North Star NSCWC User manual

7371389 (Rev. A 6/11/18)
Installation and O eration Manual
System tested and certified by the
Water Quality Association against SA B483.1.
Manufactured and warranted by
North Star Water Treatment Systems
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
Designed, Engineered &
Assembled in the U.S.A.
How to install, operate
and maintain your Demand
ontrolled Water onditioner
Model NS W
System tested and certified by NSF International
against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction
of chlorine taste and odor, and Standard 44
for hardness reduction, efficiency and the
reduction of barium and radium 226/228,
and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 372.
If you have any questions or concerns when
installing, operating or maintaining your
water softener, contact us at:
[e-mail]
or visit www.northstarwater.com

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Specifications & Performance laims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Inspect Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Water onditioning Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Programming the Water Softener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
ontroller Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-18
Routine Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-20
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-23
Wiring Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Exploded View & Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-27
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
S ecifications & Performance Claims
This model is efficiency rated. The efficiency rating is valid only at the minimum salt dose. This system has a
demand initiated regeneration (D.I.R.) feature that complies with specific performance specifications intended to min-
imize the amount of regenerant brine and water used in their operation.
This water treatment system has a rated softener efficiency of not less than 3,350 grains of total hardness exchange
per pound of salt (based on sodium chloride) and shall not deliver more salt than its listed rating or be operated at a
sustained maximum service flow rate greater than its listed rating. This system has been proven to deliver soft
water for at least ten continuous minutes at the rated service flow rate. The rated salt efficiency is measured by lab-
oratory tests described in NSF/ANSI Standard 44. These tests represent the maximum possible efficiency that the
system can achieve. Operational efficiency is the actual efficiency after the system has been installed. It is typically
less than the rated efficiency, due to individual application factors including water hardness, water usage, and other
contaminants that reduce a softener's capacity.
While testing was performed under standard laboratory conditions, actual performance of the system may vary based
on local water conditions. This system has been tested according to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction of chlorine
taste and odor. The concentration of the indicated substance in water entering the system was reduced to a concentra-
tion less than or equal to the permissible limit for water leaving the system, as specified in NSF/ANSI Standard 42.
continued on next page

3
S ecifications & Performance Claims
PERFORMANCE CLAIMS
Contaminant Influent Challenge Level Maxiumum Allowable
Product Water Level
Barium 10 ±10% mg/L 2.0 mg/L
Radium 226/228 25 p i/L 5 p i/L
Substance Influent Challenge Level Reduction Requirement
hlorine 2.0 ±10% mg/L 50%
Questions? ontact us at: [e-mail] or visit www.northstarwater.com
SPECIFICATIONS
Model NSCWC
Model ode nSA
Rated Softening apacity (Grains @ Salt Dose)
14,000 @ 2.9 lbs.
29,800 @ 9.3 lbs.
35,600 @ 15.6 lbs.
Rated Efficiency (Grains/Pound of Salt @ Minimum Salt Dose) 4,780 @ 2.9 lbs.
Water Used During Regeneration @ Minimum Salt Dose 3.7 gal. / 1,000 grains
Total Water Used Per Regeneration @ Maximum Salt Dose 58.6 gallons
Rated Service Flow Rate 8.0 gpm
Amount of High apacity Ion Exchange Resin 0.98 cu. ft.
Amount of Activated arbon 0.25 cu. ft.
Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow 14.4 psig
Intermittent Flow Rate @ 15 psi j8.2 gpm
Water Supply Max. Hardness 100 gpg
Water Supply Max. lear Water Iron 3 ppm k
Water Supply Pressure Limits (minimum / maximum) 20 - 125 psi (138 - 862 kPa) l
Water Temperature Limits (minimum / maximum) 40 - 120 °F (5 - 49 ° )
Minimum Water Supply Flow Rate 3 gpm (11.4 lpm)
Maximum Drain Flow Rate 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm)
0.50 ppm
0.75 ppm
Rated apacity at hlorine oncentration mof: 1.0 ppm
1.5 ppm
2.0 ppm
2,280,000 gal. (8,630,000 liters) n
1,520,000 gal. (5,750,000 liters) n
1,140,000 gal. (4,310,000 liters) n
760,000 gal. (2,870,000 liters) n
570,000 gal. (2,150,000 liters) n
jIntermittent flow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate used for determining
the softener’s rated capacity and efficiency. ontinuous operation at flow rates greater than the
service flow rate may affect capacity and efficiency performance.
kapacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by laboratory test data. State of Wisconsin
requires additional treatment if water supply contains clear water iron exceeding 5 ppm.
lanada working pressure limits: 1.4 - 7.0 kg/cm2.
mTypical residential chlorine concentration is 0.5 to 1.0 ppm.
nFrom independent laboratory test data.
This system conforms to NSF/ANSI Standards 42 & 44 for the specific performance claims as
verified and substantiated by test data.
Variable Salt Dose: The salt dose is selected by the electronic controls at regeneration time
based on the amount needed.

