Kenmore 625.384200 User manual

Use & Care Guide
Manual de Uso y Cuidado
English /Espafiol
System tested and cert lied by NSIF
nternat onal against NSI!=/AI!"....ISStar_dard 44
for hardness reduct on_ effic e_'_cyand the
reduct on of baium and radium 226/228
IiEstes sterna ha sdo probado y cert f cado
por 11"481!::nternat onal de acue do a
Noma J"rrrJSJ_4/ANSI 44
/,
para la educci6n de la durez.a, eficier_cia y
la reducci6n dd baio y del radio 226/228.
Model ,/Modelo No. 625.384200
I(enmore
with U_t,ra F_ow Va_v÷
co_"_v61vu_a de u_a flu]o Agua
Sears Brands Management Corporation
3333 Beverly Road
Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.kenmorewater.com
www.kenmore.com
www.sears.com ®
Printed on recycled paper/
Impreso en papel reciclado
P/N 7325299 (Rev. E 9/16/11)

WARRANTY ON KENMORE WATER SOFTENER
ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON WATER SOFTENER
When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if this
Kenmore appliance fails due to a defect in material and workmanship within one year from the date of pur-
chase, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ® to arrange for free repair.
TEN YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY AGAINST LEAKS
When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if the water
softener tank or salt storage drum develops a leak within ten years from the date of purchase,
call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ® to arrange for free tank or drum replacement. After the first year you must pay an
initial trip charge.
All warranty coverage does not include water softener resin, which is an expendable item.
If this appliance is used for other than private family purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from
the date of purchase.
This warranty covers only defects in material and workmanship. Sears will NOT pay for:
1. A service technician to instruct the user in correct product installation, operation or maintenance.
2. A service technician to clean or maintain this product.
3. Damage to or failure of this product if it is not installed, operated or maintained according to the all
instructions supplied with the product.
4. Damage to or failure of this product resulting from accident, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intend-
ed purpose.
5. Damage to or failure of this product caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals or utensils other
than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.
6. Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this product.
Disclaimer of implied warranties; limitation of remedies
Customer's sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair as provided herein.
Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to
one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Sears shall not be liable for incidental or consequential dam-
ages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential dam-
ages, or limitation on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.
This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States or Canada.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to
state.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Warranty ..................................................................................... 2
Safety Guides .................................................................................. 3
Specifications & Dimensions ...................................................................... 4
Packing List ................................................................................... 5
Plan Your Installation .......................................................................... 5-7
Installation .................................................................................. 7-11
Programming the Softener ..................................................................... 12-13
Sanitizing the Water Softener .................................................................... 14
Adding Salt to the Storage Tank .................................................................. 14
Controller Features ........................................................................... 15-19
Care of Your Water Softener ..................................................................... 20
Service Information .......................................................................... 20-23
Exploded View & Parts List ................................................................... 24-27
• Read all steps and guides carefully before installing
and using your new water softener. Follow all steps
exactly to correctly install. Failure to follow them
could cause personal injury or property damage.
Reading this manual will also help you to get all the
benefits from your water softener.
• Your Kenmore water softener will remove hardness
minerals from water. This is measured in grains per
gallon (gpg). It will also remove some clear water
iron _:. This is measured in parts per million (ppm).
See the specifications page for the maximum limits
of hardness and iron removal.
• A water softener will not improve other water prob-
lems such as acidity, tastes and odors, or iron other
than clear water iron.
• Do not attempt to use this product to make safe
drinking water from non-potable water sources. Do
not use the system on microbiologically unsafe water,
or water of unknown quality without adequate disin-
fection before or after the system.
• Check with your local public works department for
plumbing and sanitation codes. You must follow
their guides as you install the system. Follow your
local codes if they differ with guides in this manual.
In Massachusetts, plumbing code 248-CMR 3.00 and
10.00 shall be adhered to. Consult with a licensed
plumber.
• Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-solder
connections, as required by federal codes, when
installing soldered copper plumbing.
• Use care when handling the water softener. Do not
turn upside down or drop.
• Avoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive heat may
cause distortion or other damage to non-metallic parts.
• This water softener works on water pressures of 20 psi
(minimum) to 125 psi (maximum). If your house water
pressure is over the maximum, install a pressure reduc-
ing valve in the water supply pipe to the softener.
• Temperature of the water supply to the softener must be
between 40°F and 120°F. Do not install on hot water.
• If installing the water softener outdoors, do not locate
where it will be exposed to wet weather, direct sunlight
or extreme hot or cold temperatures.
• This softener works on 24 volt, 60 Hz electrical power
only, supplied by a direct plug-in transformer (includ-
ed). Be sure to use the included transformer and plug
it into a nominal 120V, 60 cycle household outlet that
is properly protected by an overcurrent device such as
a circuit breaker or fuse. If transformer is replaced,
use only the authorized service, Class II, 24V 10VA
transformer.
_:The capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated
by Water Quality Association test data.
European Directive 2002/96/EC requires all electrical and electronic
equipment to be disposed of according to Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment (WEEE) requirements. This directive or similar laws are in
place nationally and can vary from region to region. Please refer to your
state and local laws for proper disposal of this equipment.
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
3

