Kenmore Water Softener Use & Care Guide

Warranty Information

Warranty Period:

• One Year Complete Warranty: All parts will be free from defects in materials and workmanship and will function normally for one (1) year from the date of purchase. Labor for repair or replacement of defective parts will be provided at no additional cost for one (1) year from the date of purchase.
• Limited Warranties:
• Salt storage tank and fiberglass mineral tank are warranted against rust, corrosion, leakage, bursting, or other failure for ten (10) years from the date of purchase.
• Electronic control board is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for three (3) years from the date of purchase.

Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims. After the first year, labor costs for maintenance are not covered.

Contact 1-800-695-2761 for assistance.

General Provisions: Warranties are conditional on proper operation (water pressure not exceeding 125 PSI, water temperature not exceeding 120°F/49°C) and protection from misuse, neglect, freezing, or acts of nature. Warranties exclude consequential or incidental damages. No distributor, agent, or representative is authorized to extend or alter these warranties.

Safety Guidelines

Read all instructions and guidelines carefully before installing and using the water softener. Failure to follow these steps may result in personal injury or property damage.

• Handle the water softener with care; do not tilt or drop it.
• Avoid installation in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can damage non-metallic parts.
• Ensure water pressure is between 20 PSI (minimum) and 125 PSI (maximum). Install a pressure reducing valve if pressure exceeds 125 PSI.
• Water temperature must be between 40°F and 120°F (4°C and 49°C). Do not install on hot water lines.
• If installing outdoors, protect from climatic moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures.
• Use only the provided 24V DC power adapter, plugged into a grounded 120V, 60 Hz household outlet located in a dry area.
• This unit has a non-metallic valve system. Installation in metal piping may interrupt the home's electrical ground. Restore continuity as described on page 12.
• Consult local plumbing and sanitation codes. Follow local codes if they differ from manual instructions.
• Use only lead-free solder and flux for all soldered copper connections as required by federal codes.
• Do not use this product to make non-potable water potable. If water is microbiologically impure, disinfect it properly before or after use.
• The unit will not solve all water problems, such as acidity, taste, odor, or insoluble iron.
• *The ability to reduce iron in clear water is based on laboratory test data.

European Directive 2002/96/EC regarding WEEE disposal applies. Consult local laws for proper disposal.

Specifications and Performance Claims

This model is rated for efficiency, valid with the minimum salt dosage. It features demand-initiated regeneration (D.I.R.) to minimize salt and water usage. The softener is rated for a salt efficiency of at least 3,350 grains of hardness per pound of salt (sodium chloride).

* Iron reduction capacity is based on lab data. Wisconsin requires additional treatment if supply water exceeds 5 ppm clear water iron.
** Canadian working pressure limits: 1.4-7.0 kg/cm².
*** Intermittent flow does not represent nominal service flow rate, which determines capacity and efficiency. Continuous operation at higher flows may affect performance.

This system complies with NSF/ANSI 44 for specific performance claims verified by test data.

Performance Claims

Dimensions

The water softener unit has the following approximate dimensions:

• Front View: 17 inches wide x 34 inches high.
• Side View: 21 inches wide x 48 inches high.

Note: Due to manufacturing variations, the valve height may differ by up to 1/2 inch, but this will not affect system performance.

Packing List

The following parts are included for assembly and installation:

Main Components:

• Bypass Valve
• Drain Hose
• Installation Adapters
• Rubber Gaskets (O-rings)
• Hose Clamps
• Adapter Elbow
• Drive Wheel

Shipping Components (to be removed):

• Lid Lock
• Seal Insert

Inspect all parts for damage or missing items. Retain small parts in their bag until needed.

Plan Installation

Typical Water Treatment Equipment Order:

The typical sequence for connecting water treatment equipment is:

• Cold Water Supply
• Water Heater
• Water Softener
• Central Water Filter (if applicable)
• Iron Filter (if applicable)
• To House Taps (Hot and Cold)

Alternatively, for a cistern supply:

• Municipal Water Supply (or Cistern)
• Pressure Tank
• Cistern Pump
• Water Softener
• Central Water Filter (if applicable)
• Iron Filter (if applicable)
• To House Taps

Important Installation Notes:

• Always install an iron filter BEFORE the water softener.
• Install a central water filter BEFORE the softener on a chlorinated supply, or AFTER the softener on a non-chlorinated supply.

Installation Location Considerations:

• Install as close as possible to the pressure tank (cistern) or water meter (municipal water), but always after it.
• Locate near a drain (floor drain, laundry sink, sump, or standpipe).
• Connect to the main water supply line BEFORE the water heater.
• Ensure incoming water temperature does not exceed 120°F (49°C).
• To reduce hot water reflux risk, make the pipe between the softener and water heater as long as possible.
• Keep outdoor taps connected to the hard water supply to conserve soft water and salt.
• Do not install where freezing may occur; freeze damage voids the warranty.
• Choose a location where leaks will cause minimal damage. Neither Kenmore nor the manufacturer is liable for water damage.
• Ensure a grounded 120V, 60 Hz electrical outlet is accessible near the softener. The outlet and power supply should be indoors and protected from moisture.
• If installing outdoors, take measures to protect the softener, plumbing, and wiring from weather, direct sunlight, contamination, and vandalism.