4
Before You Start
=The water softener requires a minimum water flow of 3 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 if necessary (Adding a pressure reducing valve may reduce the flow). If your home is
equipped with a back flow preventer, an expansion tank must be installed in accordance with local codes and laws.
=The water softener works on 24V D electrical power, supplied by a direct plug-in power supply (included). Be
sure to use the included power supply and plug it into a nominal 120V, 60 Hz household outlet that is in a dry
location only, grounded and properly protected by an overcurrent device such as a circuit breaker or fuse.
=Do not use this system to treat water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate dis-
infection upstream or downstream of the system.
European Directive 2002/96/E requires all electrical and electronic equipment to be disposed of accord-
ing 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 prop-
er disposal of this equipment.
Dimensions
47-3/4"
41-1/2"
IN - OUT
16-1/2"
19-3/4"
40-1/4"
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
OUT IN
3-3/8"
40-1/4”
16-1/2”
19-3/4”
IN – OUT
FIG. 1
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
41-1/2”
47-3/4”
3-3/8”
OUT IN

5
Packing List
Ins ect Shi ment
Water Conditioning Information
IRON
Iron in water can cause stains on clothing and plumb-
ing fixtures. It can negatively affect the taste of food,
drinking water, and other beverages. Iron in water is
measured in parts per million (ppm). The total* ppm of
iron, and type or types*, is determined by chemical
analysis. Four different types of iron in water are:
=Ferrous (clear water) iron
=Ferric (red water) iron
=Bacterial and organically bound iron
=olloidal and inorganically bound iron (ferrous or
ferric)
Ferrous (clear water) iron is soluble and dissolves in
water. This water softener will reduce moderate
amounts of this type of iron (see specifications).**
Ferrous (clear water) iron is usually detected by taking
a sample of water in a clear bottle or glass.
Immediately after taking, the sample is clear. As the
water sample stands, it gradually clouds and turns
slightly yellow or brown as air oxidizes the iron. This
usually occurs in 15 to 30 minutes.
When using the softener to reduce Ferrous (clear
water) iron, add 5 grains to the hardness setting for
every 1 ppm of Ferrous (clear water) iron. See "Set
Water Hardness Number" section.
Ferric (red water), and bacterial and organically bound
irons are insoluble. This water softener will not
remove ferric or bacterial iron. This iron is visible
immediately when drawn from a faucet because it has
oxidized before reaching the home. It appears as
small cloudy yellow, orange, or reddish suspended
particles. After the water stands for a period of time,
the particles settle to the bottom of the container.
Generally these irons are removed from water by filtra-
tion. hlorination is also recommended for bacterial
iron.
olloidal and inorganically bound iron is of ferric or fer-
rous form that will not filter or exchange out of water.
This water softener will not remove colloidal iron. In
some instances, treatment may improve colloidal iron
water. olloidal iron water usually has a yellow
appearance when drawn. After standing for several
hours, the color persists and the iron does not settle,
but remains suspended in the water.
SEDIMENT
Sediment is fine, foreign material particles suspended
in water. This water softener will not remove sedi-
ment. This material is most often clay or silt. Extreme
amounts of sediment may give the water a cloudy
appearance. A sediment filter installed upstream of
the water softener normally corrects this situation.
* Water may contain one or more of the four types of
iron and any combination of these. Total iron is the
sum of the contents.
** apacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated
by laboratory test data.
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.
FIG. 2
Bypass Valve Drain Hose
Adaptor Elbow
lips
(including 1 spare)
Hose lamps
Grommet
over Lock
(for shipping only)
Rim Insert
(for shipping only)

