Trouble shooting
My water softener isn’t softening the water – what’s wrong?
Possible causes:
- The salt level in the brine tank is too low or missing.
- The resin bed may be clogged or worn out.
- The system may not be regenerating correctly.
- There could be an issue with the control valve or timer.
Action:
- Check the salt level and ensure it’s sufficient.
- Verify the regeneration cycle is set correctly.
- Inspect the resin bed and the valve for any visible signs of malfunction.
Why is my water softener using too much salt?
Possible causes:
- The system might be regenerating more frequently than needed.
- The hardness setting could be too high.
- A malfunctioning valve or timer could be causing excess regeneration cycles.
Action:
- Check the hardness setting and adjust if necessary.
- Inspect the system for any malfunctions in the control or regeneration cycle.
My water softener is making a loud noise – what should I do?
Possible causes:
- The control valve could be malfunctioning.
- The brine tank may be overfilled.
- Air may be trapped in the system.
Action:
- Check for any trapped air and try to reset the system.
- Ensure the brine tank isn’t overfilled.
- If the noise persists, consult the manual or contact customer support.
Why is my water still hard after installing the softener?
Possible causes:
- Incorrect installation.
- The water softener may not be sized correctly for your home’s water usage.
- The system may not have been programmed correctly.
- There might be a malfunction with the control valve or resin bed.
Action:
- Double-check the installation process or hire a professional installer to inspect the system.
- Review the settings to ensure they match your water hardness levels and household needs.
The water softener is leaking – what should I do?
Possible causes:
- A loose or damaged connection.
- A cracked or broken part, such as the valve, tank, or brine line.
- A clogged drain line or brine tank.
Action:
- Inspect all hoses and fittings for leaks and ensure they’re tight.
- If a crack is detected, contact customer support for potential repairs or part replacements.
My water softener is not regenerating – how can I fix it?
Possible causes:
- The timer or control valve may be malfunctioning.
- A clogged or stuck valve or drain line.
- Power issues or electrical malfunctions.
Action:
- Check the power supply and settings to ensure the regeneration cycle is activated.
- If necessary, manually initiate a regeneration cycle through the control panel.
- If the issue persists, consider contacting support for a valve inspection.
Why is there salt in my water?
Possible causes:
- The brine tank may be overfilled or the drain line may be clogged.
- A malfunction in the control valve or an improper regeneration cycle.
Action:
- Check for any salt build-up in the brine tank or drain line. If salt is being introduced into the system, the valve may need maintenance or replacement.
The water softener smells bad – what’s happening?
Possible causes:
- Bacteria growth in the brine tank.
- Old or decomposing salt in the tank.
Action:
- Clean the brine tank and replace old salt.
- Use a chlorine bleach solution to sanitize the tank if necessary.
My water softener is continuously running or stuck in regeneration mode. What should I do?
Possible causes:
- The control valve could be stuck or malfunctioning.
- A faulty timer or electrical issue might be causing the system to stay in regeneration.
Action:
- Try resetting the system by turning it off and on again.
- Check the timer or control valve for any issues.
- If the problem persists, contact customer support or a technician.
Why is my water softener not draining?
Possible causes:
- A clogged or blocked drain line.
- A malfunctioning drain valve or control valve.
- Issues with the drain pump (for certain systems).
Action:
- Check the drain line for any visible clogs or obstructions.
- Ensure the drain valve is open and functioning.
- If necessary, clean or replace the drain pump.
My water softener is not using salt or seems to be using less than usual. Is that normal?
Possible causes:
- The salt may have bridged in the tank
- The system might be in bypass mode.
- The softener may have already reached the ideal salt level and is functioning more efficiently.
- Issues with the resin bed could be affecting the salt usage.
Action:
- Firstly check the salt tank and check for salt bridging. If the salt seems stuck together you can break this up by usnig a wooden spoon.
- Check if the system is accidentally set to bypass mode. verify the settings and check for any issues with the resin bed.
