GE GNSF18Z01 User manual

GNSF18Z01
GNSF23Z01
GNSF35Z01
GE Appliances
Water Softening System
Part No. 215C1002P001–2 Pub. No. 49-5799–2 12-97 CG
7178927
Owner’s Manual
GE Answer Center®800.626.2000

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
Congratulations!
You are Now Part of the GE Family.
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . 3
Specification Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Operating Instructions . .5–10
Care and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . .10–12
Troubleshooting Tips
Before You Call For Service . . . . . .13, 14
Customer Service
Product Registration . . . . . . . . . . .17, 18
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Service Telephone
Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
2
Welcome to the GE family. We’re proud of our quality products and we are committed
to providing dependable service. You’ll see it in this easy-to-use Owner’s Manual and
you’ll hear it in the friendly voices of our customer service department.
Best of all, you’ll experience these values each time you use the water softening
system. That’s important, because your new system will be part of your family for
many years. And we hope you will be part of ours for a long time to come.
We thank you for buying GE. We appreciate your purchase, and hope you will
continue to rely on us whenever you need quality appliances for your home.
FOR YOUR RECORDS
Write the model and serial numbers here:
##
You can find them on the back of the control head.
Staple sales slip or cancelled check here.
Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under
the warranty.
Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintain
your water system properly. Just a little preventive care on your part
can save you a great deal of time and money over the life of your
system.
You’ll find many answers to common problems in the Before You Call
For Service section. If you review our chart of Troubleshooting Tips first,
you may not need to call for service at all.
READ THIS MANUAL
IF YOU NEED SERVICE
If you do need service, you can relax knowing help is only a phone
call away. A list of toll-free customer service numbers is included in
the back section.
IMPORTANT!
Fill out and return the Consumer Product Registration Card that is
packed with this product. If you cannot find it, please send in the
duplicate card printed in the back of this manual.

Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
WARNING!
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
■ Check and comply with your state and local
codes. You must follow these guidelines.
■Use care when handling the water softening
system. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag,
or set on sharp protrusions.
■Water softening systems using sodium chloride
(salt) for regeneration add sodium to the water.
Persons on sodium restricted diets should consider
the added sodium as part of their overall intake.
Potassium chloride can be used as an alternative to
sodium chloride.
■ The water softening system works on
24 volt-60 Hz electrical power only. Be sure to use
only the included transformer.
WARNING: Do not use with water that is
microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality
without adequate disinfection before or after the
system.
Read and follow this Safety Information carefully.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
PROPER INSTALLATION
■Install or store where it will not be exposed to
temperatures below freezing or exposed to any
type of weather. Water freezing in the system will
break it. Do not attempt to treat water over 100°F.
■ Do not install in direct sunlight. Excessive sun heat
may cause distortion or other damage to non-
metallic parts.
■Properly ground to conform with all governing
codes and ordinances.
■Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-
solder connections, as required by state and
federal codes.
■The water softening system requires a minimum
water flow of three gallons per minute at the inlet.
Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125
psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime
pressure may exceed the maximum. Use a
pressure reducing valve to reduce the flow if
necessary.
WARNING: Discard all unused parts and packaging
material after installation. Small parts remaining
after the installation could be a choke hazard.
This water softening system must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation
Instructions before it is used. If you did not receive Installation Instructions, you can receive one by
calling us toll-free at the GE Answer Center
®
800.626.2000.
For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of electric shock,
property damage or personal injury.