6
PLUMBING CODES
All plumbing must be completed in accordance with
national, state and local plumbing codes.
LAUNDRY TUBSTANDPIPE
1-1/2”
air gap
FLOOR DRAIN
In the state of Massachusetts: The ommonwealth
of Massachusetts plumbing code 248- MR shall
be adhered to. A licensed plumber shall be used
for this installation.
AIR GAP REQUIREMENTS
A drain is needed for regeneration water (See Figure
3). A floor drain, close to the water softener, is pre-
ferred. A laundry tub, standpipe, etc. are other drain
options. Secure valve drain hose in place. Leave an
air gap of 1-1/2” between the end of the hose and the
drain. This gap is needed to prevent backflow of
sewer water into the water softener. Do not put the
end of the drain hose into the drain.
FIG. 3
1-1/2”
air gap
Drain
Hose
Drain
Hose
1-1/2”
air gap
LOCATION REQUIREMENTS
onsider all of the following when selecting an installa-
tion location for the water softener.
=Do not locate the water softener where freezing
temperatures occur. Do not attempt to treat water
over 120ºF. Freezing temperatures or hot water
damage voids the warranty.
=To condition all water in the home, install the water
softener close to the water supply inlet, and
upstream of all other plumbing connections, except
outside water pipes. Outside faucets should remain
on hard water to avoid wasting conditioned water
and salt.
=A nearby drain is needed to carry away regenera-
tion discharge (drain) water. Use a floor drain,
laundry tub, sump, standpipe, or other options
(check your local codes). See "Air Gap
Requirements" and "Valve Drain Requirements"
sections.
=The water softener works on 24V D electrical
power, supplied by a direct plug-in power supply
(included). Provide nearby a 120V, 60 Hz electrical
outlet in accordance with NE and local codes.
=Always install the water softener between the water
inlet and water heater. Any other installed water
conditioning equipment should be installed between
the water inlet and water softener (See Figure 4
below).
=Avoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive sun
heat may cause distortion or other damage to non-
metallic parts.
Installation Requirements
THE PROPER ORDER TO INSTALL WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT
FIG. 4
Pressure
Tank
City Water Supply
Well Water Supply
Well
Pump
OR
Optional
Sediment
Filter
Water
Heater
Water
Softener
Untreated Water to
Outside Faucets
Hot Water
to House
old Water
to House
Drain
Hose

7
Installation Requirements
VALVE DRAIN REQUIREMENTS
Using the flexible drain hose (included), measure and
cut to the length needed. Flexible drain hose is not
allowed in all localities (check your plumbing codes). If
local codes do not allow use of a flexible drain hose, a
rigid valve drain run must be used. Purchase a com-
pression fitting (1/4 NPT x 1/2 in. minimum tube) and
1/2" tubing from your local hardware store. Plumb a
rigid drain as needed (See Figure 6).
NOTE: Avoid drain hose runs longer than 30 feet.
Avoid elevating the hose more than 8 feet
above the floor. Make the valve drain line as
short and direct as possible.
INLET / OUTLET PLUMBING OPTIONS
Always install either a single bypass valve (provided),
as shown in Figure 7, or, if desired, parts for a 3 valve
bypass system (not included) can be purchased and
assembled, as shown in Figure 8. Bypass valves
allow you to turn off water to the softener for mainte-
nance if needed, but still have water in house pipes.
Use:
=opper pipe
=Threaded pipe
=PEX ( rosslinked Polyethylene) pipe
=PV plastic pipe
=Other pipe approved for use with potable water
IMPORTANT: Do not solder with plumbing attached to
the single bypass valve. Soldering heat
will damage the plastic valve.
FIG. 6
lip
Barbs
1/4 NPT
Threads
1/2” Outside Dia.
opper Tube
(not included)
ompression Fitting.
1/4 NPT x 1/2” O.D.
Tube (not included)
ut barbs from drain fit-
ting (pull clip to remove
fitting from valve)
FIG. 7
FIG. 8
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE
Pull out for “Service”
(Soft water)
Push in for
“Bypass”
3 VALVE BYPASS
From Water
Softener
To Water
Softener
Inlet
Valve
Outlet
Valve
Bypass
Valve
FIG. 5
1/4” NPT
Thread Barbs for 3/8”
I.D. Tubing
Drain Hose
Hose lamp

