Whirlpool WHES18 Water Softener

Dimensions

Figure 1: Shows top, side, and front views of the water softener with dimensions: 21-1/4" width, 14-1/2" depth, 30-1/4" overall height, 23" tank body height. Inlet and outlet connections are indicated.

Specifications & Performance Claims

This model is efficiency rated, valid at the minimum salt dose. It features a demand initiated regeneration (D.I.R.) system to minimize brine and water usage. The softener offers a rated efficiency of at least 3,350 grains of hardness exchange per pound of salt (sodium chloride) and operates within specified service flow rates. Laboratory tests per NSF/ANSI Standard 44 verify its performance claims.

*Capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by laboratory test data. Wisconsin requires additional treatment if clear water iron exceeds 5 ppm.

**Intermittent flow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate for capacity and efficiency ratings. Continuous operation above service flow rate may affect performance.

This system conforms to NSF/ANSI 44 for specific performance claims, verified by test data.

Variable Salt Dose: Salt dose is selected by electronic controls at regeneration time based on need.

For questions, call 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com. Have model and serial number ready.

Water Softener Safety

Safety is paramount. Always read and obey all safety messages provided in this manual and on the appliance. The safety alert symbol indicates potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. “DANGER” means immediate instructions must be followed to avoid death or serious injury. “WARNING” means instructions must be followed to avoid death or serious injury.

Massachusetts Specific: Adhere to plumbing code 248-CMR. Use a licensed plumber.

California Specific: Turn the Salt Efficiency Feature to ON. This may increase recharge frequency but ensures operation at 4,000 grains per pound of salt or higher. Refer to the "Salt Efficiency" section for instructions.

Before You Start

• Minimum water flow: 3 GPM at the inlet. Maximum inlet pressure: 125 PSI. If daytime pressure exceeds 80 PSI, nighttime pressure may exceed the maximum. A pressure reducing valve may be needed. If a backflow preventer is installed, an expansion tank is required per local codes.
• Power: Operates on 24 V DC power via a supplied plug-in adapter. Use a 120 V, 60 Hz grounded household outlet in a dry location, protected by an overcurrent device.
• Water Quality: Do not use to treat water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate upstream disinfection.
• Disposal: Follow European Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE) requirements or similar national/local laws for electrical and electronic equipment disposal.

Do not return the water softener to the store. For questions, missing parts, or damage, call 1-866-986-3223 or visit www.whirlpoolwatersolutions.com. Have model and serial number ready.

Inspect Shipment

Thoroughly check the water softener for shipping damage and parts loss. Inspect the shipping carton as well. Remove and discard (or recycle) all packing materials. Keep small parts in their bags until needed.

Packing List: Includes Bypass Valve, Drain Hose, Clips (pre-installed), Hose Clamps, Adaptor Elbow, Grommet, Water Hardness Test Strip.

Figure 2: Illustrates the components included in the packing list.

Water Conditioning Information

Iron

Iron in water can cause stains and affect taste. It is measured in parts per million (ppm). Four types of iron:

• Ferrous (clear water) iron: Soluble. Softener reduces moderate amounts. Detected by clear sample that clouds/turns yellow/brown upon standing due to oxidation. Add 5 grains to hardness setting for every 1 ppm of ferrous iron.
• Ferric (red water) iron: Insoluble. Visible immediately as cloudy yellow/orange/red particles. Softener does not remove. Filtration or chlorination recommended.
• Bacterial and organically bound iron: Insoluble. Softener does not remove.
• Colloidal and inorganically bound iron: Insoluble. May appear yellow, color persists, and iron remains suspended. Softener does not remove.

Sediment

Fine foreign material particles (clay, silt). Softener does not remove. May cause cloudy water. A sediment filter upstream is recommended.

Installation Requirements

Location Requirements

• Avoid freezing temperatures and water over 120°F, as these can void the warranty.
• Install close to the water supply inlet for whole-home conditioning, upstream of other plumbing except outside pipes. Keep outside faucets on hard water.
• A nearby drain (floor drain, laundry tub, sump, standpipe) is required for regeneration discharge water. Ensure proper air gap and valve drain requirements are met.
• Provide a nearby 120 V, 60 Hz electrical outlet compliant with NEC and local codes.
• Install between the water inlet and water heater. Other conditioning equipment should be between the inlet and the softener.
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage non-metallic parts.

Plumbing Codes

All plumbing must comply with national, state, and local codes. In Massachusetts, use a licensed plumber and adhere to code 248-CMR.

Air Gap Requirements

A 1-1/2" air gap is required between the drain hose end and the drain to prevent backflow. Do not insert the hose directly into the drain.