4
Specification guidelines. Rated Capacity—See rating decal, located on the Water Softening System
GNSF18Z GNSF23Z GNSF35Z
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
Amount of high capacity resin (lbs/cu. ft)
Resin tank nominal size (in., dia. x height)
Service flow rate (gpm)
(see rating label on softener)
Water supply maximum hardness (gpg) ➄
Water supply maximum clear water iron (ppm) ➄
Water pressure limits (min.-max. psi)
Pressure drop at rated service flow (psig)
Water temperature maximum (°F)
Water supply minimum flow rate (gpm)
Regeneration cycle flow rates (gpm)
Fill (flow to brine tank)
Brining
Brine Rinse
Backwash
Fast Rinse
38/.73
10 x 21
7
25
3
20-125
15
120
3
.3
.24
.14
1.8
1.8
31.2/.6
8 x 40
8
50
3
20-125
15
120
3
.3
.19
.12
1.8
1.8
48.4/.93
9 x 40
10
100
6
20-125
15
120
3
.3
.20
.16
2.0
2.0
➄Determined by water analysis from a qualified water testing laboratory.
}(flow to drain)
GNSF18Z
11–1/2″
INLET-OUTLET
29–3/4″22–1/4″20–1/4″21–1/2″
3–3/8″
INLET
OUT
GNSF23Z &
GNSF35Z
11–1/2″
3–3/8″
OUT
INLET
INLET-OUTLET
48–3/4″
41–1/4″
18–1/4″
40–1/2″

5
About the water softener system.
Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
Service
When the water softening system is providing soft water, it is called “Service.” During service, hard
water flows from the house main water pipe into the water softening system . Inside the water softening
system resin tank is a bed made up of thousands of tiny, plastic resin beads. As hard water passes
through the bed, each bead attracts and holds the hard minerals. This is called ion-exchanging. It is
much like a magnet attracting and holding metals. Water without hard minerals (soft water) flows
from the water softening system and to the house pipes.
After a period of time, the resin beads become coated with hard minerals and they have to
be cleaned. This cleaning is called regeneration, or recharge. Regeneration is started at 2:00 AM
(factory setting) by the water softening system control, and consists of five stages or cycles. These are
FILL, BRINING, BRINE RINSE, BACKWASH and FAST RINSE .
Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration
For emergency needs, hard water is available to
the home during the regeneration cycles.
However, you should avoid using HOT water because
the water heater will fill with the hard water.
Fill Brine Rinse
Salt dissolved in water is called brine. Brine is
needed to clean the hard minerals from the
resin beads. To make the brine, water flows into
the salt storage area during the fill stage as shown.
Brining
During brining, brine travels from the salt
storage area into the resin tank. Brine is the
cleaning agent needed to remove hard minerals
from the resin beads. The hard minerals and
brine are discharged to the drain.
The nozzle and venturi create a suction to move
the brine, maintaining a very slow rate to get the
best resin cleaning with the least salt.
After a pre-measured amount of brine is used,
the brine valve closes. Water continues to flow
in the same path as during brining, except for the
discontinued brine flow. Hard minerals and
brine flush from the resin tank to the drain.
Backwash
During backwash, water travels up through the resin
tank at a fast flow rate, flushing accumulated iron,
dirt, and sediments from the resin bed and to drain.
Fast Rinse
Backwash is followed by a fast flow of water down
through the resin tank. The fast flow flushes brine
from the bottom of tank, and packs the resin bed.
After fast rinse, the water softening system returns
to soft water service.
Soft water
OUT
Salt storage
tank (salt
not shown)
Brine
valve
Hard water
IN
Resin
tank
Resin
bed
Soft water
OUT
Hard water
IN
Salt storage tank
Fill water
Brine
valve
Hard water
bypass OUT
Nozzle &
venturi
Hard water
IN
Brine
valve
Brine
Drain
Drain
Drain
Hard water
bypass OUT Hard water
IN
Soft water
OUT Hard water IN
A video describing important use and care instructions has been included with the product for your use.

