Water Softener Resources
Your Water Softener Resource Hub
This page provides guides, videos and tips for maintaining your water softener. If you need a service appointment, please call us at (330) 666-4926.
How to Set Your Water Softener’s Clock
A properly programmed water softener is key to a reliable supply of soft water for your home. The images provides a clear, step-by-step guide on how to set the time and reset the clock on your control valve.
Whether you’re dealing with a power outage or just need to make an adjustment, following this simple process will ensure your system’s regeneration cycles remain on schedule. The steps apply to common water softener control valves we install and is a great first step in your system’s maintenance.
Water Softener Style 1
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Water Softener Style 2
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Common Water Softener Questions
Why is my water softener's clock blinking?
A blinking clock usually means the power has been interrupted. You’ll need to reset the time. The unit will continue to soften water, but its regeneration cycle may be off schedule, which can lead to hard water.
What kind of salt should I use?
We recommend using a high-purity pellet or crystal salt. Avoid rock salt, which can contain impurities that may clog your system. Click here to learn more about the water softener salt we sell, including delivery to your home or business!
How often does my system need salt?
This varies depending on your water usage. Check the brine tank every 1-2 months. The salt level should always be a few inches above the water level.
How to Bypass Your Water Softener
Knowing how to bypass your water softener is a key step in maintenance and troubleshooting. Bypassing the system allows untreated water to flow to your home while you perform a task, like adding salt, servicing the unit, or if you need to perform a plumbing repair without a flow of water.
When to Use the Bypass Valve
- For Maintenance: When adding salt, cleaning the brine tank, or performing any system checks.
- For Repairs: If you have a leak or need to work on the unit itself.
- To Get Untreated Water: For tasks like watering your outdoor plants or a vegetable garden where you may not want softened water.
After Bypassing
Once you have completed your task, it is critical to return the valve to the “In-Service” position to ensure your water is being softened again. Leaving the system in bypass mode will result in hard water throughout your home.
Common Bypass Questions
What is a bypass valve?
A bypass valve is a mechanism on your water softener that allows you to manually divert the water flow around the system. This means your home will receive untreated water directly from your main supply, without it passing through the softener.
How do I know if my softener is in bypass mode?
The easiest way to tell is by checking the valve handle. In most cases, if the handle is perpendicular to the water pipes, the system is in bypass mode. If the handle is parallel with the pipes, it is in its normal “in-service” position.
I have a leak in my water softener. Will bypassing it stop the leak?
If the leak is in the softener itself (the tank or the control valve), moving the system to bypass mode will stop the flow of water to the unit and should stop the leak. However, this is a temporary solution and a service call is necessary to fix the problem permanently.
What if I can't find my bypass valve or it looks different?
If your valve looks different from the pictures, it may be a different model. Please refer to the user manual for your specific unit. If you’re still unsure, the safest option is to call us at (330) 666-4926 for professional assistance.
Need a Helping Hand?
Sometimes, you just need an expert. If you can’t find the answers you’re looking for, or if you prefer to have a professional take a look, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to answer your questions or schedule an appointment to get your water softener running at its best.