Kenmore Water Filter Owner's Manual

Warranty Information

SEARS RESIDENTIAL WATER FILTER

FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON FILTER: For one year from the date of purchase, Sears will repair, free of charge, defects in material or workmanship in this water softener, provided it is installed and maintained according to instructions.

FULL FIVE YEAR WARRANTY AGAINST LEAKS: For five years from the date of purchase, Sears will furnish and install a new current model water filter tank, free of charge, if the tank develops a leak.

To obtain warranty service, contact the nearest Sears Service Center throughout the United States. This warranty applies only while the product is in use in the United States.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

SEARS INSTALLATION POLICY: All installation labor arranged by Sears shall be performed in a neat, workmanlike manner in accordance with generally accepted trade practices and all local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances. Customers are protected during installation by insurance relating to Property Damage, Workman's Compensation, and Public Liability.

SEARS INSTALLATION WARRANTY: Should the workmanship of any Sears-arranged installation prove faulty within one year of the merchandise's installation date, Sears will correct such faults at no additional cost upon notice.

FACTS AND FIGURES TO KEEP:

• Water Filter Model No.:
• Serial Number:
• Date Installed:
• Iron Content: Parts Per Million
• pH:
• Water Pressure: Pounds/Square Inch
• Water Flow Rate: Gallons Per Minute
• Taste And/Or Odor:

Note: The model number is on the rating decal, located on the rim, under the salt hole cover.

Section 1: Filter Start Up

A. Safety Guides

Read all steps, guides, and rules carefully before installing and using your new water filter. Failure to follow steps exactly could cause personal injury or property damage. This manual will help you get the most benefits from your water filter.

Your water filter will improve your water as described on pages 2-3. It will not soften water, remove iron, purify polluted water, or make it safe to drink. Refer to specifications on page 4-1.

Protect the filter and piping from freezing. Damage from freezing voids the filter warranty (see page 3-1).

CAUTIONS: Please read and comply with the following guides to prevent damage to the filter or other property, personal injury, or possible fatal shock.

• This filter works on 24 VOLTS ONLY. Use the included transformer and plug into a grounded 120V outlet.
• Unplug the transformer immediately if the power cable becomes damaged or frayed. Make repairs before plugging back in.
• Always unplug the filter from electrical power before removing outer valve covers.

Disposal Note: European Directive 2002/96/EC requires proper disposal of electrical and electronic equipment according to WEEE requirements. Refer to your state and local laws for proper disposal.

B. Check List of All Step-by-Step Guides to Install

Refer to the Installation Manual, part number 7146611, for detailed step-by-step guides.

Verify the following installation steps:

• Is the house water flow going INTO the filter valve INLET? Trace piping to confirm. (See page 9)
• Is the plumbing bypass valve (or three valves) set for SERVICE? (See Figure 9, page 4-1)
• Is the valve drain hose connected correctly, without sharp bends or kinks that could stop or reduce water flow? (See page 14)
• Is the transformer plugged into a live, grounded, 120V-60Hz electrical outlet? (See page 17)
• Ensure the water heater is restarted. (See page 18)

Figure 1 Description: A diagram illustrating the water filter's connection points, showing water supply connected to the valve inlet, and a drain hose.

C. Program the Timer

1. Set Present Time of Day:

• When the transformer is plugged in, a model code displays briefly, followed by 12:00 PM and flashing "PRESENT TIME".
• Use the UP or DOWN buttons to set the correct time. Press UP to advance time, DOWN to move backward. Each press changes the time by 1 minute. Holding buttons changes time by 32 minutes per second.
• Ensure PM or AM is displayed correctly.
• Press SELECT to set the present time and move to the next screen.

Notes:

• If "SPF" does not show, press UP or DOWN until "SPF" appears, then press SELECT.
• To check the model code, unplug and replug the transformer. If it's not "SPF", see page 5-2 to reset.
• If "PRESENT TIME" does not show, press SELECT until it does.
• A "beeper" sounds for button presses. One beep for a display change, repeated beeps indicate an invalid button press.

