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Description of the softener
The softener system includes a mineral tank (with gravel, distributor, chlorine resistant resin and zeolite), brine
tank (with salt shelf, brine well, brine tank lid and safety brine valve), a meter initiated electronic backwashing
control valve with bypass and brine line and a chlorine generator.
Successful Application
Softeners are designed to remove hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) from water by the process of
ion exchange. They may also remove small amounts of “clear water” iron (2 ppm or less). Softeners are not
designed to remove “red water” iron or bacterial iron. If greater levels of iron, “red water” or iron bacteria are
present, an iron filter must precede the softener. Typically, softeners are not designed to remove particulates.
The SanX system, however, has a layer of zeolite filtration media to provide some mechanical filtration and a
chlorine generator to sanitize the interior of the softener during regeneration. If there is a significant amount of
sediment or turbidity present in the water, a backwashing filter with appropriate media is still recommended to
precede the softener. Only specialty tannin softeners are designed to remove tannins and the yellow to tea color
from water. Softeners will not reduce hydrogen sulfide (“rotten egg” odor).
Time of Regeneration
Periodically the control valve will go through regeneration. Regeneration is factory preset to 2:00 A.M. The time
of regeneration may be changed if needed (see programming procedures on pages 10-11).
Location Considerations
The proper location to install the softener will ensure optimum performance and satisfactory water quality. The
following factors should be considered in selecting the location of this system.
1. The softener must be installed after the pressure tank (private well system only).
2. The softener should be installed after any iron filter and/or other backwashing filter.
3. The system must not be subject to freezing temperatures
4. Ensure that any in-line filter installed prior to the softener does not restrict the flow or pressure
required to backwash the softener.
5. The system should be installed as close as possible (preferably within 15’) to an adequate floor or
laundry drain capable of handling the backwash cycle volume and flow rate (refer to unit
specifications on page 12). An air gap should be provided between the drain line and plumbing
drain.
6. All water conditioning equipment should be installed at least 10’ prior to the water heater. Water
temperatures exceeding 100°F can damage the internal components of the control valve and
mineral tank. An expansion tank may need to be installed in the line to the water heater in order to
allow for thermalexpansion and comply with local plumbing codes.
7. Appliances requiring extended periods of continuous or high flow water use (i.e. geothermal heat
pumps, swimming pools, lawn irrigation, outside hose bibs, etc.) should bypass all water
conditioning equipment unless the equipment has been specifically designed for that purpose.