8
Installation Instructions
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
TURN OFF WATER SUPPLY
1. lose the main water supply valve, located near the
well pump or water meter.
2. Shut off the electric or fuel supply to the water heater.
3. Open all faucets to drain all water from house pipes.
NOTE: Be sure not to drain water from the water
heater, as damage to the water heater ele-
ments could result.
ASSEMBLY
1. North Star models are factory assembled. During
installation, unsnap and remove the top cover,
together with the salt lid, to expose the softener
valve assembly. Set them aside to prevent damage.
heck the brinewell to be sure it is secured and ver-
tical (See Figure 11).
2. Install the brine tank overflow grommet and elbow
into the 13/16” diameter hole in the back of the salt
storage tank wall.
MOVE THE UNIT INTO PLACE
1. Move the water softener into the desired location.
Set it on a solid, level surface.
IMPORTANT: Do not place shims directly under the salt
storage tank to level the softener. The
weight of the tank, when full of water and
salt, may cause the tank to fracture at the
shim.
2. Visually check and remove any debris from the water
softener valve inlet and outlet ports.
3. Make sure the turbine assembly spins freely in the
"out" port of the valve (See Figure 10).
4. If not already done, put a light coating of silicone
grease on the single bypass valve o-rings.
5. Push the single bypass valve into the softener valve
as far as it will go. Snap the two large holding clips
into place, from the top down as shown in Figures 12
& 13.
IMPORTANT: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so
the single bypass valve will not pull out.
FIG. 9
Inlet
To Outside
Faucets
Single
Bypass Valve
Lubricated
O-rings
onditioned
Water
Hard Water
Main Water Pipe
Plug-in
Power
Supply
Water Softener
Valve
To
ontroller
Valve Drain
Hose*
*Do not connect the
water softener valve
drain hose to the salt
storage tank overflow
hose. Floor Drain
Salt Storage Tank
Overflow Hose* Secure Valve Drain Hose
in place over Floor Drain
1-1/2”
air gap
Grommet Drain
Elbow
Hose
lamp
Valve
Drain
Hose
lamp
NOTE: See “Air Gap Requirements” section.
NOTE: Water Softener shown with Salt Lid
and Top over removed
Outlet
lips
Pipes
1” NPT Sweat
Adaptors (not
included)

9
Installation Instructions
FIG. 11
Top over
Brine Tank
Overflow
Elbow
Brine Tank
Overflow
Grommet
13/16” Hole
Salt Lid
Salt
Storage
Tank
Float
Stem
Brine
Tubing
Brinewell
over
Stand
Tube
Brine
Valve
Brinewell
Nozzle & Venturi
Assembly
FIG. 10
Turbine Turbine Support Assembly
Valve Outlet
FIG. 12
lip
hannel
Single Bypass Valve
FIG. 13
Correct Assembly
lip
Outside diameter
of clip channel on
single bypass valve
Outside diameter
of water softener
valve inlet & outlet
NOTE: Be sure all 3 tabs of the clip go through the matching
holes on the water softener valve inlet or outlet, and
fully into the channel on the single bypass valve.
Make sure that the tabs are fully seated.
COMPLETE INLET AND OUTLET PLUMBING
Measure, cut, and loosely assemble pipe and fittings
from the main water pipe to the inlet and outlet ports of
the water softener valve. Be sure to keep fittings fully
together, and pipes squared and straight.
Be sure hard water supply pipe goes to the water sof-
tener valve inlet side.
NOTE: Inlet and outlet are marked on the water sof-
tener valve. Trace the water flow direction to
be sure hard water is to inlet.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to fit, align and support all
plumbing to prevent putting stress on
the water softener valve inlet and outlet.
Undue stress from misaligned or unsup-
ported plumbing may cause damage to
the valve.
omplete the inlet and outlet plumbing for the type of
pipes you will be using.