NOTE: If 15 (factory default) and HARDNESS do not show in the display, press SELECT until
they do.
Press the UP or DOWN button to set your water hardness number in the display. DOWN
moves the display down to 1. UP moves the display up to the maximum setting.
NOTE: Each press of a button changes the display by 1 between 1 and 25. Above 25, the
display changes 5 at a time…25, 30, 35, etc. Holding a button in changes the numbers twice
each second.
When the water hardness number shows, press SELECT to set.
You can get the grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of your water supply from a water
analysis laboratory, or call and ask your local water department, if you are on a
municipal supply. (17.1 parts per million (ppm) =1 grain per gallon.)
2
1
6
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
About the water softener system.
Control Settings Required
Upon installation and after an extended power outage. See the Program Memory section.
■ When the transformer is plugged into the electrical outlet, 12:00 AM is flashing and
PRESENTTIME shows in the display area. Program the control as instructed below. If SR- -
is flashing, use the UP button to set the correct SR code as follows: SR17 for model
GNSF23Z, SR35 for model GNSF35Z and SR18 for model GNSF18Z. If you pass by the
correct code number, use the DOWN button. Then, press the SELECT button and program
the control.
If the wrong SR code shows for your model, see Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics section.
■ A “beeper” sounds while pressing buttons for control programming. One beep signals a
change in the control display. Repeated beeps mean the control will not accept a change
from the button you have pressed and you should use another button.
■ To set the control, you will use the UP, DOWN and SELECT buttons.
Set Present Time of Day
Upon installation and after an extended power outage. See the Program Memory section.
NOTE: If the words PRESENT TIME do not show in the display, press the SELECT button until
they do.
Press the UP or DOWN button to set. The UP button moves the display ahead; the DOWN
moves the time backward. If present time is between noon and midnight, be sure PM
shows . If present time is between midnight and noon, be sure AM shows .
When the present time shows in display, press SELECT to set.
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1
SmartWater Softener System
TOUCH
or
HOLD SELECT
TIME
HARDNESS
RECHARGE NOW
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Set Water Hardness Number

Feature/Service: Automatic Electronic Diagnostics
The control computer has a self-diagnostic
function for the electrical system (except input
power and water meter). The computer monitors
the electronic components and circuits for correct
operation. If a malfunction occurs, an error code
appears in the control display.
The chart on Error Codes shows the error
codes that could appear and possible reasons for
each code. While an error code is displayed, all
control buttons are inoperable except for the
SELECT button. SELECT remains operational so the
service person can make the Manually Initiated
Electronic Diagnostics to further isolate the defect
and check the water meter.
7
Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
Normal Operation, Control Displays
During normal operation, the present time of day and AM or PM show in the control display area. When
the demand computer determines a regeneration is needed, RECHARGE TONIGHT begins to flash in the
display along with the present time. RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes until the next regeneration
start time, then changes to RECHARGE NOW, which flashes until the regeneration is over.
Feature: Program Memory
If electrical power to the water softening system is
interrupted, the control display is blank, but the
control keeps correct time for about six hours.
When power is restored, you have to reset the
present time only if the display is flashing. All other
settings are maintained and never require resetting
unless a change is desired.
If the time is flashing after a long power outage, the
water softening system continues to work as it
should to provide you with soft water. However,
regenerations may occur at the wrong time of day
until you reset the control to the correct time of
day.
Feature: Optional Recharge Controls
Sometimes, a manually started regeneration
(recharge) may be desired or needed. Two
examples:
■You have used more water than usual (house
guests, extra washing, etc.) and you may run out
of soft water before the next regeneration.
■You did not refill the storage tank with salt.
Use one of the following features to start a
regeneration immediately, or at the next preset
regeneration start time.
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Touch (do not hold) the TOUCH or HOLD button.
RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes in the control display
area. A regeneration will occur at the next preset
regeneration start time. If you decide to cancel this
regeneration, touch the same button once more.
RECHARGE NOW
Press and hold the TOUCH or HOLD button until
RECHARGE NOW starts to flash in the control
display area. The water softening system begins an
immediate regeneration and, when over in about
two hours, you will have a new supply of soft water.
Once started, you cannot cancel this regeneration.
Set Regeneration ( Starting) Time
NOTE: RECHARGE TIME and a flashing 2:00 AM
(factory default) should show in the display. This is
a good time for regeneration to start (over in about
2 hours) in most households because water is not
in use. HARD WATER is bypassed to house
faucets during regeneration. See the Automatic
Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration section.
Press the UP or DOWN button to set the
desired regeneration start time.
NOTE: Each press of the buttons changes the time
by one hour. Holding the buttons in changes the
time twice each second.
Be sure to observe the AM or PM as you
did when setting the time of day.
Press the SELECT button once more.
The display shows the present time of day and
RECHARGE TONIGHT .
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1

