain line as
short and direct as possible.
IMPORTANT: If codes require a rigid drain line
see“Valve Drain requirements” section.
2. Route the drain hose or copper tubing
to the floor drain or other suitable drain
point. Secure drain hose. This will prevent
“whipping’’ during regenerations. See “Air
Gap Requirements” section (Figure 1).
3. Cut and secure the hose.
NOTE: The softener will not work if the water
cannot exit the drain hose during recharge.
INSTALL BRINE TANK (SALT
STORAGE) OVERFlOW HOSE
1. Measure, cut to needed length and connect
WKH´GUDLQOLQHSURYLGHGWRWKHVDOW
storage tank overflow elbow and secure in
place with a hose clamp.
2. Route the hose to the floor drain, or other
suitable drain point no higher than the drain
fitting on the salt storage tank (This is a
gravity drain). If the tank overfills with water,
the excess water flows to the drain point.
Cut the drain line to the desired length and
route it neatly out of the way.
IMPORTANT: For proper operation of the water
softener, do not connect the water softener valve
drain tubing to the salt storage tank overflow hose.
TEST FOR LEAKS
To prevent air pressure in the water softener
and plumbing system, complete the following
steps in order:
1. Fully open two or more softened cold water
faucets close to the water softener, located
down stream from the water softener.
2. Place the bypass valve (single or 3 valve)
into
the”bypass” position (see Figures 4 or 5).
3. Slowly open the main water supply valve.
Run water until there is a steady flow from
the opened faucets, with no air bubbles.
4. Place bypass valve(s) in “service” or soft
water position as follows:
• Single bypass valve (Figure 4): Slowly
move the valve stem toward “service,”
pausing several times to allow the water
softener to fill with water.
• 3 valve bypass (Figure 5): Fully close the
bypass valve and open the outlet valve.
Slowly open the inlet valve, pausing
several times to allow the water softener to
fill with water.
5. After about three minutes, open a hot water
faucet until there is a steady flow and there
are no air bubbles, then close this faucet.
6. Close all cold water faucets and check for
leaks at the plumbing connections that you
made.
7. Check for leaks around clips at softener’s
inlet and outlet. If a leak occurs at a clip,
depressurize the plumbing (turn off the water
supply and open faucets) before removing
clip. When removing clips at the softener’s
inlet or outlet, push the single bypass valve
body toward the softener (See Figure 14).
Improper removal may damage clips. Do not
reinstall damaged clips.
If removing
clips.....
14
Figure 14
....depressurize the
plumbing, then push
Bypass Valve body
toward softener
Installation Instructions
ADD WATER AND SALT TO THE SALT
STORAGE TANK
WARNING
EXCESSIVE WEIGHT HAZARD:
Use two or more people to move and lift salt
bags. Failure to do so can result in back or
other injuries.
1. Using a container, add about three gallons
of clean water into the salt storage tank.
2. Add salt to the storage tank. Use nugget,
pellet or coarse solar salts with less than 1%
impurities.
PLUG IN THE WATER SOFTENER
1. Plug the water softener into an electrical
outlet that is not controlled by a switch.
2. Replace the top cover.
3. Replace the salt hole cover.
NOTE: The water heater is filled with hard
water and,as hot water is used, it will refill
with conditioned water. In a few days, the hot
water will be fully conditioned. To have fully
conditioned hot water immediately, wait until the
initial recharge is over. Then, drain the water
heater(following instructions for water heater)
until water runs cold.
SANITIZE THE WATER SOFTENER /
SANITIZE AFTER SERVICE
1. Open salt hole cover, remove the brinewell
cover and pour about 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of
household bleach into the softener brinewell.
Replace the brinewell cover.
2. Make sure the bypass valve(s) is in the
“service”(open) position.
3. Start a recharge (regeneration). See “Start a
Recharge”on Page 17.
4. After the recharge has completed, fully open
a cold water faucet, downstream from the
softener, and allow 50 gallons of water to pass
through the system. This should take at least
20 minutes. Close the faucet.
WARNING
Discard all unused parts and packaging
material after installation. Small parts
remaining after the installation could be a
choke hazard.
15
Programming the Water Softener
When the transformer is plugged into the
electrical outlet, a model code and test number
(example: J3.4 & H45) are shown in the
display. Then, “12:00 PM” begins to flash. An
arrow
face plate decal.
is displayed next to CLOCK on the
CONTROL OPERATION:
• CONTROL SETTINGS REQUIRED upon
initial installation and after an extended power
outage.
