Water softener systems take out impurities and harsh minerals from hard water. But like any other systems, water softeners also encounter problems, and you need to be aware of them.
So, here are some of the most common issues with water softeners, along with some ways for you to fix them.
Formation of Clogs or Blockages
Clogs and blockages happen when salt and other minerals build up inside the tank. And when this buildup reaches a certain point, it will lead to even more problems.
Clogs and blockages often happen in the filter screen and the brine line. As a result, the water may feel less soft, or the system may not work properly at all. The hardness of water will remain.
Luckily, most water softener systems come with detailed user manuals and instructions on how to fix clogs and blockages. Following the manual will help you fix this issue.
Buildup of Salt Bridges
Salt bridges are hard, scaly materials that also impede the flow of water through the system. These hard deposits can appear inside the tank because of high humidity, too much salt, or a combination of both.
Salt bridges prevent the water softener from functioning properly. At the same time, they can prevent regeneration cycles, where the system dumps impurities and minerals out of the tank.
To fix this, simply open up the tank and use a sturdy stick to reach down and break up the salt. Make sure to break up any bridges along the edges of the tank.
Broken Resin Beads
Water softeners often use salt and resin beads to soften the water. Without them, the system cannot work, as salt and resin “kick out” the hard minerals from your water.
Other softeners claim to use magnetic water conditioning, like what’s mentioned in this Scaleblaster water conditioner review, in lieu of salt and resin beads.
The reason: resin beads sometimes break.
You’ll know the resin beads are broken when you see them floating in the softened water. Also, you’ll notice your system needs recharging more and more often.
The solution for this is also fairly simple. You may either clean the resin beads or replace them entirely. Again, your user manual will be of great help if you want to do this by yourself.
Dirty or Broken Filter
Dirty or broken filters are also quite common. Water softeners have filters that keep out larger minerals before the water goes through the main tank.
And because these filters handle a great deal more impurities and particles, they’re more vulnerable to dirt and damage.
You should check the filter regularly to ensure it’s not broken or dirty. You also want to change it every three to five months to prevent the same problems.
Motor Failure
Water softeners use motors that ensure the proper functioning of the system. And similar to other appliances, water softener systems also encounter motor problems .
When motor failures occur, the system dies. Your system basically won’t work since the motor rotates the valve between softening and regeneration.
Your options then are to repair the motor, replace it, or buy a new system. If the product’s warranty covers motor repairs, it’s better to ask help from your manufacturer.
Still, the best way to solve a motor problem is to not have it in the first place. To do that, check the whole system regularly and be cognizant of any signs of damages or problems.
Smelly Water
Sometimes, the water contains hydrogen sulfides and sulfates that cause a stinking, rotten-egg smell in the system.
Additionally, unlike other minerals, sulfates can easily pass through simple water filters. Bacterial contamination is also possible.
To fix this, use a chlorine injection system. Do this with the help of professionals who know how to calculate how much bleach solution is necessary.
Regeneration Failure
For proper maintenance, water softener systems need to run regeneration cycles. The system cannot function well for too long without regeneration.
However, regeneration sometimes fails, usually because of a faulty regeneration timer. To confirm this, you can set the regeneration timer to regenerate daily. Check if it works. If it doesn’t, your timer might be broken and you need to replace it.
Conclusion
You must know these common issues if you want to ensure your water softening system works properly. Knowing about them means you’ll also likely know how to fix them. Repairs and technical assistance can be quite expensive.
But if the problem persists and you’re not sure what to do, having professionals around to help you is probably the better idea.