Model No. 625.384200
Model Code 420
11,700 @ 2.3 Ibs.
Rated Softening Capacity (Grains @ Salt Dose) 31,700 @ 8.8 Ibs.
40,100 @ 15.1 Ibs.
Rated Efficiency (Grains/Pound of Salt @ Minimum Salt Dose) 5,100 @ 2.3 Ibs.
Water Used During Regeneration @ Minimum Salt Dose 2.4 gallons/1,000 grains
Total Water Used Per Regeneration @ Maximum Salt Dose 36.3 gallons
Rated Service Flow Rate 9.0 gpm
Amount of High Capacity Ion Exchange Resin 1.11cu. ft.
Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow 11.8 psig
Water Supply Max. Hardness 120 gpg
Water Supply Max. Clear Water Iron 10 ppm*
Water Pressure Limits (minimum / maximum) 20 - 125 psi
Water Temperature Limits (minimum / maximum) 40 - 120 °F
Minimum Water Supply Flow Rate 3 gpm
Intermittent Flow @ 15 psi 10.6 gpm**
Maximum Drain Flow Rate 2.0 gpm
*Capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by WQA test data. State of Wisconsin
requires additional treatment if water supply contains clear water iron exceeding 5ppm.
**Intermittent flow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate used for detemi-
ning the softener's rated capacity and efficiency. Continuous operation at flow rates
greater than the service flow rate may affect capacity and efficiency performance.
These systems conform to NSF/ANSI 44 for the specific performance claims as verified and
substantiated by test data.
The efficiency rating is only valid at the stated salt dose. These softeners were efficiency
rated according to NSF/ANSI Standard 44.
Variable Salt Dose: The salt dose is selected by the electronic controls at regeneration time
based on the amount needed.
_ 17"_
3-3/4"
34 _
IN - OUT
I
48"
41-1/2"
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW Figure 1
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4

The parts required to assemble and install the water
softener are included with the unit. Thoroughly check
the water softener for possible shipping damage and
parts loss. Also inspect and note any damage to the
shipping carton.
Remove and discard (or recycle) all packing materials.
To avoid loss of small parts, we suggest you keep the
small parts in the parts bag until you are ready to use
them.
iiiiilHliiiii!! l!!!ii ....
Ground Clamp
Kit Bypass Valve
O-rings Hose Clamps
20 ft. Drain Hose
Adaptor Elbow
Installation
Adaptors
Grommet
Clips
(including 1 spare)
Figure 2
THE PROPER ORDER TO INSTALL WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT
(Shows sequence of equipment only - not all items are needed in all applications)
Cold Water
to House
Untreated Water to
Hot Water
to House
Outside Faucets
Sediment
Cartridge
Filter
Water Water Central Iron
Heater Softener Water Filter
Filtration
System
City Water Supply
• Always locate an Iron Filter UPSTREAM of the water softener.
f
Pressure
Tank OR
_Well Wate! Supply
Well E_
Pump t
• Locate a Central Water Filtration System UPSTREAM of the water softener on a chlorinated
water supply, or DOWNSTREAM of the water softener on a non-chlorinated water supply. Figure 3
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5

TYPICAL INSTALLATION
WHERE TO INSTALL THE WATER SOFTENER
Review the following points before you choose a place
to put your softener:
1. Place as close as possible to, but always downstream
from, the pressure tank (well water) or water meter
(city water).
2. Place as close as possible to a water drain such as a
floor drain, laundry tub, sump or standpipe (See Fig.
4).
3. Connect to the house main water pipe UPSTREAM
OF THE WATER HEATER (See Fig. 3). The tempera-
ture of water going through the softener must not be
more than 120°F (49°C). Hot water will damage
inner softener parts. To reduce the risk of hot water
backup, piping between the softener and water
heater should be as long as possible.
4. Keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft
water and salt. See Fig. 4.
5. Do not install in a place where the softener could
freeze. Damage caused by freezing voids the war-
ranty by Sears Brands Management Corporation.
6. Put the softener in a place where water damage is
least likely to occur if it develops a leak. Sears or
the manufacturer will not repair or pay for water
damage.
7. A grounded, 120V, 60 Hz. electrical outlet is needed
within 10 feet of the softener to plug in the trans-
former (See Fig. 4). Be sure the outlet and trans-
former are in an inside location, protected from wet
weather. Use a continuously "live" outlet, which can-
not be accidentally switched off.
8. When installing in an outside location, you must take
the steps necessary to assure the softener, installation
plumbing, and wiring, are protected from the ele-
ments, direct sunlight, contamination, vandalism, etc.
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6