8
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
About the water softener system.
Service: Timer/Softener, Service Checkout Procedure
If you are not getting soft water, and an error code is not displayed, use the procedures below to
find the problem. First make the following visual checks.
VISUALCHECKS: Is there electrical power to the outlet the water softening system transformer
is plugged into?
Is there sufficient salt in the storage tank? The tank should be at least 1/3 to
1/2 full of salt.
Is the softener bypass valve directing water for soft water service?
Is the valve drain hose open to the drain, not more than 8′above the
softener, and unobstructed?
If you do not find a problem with the visual checks, continue below.
4
3
2
1
ERROR CODE DISPLAYED ERR 01 ERR 02 ERR 03 ERR 04 ERR 05
POSSIBLE DEFECT • motor • position • motor • position • control
inoperative switch inoperative switch or (PWA)
or wiring wiring
harness harness
• wiring harness • control • control • control
or connection (PWA) (PWA) (PWA)
to switch
• position switch
• control (PWA)
Service: Electronic Demand Time Features and Service
To remove an error code: (1) Unplug transformer.
(2) Correct defect.
(3) Plug transformer in.
(4) Wait for at least 6 minutes. The error code will return if the reason
for the error code was not corrected.
NO SOFT
WATER CONTROL SHOWS
WRONG TIME AND DAY,
AND/OR IS FLASHING.
CONTROL
DISPLAY
BLANK.
CONTROL DISPLAY SHOWS
CORRECT TIME AND DAY
AND IS STEADY.
Check electrical
power to control
(outlet, transformer,
power cable, all
connections).
Do manual
diagnostics.
NOPOWER
POWER OK
REPAIR AS
NEEDED
CONTROL
DEFECTIVE
Do manual
diagnostics to
verify proper
function.
Electrical power was off.
Reset the correct time of
day. Investigate reason for
power loss.

Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
9
Service: Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics
To enter diagnostics, press and hold the SELECT button until (000 – –) shows in the display.
A The first 3 digits indicate water meter operation as follows:
■000 (steady) = soft water not in use…no flow through the meter.
—OPEN A NEARBY SOFT WATER FAUCET—
■000 to 199 (continual) = repeats display for each gallon of water passing through the meter.
If you don’t get a reading in the display, with faucet open, pull the sensor from the valve outlet port.
Pass a small magnet back and forth in front of the sensor. You should get a reading in the display. If you
get a reading, shut off water supply, unhook the in and out plumbing and check the turbine for binding.
B The letter (P) and dash(es) indicate POSITION switch operation. The letter appearing means the
switch is closed; the dash means the switch is open. Use the TOUCH or HOLD (RECHARGE TONIGHT–
RECHARGE NOW) button to manually advance the valve into each cycle and check correct switch
operation.
1
C While in this diagnostic screen, the following information is available and may be beneficial for
various reasons. This information is retained by the computer from the first time electrical power
is applied to the control.
■ Press and hold the UP button to display the number of days this control has had electrical power
applied.
■Press and hold the DOWN button to display the number of regenerations initiated by this control
since the SR code number was entered.
Press the SELECT button and hold in three seconds until a Service Rating code appears in the display.
Repeat this step if the SR code is not displayed.
For correct water softening system operation, the SR number must be SR17 for model GNSF23Z, SR18 for
model GNSF18Z and SR35 for model GNSF35Z.
To reset the code, press the UP or DOWN button until the correct number shows.
Press SELECT to return to the present time display. If the code was changed, make ALL the timer settings.
NOTE: If the control is left in a diagnostic display or a flashing display when setting times or hardness,
present time automatically returns if a button is not pressed within four minutes.
3
2
CORRECT SWITCH
DISPLAYS VALVE CYCLE STATUS
— — Valve in service, fill, brining, backwash
or fast rinse position.
— P Valve rotating from one position to another
Turbine Switches
Water
Meter (A) Switch (B)
Motor
Turbine
Turbine
support &
shaft
Position
switch
Valve
outlet
Sensor
housing
OR
CODE