Installation

Water Pressure Check: Ensure incoming water pressure is between 20 PSI and 125 PSI. If pressure exceeds 125 PSI, install a pressure-reducing valve.

Installing Bypass Valve / Adapters:

1. Shut off the main water supply.
2. Turn off gas or electricity to the water heater.
3. Open the highest and lowest faucets in the house to drain pipes. Close faucets.
4. Remove the top cover by pulling the two tabs outward. The salt lid remains attached.
5. Inspect and clean the valve ports. Remove and save the two large plastic clips. Ensure the turbine and support are seated firmly.
6. For Bypass Valve: Lubricate O-rings with silicone grease. Insert bypass valve into inlet/outlet ports. Secure with the two large support clips. Ensure clips are firmly seated.
7. For Threaded Adapters: Lubricate O-rings. Insert adapters into valve ports. Secure with the two large support clips. Ensure clips are firmly seated.

Plumbing Assembly: Measure, cut, and assemble all pipes and fittings to the main water line. Ensure the supply line connects to the valve inlet. Use caution when soldering near plastic parts; allow pipes to cool before connecting. Avoid damaging threads or overtightening.

Drain Hose Connection: Connect a 3/8" ID drain hose to the drain union. Secure with a hose clamp. Route the hose to a floor drain, laundry sink, or standpipe, maintaining approximately a 1.5" air gap to prevent backflow. Ensure the hose is not kinked, pinched, or obstructed. Avoid lifting the hose more than 8 feet above floor level.

Overflow Hose Connection: Connect the overflow hose to the salt tank's overflow fitting. Route it to a drain, ensuring it does not elevate higher than the fitting.

Leak Test: Open two cold water faucets. Move bypass valve to the 'Bypass' position. Open the main water valve. Check for water flow at the open faucets. Then, move the bypass valve to the 'Service' position, allowing water to pressurize the softener gradually. Open a hot water faucet to purge air. Close all faucets and check for leaks in all plumbing connections.

Grounding: If a non-metallic bypass valve was installed, restore electrical continuity in the metal piping system by installing a copper wire (gauge 4) across the removed metal pipe section, secured with clamps. Ensure clean contact surfaces.

Install Covers: Place the top cover, engaging the rear first, then the front. Secure with clips. Lower the salt lid to close.

Add Water and Salt: Add three gallons (12 L) of clean water to the salt tank. Add salt (rock, pellet, or solar salt with less than 1% impurity). Do not overfill.

Connect Electricity: Plug the 24V DC power adapter into a grounded 120V, 60 Hz outlet.

Restart Water Heater: Turn on gas or electricity to the water heater and relight the pilot if necessary.

Programming the Water Softener

After plugging in the unit, the display will show the model code and then prompt for the current time.

Setting the Current Time:

1. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to set the hour and minute. Ensure AM/PM is correct.
2. Press SELECT to confirm the time.

Setting Water Hardness:

1. Press SELECT until 'HARDNESS' appears.
2. Use UP/DOWN buttons to set water hardness in grains per gallon (GPG). Default is 25 GPG.
3. If your water contains iron, increase the hardness setting by 5 GPG for every 1 ppm of iron (e.g., 20 GPG + 10 for 2 ppm iron = 30 GPG).
4. Press SELECT to confirm hardness setting.

Setting Regeneration Time:

1. Press SELECT until 'RECHARGE TIME' appears.
2. The default regeneration time is 2:00 AM. Use UP/DOWN buttons to adjust the hour if needed. Ensure AM/PM is correct.
3. Press SELECT to confirm regeneration time.

Setting Salt Type:

1. Press SELECT until 'NaCl' or 'KCl' appears.
2. Use UP/DOWN buttons to select NaCl (sodium chloride, default) or KCl (potassium chloride).
3. Press SELECT to confirm salt type. The display will return to normal operation (time of day).

Maintenance and Care

Disinfecting the Water Softener:

1. Add approximately 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of household chlorine bleach to the salt tank.
2. Ensure bypass valves are in the 'Service' position.
3. Initiate regeneration by pressing and holding the REGENERATION button for three seconds. The display will show 'RECHARGE', 'Serv', and 'Fill'.
4. After regeneration, run 50 gallons (189 L) of water through the system (approx. 20 minutes) to flush the disinfectant.

Adding Salt to the Storage Tank:

• Keep the salt tank about half full. In humid areas, it may be necessary to add salt more frequently as it can 'bridge' (form a solid mass).
• Use only rock, pellet, or solar salt with less than 1% impurity. Do not use rock salt, as impurities can hinder performance.
• Clean the salt tank every 2-3 years.
• If using Potassium Chloride (KCl), note that it may harden in areas with temperature fluctuations and high humidity. Ensure the controller is set to 'KCl' if using this type of salt.
• People on sodium-restricted diets should be aware that softened water contains sodium.
• Special salts with additives are available for high iron content water.