CHECK YOUR WATER PRESSURE BEFORE INSTALLING
For your water softener to work properly, incoming
water pressure in your house pipes must be no lower
than 20 pounds per square inch (psi). The highest
allowable pressure is 125 psi. If pressure is above 125
psi, buy and install a pressure reducing valve in the
pipe supplying water to the softener's inlet.
NOTE: If water pressure during the day is 100 psi or
more, pressure during the night may go above
125 psi.
INSTALL SINGLE BYPASS VALVE AND/OR THREADED INSTALLATION ADAPTORS
Complete the following steps to assemble the adaptors
and/or the included single bypass valve.
1. Close the shutoff valve on the house main water pipe,
near the water meter or pressure tank, to turn off the
water.
2. Shut off the gas or electric supply to the water
heater.
3. Open the highest and lowest water faucets in your
house. This will let water drain from the pipes.
Close faucets after water has drained.
4. Remove the top cover. Pull outward on the two tabs
to release top cover (see Fig. 5). The salt lid remains
attached to the top cover when removed. Set both
covers aside so they will not get scratched or broken.
Salt Lid
Top
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE:
6. Lightly coat the o-rings with silicone grease and slide
them onto the bypass valve. Push the bypass valve
into the softener valve's inlet and outlet ports as far
as it will go. Snap the two large holding clips into
place, from the top down as shown (see Fig. 8).
CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so
the bypass valve will not pull out.
INLET AND OUTLET THREADED ADAPTORS:
7. Lightly coat the o-rings with silicone grease and slide
them onto the installation adaptors. Push the adap-
tors into the valve inlet and outlet ports, or bypass
valve ports, as far as they will go. Both adaptors are
the same and fit either port. Snap the two large
holding clips into place, as shown (see Fig. 8).
CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so
the adaptors will not pull out.
Figure 5
5. Visually check and remove any foreign mate-
rials from the valve inlet and outlet ports (see
Fig. 6). Carefully remove the two large plastic
clips (you will use them). Check to be sure
the turbine and support are firmly in place
(see Fig. 7).
NOTE: If you will not install the included bypass
valve because you will have a 3-valve
bypass in your plumbing, skip step 6, but
perform step 7.
Valve Inlet'_ _
O-Rings
Clip
Clips Threaded
Valve Installation
Outlet Adaptors
O-Rings
Clip
Single
Bypass Valve
Figure 6
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7

INSTALL SINGLE BYPASS VALVE (cont.)
Before installing the bypass valve and/or installation
adaptors, make sure that the turbine and support are
firmly in place inside the softener valve's outlet port.
Turbine
Support
Valve Outlet j Turbine /
Figure 7
INSTALL HOLDING CLIPS
Bypass Valve or
Installation Adaptor \Plastic Clip
Valve Inlet or Outlet O-Ring
Plastic clip snaps
into groove in
bypass or adaptor Figure 8
ALTERNATE BYPASS VALVE INSTALLATION
If connecting to floor
level plumbing, install
the bypass valve turned
downward, as shown.
OUT
iN Figure 9
ASSEMBLE INLET AND OUTLET PLUMBING
Measure, cut (thread if needed) and put together all
pipe and fittings up to the main water pipe. Make sure
that the incoming water supply pipe goes to the valve
inlet side.
CAUTION: Never solder fittings while connected to
nonmetallic parts. Wait until soldered pipe
has cooled before connection. See Fig. 10.
CAUTION: Be careful when putting pipe fittings togeth-
er. Do not cross thread, and do not over-
tighten.
______ /Vlain Water Pipe Incoming
_ _ Hard
4. Solder. _ Water
NOTE: To be certain
that heat will not 1. Cut pipe to
travel down the pipe correct length
and into the bypass
valve or installation
adaptors, wrap the 2. Solder. When
bottom of the pip_ /cool, do step 3.
and the bypass v_lve
with a wet rag. L_
__ -_ 3. Put threaded
J
port.
adaptor into
bypass valve
Figure 10
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CONNECT THE VALVE DRAIN HOSE
Take a length of 3/8" inside diameter drain tubing
(supplied) and attach one end to the drain fitting (see
Fig. 11). Use a tube clamp from the parts bag to hold it
in place. Put the other end of the tubing over a floor
drain, into a laundry tub, standpipe, or other suitable
drain. Check your local codes.
Leave an air gap of about 1-1/2" between the end of
the hose and the drain. This gap is needed so you
don't get a backflow of sewer water into the softener.
Do not put the end of the hose into the drain or con-
nect without the air gap.
Locate and support the hose so it does not kink or have
sharp bends. Secure the hose end so water pressure
does not cause the hose to "whip". Tie or wire it in
place. Do not pinch the hose shut. The softener will
not work if this drain hose is pinched, plugged, closed
or restricted in any way. Direct drain flow down into
drain from drain line as flow could possibly overshoot
the drain cover.
Keep the hose lower than the drain fitting. In some
homes, to get to a drain you must raise the hose and
run it overhead. Do not raise the hose more than 8 feet
above the floor.
COPPER DRAIN TUBE: Local plumbing codes may
require the use a copper valve drain tube. A copper
tube is also best to use if running a drain line overhead.
To adapt a copper drain tube to the softener, purchase
a compression fitting (1/4" female pipe threads x 1/2"
O.D. tube) and tubing from your local hardware store.
CONNECT SALT TANK OVERFLOW HOSE
1. Locate the rubber grommet, adaptor elbow and tube
clamp (see Fig. 11)that are in the parts bag.
2. Push the grommet into the hole in the salt tank wall
so that half is inside and half is outside.
3. Push the larger end of the adaptor into the grommet.
4. Push one end of a length of 3/8" I.D. tubing (sup-
plied) onto the tube adaptor, using a tube clamp
from the parts bag to hold it in place.
5. Put the other end of the tubing over the floor drain.
IMPORTANT: Overflow water must run down by gravity
through the tubing. Do not raise the tub-
ing higher than the adaptor (see Fig. 11).
IMPORTANT: Do not connect this hose to the valve
drain hose you just installed (see above).
Both drains must have a separate hose.
_t Drain
ring
Tube ...._ _
Clamp Y_
Grommet Tube
IAdaptor
NOTE: Drain Hose
(20 ft.) is included.
See also parts list.
Salt Tank
Overflow Hose
\\ \\ xx
\\ \\ \\ \\ \\ Todrain
\\ \\ point other
\\
--_,_V'_lv_ _ than floor
drain.
Drain Hose Support tub-
ing in place
Tie or wire 1-1/2" as needed.
tubing in Air Gap
place
FLOOR DRAIN
SUBSTITUTING RIGID DRAIN LINE
Clip 1/4 NPT
Threads CompressionFitting, 1/4 NPTx
Barbs 1/2" O.D. Tube(not supplied)
Cut barbs from drain fit- 1/2" Outside
ring {pull clip and remove Diameter Copper
fitting from valve) Tube (not supplied)
..... STANDPIPE
.... _ ._.____L
Gap
., Gap
_ LAUNDRY TUB Figure 11
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9