- If the problem continues, contact support for further troubleshooting.
I notice an increase in water hardness despite using the water softener. what could be the cause?
Possible causes:
- The resin bed may be exhausted or clogged.
- The system may not be regenerating properly.
- There may be a bypass valve issue.
- The softener may need a service
Action:
- Inspect the resin bed for signs of wear or damage.
- Ensure the regeneration cycle is functioning correctly.
- Check the bypass valve and make sure it is set to "in service."
- Service your softener, we recommend a yearly service
FAQ's
How do I know if I need a water softener?
Answer: If you notice mineral build-up (scale) on faucets, showerheads, or in appliances, or if your soap and detergent aren’t lathering properly, you likely have hard water. Additionally, dry skin, dull hair, and frequent appliance malfunctions are signs you might benefit from a water softener.
How often should I add salt to my water softener?
Answer: It depends on your water usage and the size of your softener, but typically, you should check the salt level every 4-6 weeks. Add salt when the level gets low but avoid overfilling the brine tank.
How long will my water softener last?
Answer: With proper maintenance, most water softeners can last 10-15 years. Regularly check the salt level, Clean the brine tank, and replace the resin bed as needed to maximize the lifespan.
How do I test the hardness of my water?
Answer: You can purchase a water hardness test kit or contact a local professional to test your water.
Can I use my water softener if I have a well?
Answer: Yes, water softeners can be used with well water. In fact, many well owners have high levels of hardness or other contaminants that a water softener can help address. You may also need additional filtration, depending on your water quality. Please check with a professional if you have more than limescale issues in order to pick the right system(s) for you.
Can I drink softened water?
Answer: Softened water is typically safe to drink. However, it does contain sodium or potassium ions, which can be a concern for individuals on low-sodium diets. If you’re concerned about salt levels, consider a reverse osmosis system for drinking water.
How much does it cost to operate a water softener?
Answer: Operating costs depend on factors such as the size of the system, frequency of regeneration cycles, and salt usage. Typically, it costs very little in salt and electricity.
Can I install a water softener myself?
Answer: While some homeowners may be able to install a water softener themselves, it is recommended to hire a professional if you’re unsure. Proper installation is important for optimal performance and to avoid potential issues. However as technology has advanced the systems we have selected are all EASY DIY.
How do I reset my water softener?
Answer: To reset your water softener, turn off the power supply to the unit and then turn it back on. Follow the product instructions for resetting the control panel.
How often should I clean my water softener?
Answer: You should clean the brine tank at least once a year and replace the salt regularly. Also, if you notice any problems, like salt buildup, it may require additional cleaning. Check the manufacturer's manual for specific cleaning recommendations for your model. We recommend using resin cleaner as pert of the yearly clean.
Do water softeners require electricity to operate?
Answer: Yes, most modern water softeners require electricity to operate the control valve and timer. However, our models have a backup battery or manual override in case of power outages.
Can I replace the resin beads in my water softener myself?
Answer: It’s possible to replace the resin beads yourself, but it can be a bit challenging. you may need to disassemble part of the unit and refill it with new resin. If you're unsure, it’s often better to have a professional handle the replacement to ensure the system is properly recharged and functioning.
How do I dispose of old salt from the water softener?
Answer: Old salt can typically be disposed of with regular trash. However, be sure to check with your local waste management guidelines to ensure proper disposal. Some areas may have specific rules for salt disposal due to environmental concerns.
How do I know if my water softener needs repair or replacement?
Answer: Signs that your water softener may need repair or replacement include persistent water hardness, poor performance despite maintenance, frequent malfunctions, or an inability to regenerate properly. If you've tried troubleshooting and the problem persists, it's time to contact a technician or consider replacement.
Can I use a water softener with a septic system?
Answer: Yes, water softeners can be used with septic systems. However, since the salt in the brine tank is discharged into the septic system, it's important to monitor the amount of salt used to avoid overloading the system. If you're concerned, consult a professional to ensure your system is compatible with a water softener.