Figure 3: Depicts the required 1.5-inch air gap for floor drains, standpipes, and laundry tubs.

The Proper Order to Install Water Treatment Equipment

Figure 4: Illustrates the typical installation sequence: City Water Supply -> Optional Sediment Filter -> Pressure Tank (for well water) -> Water Softener -> Water Heater -> Cold Water to House. Untreated water to outside faucets is also shown.

Valve Drain Requirements

Use the included flexible drain hose, cut to length. If local codes prohibit flexible hose, use a rigid drain run with a compression fitting (1/4" NPT x 1/2" tubing). Ensure the drain line is short and direct.

Figure 5: Shows fittings for the drain hose, including 1/4" NPT threads and barbs for 3/8" I.D. tubing.

Figure 6: Illustrates compression fittings for a rigid drain line.

Electrical Shock Hazard

Prior to installation on metallic plumbing, securely install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire per instructions to prevent death or electrical shock.

Inlet / Outlet Plumbing Options

Install using a single bypass valve (provided) or a 3-valve bypass system (parts not included). Bypass valves allow maintenance while maintaining water supply. Supported pipe types include Copper, Threaded, PEX, and CPVC. Do not solder plumbing attached to the single bypass valve, as heat can damage the plastic.

Figure 7: Shows the single bypass valve operation (pull for service, push for bypass).

Figure 8: Illustrates a 3-valve bypass system configuration.

Installation Instructions

Typical Installation

Figure 9: Depicts the typical setup showing the water softener connected to the main water line, bypass valve, drain hose routing, overflow hose, and power supply connection.

Turn Off Water Supply

1. Close the main water supply valve.
2. Open all faucets to drain house pipes. Avoid draining the water heater to prevent element damage.

Install the Brine Tank Overflow Elbow

Install the grommet and elbow in the 13/16" hole on the salt storage tank sidewall. The elbow accepts 1/2" or 3/8" I.D. hose.

Move the Water Softener Into Place

Excessive Weight Hazard: Use two or more people. Failure to do so can result in injury.

1. Move the softener to the desired location on a solid, level surface. Do not place shims directly under the salt storage tank.
2. Check and remove debris from the valve inlet and outlet ports.
3. Ensure the turbine assembly spins freely in the "out" port.
4. Apply a light coating of silicone grease to the single bypass valve o-rings.
5. Push the single bypass valve into the softener valve and snap the two large holding clips into place (see Figures 11 & 12). Ensure clips are firmly seated.

Installation Instructions (Continued)

Brinewell Assembly

Figure 10: Shows an exploded view of the brinewell and related components within the salt tank.

Grounding Information (for Installations on Metal Pipe)

If using plastic bypass valves on metallic plumbing, grounding is broken. Install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire across the softener location, clamping securely at both ends (see Figure 13). Check local codes for proper installation. Consult a licensed plumber.

Figure 11: Shows the single bypass valve connection to the softener valve.

Figure 12: Illustrates the correct clip assembly for the bypass valve.

Figure 13: Depicts the grounding wire installation on metallic plumbing.

Installation Instructions (Continued)

Complete Inlet and Outlet Plumbing

Measure, cut, and assemble pipes and fittings to the softener valve inlet and outlet ports. Ensure pipes are squared and straight. Hard water supply should connect to the inlet. Support plumbing to prevent stress on the valve.

Install Valve Drain Hose

1. Measure, cut, and connect the 3/8" drain line to the softener valve drain fitting using a hose clamp. Keep the line short and direct.
2. Route the hose to a floor drain and secure it to prevent "whipping" during regenerations. Refer to "Air Gap Requirements".

Install Salt Storage Tank Overflow Hose

1. Measure, cut, and connect the 3/8" drain line to the salt storage tank overflow elbow with a hose clamp.
2. Route the hose to a floor drain or suitable point no higher than the tank's drain fitting. This is a gravity drain. Cut to length and route neatly.

Important: Do not connect the softener valve drain tubing to the salt storage tank overflow hose.

Test for Leaks

1. Open two or more softened cold water faucets downstream from the softener.
2. Place the bypass valve in the "bypass" position.
3. Slowly open the main water supply valve. Run water until flow is steady and air-free.
4. Place bypass valve(s) in "service" position:
   • Single bypass: Slowly move stem to "service," pausing to allow softener to fill.
   • 3 valve bypass: Close bypass, open outlet, slowly open inlet, pausing to fill.
5. After three minutes, open a hot water faucet until flow is steady and air-free, then close it.
6. Close all cold water faucets and check all plumbing connections for leaks.
7. Check clips at softener inlet/outlet for leaks. If a leak occurs, depressurize plumbing and push the bypass valve body toward the softener before removing the clip (see Figure 14). Do not reinstall damaged clips.