10
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
About the water softener system.
Care and cleaning of the water softening system.
Service: Manually Advance Regeneration Check
This check verifies proper operation of the valve motor, brine tank fill, brine draw, regeneration
flow rates and other controller functions. First, make the initial checks and the Manually Initiated
Electronic Diagnostics.
NOTE: The control display must show a steady time (not flashing).
Press the TOUCH or HOLD button and hold in for three seconds. RECHARGE NOW begins to
flash as the water softening system enters the fill cycle of regeneration. Remove the brinewell
cover and, using a flashlight, observe fill water entering the brine tank.
If water does not enter the tank, look for an obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug or brine
tubing. See Care and cleaning of the water softener system section.
After observing fill, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into
brining. A slow flow of water to the drain will begin. Verify brine draw from the brine tank by
shining a flashlight into the brinewell and observing a noticeable drop in the liquid level
over an extended period of time.
NOTE: Be sure a salt bridge is not preventing water from contacting salt. See Care and cleaning of
the water softening system section.
If the water softening system does not draw brine, check:
■nozzle and/or venturi dirty or defective.
■nozzle and venturi not seated properly on gasket.
■restricted drain (check drain fitting and hose).
■defective nozzle and venturi seal.
■other inner valve defect (rotor seal, rotor & disc, wave washer, etc.).
NOTE: If water system pressure is low, an elevated drain hose may cause back pressure, stopping
brine draw.
Again, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into backwash.
Look for a fast flow of water from the drain hose.
A slow flow indicates a plugged top distributor, backwash flow plug, or drain hose.
Press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into fast rinse. Again
look for a fast drain flow. Allow the water softening system to rinse for a few minutes to flush
out any brine that may remain in the resin tank from the brining cycle test.
To return the water softening system to service, press the TOUCH or HOLD button.
5
4
3
2
1
Checking the Salt Storage Level and Refilling
Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for
each and every regeneration. The water for
making brine is metered into the salt storage
area by the water softening system valve and
control. However, you must keep the tank at
least 1/3 to 1/2 full of salt.
When to refill with salt: Check the salt level a
few weeks after you install the water softening
system and every week after that. Refill when
the brine tank is from 1/3 to 1/2 full. Never
allow the water softening system to use all the
salt before you refill it. Without salt, you will
soon have hard water.
Use clean water softening salts only, at least
99.5% pure. NUGGET, PELLET or coarse
SOLAR salts are recommended. Do not use
rock, block, granulated or ice cream-making
salts. They contain dirt and sediments, or
mush and cake, and will create maintenance
problems.
CAUTION: Water softening salt with iron-
removing additives: Some salts have an
additive to help the water softening system
handle iron in the water supply. Although
this additive may help to keep the water
softening system resin clean, it may also
release corrosive fumes that weaken and
shorten the life of some water softening
system parts. Do not use salt with iron-
removing additives.

Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
11
Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System
Your water softening system takes hard minerals (calcium and magnesium) out of the
water. Also, it can control some (see Specification guidelines section) “clear water” iron. With
clear water iron, water from a faucet is clear when first put into a glass. After 15 to 30
minutes, the water begins to cloud or turn rust-colored. A water softening system WILLNOT
remove any iron that makes the water cloudy or rusty as it comes from the faucet (called red
water iron). To take red water iron out of water, or over the maximum of clear water iron,
an iron filter or other equipment is needed.
If your water supply has clear water iron, periodic resin bed cleaning is needed. Clean the
bed at least every six months, or more often if iron appears in the soft water between
treatments, using a resin bed cleaner. Follow directions on the resin bed cleaner container.
Resin bed cleaner is available from most hardware stores.
Sanitizing Procedure
Care is taken at the factory to keep your water softening system clean and sanitary. Materials
used to make the water softening system will not infect or contaminate your water supply
and will not cause bacteria to form or grow. However during shipping, storage, installing
and operating, bacteria could get into the softener. For this reason, sanitizing as follows is
suggested upon installation and once per year thereafter.
NOTE: Sanitizing is recommended by the Water Quality Association for disinfecting.
Be sure to complete all installation steps, including control programming.
Mix about 3/4 oz. of common 5.25% household bleach (Clorox, Linco, Bo Peep, White
Sail, Eagle, etc.) with about 1 quart of water. Pour the mixture into the brinewell. It is
important not to pour straight bleach into the softener.
IMPORTANT: Press and hold (for 3 seconds) the TOUCH or HOLD button on the control
panel to start an immediate regeneration. RECHARGE NOW begins to flash in the display.
The bleach is drawn into and through the water softening system to sanitize it. This
sanitizing regeneration is over in about 2 hours. Then soft water is available for your use.
NOTE: When the above sanitizing regeneration is over, your house COLD water supply is
fully soft immediately. However, your water heater is filled with hard water and, as hot water
is used, it will refill with soft water. When all the hard water is replaced in the water heater,
hot only, and mixed hot and cold water will be fully soft. If you want totally soft water
immediately, after the above regeneration, drain the water heater until the water runs cold.
DANGER: If you do drain the water heater, use extreme care as the hot water could
cause burns.
3
2
1

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
Care and cleaning of the water softener system.
12
Breaking a Salt Bridge
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the salt storage area. It is usually caused by
high humidity or the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges, an empty space forms
between the water and salt. Then salt will not dissolve in the water to make brine.
If the brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if you have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top,
but the bridge is under it. The following is the best way to check for a salt bridge.
Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of the tank. Take a broom handle or like tool,
and carefully push it down into the salt, working it up and down. If the tool strikes a hard
object (be sure it’s not the bottom or sides of the tank), it’s most likely a salt bridge.
Carefully break the bridge with the tool. Do not pound on the walls of the tank.
If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out. Then fill the tank with nugget or pellet
salt only. In humid areas, it is best to fill with less salt, more often.
Push tool into salt
bridge to break
Pencil
mark
Broom
handle
Salt
Salt
bridge
Water
level
1″- 2″
Clean the Nozzle and Venturi Assembly
A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the water softening system to work properly. This small
unit makes the suction to move brine from the salt storage area to the resin tank during
regeneration. If it becomes plugged with sand, dirt, etc., the water softening system will not
work and you will get hard water.
To get to the nozzle and venturi remove the water softening system top cover. Be sure the
water softening system is in service cycle (no water pressure at nozzle and venturi). Then,
while holding the nozzle and venturi housing with one hand, remove the cap. Lift out the
screen support and screen, then the nozzle and venturi. Wash and rinse the parts in warm
water until clean. If needed, use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Also check and clean
the gasket.
NOTE: Some models have a small flow plug located in the nozzle and venturi, and/or a small
cone shaped screen in the housing. Be sure to check and clean these parts, if your model is so
equipped.
Carefully replace all parts in the correct order. Lightly lubricate the o-ring seal with clean
silicone grease and place in position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only. Do not over-
tighten the cap or housing .
Cap
O-ring seal
Screen
support
Screen
Screen
Nozzle &
Venturi
Nozzle &
Venturi
housing
Gasket
*Fill flow
plug
*Flow plug
IMPORTANT: Be sure small holes in
the gasket are centered directly
over the small holes in the nozzle
and venturi housing.
*Install with numbered side up,
concave side down.

Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Water feels slippery Absence of hard •This is normal.
after installation of minerals
water softening system
Water softening system Water softening system •Does not use much salt to regenerate—very efficient.
not using any salt is a “demand” unit
Possible salt bridge •See the Care and Cleaning section.
Possible plugged nozzle •See the Care and Cleaning section.
and venturi
Water is blue color after Acidic water in •Have the water tested at once.
water softening system copper plumbing
was installed WARNING:
Do not drink the water until problem has been corrected.
Water softening system Meter turbine stuck •Call for service.
not regenerating
Sensor wire corroded •Call for service.
Control defective •Call for service.
No power to unit •Check the circuit breaker or fuses.
Cloudiness on glassware Combination of soft •This is called etching and is permanent. To prevent this
(automatic dishwashers) water and too much from happening, use less detergent with soft water. Wash
detergent glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean.
Salty tasting water Low water pressure •Check pressure; should be minimum 20 psi.
after installation
Restricted drain hose •Clean and reconnect hose.
Resin beads showing up in Cracked distributor •Call for service.
drinking water and sink
Sounds you might hear Running water from the •This is normal.
unit into a drain
Water has air bubbles Air in system after installation •Will go away after it runs for a while.
and is cloudy
Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
Before you call for service…
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and money! Review the charts on the following
pages first and you may not need to call for service.
13

Problem Possible Causes What To Do
No soft water Faucet or fixture where sample •To conserve salt, the installer may have isolated some
was taken not plumbed to soft fixtures (outside faucets, toilets, etc.) from soft water.
water. NOTE: Be sure sample From the outlet of the water softening system, trace the
i s from a faucet that does not mix water flow path, in house plumbing. If soft water is not
soft and hard water. For example, directed to a faucet or fixture where wanted, consult a
a single lever kitchen faucet, if plumber.
the cold side is plumbed to hard
water
No salt in the brine tank •Check for a salt bridge or, if the tank is empty, refill with
or salt bridged recommended salt. Press (for 3 seconds) the TOUCH or
HOLD button to start an immediate regeneration and
restore soft water supply.
Transformer unplugged •Check for a loss of electrical power to the water softening
at wall outlet or power system due to any of these conditions and correct as
cable to water softening needed. With the power supply restored, observe the
system not connected control display and read Program Memory section.
Fuse blown or circuit
breaker popped on circuit
to electrical outlet
Electrical outlet on NOTE: The electrical outlet for the water softening system
a circuit that can be should be continuously live so it cannot be accidentally
switched off switched off.
Manual bypass valve in •Be sure the bypass valve stem is positioned properly.
bypass position Observe instruction on the decal at the end of the stem.
Valve drain hose pinched, •Any restriction in this drain hose may prevent proper
plugged, elevated too high operation of the nozzle and venturi and reduce or
or otherwise restricted prevent brine draw during regenerations.
Nozzle and venturi dirty, •With water pressure to the water softening system off, take
incorrectly assembled or the nozzle assembly apart. Inspect, clean and replace as
damaged needed. Any foreign particle(s), scratches, nicks, etc., in
the passages can prevent operation. Be sure holes in the
gasket are centered over holes in the housing.
Water hard sometimes Using hot water while the •Avoid using hot water during water softening system
water softening system regenerations because the water heater will refill with
is regenerating hard water. See Automatic Hard Water Bypass During
Regeneration section.
Control hardness number •Press and release the SELECT button until HARDNESS shows
setting too low in the display. Be sure the number shown is the same as the
actual grains per gallon hardness of your water supply.
See the Control section if a change in the setting is needed.
Grains of hardness in your •Water hardness can change over time, especially in well
water supply have increased water. To check, have the water tested by a water analysis
laboratory or call your local water department. Adjust the
hardness number setting as needed.
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
Before you call for service…
14

Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
Notes
15

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips
16
Notes

17
General Electric Company
Warranty Registration Department
P.O. Box 34070
Louisville, KY 40232-4070
GE Service Protection Plus™
GE, a name recognized worldwide for quality and dependability, offers you Service
Protection Plus™—comprehensive protection on all your appliances—No Matter
What Brand!
Benefits Include:
•Backed by GE
•All brands covered
• Unlimited service calls
•All parts and labor costs included
•No out-of-pocket expenses
•No hidden deductibles
•One 800 number to call
You will be completely satisfied with our service protection or you may request your money back
on the remaining value of your contract. No questions asked. It’s that simple.
Protect your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, range, TV, VCR and much more—any brand!
Plus there’s no extra charge for emergency service and low monthly financing is available. Even icemaker
coverage and food spoilage protection is offered. You can rest easy knowing that all your valuable
household products are protected against expensive repairs.
Place your confidence in GE and call us in the U.S. toll-free at 800-626-2224
for more information.
*All brands covered, up to 20 years old, in the continental U.S.
We’ll Cover Any Appliance.
Anywhere. Anytime.*
Please place in envelope and mail to:
✁Cut here

18
Consumer Product Ownership Registration
Model Number Serial Number
Important
Mail
Today!
GEAppliances
General Electric Company
Louisville, Kentucky 40225
First
Name
Mr. ■■Ms. ■■Mrs. ■■Miss ■■
Street
Address
City
State
Date Placed
In Use
Month Day Year
Zip
Code
Apt. #
Last
Name
Phone
Number _ _
Consumer Product Ownership Registration
Dear Customer:
Thank you for purchasing our product and thank you for placing your
confidence in us. We are proud to have you as a customer!
Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:
Complete and mail
your Consumer
Product Ownership
Registration today.
Have the peace of
mind of knowing we
can contact you in
the unlikely event of
a safety modification.
After mailing
the registration
below, store this
document in a safe
place. It contains
information you
will need should
you require service.
Our service number
is 800-GE-CARES
(800-452-2737).
Read your Owner’s
Manual carefully.
It will help you
operate your new
appliance properly.
If you have questions,
or need more
information call the
GE Answer Center®
800.626.2000.
Important: If you did not get a registration card with your product,
detach and return the form below to ensure that your
product is registered.
12 3
Model Number Serial Number
✁Cut here

Customer ServiceTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions
19
GE Reverse Osmosis System Warranty
All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care
®
technician.
For service, call 800-GE-CARES.
■Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the
product.
■Improper installation.
■Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for
other than the intended purpose or used commercially.
■Filters, membranes or batteries.
■Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit
breakers.
■Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or
acts of God.
■Incidental or consequential damage to personal property
caused by possible defects with this appliance.
What GE Will Not Cover:
This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home
use within the USA. In Alaska, the warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal
rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General.
Warrantor: General Electric Company. Louisville, KY 40225
For The Period Of: GE Will Replace, At No Charge To You:
One Year Any part of the Water Softening System which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship.
From the date of the During this full one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home
original purchase service to replace the defective part.
Three Years The electronic monitor, if it fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this
From the date of the three-year limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in-home service costs.
original purchase
Ten Years A replacement cabinet (brine tank) or resin tank, if either fails due to a defect in materials or
From the date of the workmanship. During this ten-year limitedwarranty, you will be responsible for any labor
original purchase or in-home service costs.

Printed in Louisville, KY
20
Service Telephone Numbers.
GE Answer Center
®
800.626.2000
The GE Answer Center® is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In-Home Repair Service 800-GE-CARES (800-432-2737)
Expert GE repair service is only a phone call away.
Special Needs Service 800.626.2000
800-TDD-GEAC (800-833-4322)
GE offers, free of charge, a brochure to assist in planning a barrier-free kitchen for persons
with limited mobility.
Service Contracts 800-626-2224
Purchase a GE service contract while your warranty is still in effect and you’ll receive a
substantial discount. GE Consumer Service will still be there after your warranty expires.
Parts and Accessories 800-626-2002
Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly
to their homes (VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted).
Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing
generally should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since
improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.
Service Satisfaction
If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE:
First, contact the people who serviced your appliance.
Next, if you are still not pleased, write all the details—including your phone number—to:
Manager, Consumer Relations
GE Appliances
Appliance Park
Louisville, KY 40225
Finally, if your problem is still not resolved, write:
Major Appliance Consumer Action Program
20 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsCustomer Service Troubleshooting Tips