10
COLD WATER PIPE GROUNDING
CAUTION: The house cold water pipe (metal only)
is often used as a ground for the house
electrical system, The 3-valve bypass
type of installation, shown in Figure 8,
will maintain ground continuity. If you
use a plastic bypass valve at the unit,
continuity is broken. To restore the
ground, do the following:
1. Install a #4 copper wire across the removed section
of main water pipe, securely clamping it at both
ends (See Figure 14) - parts not included.
NOTE: Check local plumbing and electrical codes
for proper installation of the ground wire.
The installation must conform to them. In
Massachusetts, plumbing codes of
Massachusetts shall be conformed to.
Consult with your licensed plumber.
Installation Instructions
INSTALL VALVE DRAIN HOSE
NOTE: See valve drain options on pages 6 & 7.
1. Measure, cut to needed length and connect the 3/8”
drain line (provided) to the water softener valve
drain fitting. Use a hose clamp to hold the hose in
place.
IMPORTANT: If codes require a rigid drain line see
“Valve Drain requirements" section.
2. Run the drain hose (or a rigid line) to the floor drain.
Secure drain hose. This will prevent “whipping'' dur-
ing regenerations. Be sure to provide a 1-1/2”
minimum air gap to prevent possible sewer
water backup. See “Air Gap Requirements" sec-
tion.
NOTE: In addition to a floor drain, you can use a laun-
dry tub or standpipe as a drain point for this
hose. Avoid long drain hose runs, or elevating
the hose more than 8 feet above the floor.
FIG. 14
Ground
Wire
lamp (2)
1. Measure, cut to needed length and connect the 3/8”
drain line (provided) to the salt storage tank overflow
elbow and secure in place with a hose clamp.
2. Route the hose to the floor drain, or other suitable
drain point no higher than the drain fitting on the salt
storage tank (This is a gravity drain). If the tank
overfills with water, the excess water flows to the
drain point. ut the drain line to the desired length
and route it neatly out of the way.
IMPORTANT: For proper operation of the water soften-
er, do not connect the water softener
valve drain tubing to the salt storage
tank overflow hose.
ADD WATER AND SALT TO THE SALT
STOR AGE TAN
1. Using a container, add about three gallons of clean
water into the salt storage tank.
2. Add salt to the storage tank. Use nugget, pellet or
coarse solar salts with less than 1% impurities.
PLUG IN THE POWER SUPPLY
During installation, the water softener wiring may be
moved or jostled from place. Be sure all leadwire con-
nectors are secure on the back of the electronic board
and be sure all wiring is away from the valve gear and
motor area, which rotates during regenerations.
1. Plug the water softener’s power supply into an elec-
trical outlet that is not controlled by a switch and is
approved by local codes.
NOTE: The water heater is filled with hard water and,
as hot water is used, it will refill with condi-
tioned water. In a few days, the hot water will
be fully conditioned. To have fully conditioned
hot water immediately, wait until the initial
recharge is over. Then, drain the water heater
(following instructions for water heater) until
water runs cold.
PROGRAM THE CONTROLLER
1. Install the softener’s top cover and salt lid.
2. omplete the Programming Steps on Pages 13 & 14.
INSTALL SALT STORAGE TAN OVERFLOW
HOSE

11
Installation Instructions
SANITIZE THE WATER SOFTENER /
SANITIZE AFTER SERVICE
are is taken at the factory to keep your unit clean and
sanitary. Materials used to make the unit will not infect
or contaminate your water supply, and will not cause
bacteria to form or grow. However, during shipping,
storage, installation and operation, bacteria could get
into the unit. For this reason, sanitizing as follows is
suggested* when installing.
1. Slide open the salt lid, remove the brinewell cover
and pour about 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of household
bleach into the softener brinewell. Replace the
brinewell cover.
2Make sure the bypass valve(s) is in the “service”
(open) position.
3 Start a recharge: Press the RE HARGE button and
hold for 3 seconds, until “Recharge Now” begins to
flash in the display. This recharge draws the sanitiz-
ing 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. lose
the faucet.
*Recommended by the Water Quality Association. On some
water supplies, the unit may need periodic disinfecting.
RINSE OUT CARBON FINES
Small particles of carbon filtration material are generat-
ed during manufacturing and shipping, which will exit
the media tank with the first water flow. These carbon
“fines” are not harmful, but give the water a gray color
and should be rinsed down the drain before any water
from the conditioner is directed to the home’s faucets
or water heater.
IMPORTANT: To avoid water or air pressure damage
to conditioner 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. Make sure the water conditioner’s valve drain hose
is hooked up and the open end directed to a floor
drain, laundry tub or other suitable type of drain.
2. The system should be connected to electrical power.
3. Place bypass valve(s) in “bypass” position (see
Figures 7 & 8). 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.
4. Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff valve.
5. Initiate a regeneration by pressing and holding for 3
seconds the RE HARGE button (see Figure 16 on
page 13). The valve motor will start running and the
valve will advance to the “Fill” position.
6. After you hear the valve motor stop running (valve
in “Fill” position), press, but do not hold, the
RE HARGE button. The valve will advance to the
“Brine” position.
7. After you hear the valve motor stop running (valve
in “Brine” position), press, but do not hold, the
RE HARGE button. The valve will advance to the
“Backwash” position.
8. Once the unit is in backwash, place bypass valve(s)
in SERVI E, EXA TLY as follows:
a. Single Bypass Valve: Slowly, slide pull the valve
stem outward toward service, pausing several times
to allow the system 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 system to pres-
surize gradually.
9. Let the water conditioner complete the backwash
and fast rinse cycles (takes about 20 minutes).
When the regeneration ends, the conditioner’s valve
returns to the service position.