• Use the MODE/SET button to scroll arrow to
desired control function set.
• After the mode is selected use the UP
DOWN
the control.
• Press the MODE/SET button to accept
changes.
• A “beep” sounds while pressing buttons for
control programming. One beep signals a
change in the control display. Repeated
beeps mean the control will not accept a
change from the button you have pressed,
and you should select another button.
buttons to change the settings of
and
SET TIME OF DAY
1. Press MODE/SET button until the arrow
points to CLOCK.
2. Press the UP
to set the present time. UP
display ahead; DOWN
back. Be sure AM and PM is correct.
NOTE: Press buttons and quickly release
to slowly advance the display one number
at a time. Hold the buttons down for fast
advance.
3. When the correct time is shown in the
display, press MODE/SET to accept.
or DOWN buttons
sets the time
Salt Level
Clock
Hardness
Recharge
moves the
PM
16
Programming the Water Softener
SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER
1. Press the MODE/SET button until the arrow
points to HARDNESS. A flashing 25 will
appear in the display.
Salt Level
Clock
Hardness
Recharge
2. Press the UP
set your water hardness number.
NOTE: If your water supply contains iron,
compensate for it by adding to the water
hardness number. For example, assume
your water is 20 gpg hard and contains 2
ppm iron. Add 5 to the hardness number
for each 1 ppm or iron. In this example, you
would use 30 for your hardness number.
20 gpg hardness
2 ppm iron x 5 = 10 +10
(times) 30 HARDNESS NUMBER
3. When the display shows your water
hardness
(in grains per gallon), press MODE/SET to
accept.
or DOWN buttons to
SET RECHARGE (STARTING) TIME
1. Press the MODE/SET button until the arrow
points to RECHARGE.
Salt Level
Clock
Hardness
Recharge
NOTE: A flashing 2:00 AM (factory default)
should show in the display. 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 bypassed 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
the desired recharge start time. Be sure
to observe the AM or PM as you did when
setting the time of day.
3. Press the MODE/SET button to accept.
AM
button to set
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 (mg/l), simply divide
by 17.1 to get the equivalent number of
grains per gallon.
17
Programming the Water Softener
SET SALT LEVEL
1. Press the MODE/SET button until the arrow
points to SALT LEVEL.
Salt Level
Clock
Hardness
Recharge
2. Determine level of salt in brine tank using the
numbered scale on side of brine well, inside
brine tank (see Figure 15).
3. Press UP
or DOWN
SALT LEVEL to correspond to level on the
button to set the
numbered scale in brine tank.
Salt Level
Clock
Hardness
Recharge
NOTE: Each press of a button changes the
level by increments of 0.5 up to 8.0.
Lowering the salt level below zero turns the
SALT LEVEL indicator OFF.
4. Press the MODE/SET button to accept. The
display shows the present time of day and
DAYS TO EMPTY.
PM
Days to Empty
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Figure 15
DAYS TO EMPTY
The words DAYS TO EMPTY and a number
are shown in the lower half of the display. This
information is shown in the normal run display.
This is to inform the user of the number of days
before the salt level in the brine tank reaches
Level 0. There will be salt left in the salt tank,
but it may not be sufficient to fully recharge
the system. Salt should be added at this time
to avoid hard water. The value is updated
daily and whenever the SALT LEVEL value is
changed.
AM
Days to Empty
NOTE: For the first several weeks of operation,
the DAYS TO EMPTY may provide erratic
operation. For example, the blue indicator light
may flash, showing that more salt is required
when the actual salt level in the tank is well
above the Level 0. In some cases, the DAYS
TO EMPTY may even increase over a several
week period.
It takes a couple of months for the water
softener to learn your water usage pattern.
Once it does this, it will accurately determine
actual salt usage pattern. During this first
period, check salt level when blue indicator
light flashes. If the salt level in the tank is at
Level 1 or above, allow system to run. Be sure
to reset your salt level indicator each time you
add salt to the system.
START A RECHARGE
Press the RECHARGE button and hold for
three seconds, until “RECHARGE NOW”
begins to flash in the display, starting a
recharge. This recharge draws the sanitizing
bleach or brine into and through the water
softener. Any air remaining in the water
softener is purged to the drain. During this
time periodically check for leaks.
NOTE: As with all other water system
applications, leaks may occur. Leaks may not
be immediately apparent. Recheck 24 hours
after first recharge cycle is complete.
