Save yourself a service charge and learn how to change the resin bed yourself
Part 1: Find the problem
A water softener that does not put out soft water or runs out of soft water too quickly probably means it has a damaged resin bed. Although resin beds are meant to last several years iron in well water and chlorine in city water can damage a resin bed.
To check if damage has been done monitor your salt levels and if it’s using them at a regular rate. If the rate is correct then the resin bed is could have been damaged by an iron build-up or chlorine build-up and the resin can’t function right to make the brine. But if the salt isn’t being used as much the problem is more likely a valve issue that could mean that the brine isn’t recharged. That’s a whole different issue we will look at another time.
A first fix is using chemicals to remove the iron, therefore, clean the resin base. This won’t help with a damaged resin bed.
Part 2: Replacing the resin bed
First, you’ll need to pull the unit away from the plumbing, remove fasteners holding the valve head to the bypass valve, keep an eye out for the O-rings or seals to put them back correctly later- that should allow you to pull the unit away.
Measure the resin in the tank to find out how much new resin is needed. Find a good quality resin online or locally. Don’t forget to pick up the kit needed for the job including a resin funnel, a riser tube, and gravel if needed; consult the manual.
The softener valve needs to be turned to the bypass position – if you have no bypass then turn off the main water valve. Turn the valve head dial to start bleeding off internal water pressure. Disconnect the system from the electrics and plumbing. Unscrew the valve head. Dispose of the resin and gravel.
Now prepare your additional kit, cut the riser tube to the same length as the old one, insert into the water resin tank. Refill the water softener tank. Reattach the valve head and the unit to the bypass or water valve. Turn it back to the on position and make sure there are no leaks. This should fix the problem.
If you need help with your water softener installation in Houston you can contact us at any time.