12
Installation Instructions
FIG. 15
...depressurize the
plumbing, then push
Bypass Valve body
toward softener
If removing
clips...
TEST FOR LEA S
To check for leaks, complete the following steps:
1. Fully open two nearby cold water faucets down-
stream from the water softener.
2. Observe steady flow from both faucets.
3. After about three minutes, open a hot water faucet
for about one minute, or until all air is expelled, and
then close this faucet.
4. lose both cold water faucets.
5. heck 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 soften-
er, water coming from the taps may initially be
discolored. This normally occurs the first time
water runs through the resin bed. The discol-
oration will not last more than a few minutes.
RESTART THE WATER HEATER
1. Turn on the electricity or fuel supply to the water
heater and relight the pilot, if applicable.
NOTE: The water heater is filled with hard water and,
as hot water is used, it refills with conditioned
water. In a few days, the hot water will be fully
conditioned. To have fully conditioned hot
water immediately, wait until the initial recharge
(previous step) is over. Then, drain the water
heater (following instructions for water heater)
until water runs cold.
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13
Programming the Water Softener
PROGRAM THE SOFTENER
When the power supply is plugged into the electrical
outlet, the model code (nSA ) and a software version
number (example: J3.9), are briefly shown in the dis-
play. Then the words “PRESENT TIME” appear and
12:00 begins to flash.
SET PRESENT TIME OF DAY
If the words “PRESENT TIME" do not show in the dis-
play, press the SELE T button a few times until they
do.
1. Press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the
present time. Up moves the display ahead; down
sets the time back.
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
SELE T button, and the display will change to
show the “Hardness” screen.
continued on next page
FIG. 18
FIG. 17
Press for tonight
Hold for immediate
Salt
Set
Level
LEVEL
SALT
ALARM
SALT
LOW SALT
Select
Tank
Light
Recharge
DOWN button
UP button SELE T buttonDisplaySET SALT LEVEL button
TANK LIGHT
button
LOW SALT indicatorRE HARGE button FIG. 16

14
SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER
If you completed the previous step, the word “HARD -
NESS" should show in the display. Otherwise, press
the SELE T button several times until it does.
1. Press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the
hardness of your water supply, in grains per gallon.
The default is 25.
NOTE: If your water supply contains iron, compen-
sate 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.
20 gpg hardness
2 ppm iron x 5 = 10 +10
(times) 30 HARDNESS NUMBER
2. When finished setting your water’s hardness num-
ber, press the SELE T button, and the display will
change to show the “Recharge Time” screen.
FIG. 19
Programming the Water Softener
SET RECHARGE (REGENERATION)
START TIME
If you completed the previous step, the words “RE -
HARGE TIME" should show in the display.
Otherwise, press the SELE T button several times
until they do.
1. 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 rUP or
sDOWN buttons to change the time, in 1-hour
increments. Be sure AM or PM is correct.
2. When the desired recharge start time is displayed,
press the SELE T button, and the display will
return to the normal run (time of day) screen.
FIG. 20
FIG. 21

15
Controller Features
EXTRA RECHARGE
Sometimes, a manually initiated recharge (regenera-
tion) may be desired, or needed. Two examples are:
=You have used more water than usual (guests visit-
ing) 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 RE HARGE button and hold for 3 sec-
onds, until the words “RE HARGE”, “Serv” and “Fill”
begin to flash in the display. The softener enters the
fill cycle of regeneration immediately. This regenera-
tion will take about 2 hours to complete. Then, you
will have soft water again.
NOTE: If the “ lean Feature” is set ON, the normal
regeneration cycle is preceded by a cleaning
backwash and rinse. The words “ LEAN”
and “Bkwsh” or “Rinse” flash in the display,
along with the minutes of the clean cycle
remaining.
RECHARGE TONIGHT
Press and release (do not hold) the RE HARGE but-
ton. “RE HARGE 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 RE HARGE button
once more. “RE HARGE TONIGHT” will stop flash-
ing in the display.
3. Press the SET SALT LEVEL button as many times
as necessary to make the salt level bars in the dis-
play (see Fig. 24) match the number on the brine -
well. 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 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 salt level scale, 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.
LEVEL
SALT
Salt
Level
Numbers
Salt Level
Bars
Brinewell
FIG. 22
FIG. 23
FIG. 24
FIG. 25