Figure 14: Shows how to depressurize plumbing and push the bypass valve body to remove clips.

Installation Instructions (Continued)

Add Water and Salt to the Salt Storage Tank

Excessive Weight Hazard: Use two or more people to lift salt bags.

1. Add approximately three gallons of clean water to the salt storage tank.
2. Add salt: Use nugget, pellet, or coarse solar salts with less than 1% impurities.

Plug in the Power Supply

Ensure all wiring connectors are secure and wiring is away from moving parts. Plug the power supply into an outlet not controlled by a switch.

Note: The water heater will initially fill with hard water. Hot water will be fully conditioned within a few days. To achieve this immediately, wait until the initial recharge is complete, then drain the water heater until water runs cold.

Sanitize the Water Softener / Sanitize After Service

1. Pour approximately 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of household bleach into the softener brinewell. Replace the brinewell cover.
2. Ensure the bypass valve(s) is in the "service" position.
3. Start a recharge (see "Start a Recharge" on Page 13).
4. After recharge, open a cold water faucet downstream and let 50 gallons pass through (approx. 20 minutes). Close the faucet.

Programming the Water Softener

Control Panel Overview

Figure 15: Identifies the control panel buttons: RECHARGE, PROGRAM, UP, DOWN.

Clean Reminder

Figure 16: Shows the display indicating a "CLEAn" reminder, prompting use of Whirlpool Water Softener Cleanser every four months. Press any button to reset.

Set Time of Day

1. If "PRESENT TIME" is not displayed, press PROGRAM until it appears.
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to set the current time, ensuring AM/PM is correct.

Figure 17: Illustrates setting the time of day. Press buttons briefly for slow advance, hold for fast advance.

Set Water Hardness Number

1. Press PROGRAM again to display flashing "25" and "HARDNESS".
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to set your water's hardness number.

Figure 18: Shows the display for setting the water hardness number.

Note on Iron: If your water contains iron, add 5 grains to the hardness number for each 1 ppm of iron (e.g., 20 gpg + 2 ppm iron = 30 hardness number).

Note on KCl Salt: If using potassium chloride (KCl) salt, increase the hardness setting by 25% (e.g., 20 gpg water with KCl = set to 25 gpg).

Set Recharge (Regeneration) Time

1. Press PROGRAM again to display flashing "2:00 AM" and "RECHARGE TIME". This is a typical time for recharge as water is not in use.
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to change the recharge start time if desired. Ensure AM/PM is correct.
3. Press PROGRAM again to return to the normal time display.

Figure 19: Shows the display for setting the recharge time.

Start a Recharge

Press and hold the RECHARGE button for three seconds until "RECHARGE" flashes. This initiates a recharge cycle, drawing sanitizing bleach and purging air. Periodically check for leaks during this process.

Note: Recheck for leaks 24 hours after the first recharge cycle.

Customizing Features / Options

Recharge Now

Press and hold the RECHARGE button until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes to initiate an immediate recharge. The softener will enter the fill cycle, and "RECHARGE NOW" will flash during regeneration. Full capacity is restored upon completion. Time remaining may be displayed.

Note: Avoid using hot water during regeneration.

Figure 20: Shows the display indicating "RECHARGE NOW" initiated.

Recharge Tonight

Press and release (do not hold) the RECHARGE button to schedule an extra recharge at the next preset recharge time. "RECHARGE TONIGHT" will flash, and the softener will recharge later.

Figure 21: Shows the display indicating "RECHARGE TONIGHT" initiated.

Salt Efficiency

When ON, the softener operates at 4000 grains/lb. salt or higher, potentially recharging more often. It ships with this feature OFF.

1. Press and hold PROGRAM until the screen in Figure 22 is displayed. Press PROGRAM again to reach the screen in Figure 23.
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to set ON or OFF. The efficiency icon appears in the upper right corner when ON.
3. Press PROGRAM three times to return to the normal display (see Figure 24).

Figure 22: Generic setting screen.

Figure 23: Shows Salt Efficiency ON/OFF options.

Figure 24: Illustrates the efficiency icon displayed when the feature is ON.

California Note: Salt Efficiency must be ON.

Maximum Days Between Regenerations

The softener automatically controls regeneration frequency for optimal efficiency. This feature can be modified to force regeneration every 1 to 15 days, useful for water with clear water iron to keep the resin bed clean.

1. Press and hold PROGRAM until the screen in Figure 22 is displayed. Press PROGRAM twice to reach the screen in Figure 25.
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to set the number of days.
3. Press PROGRAM twice to return to the normal time screen.