LEAKTEST
To check for leaks, complete the following steps:
CAUTION: To avoid water or air pressure damage to
softener inner parts, and to flush pipe chips
or other residue from the water pipes, be
sure to do the following steps exactly as
instructed.
1. Fully open two nearby cold water faucets down-
stream from the softener.
2. Place bypass valve(s) in "bypass" position (see
Figures 12 & 13). On a single valve, slide the stem
inward to bypass. On a 3-valve bypass, close the
inlet and outlet valves and open the bypass valve.
3. Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff valve.
Observe steady water flow from both open faucets.
4. Place bypass valve(s) in SERVICE, EXACTLY as fol-
lows: Keep soft water faucets open.
a. Single Bypass Valve: Slowly, slide pull the valve
stem outward toward service, pausing several times
to allow the softener to pressurize gradually.
b. 3-Valve Bypass: Fully close the bypass valve and
open the outlet valve. Slowly open the inlet valve,
pausing several times to allow the softener to pres-
surize gradually.
5. After about three minutes, open a hot water faucet
for about one minute, or until all air is expelled, then
close.
6. Close both cold water faucets.
7. Check your plumbing work for leaks, and fix right
away if any are found. Be sure to observe previous
caution notes.
NOTE: If this procedure is performed on a new softener,
water coming from the taps may initially be dis-
colored. This normally occurs the first time
water runs through the resin bed. The discol-
ored water is not harmful, and the discoloration
will not last more than a few minutes.
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE
Pull stem outward
for Service
77
Push inward
for Bypass
Figure 12
3-VALVE BYPASS
FOR SERVICE
Close bypass valve.
Open inlet & outlet
valves. Outlet
Valve
FOR BYPASS
Open bypass valve.
Close inlet & outlet
valves.
Bypass
Valve
Inlet
Valve
Figure 13
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10

INSTALL GROUNDING CLAMP
The house cold water pipe (iron or copper) is often used
to ground all electrical outlets in the home. To maintain
this ground, use the ground clamp kit included in the
parts bag. Install the ground clamp across the inlet
and outlet metal pipes (see Fig. 14). Make sure good
contact is made between the pipe and the clamps.
INSTALL COVERS
After installing your water softener, put the covers on.
Angle the covers so the top cover clips onto the back
first, then bring down in front and clip on the tabs
inside the rim and lower the salt lid closed (See Fig. 5).
CONNECT TO ELECTRICAL POWER
The softener works on 24 volt, 60 Hz electrical power.
The included transformer changes standard 120 volt AC
house power to 24 volts. You must plug the water soft-
ener's transformer into a grounded, 120 volt outlet only.
Be sure the outlet is always "live" so it cannot be
switched off by mistake.
NOTE: The electrical outlet you plug the transformer
into must be indoors, protected from weather.
RESTART THE WATER HEATER
Turn on the gas (or electric) supply to the water heater
and light the pilot.
YOUR PLUMBING INSTALLATION AND
ELECTRICAL WORK ARE NOW COMPLETE.
METAL PIPE GROUNDING
Ground
Clamp "'_1
(2 halves)
Screw with J
Iockwasher
& nut
TO
Valve Inlet
8
FROM
Valve Inlet
Figure 14
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11

