Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Aquasana SimplySoft 40,000 Grain Water Softener. This system is designed to effectively reduce hard water minerals throughout your home's water supply.
Image: The Aquasana SimplySoft 40,000 Grain Water Softener system, featuring the tall blue softener tank with a digital control head and the rectangular black brine tank.
Important Safety Instructions
Adhere to the following safety guidelines during installation and operation to prevent injury or damage to the unit:
- Read and understand all instructions completely before attempting installation or operation.
- Ensure all plumbing connections are properly sealed and secure to prevent leaks.
- Always disconnect the power supply to the unit before performing any maintenance or service.
- Do not install the water softener in areas exposed to direct sunlight, freezing temperatures, or excessive heat.
- Comply with all applicable local plumbing and electrical codes during installation.
Package Contents
The Aquasana SimplySoft 40,000 Grain Water Softener package typically includes the following components:
- Softener Tank
- Brine Tank
- Digital Control Valve
- Power Adapter
- Drain Line
- Brine Line
- Distributor Tube
- Upper and Lower Distributor Baskets
Image: An image displaying all components included in the Aquasana SimplySoft 40,000 Grain Water Softener package, such as the softener tank, brine tank, digital control valve, power adapter, various hoses, and small parts.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 30" x 16" x 43" |
| Item Model Number | WH-SF40-BASE |
| Manufacturer | Aquasana |
| Certifications | IAPMO certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 44 and CSA B483.1 |
| Installation Type | Whole House Point of Entry |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Lower Temperature Rating | 40 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 15.5 Gallons Per Minute |
| Operating Pressure Range | 20-125 PSI |
Image: A technical drawing illustrating the height (43 inches), width (30 inches), and depth (16 inches) of the Aquasana SimplySoft water softener system, including installation clearance recommendations.
Image: The IAPMO R&T Water Quality Platinum Seal, indicating certification to NSF/ANSI Standard 44 and CSA B483.1.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is critical for the optimal performance of your water softener. It is recommended to consult a qualified plumber for installation.
Pre-Installation Considerations
- Location: Select a level location protected from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. The area should be close to the main water line, a suitable drain, and an electrical outlet.
- Water Supply: The softener must be installed on the main cold water line, upstream of the water heater, to ensure all hot water is also softened.
- Drainage: A suitable drain is required for the regeneration process. Ensure the drain line can accommodate the specified vertical rise and horizontal distance as per the detailed manual.
- Electrical: A standard 120V electrical outlet is needed to power the control valve.
Image: A diagram showing that the water softener should be installed on the cold water line before the water heater to ensure all hot water is also softened. It explicitly states not to install after the water heater or on the hot water line.
Installation Steps (Summary)
The following is a summary of the installation process. Refer to the comprehensive installation manual provided with your unit for detailed, step-by-step instructions and diagrams.
- Shut off Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to your home.
- Bypass Valve Installation: Install the bypass valve (if separate) onto the control valve.
- Connect Plumbing: Connect the main water line to the inlet and outlet ports of the bypass valve, ensuring correct flow direction.
- Drain Line Connection: Connect the drain line from the control valve to a suitable drain.
- Brine Line Connection: Connect the brine line from the control valve to the brine tank.
- Add Resin and Gravel: Follow specific instructions for adding resin and gravel to the softener tank.
- Add Salt to Brine Tank: Fill the brine tank with water softener salt.
- Electrical Connection: Plug the power adapter into the control valve and then into a grounded electrical outlet.
- System Startup: Slowly turn on the main water supply and follow the initial startup procedures outlined in the detailed manual, including flushing cycles.
Note: An optional pre-filter (Aquasana Softener Installation Kit, B0DHFMJHK6) is recommended to prevent rust, sediment, and silt from entering and clogging the softener unit, extending its lifespan and efficiency.
Operating Instructions
Control Panel Overview
The digital control panel allows for customization and monitoring of the system's operation.
Image: A close-up image of the digital control panel on the Aquasana SimplySoft water softener, showing an LCD display with 'REMAIN GAL 1075' and buttons for settings, checkmark, and up/down arrows.
- LCD Display: Provides information such as the current time, active regeneration modes, and the remaining gallons of softened water before the next regeneration cycle.
- Setting Time: Adjust the current time to ensure accurate scheduling of regeneration cycles.
- Programming: Input your water hardness (in grains per gallon) and the number of people in your household to optimize regeneration frequency and efficiency.
- Regeneration Modes: The system operates in a metered mode, initiating regeneration based on actual water usage, which is more efficient than traditional time-based systems.
How Water Softening Works
The Aquasana SimplySoft system employs an ion-exchange process to reduce hard water minerals, providing soft, scale-free water throughout your home.
Image: An animated diagram illustrating the ion-exchange process where resin beads coated with sodium/potassium ions trap calcium and magnesium. It also shows the regeneration stage where a brine solution flushes out trapped minerals.
- Ion-Exchange: As hard water flows through the softener tank, resin beads coated with sodium or potassium ions attract and trap hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
- Hard Mineral Removal: During the regeneration cycle, the trapped calcium and magnesium ions are separated from the resin beads and flushed out through the drain as wastewater.
- Regeneration Stage: A brine solution (saltwater) flows through the resin bed, rinsing away the trapped minerals and recharging the resin with fresh sodium or potassium ions, restoring its softening capacity.
Maintenance Guidelines
Salt Replenishment
Regularly inspect the salt level in the brine tank. It is crucial to maintain the salt level above the water line to ensure effective regeneration. Use high-quality water softener salt (pellets or crystals) for optimal performance.
Pre-Filter Replacement (If Applicable)
If an optional pre-filter is installed as part of your system, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement frequency. Regular replacement of the pre-filter helps maintain optimal system performance and protects the softener from sediment and debris.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter issues with your water softener, refer to the detailed troubleshooting section in the full product manual or contact customer support.
- No Soft Water: Check the salt level in the brine tank, ensure the bypass valve is in the service position, and verify the power supply to the control valve.
- Salty Water: This may indicate improper regeneration or issues with the brine line. Ensure initial flushing steps were followed correctly during startup.
- Continuous Regeneration: Review the control panel settings and water usage parameters to ensure they are configured correctly.
- Leaks: Inspect all plumbing connections for tightness and integrity.
For further assistance, contact Aquasana Customer Support.
Warranty Information and Customer Support
The Aquasana SimplySoft 40,000 Grain Water Softener comes with a 5/10-Year Limited Warranty. Please refer to the warranty documentation for specific terms and conditions.
For customer service and installation support, please call 866-662-6885.
You can also visit the official Aquasana website for additional resources and support: www.aquasana.com.
