DIY Repairs
It’s essential to recognize that all water softeners serve a common purpose: removing hardness from water. However, each system undergoes a series of essential cycles—backwash, brine, rinse, and service—to regenerate the media within. While the sequence of these cycles may vary, the role of a control valve remains consistent: guiding the unit through each stage.
Control valves can operate manually, through a timer assembly, or by water flow. Automatic systems, in particular, trigger a regeneration cycle either based on elapsed time or gallons used. It’s crucial to verify that your unit can autonomously initiate a cycle, ensuring seamless operation.
Understanding the current cycle of your water softener is key to accurate diagnosis and maintenance. During backwash and rinse cycles, expect a rapid flow of water to the drain, while the brine cycle typically features a slower rate of drainage.
By prioritizing clarity and functionality in our product offerings, we empower you to maintain optimal water quality effortlessly.
Kinetico systems operate seamlessly with the flow of water in your home. As water is consumed, it flows through the meter turbine, initiating movement in the meter disc. Strategically placed slots on the meter disc allow the regeneration start pawl to engage the control disc, triggering the regeneration process. During regeneration, water is directed to the regeneration turbine, activating the regeneration drive pawl to complete the cycle.
To manually advance the system through a regeneration cycle, simply follow these steps:
- Locate the clear cap at the center of the system.
- Insert a Phillips screwdriver into the center of the cap.
- While gently pressing down on the actuator, turn the screwdriver clockwise until the actuator makes contact with the control disc, initiating its rotation.
With these simple instructions, you can easily maintain and optimize the performance of your Kinetico water softener system.
For the older 155 & 255 Autotrol models equipped with a 440 or 440i timer assembly, the regeneration process is controlled by flappers within the Autotrol valves. To initiate regeneration manually, follow these steps:
- Locate the cam mechanism on the timer assembly.
- With your left hand, gently turn the cam counter-clockwise.
- Simultaneously, use your right hand to press the regeneration button.
By following these simple instructions, you can manually trigger the regeneration process, ensuring optimal performance of your Autotrol water softener system.
In the Fleck 5600, a piston is employed to control water flow during the regeneration process. Available in both timer and meter models, initiating a regeneration is simple:
- Locate the central dial.
- Turn the dial clockwise until you hear the sound of water flowing.
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily activate the regeneration process in your Fleck 5600 water softener system.