16
Controller Features
OPTIONAL SETTINGS:
=SALT EFFICIENCY
=CLEAN FEATURE
=CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES
=MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGEN-
ERATIONS
=97% FEATURE
=12 / 24 HOUR CLOC
=BAC WASH & FAST RINSE TIMES
1. To set any of these options, press and hold
SELE T for 3 seconds until “000” shows in the dis-
play. Then press (do not hold) SELE T again to
display one of the “Salt Efficiency” screens shown
below.
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 high-
er. The softener may recharge more often using
smaller salt dosage and less water. This softener
is shipped with the efficiency feature set OFF. Use
the rUP or sDOWN buttons to change between
OFF and ON. An efficiency icon will be displayed
when this feature is ON.
Efficiency Icon
2. Press SELE T again to display one of the “ lean”
screens shown below.
CLEAN: This feature is beneficial on water sup-
plies containing iron and/or high amounts of sedi-
ments (sand, silt, dirt, etc.). When set to ON, a
backwash and fast rinse cycle will occur first, pre-
ceding 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 sedi-
ments, be sure this feature is set to OFF. The
default is OFF. Use the rUP or sDOWN but-
tons to change between OFF and ON.
3. Press SELE T again to display the “ lean Time”
screen shown below.
CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES: If you have set the
lean Feature ON, the length of the extra back-
wash cycle auto matically is set to 14 minutes.
However, you can ad just this time from 1 to 15
minutes in length. To change this cycle time, use
the rUP button to increase the time, or the s
DOWN button to shorten the time. If no change is
desired, continue to next step.
continued on next page
FIG. 26
FIG. 27
FIG. 28
California Efficiency Requirement
Your North Star Water Softener has a “High
Efficiency” feature that can be set ON or OFF.
This softener is shipped with the efficiency fea-
ture set OFF, which will utilize the maximum
rated capacity while most often achieving maxi-
mum salt efficiencies. When installing this unit
in the State of alifornia, 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.

17
4. Press SELE T again to display the “Recharge
Days” screen.
MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERATIONS:
The electronic controller automatically determines
regeneration fre quency. This provides the greatest
operating 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 exam ple, 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 rUP or sDOWN buttons to change the
number of days (up to 15).
5. Press SELE T again to display the “97%” screen.
97% FEATURE: The 97% Feature can save salt
and water by regenerating when 97% of the soften-
er’s capacity has been used up. With this feature
ON, the regeneration can occur at any time (when-
ever the system has reached 97% of its capacity).
The default is OFF. If this feature is desired, turn it
on by pressing the rUP button.
Example:
Set to 4 days maxi mum
between regenerations
Default Display
6.Press SELE T again to display the “12 or 24 hr”
screen.
12 OR 24 HOUR CLOC : All time displays are
shown in standard clock time (1 to 12 AM; and 1 to
12 PM) at the 12 hr default setting. If 24 hour time
format is desired, set to 24 hr by pressing the r
UP button.
7. Press SELE T again to display the “Backwash
Time” setting screen.
BAC WASH & FAST RINSE TIMES: If you expe-
rience salty tasting water after regeneration, you
may need to increase the backwash and fast rinse
times. The default backwash time is 14 minutes
and the default fast rinse time is 6 minutes.
However, you may increase or decrease the back-
wash and fast rinse times, in 1 minute increments.
If you wish to change the backwash time, use the
rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the backwash
time between 1 and 30 minutes.* Then press
SELE T to display the “Fast Rinse Time” setting
screen.
If you wish to change the fast rinse time, use the
rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the fast rinse
time between 1 and 30 minutes.*
* Setting backwash and/or fast rinse times too low
may result in salty tasting water after regeneration.
8. Press SELE T to return to the normal run (time of
day) screen.
FIG. 29
FIG. 30
FIG. 31
Controller Features
FIG. 32
FIG. 33