Note: The softener may still recharge automatically if needed before the set number of days.

Figure 25: Shows the display for setting maximum days between regenerations.

12 OR 24 Hour Clock

The default is a 12-hour clock (AM/PM).

1. Press and hold PROGRAM until the screen in Figure 22 is displayed. Press PROGRAM three times to reach the screen in Figure 26.
2. Use UP or DOWN buttons to set the time format (12 or 24 hour).
3. Press PROGRAM once to return to the normal time screen.

Figure 26: Shows the display options for 12-hour or 24-hour clock format.

Routine Maintenance

Power Outage Memory

The timer circuitry retains settings for several hours during a power outage. The display will be blank, and regeneration will not occur. Upon power restoration, reset the present time if flashing. HARDNESS and RECHARGE TIME settings are retained. Regenerations may occur at the wrong time until the clock is reset.

Note: If regenerating when power was lost, it will finish the cycle.

Water Softener Cleanser

Use Whirlpool® WHE-WSC Water Softener Cleanser as directed, every four months. Pour the entire 16 oz. bottle into the brinewell. Press and hold RECHARGE for three seconds until "RECHARGE" flashes. This manual recharge takes about two hours. If taste, odor, or discoloration occurs, recharge again and run a cold water faucet downstream until water is normal.

Routine Maintenance (Continued)

Adding Salt

Check salt level frequently. Refill if less than 1/4 full to avoid hard water. Check every two to three weeks until a routine is established. Ensure brinewell cover is on.

Note: If using KCl salt, do not fill above level 4 on the brinewell decal.

Note: In humid areas, keep salt level lower and refill more often to prevent "bridging".

Recommended Salt: Nugget, pellet, or coarse solar salts with less than 1% impurities.

Salt Not Recommended: Rock salt, high impurity salts, block, granulated, table, ice melting, ice cream making salts.

Breaking a Salt Bridge

A salt bridge is a hard crust or gap between water and salt, preventing brine formation. It's caused by humidity or wrong salt type. If the tank is full, a bridge may be hidden. Test by inserting a broom handle: if a hard object is felt before the handle reaches the top rim, a bridge likely exists. Gently push into the bridge in several places to break it. Do not use sharp objects that could puncture the tank. Do not pound the tank.

Figure 27: Illustrates the salt bridge testing method using a broom handle and pencil mark.

Cleaning the Nozzle & Venturi

A clean nozzle & venturi is crucial for proper operation, creating suction to move brine. If plugged with sand, silt, or dirt, the softener will not work, resulting in hard water.

Figure 28: Shows an exploded view of the nozzle and venturi assembly and its components: Cap, O-ring Seal, Screen Support, Screen, Nozzle & Venturi Disc, Gasket, Flow Plug, Housing, Ferrule, Nut, Cone Screen.

Important: Ensure the gasket's small hole centers over the nozzle & venturi housing's small hole, with numbers facing up.

To access: Remove the top cover, place bypass valve in bypass position, ensure softener is in service cycle. Unscrew the cap, remove o-ring seal, screen support, screen, nozzle & venturi disc, gasket, and flow plug(s). Wash parts in warm, soapy water and rinse. Clean both sides of the disc. Use a small brush for dirt/iron, avoiding scratches. Replace parts in order, lubricate o-ring with silicone grease. Tighten cap by hand. Place bypass valve in service position.

Recharge the softener to lower the water level. Check water level in brinewell; if it doesn't drop after recharge, the problem persists. Call 1-866-986-3223.

Troubleshooting

Automatic Electronic Diagnostics

The softener monitors electronic components. Malfunctions trigger error codes on the display. While an error code is active, only the PROGRAM button works for diagnostics.

Procedure for removing error code: Unplug transformer, correct the problem, plug in transformer, wait 8 minutes. The code will return if the problem persists.

Figure 29: Shows an example error code "Err01" on the display.

Manual Advance Diagnostics

Use these procedures to cycle through regeneration stages to check operation. Lift salt lid and top cover to observe valve rotation.

1. Press and hold PROGRAM for 3 seconds until "000" displays.
2. The 3 digits indicate water meter operation: "000" (steady) means no water flow; "000 to 199" (continual) indicates gallons passed.
3. The letter "P" and a dash indicate POSITION switch status: "P" means closed, dash means open.
4. Use the RECHARGE button to advance through cycles and check switch operation. Ensure water contacts salt (no salt bridge).
5. Diagnostic screen information: Press UP for days since power applied; press DOWN for number of regenerations.
6. Press and hold PROGRAM to display model code (e.g., "LE18"). Incorrect code may affect operation.
7. To change code, use UP or DOWN buttons.
8. Press PROGRAM to return to the present time display.

