1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your DuraWater Fleck 9100 SXT Metered Dual Tank Water Softener. This system is designed to provide continuous soft water for large homes with high water demands, utilizing a dual-tank configuration and a digital metered control valve for efficient regeneration.
The Fleck 9100 SXT control valve is a reliable and efficient component, ensuring your water softener operates optimally. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or operation to ensure safe and correct usage.
2. Safety Information
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the power outlet used for the control valve is properly grounded. Do not operate the system with damaged cords or plugs. Disconnect power before performing any maintenance.
- Water Pressure: Ensure your home's water pressure is within the operating limits specified for the system. Excessive pressure can damage components.
- Plumbing: All plumbing connections must be secure and leak-free. Use appropriate sealants and follow local plumbing codes. If you are not experienced with plumbing, professional installation is recommended.
- Salt/Potassium Handling: Use caution when handling salt or potassium chloride. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Store in a dry, safe place away from children and pets.
- Weight: The system components, especially the mineral tanks, can be heavy. Use proper lifting techniques or seek assistance during installation to prevent injury.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the efficient operation of your water softener. This system includes a Fleck 9100 SXT digital metered control valve and two mineral tanks, along with a brine tank.
3.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully unpack all components and inspect for any shipping damage. Report any damage immediately to your supplier. Ensure all parts listed in the packing list are present.
Figure 3.1: Example of product packaging. Ensure all boxes are present and undamaged.
3.2 System Components Overview
The system consists of the Fleck 9100 SXT control head, two mineral tanks, a brine tank, and a 1-inch Noryl plastic bypass valve.
Figure 3.2: Fleck 9100 SXT Digital Control Head. This unit manages the water softening and regeneration cycles.
Figure 3.3: 1-inch Noryl Plastic Bypass Valve. This valve allows you to bypass the softener for maintenance or in case of an issue.
3.3 Plumbing Connections
- Location: Choose a location for the softener near the main water supply line, a drain, and an electrical outlet. Ensure adequate space for maintenance.
- Bypass Valve Installation: Install the included 1-inch Noryl plastic bypass valve onto the control head. This allows for easy isolation of the softener without interrupting the main water supply to your home.
- Main Water Line Connection: Connect the main water supply line to the inlet of the bypass valve and the softened water line to the outlet. Ensure all connections are tight and leak-free.
- Drain Line: Connect a drain line from the control valve's drain fitting to an appropriate drain, ensuring an air gap to prevent back-siphonage.
- Brine Line: Connect the brine line from the control valve to the brine well in the salt tank.
3.4 Initial Startup and Programming
After plumbing connections are complete, slowly open the main water supply valve to fill the mineral tanks. Check for leaks. Refer to the Fleck 9100 SXT control valve manual (typically included separately or available online) for detailed programming instructions. Key settings include water hardness, regeneration time, and salt dosage.
4. Operating Instructions
The DuraWater Fleck 9100 SXT system is designed for 24/7 soft water availability. The digital metered control valve monitors water usage and initiates regeneration only when necessary, ensuring efficient salt and water consumption.
4.1 Normal Operation
Once installed and programmed, the system operates automatically. Hard water enters the tank in service, passes through the resin, and exits as soft water. The Fleck 9100 SXT control valve tracks water usage and determines when a tank needs regeneration.
4.2 Regeneration Process
When the resin in one tank becomes saturated with hard water ions, the control valve automatically switches to the second tank, ensuring continuous soft water. The first tank then enters its regeneration cycle:
- Backwash: Water flows upwards through the resin bed to loosen it and flush out suspended solids.
- Brine Draw/Slow Rinse: Brine (saltwater) is drawn from the brine tank and slowly flows through the resin bed, exchanging hard water ions for sodium ions.
- Fast Rinse: Water flows rapidly through the resin bed to flush out excess brine and prepare the resin for service.
- Brine Tank Refill: A small amount of water is added to the brine tank to create the brine solution for the next regeneration cycle.
The twin-tank system regenerates with soft water only when necessary and uses 100% of the tank in service, leading to potential savings in both water and salt compared to preset systems.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your water softener.
5.1 Salt/Potassium Replenishment
Periodically check the salt level in the brine tank. It should always be above the water level. Refill with water softener salt (sodium chloride) or potassium chloride pellets/crystals as needed. The frequency of refilling depends on your water usage and hardness levels.
Figure 5.1: Black brine tank. Keep this tank filled with salt or potassium chloride.
5.2 System Cleaning
Keep the exterior of the control valve and tanks clean. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. Occasionally, inspect the brine tank for salt bridging (a crust of salt forming that prevents proper brine formation) and break it up if present.
5.3 Leak Checks
Periodically inspect all plumbing connections for leaks, especially after installation or any maintenance. Address any leaks promptly to prevent water damage.
6. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your water softener.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Hard water after regeneration | Low salt level in brine tank; Salt bridge in brine tank; Incorrect programming; Bypass valve open. | Check and refill salt; Break up salt bridge; Verify programming settings (hardness, regeneration time); Ensure bypass valve is in service position. |
| System leaks | Loose plumbing connections; Damaged O-rings or seals; Cracked housing. | Tighten connections; Inspect and replace O-rings/seals (e.g., crossover tube O-rings); Contact support for cracked components. |
| Control valve displays error code (e.g., Code 3) | Internal malfunction; Sensor issue. | Refer to the Fleck 9100 SXT control valve manual for specific error code meanings. If unable to resolve, contact customer support. |
| Excessive salt usage | Incorrect programming (e.g., high hardness setting); Frequent regeneration cycles. | Verify water hardness setting; Adjust regeneration frequency if possible (consult manual). |
For issues not listed here or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact DuraWater customer support.
7. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 9100SXT |
| Grain Capacity | 64,000 Grain |
| Control Valve | Fleck 9100 SXT Digital Metered |
| Manufacturer (Control Valve) | Pentair |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 12 x 48 inches (per tank, approximate) |
| Item Weight | 240 pounds (total system, approximate) |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Plastic, Metal |
| Included Components | Water Softener (Control Valve, Mineral Tanks, Brine Tank, Bypass Valve) |
8. Warranty Information
DuraWater products are manufactured to high-quality standards. Specific warranty details for your Fleck 9100 SXT Metered Dual Tank Water Softener are typically provided with your purchase documentation. Please refer to the warranty card or contact DuraWater customer support for comprehensive information regarding coverage, terms, and conditions.
It is recommended to retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or any questions regarding your DuraWater Fleck 9100 SXT Water Softener, please contact our dedicated customer support team.
- Toll-Free Support: Available for all customers. Please refer to your product packaging or purchase documentation for the specific toll-free number.
- Online Resources: Visit the DuraWater website for additional FAQs, product information, and support documents.
- Seller Support: If purchased from Aplus Water LLC, they offer direct customer support.
Figure 9.1: DuraWater customer support is available to assist you.
When contacting support, please have your model number (9100SXT) and purchase date readily available.