REGENERATION button Display
Salt
/ / /
SET SALT LEVEL button LOW SALT indicator WATER USE button \ DOWN button
SELECT button UP button
Figure 15
PROGRAM THE SOFTENER
When the transformer is plugged into the electrical out-
let, the model code (420) and a test number (example:
J3.0), are briefly shown in the display. Then the words
"PRESENT TIME" appear and 12:00 PM begins to flash.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
I
Cu
u.3.u
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
I
t --J.FIFt,_M
PRESENT TIME
Figure 16
SET PRESENT TIME OF DAY
If the words "PRESENT TIME" do not show in the dis-
play, press the SELECT button a few times until they do.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
w wAN
i 1,3jl
_"3w3
PRESENT TIME
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
_,3!3
PRESENT TIME
Figure 17
1. Press the /X UP or V DOWN buttons to set the
present time. Up moves the display ahead; down
sets the time back. Be sure AM or PM is correct.
NOTE: Press buttons and quickly release to slowly
advance the display. Hold the buttons down for
fast advance.
2. When the correct time is displayed, press the SELECT
button, and the display will change to show the
"Hardness" screen.
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12

SETWATERHARDNESSNUMBER
If you completed the previous step, the word "HARD-
NESS" should show in the display. Otherwise, press the
SELECT button several times until it does.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
_C
G_
HARDNESS
Figure 18
1. Press the f UP or V DOWN buttons to set the
hardness of your water supply, in grains per gallon.
The default is 25.
NOTE: If your water supply contains iron, compensate
for it by adding to the water hardness number.
For example, assume your water is 20 gpg hard
and contains 2 ppm iron. Add 5 to the hardness
number for each 1 ppm of iron. In this example,
you would use 30 for your hardness number.
2ppmironx5-- 10
(times)
20 gpg hardness
+10
30 HARDNESS NUMBER
If your water supply contains iron, it is recom-
mended that you clean your water softener resin
bed at least every 6months. Your local Sears
store has Water Softener Cleaner (Part Number
34427) available.
2. When finished setting your water's hardness number,
press the SELECT button, and the display will change
to show the "Recharge Time" screen.
SET RECHARGE (REGENERATION) START TIME
If you completed the previous step, the words "RE-
CHARGE TIME" should show in the display. Otherwise,
press the SELECT button several times until they do.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
TI,Fl FI AM
C'uu
RECHARGE
TIME
Figure 19
.
The softener's default recharge start time is 2:00 AM.
This is normally a time of day when water is not
being used in the household. Hard water bypasses
the softener if the household draws water during the
recharge cycle. If a different recharge start time is
desired, press the f UP or V DOWN buttons to
change the time, in 1-hour increments. Be sure AM or
PM is correct.
When the desired recharge start time is displayed,
press the SELECT button, and the display will change
to show one of the "Salt Type" screens shown below.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
I
FJ
NCl
Figure 20
SET SALT TYPE
If you completed the previous step, either "NaCI" (for
Sodium Chloride) or "KCI" (for Potassium Chloride)
should show in the display. Otherwise, press the
SELECT button several times until one of them does.
1. Press the f UP or V DOWN buttons to set the type
of salt you will be using in your water softener. The
default is NaCI (standard Sodium Chloride water sof-
tener salt). If you will be using I<CI (Potassium
Chloride) instead, be sure to set salt type to KCI. This
setting adjusts the regeneration cycle times to com-
pensate for the different rate at which KCI dissolves.
See also the following page for more information on
salt types.
2. When the correct salt type is displayed, press the
SELECT button, and the display will return to the nor-
mal run (time of day) screen.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8OFF
7
6
5
4
3
2
1Figure 21
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13

SANITIZE THE WATER SOFTENER
1. Open salt lid, remove the brinewell cover and pour
about 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of household bleach into
the softener brinewell. Replace the brinewell cover.
2. Make sure the bypass valve(s) is in the "service"
(open) position.
3. Start a recharge: Press the REGENERATION button
and hold for 3 seconds, until "RECHARGE", "Serv"
and "Fill" begin to flash in the display. This recharge
draws the sanitizing bleach into and through the
water softener. Any air remaining in the unit is
purged to the drain.
4. After the recharge has completed, fully open a cold
water faucet, downstream from the softener, and
allow 50 gallons of water to pass through the sys-
tem. This should take at least 20 minutes. Close the
faucet.
Your new Sears softener is now softening the water for
your household needs. However, your WATER HEATER
is filled with hard water. To have fully soft water right
away, you can drain the water heater so it refills with
soft water. If you don't drain the water heater, it will
take a few days before you have fully soft water.
NOTE: If this procedure is performed on a new softener,
water coming from the taps may initially be dis-
colored. This normally occurs the first time
water runs through the resin bed. The discol-
ored water is not harmful, and the discoloration
will not last more than a few minutes.
ADDING SALT TO THE STORAGE TANK
You must keep salt in the tank, but it is not necessary to
fill it full. Especially in humid areas, it is best to fill the
storage tank no more than half full, and to add salt
more often. Salt "bridging" occurs more often when
conditions are humid.
Use NUGGET or PELLET water softener salt. DO NOT
use rock salts, as they have dirt and sediments that will
stop the softener from working. To maintain optimum
performance of your water softener, the salt tank
should be cleaned out every 2 to 3 years.
POTASSIUM CHLORIDE (I(CI) SALT
If you choose Potassium Chloride (KCI) as a regenerant,
following these suggestions will help give you years of
maintenance free service.
1. Place only one bag of KCI in your softener at a time
(the salt storage tank should contain no more than
60 pounds of KCI at any one time).
2. A softener using KCI should not be placed in areas
with temperature fluctuations and high humidity (KCI
will harden in these environments and may make the
softener inoperable).
3. Check the brine tank and brinewell (black tube in
salt storage tank) monthly. If hardening is present,
pour small amounts of warm water onto hardened
areas until they loosen.
4. Be sure to set "Salt Type" on the controller to "KCI".
This setting adjusts the regeneration cycle times to
compensate for the different rate at which KCI dis-
solves. See "Set Salt Type" on the previous page.
Persons who are on sodium restricted diets should con-
sider the added sodium as part of their overall sodium
intake. For example, if your water supply is 15 grains
hard, and you drank 3 quarts of softened water you
would consume 335 milligrams of sodium. That is
equivalent to eating 2-1/2 slices of white bread.
WATER SOFTENING SALT WITH IRON
REMOVING ADDITIVES
Some salts have an additive to help the softener handle
iron in the water supply. These salts may be used if
your water supply has a high iron content. It is recom-
mended to use Sears Water Softener Cleaner (refer to
the parts list in back of manual for part number) for
periodic treatments to keep your resin bed clean. This
is available at your local Sears store.
Persons who are concerned about their drinking water
should consider a Kenmore reverse osmosis drinking
water system that will remove in excess of 90% of the
sodium and other drinking water contaminants.
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
14

