Affordablewater.us Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Water Softener Control Valve Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Affordablewater.us Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Water Softener Control Valve. This genuine Fleck 5600 valve is designed for reliable, on-demand water softening, capable of service flow rates up to 20 GPM (15 PSI drop) when paired with an appropriately sized media tank. It accommodates water softener tanks up to 13 inches in diameter.

The valve features a durable paddlewheel meter that monitors water usage, initiating regeneration cycles only when necessary. Its analog control knob offers straightforward operation, making it an easy-to-manage solution for your water conditioning needs.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect power to the water softener system before performing any maintenance or service.
• Ensure all plumbing connections are secure and leak-free to prevent water damage.
• Follow local plumbing codes and regulations during installation.
• Do not operate the valve outside its specified operating pressure range (20 to 125 PSI).
• Keep the control valve protected from freezing temperatures.

3. Product Overview and Components

The Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Control Valve is a robust unit designed for efficient water softening. Key components include the control head, paddlewheel meter, and various connections for water lines and brine.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Water Softener Control Valve. This image displays the main control panel with the time of day dial, capacity meter, and the 'IN SERV.' indicator.

Figure 3.2: Graphic highlighting key features of the Fleck 5600 Analog valve, including compatibility with most softener tanks, efficient metered unit, easy-to-use design, and on-demand regeneration.

Figure 3.3: Rear view of the Fleck 5600 valve, showing the warning label and the instruction for manual regeneration and regeneration start time.

Figure 3.4: Side view of the Fleck 5600 valve, illustrating its compact design and the connection points.

Figure 3.5: Close-up of the Pentair label on the Fleck 5600 valve, displaying model number, part number, serial number, voltage, and operating pressure specifications.

Included Components:

• Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Water Softener Control Valve
• 2.0 GPM Drain Line Flow Control (DLFC)
• 2.4 GPM Drain Line Flow Control (DLFC)
• Brine Connection Kit
• Genuine Fleck 3/4" MPT Yoke

Figure 3.6: The Genuine Fleck 3/4 inch MPT Yoke, used for connecting the valve to the plumbing system.

Figure 3.7: The 2.0 GPM and 2.4 GPM Drain Line Flow Controls (DLFCs), which regulate the flow rate during the regeneration cycle.

4. Setup and Installation

The Fleck 5600 valve comes pre-configured from the factory for a 9-inch (32,000 grain/1 cubic foot) water softener tank. If your system requires a different configuration, follow the instructions below for adjusting the Drain Line Flow Control (DLFC) and reconfiguring for a larger tank size.

4.1. Pre-Installation Checks

• Verify that the water softener tank is clean and properly prepared for valve installation.
• Ensure all necessary plumbing connections and tools are available.
• Confirm the incoming water pressure is within the specified operating range.

4.2. Attaching the Valve to the Tank

1. Carefully thread the control valve onto the top of the water softener tank. Ensure it is hand-tightened first, then use a strap wrench to secure it firmly, but do not overtighten.
2. Connect the brine line from the brine tank to the appropriate port on the control valve.

4.3. Plumbing Connections

1. Attach the Genuine Fleck 3/4" MPT Yoke to the inlet and outlet ports of the valve.
2. Connect the main water supply lines to the yoke, ensuring the inlet and outlet are correctly oriented.
3. Connect the drain line to the drain fitting on the valve and route it to an appropriate drain.

4.4. DLFC and Tank Size Reconfiguration

If your system requires a different DLFC or tank size setting, refer to the detailed instructions provided with your specific water softener system for proper adjustment. The included 2.0 GPM and 2.4 GPM DLFCs allow for flexibility based on your system's requirements.

5. Operating Instructions

The Fleck 5600 Analog Control Valve is designed for simple, reliable operation. Once configured, it operates on a "set it and forget it" principle, regenerating based on metered water usage.

5.1. Setting the Time of Day

1. Locate the red button on the control panel.
2. Press and hold the red button.
3. While holding the button, turn the large gear on the time of day dial until the present time appears above the arrow indicator.
4. Release the red button.

5.2. Automatic Regeneration

The paddlewheel meter continuously monitors your water usage. When the pre-set capacity is reached, the valve will automatically initiate a regeneration cycle at the programmed regeneration start time (typically 2:00 A.M. as fixed from the factory).

5.3. Manual Regeneration

To manually initiate a regeneration cycle:

1. Turn the control knob on the front panel clockwise.
2. Continue turning until it reaches the "REGEN." position. The valve will then proceed through a full regeneration cycle.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Fleck 5600 control valve.

• Salt Level: Periodically check the salt level in your brine tank and replenish as needed to ensure proper regeneration.
• Cleaning: Keep the exterior of the control valve clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the plastic components.
• Inspections: Annually inspect all plumbing connections for leaks and ensure the drain line is clear and unobstructed.
• Prevent Freezing: Protect the water softener system from freezing temperatures, which can cause significant damage to the valve and plumbing.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Fleck 5600 control valve.

7.1. No Soft Water

• Check Salt Level: Ensure there is sufficient salt in the brine tank.
• Regeneration Cycle: Verify that the valve is regenerating regularly. Check the time of day setting and the meter's capacity setting.
• Brine Line: Inspect the brine line for clogs or air leaks.

7.2. Continuous Regeneration or Excessive Water Usage

• Meter Malfunction: The paddlewheel meter might be faulty or obstructed, leading to incorrect water usage readings.
• Valve Leak: Check for internal leaks within the valve that could cause continuous draining.

7.3. Leaks at Connections

• Tighten Connections: Ensure all plumbing connections, especially at the yoke, are securely tightened.
• Inspect O-rings/Gaskets: Check for damaged or improperly seated O-rings or gaskets.

For issues not covered here, or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact Affordablewater.us customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1. Manufacturer Warranty

This Fleck 5600 Analog Mechanical Metered Water Softener Control Valve comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

9.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Affordablewater.us customer support. Our team is available to provide expert guidance and support for your water conditioning system.

Visit our website: www.affordablewater.us