18
POWER OUTAGE MEMORY
If electrical power to the softener is interrupted, the
time display is blank but the electronic controller
keeps the correct time for several hours. When
power is restored, you must 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 softener 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 clock to the correct time of day.
NOTE: If the water softener was regenerating when
power was lost, it will now finish the cycle.
TAN LIGHT
To turn on the light inside the salt storage tank, press
the TANK LIGHT button on the faceplate. Press this
button again to turn the light off. It will also turn off
automatically after 15 minutes.
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. RE HARGE flashes in the display and,
beginning with Brine, the minutes of recharge remain-
ing before return to service appears in place of the
present time. When the valve is moving from one
cycle to another, both position indica tors are flashing.
WATER FLOW THROUGH THE SOFTENER
If soft water is in use, the water flow bars continually
scroll across the display. The bars scroll slowly when
water flow is slow, and move faster as water flow
increases. The flow bars do not show when all
faucets and water using appliances are off.
Tank Light
Icon
Flow bars scroll when soft water is in use
Valve
Position
Indicator
Recharge
Time
Remaining
Controller Features
FIG. 34
FIG. 35
FIG. 36
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19
FIG. 37
Broom
Handle
Pencil
Mark
1” - 2”
Salt
Push Tool into
Salt Bridge to
Break
Routine Maintenance
Salt Bridge
Empty Space
Water Level
BREA ING A SALT BRIDGE
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 dis-
tance from the floor to the rim of the water softener.
Then, carefully 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. arefully push into the bridge in several
places to break it. Do not use any sharp or pointed
objects as you may puncture the brine tank. Do not
try to break the salt bridge by pounding on the out-
side of the salt tank. You may damage the tank.
ADDING SALT
Lift the salt lid and check the salt storage level fre-
quently. If the water softener uses all the salts before
you refill it, you will experience hard water. Until you
have established a refilling routine, check the salt
every two or three weeks. Always add if less than 1/4
full. Be sure the brinewell cover is on.
NOTE: In humid areas, it is best to keep the salt stor-
age level lower, and to refill more often to
avoid salt “bridging”.
Recommended Salt: Nugget, pellet or coarse solar
salts with less than 1% impurities.
Salt Not Recommended: Rock salt, high in impuri-
ties, block, granulated, table, ice melting, ice cream
making salts, etc.
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20
Routine Maintenance
PROTECT THE WATER SOFTENER FROM
FREEZING
If the softener is installed where it could freeze (sum-
mer cabin, lake home, etc.), you must drain all water
from it to stop possible freeze damage. To drain the
softener:
1. lose the shut-off valve on the house main water
pipe, near the water meter or pressure tank.
2. Open a faucet in the soft water pipes to vent pres-
sure in the softener.
3. Move the stem in the single bypass valve to bypass.
lose the inlet and outlet valve in a 3 valve bypass
system, and open the bypass valve. If you want
water in the house pipes again, reopen the shut-off
valve on the main water pipe.
4. Unplug the power supply at the wall outlet. Remove
the softener’s top cover, together with the salt lid.
Take off both drain hoses if they will interfere with
moving the softener into position over the drain.
5. arefully remove the large holding clips at the sof-
tener inlet and outlet. Separate the softener from
the plastic installation adaptors, or from the bypass
valve.
6. Lay a piece of 2 inch thick board near the floor drain
(See Figure 39).
7. Move the softener close to the drain. Slowly and
gently, tip it over until the rim rests on the wood
block with the inlet and outlet over the drain. Do not
allow the softener’s weight to rest on the inlet and
outlet fittings or they may break.
8. Tip the bottom of the softener up a few inches and
hold until all water has drained. Leave the softener
laying like this until you are ready to use it. Plug the
inlet and outlet with clean rags to keep dirt, bugs,
etc. out.
Floor Drain FIG. 39
Wood Block
FIG. 38
ap
O-ring Seal
Screen Support
Screen
Gasket
*Flow Plug (HVD )
Housing
Ferrule
Nut
one Screen
*Flow Plug
*Install with lettered
side up, concave
side down.
CLEANING THE NOZZLE & VENTURI
A clean nozzle & venturi (See Figure 38) is a necessity
for the water softener to work properly. This small
component creates the suction to move brine from the
brine tank, into the resin tank. If it should become
plugged with sand, silt, dirt, etc., the water softener will
not work, and hard water will result.
Nozzle & Venturi Disc
IMPORTANT: Be sure small hole in the gasket is cen-
tered directly over the small hole in the nozzle & ven-
turi housing. Be sure the numbers are facing up.
To get access to the nozzle & venturi, remove the
water softener’s top cover. Put the bypass valve(s)
into the bypass position. Be sure the water softener is
in soft water (service) cycle (no water pressure at noz-
zle & venturi). Then, holding the nozzle & venturi
housing with one hand, un screw the cap. Do not lose
the o-ring seal. Lift out the screen support and screen.
Then, remove the nozzle & venturi disc, gasket and
flow plug(s). Wash the parts in warm, soapy water
and rinse in fresh water. Be sure to clean both the top
and bottom of the nozzle & venturi disc. If needed,
use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Do not
scratch, misshape, etc., surfaces of the nozzle & ven-
turi.
arefully replace all parts in the correct order.
Lubricate the o-ring seal with silicone grease and
locate in place. Install and tighten the cap by hand,
while supporting the housing. Overtightening may
break the cap or housing. Put the bypass valve(s) into
service (soft water) position.
Recharge the softener to reduce water level in the
tank. This will also assure that the softener is com-
pletely recharged and ready to provide softened water
again. heck the water level in the tank by looking
down the brinewell. If the water level does not drop
after a recharge, the problem has not been resolved.
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