EXTRA RECHARGE
Sometimes, a manually initiated recharge (regeneration)
may be desired, or needed. Two examples are:
• You have used more water than usual (guests visiting)
and you may run out of soft water before the next
automatic regeneration.
• You did not add salt to the softener before it ran out.
Add salt to the softener before regenerating.
You can start a regeneration immediately, or you can
set the controller to regenerate at the next preset
recharge time (2:00 AM, or as set).
RECHARGE NOW
Press the REGENERATION button and hold for 3 sec-
on__ad_dsuntil the words "RECHARGE", "Serv" and "Fill"
begin to flash in the display. The softener enters the fill
cycle of regeneration immediately. This regeneration
will take about 2 hours to complete. Then, you will
have soft water again.
NOTE: If the "Clean Feature" is set ON, the normal
regeneration cycle is preceded by a cleaning
backwash and rinse. The words "CLEAN" and
"Bkwsh" or "Rinse" flash in the display, along
with the minutes of the clean cycle remaining.
SALT SIGNAL Sen
LEVEL LEVEL Fm
8
7
6
5
_4
_3
_C
RECHARGE
Figure 22
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Press and release (do not hold) the REGENERATION
button. "RECHARGE TONIGHT" will begin flashing in
the display, and the softener will begin regeneration at
the next preset recharge time (2:00 AM, or as set). If
you decide to cancel the regeneration before it starts,
press and release the REGENERATION button once
more. "RECHARGE TONIGHT" will stop flashing in the
display.
SALT SIGNAL 3 _PM
L%-L2VEL J_w_
8RECHARGETONIGHT
7
6
5
_4
_3
ml 1_+:= Figure 23
SALT MONITOR SYSTEM
The water softener has a salt monitor indicator light to
remind you to add salt to the storage tank.
NOTE: You must set salt level each time salt is added
to the water softener.
NOTE: The salt monitor system estimates salt levels, and
accuracy will vary with different salts.
To set this monitor system:
1. Lift the salt lid and level the salt in the storage tank.
2. The yellow salt level decal, on the brinewell inside
the tank, has numbers from 0 to 8 (see Fig. 24).
Observe the highest number the leveled salt is at, or
closest to.
L
Salt
Level\
Salt Level
iIBars "
5 J_r_ Brinewell
Decal
press for tonight
gALT SIGNAL
5EVEL LEVEL
R
hold for immediate 7
5
1114
11111113
11111112_
IIIII I _
Figure 24
3. Press the SET SALT LEVEL button as many times as
necessary to make the salt level bars in the display
(see Fig. 24) match the number on the decal. At
level 2 or below, the "Low Salt" indicator will flash.
4. If you want to turn the salt monitor off, press the SET
SALT LEVEL button past 8, until "OFF" shows in the
display next to the number 8.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8OFF
7
6
5
4
3
2
1Figure 25
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
15

