If your water softener system is not working efficiently or seems to be malfunctioning, then it could mean that the machine needs cleaning. It doesn’t necessarily mean it is broken nor needs repairs. Residential water softeners have a number of components that get dirty over time.
Why Softening Systems Malfunction
There are also other causes for these machines to malfunction or work less efficiently. Some of these reasons could be caused by inputting the wrong settings on the control panel. Maybe you indicated the wrong hardness level. It is also possible that the softening machine needs more sodium to soften the water.
If dirt and lack of cleaning is what’s causing your machine to work less efficiently, then the problem probably lies in the brine line or in the injection system. You will have to open up your softener and check these parts to see if they indeed need cleaning.
You will need some basic cleaning tools to get rid of dirt clogging up your brine line or injector. Some things you will need to get residential water softeners cleaned are: canned pressurized air, turkey baster, wrench, warm water, a large paper clip, and soap.
Cleaning the Injector
Turn your softening system off and remove the electrical plug from the socket. Switch to bypass mode by turning on the bypass valve. This is done so that water stops flowing through the softener while you clean it. Gently remove the softener’s injector cap at the back of the machine, near the top part.
Remove the injector filter behind the cap. Take the filter to the sink and wash it with warm water and soap. Afterwards, clean the injector nozzle. Use the canned air to get dust and dirt out of the nozzle. You can use the end of your paperclip to get more dirt out while you spray the nozzle with pressurized air.
Return the injector filter to its original place and secure it to its normal position over the nozzle. Screw back the cap to its place on the machine and gently return the injector cap on the filter. Tighten the cap till it is secure.
Cleaning the Brine Line
To get the brine line cleaned follow the first steps of cleaning the injector by switching off your machine and pulling the plug out of the electrical socket. Switch the machine to bypass mode as well. Unscrew the brine lines from the injector casing with a wrench.
Once the brine line is removed, inspect the inside of the line for residue that could be clogging your line. Clean the inside of the brine line by squirting water in it with a turkey baster. Once cleaned, return it to its original position. Switch the softener back on and test it.
Observe how the machine performs over the next few days and watch out for signs of hard water. If you still notice that your softening system is still not working right, then you should consult with your Toronto plumber that specializes in residential water softeners.
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