18
Programming the Water Softener
OPTIONAL CONTROL SETTINGS
The controller display has several options and
features.
LOW SALT ALARM
The LOW SALT ALARM,
when enabled, will sound
the beeper when the DAYS
TO EMPTY value is 15
days or less. To change
this setting, press and hold
the MODE/SET button for
3 seconds or hear a beep.
ON (factory default) or OFF
will flash in the display.
Press the UP
buttons to toggle this
feature ON or OFF. Press
the MODE/SET button to
accept, and the display will
PRYHWRWKH35(5,16(21
OFF screen. Press the UP
or DOWN
turn prerinse on or off.
PRERINSE
If your water contains
sediment the prerinse
feature will remove sediment
from the resin bed prior to
regeneration.
Press the MODE/SET button
and the display will move
to Prerinse Time mode. In
this screen you can adjust
the duration of the prerinse
by pressing the UP
DOWN
the MODE/SET button to
accept, and the display will
move to the Back Wash screen.
or DOWN
buttons to
buttons. Press
or
BACKWASH AND FAST RINSE
If you experience salty tasting water after
regeneration, you may need to increase the
backwash and fast rinse times. The cycle times
during regenerations are determined by the
softener’s electronic controller. However, you
may increase the backwash and fast rinse
times. You may add up to 10 minutes.
For Backwash, you can add
up to 10 minutes in 1 minute
increments, by pressing the
button, or subtract
UP
time by pressing the DOWN
button.
For Fast Rinse, press
MODE/SET and the display
moves to the add fast rinse
time screen. You can add
up to 10 minutes in 1 minute
increments, by pressing the
button, or subtract
UP
time by pressing the
DOWN button. Press
the MODE/SET button to
accept, and the display will
move to the Run Display
screen.
SALT SAVER
When this feature is ON, the water softener
will operate at salt efficiencies of 4000 grains
of hardness per pound of salt or higher (May
recharge more often using smaller salt dosage
and less water). The softener is shipped with
this feature set OFF.
In the state of California: You must turn the
Salt Saver Feature ON. This may initiate more
frequent recharges. However, it will operate at
4,000 grains per pound of salt.
To turn Salt Saver ON: Press
the Salt Saver button once until
the blue status light above the
button is ON.
19
Programming the Water Softener
FEATURE: OTHER DATA DISPLAY
These models have an option to have the run
display indicate different information. The information
displayed on the top half of the display can be
changed to one of the following by pressing UP
RESETTING TO FACTORY DEFAULT
To reset the electronic controller to its factory
default for all settings (time, hardness, etc.):
1. Press the MODE/SET button and hold
or DOWN buttons:
• CAPACITY REMAINING
– This is the percentage
of water softening capacity
remaining. Immediately after a
regeneration, 100% shows. As
% Remaining
Days to Empty
Recharge
Tonight
2. Press the UP
water is used, the percentage
will decrease until the next regeneration. During
regenerations, the percentage increments upward.
When present time is displayed, press the DOWN
button; % Remaining will appear in the display.
The value shown is between 0 and 100 percent.
This value is based on current operating capacity.
Pressing the UP
button will return the screen to
3. Press the MODE/SET button and the
4. Set the present time, hardness, etc, as
the previous display.
• AVERAGE DAILY
GALLONS
– The figure
displayed is the average
gallons of water used by the
household each day over the
Average Daily
Gallons
Days to Empty
Recharge
Tonight
past seven-day period.
Press the DOWN
button again to display the
Average Daily Gallons. Average Daily Gallons
will appear in the display. This value is updated
every night at midnight. Pressing the UP
button
will return the screen to the
previous display.
• FLOW RATE, GPM
Gallons/Min
Days to Empty
– When using soft water, this
display shows the flow rate
passing through the softener
(in gallons per minute). Zero shows if water is not
passing through the softener.
Press the DOWN
flow rate. Gallons/Min will appear in the display.
This value is updated every
button will return the screen to the previous
UP
display. Pressing the DOWN
button again to display the
1
»2 second. Pressing the
button will return
the screen to the present time display.
until the display changes twice to show the
flashing mode code.
button to display a flashing
“SoS”.
electronic controller will restart.
described in the Programming the Water
Softener section
20
Programming the Water Softener
POWER OUTAGE MEMORY
If electrical power to the water softener is
lost, “memory’’ built into the timer circuitry will
keep all settings for up to 24 hours. While the
power is out, the display is blank and the water
softener will not regenerate. When electrical
power is restored, the following will occur:
Reset the present time only if the display is
flashing. The HARDNESS and RECHARGE
TIME never require resetting unless a change
is desired. Even if the clock is incorrect after
a long power outage, the softener operates
as it should to keep your water soft. However,
regenerations may occur at the wrong time of
day until you reset the clock to the correct time
of day.