OPTIONAL SETTINGS:
•SALT EFFICIENCY
•CLEAN FEATURE
•CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES
•97°/o FEATURE
•12 /24 HOUR CLOCK
•GALLONS /LITERS
•MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERA-
TIONS
•BACKWASH & FAST RINSE TIMES
1. To set any of these options, press and hold SELECT
for 3 seconds until "000" shows in the display. Then
press (do not hold) SELECT again to display one of
the "Salt Efficiency" screens shown below.
•SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
F'eL-L-
UJ-J-
Efficiency Icon
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
•/
J-I
uw-_
Figure 26
SALT EFFICIENCY: When this feature is ON, the
water softener will operate at salt efficiencies of
4000 grains of hardness per pound of salt or higher.
The softener may recharge more often using smaller
salt dosage and less water. This softener is shipped
with the efficiency feature set OFF. Installations in
the State of California require this setting to be
turned ON. Use the /X UP or V DOWN buttons to
change between OFF and ON.
California Efficiency Requirement
Your Kenmore Water Softener has a "High
Efficiency" feature that can be set ON or OFF.
This softener is shipped with the efficiency feature
set OFF, which will utilize the maximum rated
capacity while most often achieving maximum salt
efficiencies. When installing this unit in the State
of California, you MUST turn the efficiency feature
ON. The softener may initiate more frequent
recharges, but it will operate at 4000 grains per
pound of salt or higher.
2. Press SELECT again to display one of the "Clean"
screens shown below.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
urF
CLEAN
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
UN
CLEAN
Figure 27
.
CLEAN: This feature is beneficial on water supplies
containing iron and/or high amounts of sediments
(sand, silt, dirt, etc.). When set to ON, a backwash
and fast rinse cycle will occur first, preceding the
normal regeneration sequence. This provides extra
cleaning of the resin bed before it is regenerated
with the salt brine. To conserve water, if your water
supply does not contain iron or sediments, be sure
this feature is set to OFF. The default is OFF. Use
the /X UP or V DOWN buttons to change between
OFF and ON.
Press SELECT again to display the "Clean Time"
screen shown below.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
CLEAN TIME
Figure 28
CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES: If you have set the
Clean Feature ON, the length of the extra backwash
cycle automatically is set to 2 minutes. However, you
can adjust this time from 1to 15 minutes in length.
To change this cycle time, use the /X UP button to
increase the time, or the V DOWN button to short-
en the time. If no change is desired, continue to next
step.
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
16

4. Press SELECT again to display the "97%" screen.
•SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
"1
_F_F_
UFF
RECHARGE
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
RECHARGE
Figure 29
97°/o FEATURE: The 97% Feature can save salt and
water by regenerating when 97% of the softener's
capacity has been used up. With this feature ON,
the regeneration can occur at any time (whenever
the system has reached 97% of its capacity). The
default is OFF. If this feature is desired, turn it on by
pressing the /k UP button.
5. Press SELECT again to display the "12 or 24 hr"
screen.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
G
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
PM
ltL F
TIME
SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
_JtJ
!2 -_ F_F
TIME
Figure 30
12 OR 24 HOUR CLOCK: All time displays are shown
in standard clock time (1 to 12 AM; and 1to 12 PM)
at the 12 hr default setting. If 24 hour time format is
desired, set to 24 hr by pressing the /k UP button.
6. Press SELECT again to display the "Gallons or Liters"
screen.
SALT SIGNAL C D_ _ C
LEVEL LEVEL
....... Oi- L 3
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
....... GALLONS
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
tLITERS
Figure 31
GALLON OR LITER READINGS: Water usage and
flow rate displays are shown in gallons at the default
setting. If you prefer liters, change this setting from
"Gals" to "Liter" by pressing the /k UP button.
7. Press SELECT again to display the "Recharge Days"
screen.
•SALT SIGNAL
LEVELLEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
DAY 8
RECHARGE 7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Figure 32
MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERATIONS: The
electronic controller automatically determines regen-
eration frequency. This provides the greatest operat-
ing efficiency and, under most conditions this feature
will be left in its default mode. However, you can set
this feature to force a regeneration every set number
of days. You may want to do this if, for example,
your water supply contains iron and you want the
softener to regenerate at least once every few days
to keep the resin bed clean. Use the /k UP or V
DOWN buttons to change the number of days (up to
6). If no change is desired, continue to next step.
continued on next page
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
17

7. Press SELECT again to display the alternating screens
shown in Figure 33.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Bkwash
_ME
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Bkwash
TIME
Figure 33
BACKWASH & FAST RINSE TIMES: If you experience
salty tasting water after regeneration, you may need
to increase the backwash and fast rinse times. The
cycle times during regenerations are determined by
the softener's electronic controller. However, you may
increase the backwash and fast rinse times, in 1
minute increments. If you wish to increase the back-
wash time, use the /_ UP button to add up to 15 min-
utes to the backwash time. Then press SELECT to dis-
play the alternating screens shown in Figure 34.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
F_OC_M,N
Rinse TIME
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
I
M/M
Rinse TIME
Figure 34
If you wish to increase the fast rinse time, use the
/X UP button to add up to 15 minutes to the fast
rinse time.
8. Press SELECT to return to the normal run (time of
day) screen.
TANK LIGHT
Alight inside the salt storage tank will come on when-
ever you open the salt lid. A "Tank Light" icon is dis-
played when this light is on. The light turns off when
you close the salt lid. It will also turn off automatically
after 15 minutes if the salt lid is left open.
SALT SIGNAL _ _ _ PM
LEVEL=LEVEL _ _ G
8
7
6
5
Im3
iIm l-+_:
....... TANK
Tank Light
/Icon
Figure 35
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
18