Salt Bridge: A hard crust or 'bridge' of salt can form in the brine tank, preventing salt from dissolving and creating brine. If a bridge is suspected, gently push it to break it. Do not use sharp objects or strike the tank.

Controller Features

The electronic controller manages the softener's functions. Key features include:

• Additional Regeneration: Manually initiate regeneration if water consumption is high or salt was not added before depletion.
• Regenerate Now: Press and hold REGENERATION for 3 seconds to start an immediate regeneration cycle.
• Regenerate Tonight: Press and release REGENERATION to schedule regeneration for the next default time (2:00 AM).
• Salt Monitoring System: A light indicates when salt needs to be added. Set the salt level indicator according to the salt level in the tank.
• Optional Settings: Access by holding SELECT for 3 seconds. Options include: Salt Efficiency, Cleaning Function, Cleaning Time, 97% Function, 12/24 Hour Clock, Gallons/Liters, Max Days Between Regenerations, Backwash/Rinse Times.
• Cleaning Function: Helps with water containing iron or sediments. It performs an extra backwash and rinse cycle before normal regeneration. It is recommended to turn this OFF if your water does not contain iron or sediments.
• Water Flow Rate: Press 'WATER USE' to view current flow rate in GPM/LPM.
• Daily Water Usage: Press 'WATER USE' again to view average daily usage.
• Regeneration Status: The display shows valve position (Service, Fill, Brine, Backwash, Rinse) and remaining regeneration time.
• Program Memory: The controller retains settings during power interruptions. Reprogramming the time may be necessary if the display flashes.

Service Information & Troubleshooting

Initial Checks:

• Verify the correct time is displayed. If blank, check power supply. If time flashes, there was a power interruption; the softener will operate but may regenerate at the wrong time.
• Ensure bypass valves are in the 'Service' position.
• Check that inlet and outlet tubes are connected correctly.
• Verify the power adapter is properly connected and grounded.
• Ensure the drain hose is not kinked and is elevated no more than 8 feet.
• Check for salt in the storage tank.
• Confirm the brine line is connected.
• Verify the water hardness setting is correct. Test incoming water and compare to the setting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Manual Electronic Diagnostics: Access diagnostic mode by holding SELECT for 3 seconds. This displays turbine count, valve position, and switch status.

Factory Reset: To reset to factory defaults, hold SELECT until the model code flashes, press UP to show 'SoS', then press SELECT. You will need to reprogram settings.

Wiring Diagram: The diagram shows connections between the power supply, turbine sensor, valve motor, and position switch to the controller.

Detailed View and Parts List

Refer to the following diagrams and parts list for identification and replacement of components.

Key Components:

• 1: Top Cover
• 2: Salt Lid
• 3: Kenmore Label
• 4: Power Supply (24V DC)
• 5: Electronic Controller (PWA)
• 6: Front Panel
• 7: Front Panel Label
• 8: Deep Cleaning Display
• 9-11: O-rings and Distributor
• 12: Resin Tank (Replacement)
• 13: Resin
• 14: Lower Distributor
• 15: Salt Storage Tank
• 16-17: Salt Tank Mounting Kit
• 18: Salt Tank Assembly
• 19-21: Overflow Hose Adapters
• 22: Salt Tank Cover
• 23: Rim
• 24-25: Clamp Sections & Retainer Clips
• 26: Cone Screen
• 27: Valve Assembly
• 28: Float Assembly
• 29: Lid Lock (for shipping)
• 30: Seal Insert (for shipping)
• 31: Drain Hose

Valve Assembly Components (Partial List):

• 50: Motor
• 51: Cam & Gear
• 52: Motor Screw
• 53: Motor Plate
• 54: Motor Screw
• 55: Bearing
• 56-60: Drain Hose Adapter Kit
• 61-63: O-rings
• 64-66: Seals
• 67: Bearing, Wave Washer
• 68: Rotor & Disc
• 69-70: Drain Cap Assembly & Spring
• 71: Installation Adapters
• 72: Clip
• 73: Installation Adapter
• 74: O-ring
• 75: Copper Reducer
• 76: Turbine Support & Shaft
• 77: Turbine
• 78: Cable Harness (Sensor)
• 79: Nozzle, Retainer & Venturi Tube
• 80: Valve Body
• 81: O-ring
• 82: Ferrule Nut
• 83: Nozzle & Venturi Tube Assembly
• 84: Nozzle & Venturi Tube Housing
• 85: Cone Screen
• 86: Flow Plug (0.3 gpm)
• 87: Packing
• 88: Nozzle & Venturi Disc (Blue)
• 89: Flow Plug (0.15 gpm)
• 90: Screen
• 91: Screen Support
• 92: O-ring
• 93: Plug
• 94: Wave Washer
• 95: Valve Cover
• 96: Screw
• 97: Switch
• 98: Screw
• 99: Bypass Valve Assembly

Part numbers marked with '↑' are standard items and may not be listed separately.

Part 7388954 is the Owner's Manual.