Figure 30: Shows display indicating water meter operation (steady "000" or flashing "000-P").

Figure 31: Shows the display indicating the model code "LE18".

For troubleshooting help, call 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com. Have model and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting (Continued)

Resetting to Factory Defaults

To reset all settings (time, hardness, etc.):

1. Press and hold PROGRAM until the flashing model code appears twice.
2. Press UP button until "SoS" flashes.
3. Press PROGRAM to restart the controller.
4. Set present time, hardness, etc., as described on pages 12 & 13.

Figure 32: Shows the display indicating "505" for resetting to factory defaults.

Manual Advance Regeneration Check

This verifies valve motor, brine tank fill, brine draw, and regeneration flow rates.

Note: Display must show steady time. If an error code appears, press PROGRAM to enter diagnostics.

1. Press and hold RECHARGE for 3 seconds. "RECHARGE" flashes as the valve moves to fill position. Observe fill water entering the tank. If no water enters, check for obstructions in the nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug, brine tubing, or riser pipe.
2. Press RECHARGE to move to brine position. A slow drain flow should begin. Observe brinewell for a noticeable drop in liquid level (may take 15-20 minutes) to verify brine draw. Ensure water contacts salt.
3. If no brine draw, check for: dirty/plugged nozzle/venturi, improperly seated nozzle/venturi/gasket, leaking valve seals, drain line restrictions (kinks, elevation), or obstructions in brine valve/tubing. Note: Low system pressure or long/high drain hoses can cause back pressure. Avoid drain hoses over 30 ft or elevated more than 8 ft.
4. Press RECHARGE to move to backwash position. Look for fast drain flow. Ensure drain can handle volume. Obstructed flow indicates plugged components.
5. Press RECHARGE to move to fast rinse position. Look for fast drain flow. Allow several minutes to flush brine.
6. Press RECHARGE to return to service position.

For help, call 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com. Have model and serial number ready.

Notes

This section is intentionally left blank.

Water Softener Exploded View

Diagram showing all major components of the water softener with numbered parts for reference. Key components include the valve assembly, salt lid, top cover, brinewell, brine tank, and various hoses and fittings.

Water Softener Parts List

Not illustrated

To order repair parts, call 1-866-986-3223. Manufactured and warranted by Water Channel Partners, 1890 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125.

Valve Exploded View

Diagram showing all components of the valve assembly with numbered parts for reference. Includes motor, cam, gear, clips, o-rings, nozzle, venturi, flow plugs, screens, and bypass valve components.

Valve Parts List

Not illustrated

To order repair parts, call 1-866-986-3223. Manufactured and warranted by Water Channel Partners, 1890 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125.

Warranty

Extend your warranty by using Whirlpool® WHE-WSC Water Softener Cleaner and registering at whirlpoolwatersolutions.com. The one-year factory warranty on parts and labor can be extended to five years by using the cleaner every four months (up to three bottles per year).

WATER SOFTENER WARRANTY - MODEL WHES18

Warrantor: Water Channel Partners, 1890 Woodlane Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125

One Year Full Warranty: All parts are free from defects in materials and workmanship and will perform normal functions for one year from purchase. Labor for repair or replacement of defective parts is also provided at no additional cost for one year.

Limited Warranties:

• Salt storage tank and fiberglass mineral tank: 10 years against rust, corrosion, leaks, bursts, or failure to perform.
• Electronic control board: 3 years free from defects in materials and workmanship.

If a part proves defective within the warranty period, Warrantor will ship a replacement part free of charge. Labor after the first year is not covered. For questions, assistance, or warranty issues, call 1-866-986-3223.

General Provisions:

Warranties are effective provided the softener operates at water pressures not exceeding 125 psi and temperatures not exceeding 120°F, and is not subject to abuse, misuse, alteration, neglect, freezing, accident, negligence, or damage from acts of nature. Warrantor is excused for failures due to circumstances beyond its control (strikes, government regulations, shortages).

Disclaimer: No warranties beyond those described apply. Implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are disclaimed to the extent they extend beyond the stated periods. Warrantor's sole obligation is to replace or repair defective components. Warrantor is not liable for consequential or incidental damages. No other person is authorized to extend these warranties.

State laws may affect implied warranty duration or limitations on incidental/consequential damages. This warranty grants specific legal rights, and other rights may vary by state. Applies to consumer-owned installations only.

©/TM ©2020 Whirlpool. All rights reserved. Manufactured under license by Water Channel Partners, Woodbury, Minnesota. Limited warranty provided by manufacturer.