WATER FLOW THROUGH THE SOFTENER
To view the flow rate through the softener in gallons (or
liters) per minute, press the WATER USE button. If soft
water is in use, the flow rate will be displayed to the
nearest tenth of a gallon (or liter). The display will
show "0" when all faucets and water using appliances
are off.
SALTSIGNAL ----t' I "a,',.
L_vEL=LJVEL 2_' _w2
8
7
6
5 rl Ct G,,M
mm4
•,,,, 2_.O
2 ::,_:: FLOWRATE
mlt :_:= Figure 36
AVERAGE DAILY GALLONS OR LITERS
Press the WATER USE button a second time to display
the the average number of gallons (or liters) of soft
water that the household uses each day. This water
usage figure is recalculated daily by the elctronic con-
troller. To turn this display off, press the WATER USE
button once again.
SALTSIGNAL _ t TI,_M
LEVELLEVEL J _C
8
7
6
5
_,4 I "TI L-t
m2::+::
....... AVG. gAILY GALLONS Figure 37
RECHARGE TIME REMAINING & VALVE
POSITION INDICATORS
One of the valve position indicators (Serv, Fill, Brine,
Bkwsh, Rinse) is displayed while the softener is recharg-
ing. RECHARGE flashes in the display and, beginning
with Brine, the minutes of recharge remaining before
return to service appears in place of the present time.
When the valve is moving from one cycle to another,
both position indicators are flashing.
SALT SIGNAL
LEVEL LEVEL
8
7
6
5
_4
_3
img 1:_::
-t L-_.FtL-I
..... _2t,uQ
RECHARGE
TIME REMAINING
PROGRAM MEMORY
If electrical power to the softener goes off, the time dis-
play is blank but the electronic controller keeps the cor-
rect time for several hours. When electrical power
comes on again, you will have to reset the present time
only if the display is flashing. The HARDNESS and
RECHARGE TIME never require resetting unless a
change is desired. Even if the clock is incorrect after a
long power outage, the softener works as it should to
keep your water soft, however, regenerations may occur
at the wrong time of day until you reset the clock to the
correct time of day.
KENMORE'S ULTRA CLEANSING FEATURE
The ultra cleansing feature keeps larger particles of
sediment from entering the home's plumbing system. As
water passes through the softener, the larger sediment
particles are collected in the integrated basket and
then rinsed to the drain before each regeneration. The
ultra cleansing feature provides added protection for
water using appliances by reducing the chance of larg-
er particles entering the various products valves and
screens. The "Clean Feature" may be turned ON to
provide an extra backwash that will help keep the ultra
cleansing screen clean. The default is OFF.
IMPORTANT: The ultra cleansing feature is not intended
to replace pretreatment filtration. For
problem water applications, additional
sediment filtration is recommended.
Sears offers a full line of dedicated sediment filtration
products.
Ultra Cleansing Screen
Resin
Tank
7
Top
Distributor
Figure 38 Figure 39
Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
19

SALTBRIDGE
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt "bridge" forms in the
brine tank. 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 the salt. Then, salt
will not dissolve in the water to make brine. Without
brine, the resin bed is not recharged and hard water
will result.
If the storage tank is full of salt, it is difficult to tell if
you have a salt bridge. A bridge may be underneath
loose salt. Take a broom handle, or like tool, and hold
it next to the water softener. Measure the distance
from the floor to the rim of the water softener. Then,
gently push the broom handle straight down into the
salt. If a hard object is felt before the pencil mark is
even with the top, it is most likely a salt bridge. Gently
push into the bridge in several places to break it. Do
not use any sharp or pointed objects as you may punc-
ture the brine tank. Do not try to break the salt bridge
by pounding on the outside of the salt tank. You may
damage the tank.
Push tool into
salt bridge_ \\
to break _t
1"-2"
Pencil
Mark
Broom J
Handle
Salt
_, Salt Bridge
_ L_.._ Empty Space
Water Level
Figure 40
ALWAYS MAKE THESE INITIAL CHECKS FIRST
1. Does the time display show the correct time of day?
• If display is blank, check power source to the sof-
tener.
• If time is flashing, power was off for a long peri-
od. The softener resumes normal operation but
regenerations occur at the wrong time.
• If an error code (example: "Err3") shows in the dis-
play, go to "Troubleshooting".
2. Are bypass valve(s) fully in service position?
3. Are the inlet and outlet pipes connected to the sof-
tener inlet and outlet respectively?
4. Is the softener's transformer plugged into a "live",
grounded wall outlet, and the power cable fastened
securely to the controller?
5. Is the valve drain hose free of kinks and sharp bends,
and not elevated more than 8 ft. above the floor?
6. Is there salt in the storage tank?
7. Is the brine tubing connected? Brine tubing connects
to nozzle/venturi and brine valve assembly.
8. Press the SELECT button twice to display the hard-
ness setting. Make sure it is correct for the house-
hold's water supply. Perform a hardness test of the
untreated incoming water and compare with the
hardness setting. Also test a soft water sample to
verify if a problem exists. Press the SELECT button
several more times to return to present time display.
Questions? Call the I<enmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com
2O