NOTE: If the water softener was regenerating
when power was lost, it will now finish the
cycle.
BLUE INDICATOR LIGHT
Steady blue light indicates that the unit is
working correctly. The light flashes when the
unit needs attention from the user.
• Light will also flash when power to until has
been interrupted. Check the PRESENT TIME
setting.
• Light flashes and DAYS TO EMPTY flashes check salt level and add salt as required.
• Light flashes and Err is in the display electrical problem with system.
ERROR SIGNALS
If there is an error
code detected, the
blue indicator light will
flash 4 times every
second, the display
will flash Err and the
alarm will beep every 30 seconds (from 8:00
AM to 8:00 PM) to signal that the softener
requires service. The alarm can be turned off
by pressing any button, but the blue indicator
light and display will continue to flash.
Disconnect the transformer from the wall
outlet momentarily, and plug it back in. The
normal display will appear. The motor may
run for several minutes, as the unit resets. If
the problem is not corrected, the error code
will reappear in 8 minutes. See the Before
you Call for Service section to assist in
troubleshooting the water softener.
Call for Service
LOW SALT SIGNAL
When the DAYS TO EMPTY drops to 15, the
blue indicator light and DAYS TO EMPTY in
the display
will flash every second and the alarm will beep
every 30 seconds (from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM),
to notify the user that the unit is running low
on salt. As soon as any button is pressed, the
alarm will stop beeping. The blue indicator light
and DAYS TO EMPTY will continue to flash.
Once salt is added to the brine tank and the
SALT LEVEL is reset, the DAYS TO EMPTY
will be reset.
21
Care and cleaning
ADJUSTING YOUR WATER HARDNESS
The blend adjusting knob (Figure 16) gives the
ability to finely adjust hardness of the treated
water leaving the water softener. If slightly harder
water is desired than is normally delivered by the
water softener, the blend adjusting knob can divert
a small stream of hard water and blend it with
the soft water entering the home. The amount
of water diverted is controlled by turning a blend
adjusting knob on the end cap of the valve stem.
NOTE: To get full performance from your water
softener leave blending valve in the factory
closed position.
To make adjustments to water hardness:
Hold bypass handle to keep the valve stem
1.
from rotating (see Figure 16). Loosen hex nut
on blend adjustment knob by turning the hex
nut counterclockwise (see Figure 17).
2. TO INCREASE HARDNESS:
With the
bypass in the service position (see Figure 16)
hold the handle to keep the valve stem from
rotating and turn the blend adjusting knob
counterclockwise up to 2 turns from the closed
position. It is recommended that adjustments
be made in quarter turn increments over
several weeks until the desired hardness is
achieved. NOTE: Once an adjustment is
made to the blend valve knob the change
in water hardness at the homes faucets or
shower heads may take several days to be
noticed. This delay is due to the large amounts
of already conditioned water in the pipes and
water heater that must be exchanged before
a change in hardness can be noticed. Have
the water tested to determine the actual water
hardness.
3. TO DECREASE HARDNESS:
With the
bypass in the service position (see Figure
16) hold the handle to keep the valve stem
from rotating and turn the blend adjusting
knob clockwise. When the knob will not turn
anymore, hard water is no longer being blended
into the soft water.
4.
Once the desired hardness is achieved tighten
the hex nut (see Figure 17) clockwise until it
comes in contact with the bypass stem.
NOTE: To meet the water softener performance
specifications and reduction of barium and
radium claims the adjustable hardness must be
kept in the “OFF” position. The off position is
achieved when the blend adjusting knob is fully
rotated clockwise until it stops.
22
SERVICE POSITION
(Normal Softener Operation)
Pull
Handle
Stem
Softener
Valve Outlet
Diverted Hard Water
(Controlled by blend
adjusting knob)
Figure 16
Soft Water
Out
Softener
Valve Inlet
Hard
Water In
Blend Adjusting
Knob
Turn counterclockwise
to increase hard-
ness of treated water
(clockwise to decrease
hardness)
BYPASS POSITION
Hard Water
Push
Handle
Out
Figure 17
CAUTION!
to be serviced or disconnected from the bypass
valve, the blend adjusting knob must be turned
all the way clockwise to close the diversion path
and prevent water leaking from the softener
valve inlet of the bypass.
Hard
Water In
Hex Nut
Turn clockwise to lock
blend adjusting knob
(counterclockwise to
unlock).
Blend Adjusting
Knob
If servicing water
softener, turn clockwise
as far as it will go.
If the water softener is
Care and Cleaning
CHECKING THE SALT STORAGE
LEVEL and REFILL
Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for
each and every recharge. The water for making
brine is metered into the salt storage area by
the water softening system valve and control.
However, you must keep the tank supplied
with salt.
ADDING SALT
Lift the salt hole cover and check the salt
storage level frequently. If the water softener
uses all the salt before you refill it, you will
experience hard water. Until you have
established a refilling routine, check the salt
every two or three weeks. Always add if less
WKDQIXOO%HVXUHWKHEULQHZHOOFRYHULVRQ
NOTE: if using potassium chloride (KCI), do
not fill above level 4 on the brinewell decal.
NOTE: In humid areas, it is best to keep the
salt storage level lower, and to refill more often
to avoid salt “bridging”.
Recommended Salt: Nugget, pellet or coarse
solar salts with less than 1% impurities.
Salt Not Recommended: Rock salt, high in
impurities, block, granulated table, ice melting,
ice cream making salts, etc.
CAUTION
Water softening salt with iron removing
additives:
Some salts may have an additive to help the
water softening system handle iron in the
water supply. Although this additive may
help to keep the water softening system
resin clean, it may also release corrosive
fumes that weaken and shorten the life of
some water softening system parts.
CLEANING IRON OUT OF THE WATER
SOFTENING SYSTEM
Your water softening system takes hardness
minerals (calcium and magnesium) out of
the water. Also, it can control some (see the
Specification Guidelines section) “clear water”
iron. With clear water iron, water from a faucet
is clear when first put into a glass. After 15 to
30 minutes, the water begins to cloud or turn
rust colored. A water softening system will not
remove any iron that makes the water cloudy
or rusty as it comes from the faucet (called red
water iron). To take red water iron out of water,
or over the maximum of clear water iron,
an iron filter or other equipment is needed.
GE Appliances recommends using Super Iron
®
to clean your resin bed if your iron content
Out
is high. Use Super Iron Out
bag of salt as preventative maintenance against
rust build up. Clean the bed at least every six
months, or more often if iron appears in the soft
water between cleanings.
IMPORTANT: It is important to mix the resin bed
cleaner with water (following the manufacturer’s
instructions), pour it into the brinewell (see
Figure 9) and recharge the softener immediately.
Do not pour the resin bed cleaner in with the
salt, as it will not be as effective in cleaning the
resin, and can cause damage to the softener if
it is left in the brine tank for an extended period
due to the corrosive gases that are formed.
®
with every 40lb.
23
Routine Maintenance
CLEANING THE NOZZLE AND VENTURI
ASSEMBLY
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 system will not work and you will get hard
water.
To get to the nozzle and venturi, remove the water
softening system top cover. Be sure the water
softening system is in service cycle (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
LQWKHQR]]OHDQGYHQWXULDQGRUDVPDOOFRQH
shaped screen in the housing. Be sure to check and
clean these parts, if your model is so equipped.
Carefully replace all parts in the correct order. Lightly
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.
BREAKING A SALT BRIDGE
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms 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 forms between the water
and salt. Then salt will not dissolve in the water to
make brine.
If the brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if you
have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top, but the
bridge is under it. The following is the best way to
check for a salt bridge.
Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of the
tank. Take a broom handle or like tool, and carefully
push it down into the salt, working it up and down.
If the tool strikes a hard object (be sure it’s not the
bottom or sides of the tank), it’s most likely a salt
bridge. Carefully break the bridge with the tool. Do
not pound on the walls of the tank.
the salt bridge pour one gallon of warm water (not
hot) into 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, it is best to fill with less salt, more often
to prevent a salt bridge from forming.
To help dissolve
24
Cap
O-ring seal
Screen
support
Screen
*Flow plug
Nozzle and
Venturi
Gasket
*Flow
plug
Ferrule Nut
IMPORTANT: Be sure small holes in the gasket
are centered directly over the small holes in the
nozzle and venturi housing.
* Install with numbered side up, concave side
down.
Push tool into salt
bridge to break
Ǝ±Ǝ
Pencil
mark
Broom
handle
Water level
Screen
Salt
Salt
bridge
Loading...