2. Set Days to Recharge:

• This sets the interval between recharges (default is 3 days, max 99).
• Use UP or DOWN buttons to select the number of days.
• Press SELECT to set and advance.

For iron applications, consult the chart based on the number of people and iron content (ppm) to determine recharge frequency.

Note: Carbon and neutralizer filters may use the default 3-day schedule. High turbidity water may require more frequent regeneration.

3. Set Recharge Time:

• The filter is factory set to recharge at 12:00 AM.
• Use UP or DOWN buttons to set a different recharge time.
• Press SELECT to set the recharge time and return to the normal operating screen.

Figure 2 Description: Diagram of the timer faceplate showing buttons: RECHARGE, VACATION, NOW, SELECT, UP, and DOWN.

Diagrams Description: Examples of time display formats for setting the present time of day (e.g., 4:58 PM, 11:36 AM).

D. Sanitizing the Water Filter

Follow these steps to sanitize the filter:

1. Press and hold RECHARGE until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes. Water will run to the drain (backwash position).
2. After 5-10 minutes, press RECHARGE again to move to fast rinse position.
3. In about two minutes, place bypass valve(s) in bypass position, then press RECHARGE to return to service position to release pressure.
4. Carefully remove the large plastic clip and valve adaptor from the filter valve inlet.
5. Put one teaspoon (0.1 ounce) of calcium hypochlorite into the valve inlet.
6. Ensure the valve inlet is clean. Reconnect plumbing. Pull outward on the valve adaptor to ensure it is properly held in place.
7. Slowly reposition bypass valve(s) to service. Open a filtered water faucet until chlorine is smelled, then close.
8. Place bypass valve(s) in bypass position again. Let the filter stand idle for 45 minutes for the chlorine to sanitize.
9. Return bypass valve(s) to service position.
10. Repeat steps 1-1b to advance the filter to backwash. The timer will automatically cycle through backwash and fast rinse to flush the drain. (Backwash and fast rinse take about 30 minutes).
11. Open filtered water faucets and run water until the chlorine odor is gone.

Note: Periodic disinfecting may be needed on some water supplies, as recommended by the Water Quality Association.

Section 2: How Your Water Filter Works

A. Faceplate Timer Features

RECHARGE NOW: For high water usage times, press and hold RECHARGE for three seconds. "RECHARGE NOW" flashes, and a recharge begins immediately. Filtered water is available after approximately two hours.

VACATION: For absences, press and release RECHARGE. "VAC" flashes. The timer keeps time, but the filter does not recharge or waste water. Upon return, press RECHARGE again to resume normal service. Failure to do so will result in unfiltered water.

Note: The filter will still recharge if RECHARGE NOW is used while in VACATION mode.

To shut off water supply, use the plumbing bypass valve(s) (Figure 9, page 4-1).

Error Code: If an error code appears on the display, call the Kenmore Water Line at 1-800-426-9345.

Timer "Power-Outage Memory": The timer retains time for 6 hours or more during power interruptions. The display is blank, and the filter won't regenerate. When power returns:

• The present time displays steadily if the timer kept time.
• The time displays, but flashes, if the timer memory was lost. Reset the time (page 1-3) to avoid incorrect recharge times.

Note: Flashing display reminds you to reset the timer. If a recharge was in progress when power was lost, it will finish.

Adjustable Backwash & Fast Rinse: Default settings are 25 minutes for backwash and 5 minutes for fast rinse. These can be adjusted from 0 to 60 minutes using the SELECT, UP, and DOWN buttons. Only trained technicians should change these settings.

Figure 3, 4, 5 Descriptions: Diagrams showing the RECHARGE NOW display, VACATION display, and an example of an error code (Err01).

Diagrams Description: Visuals showing how to adjust backwash and fast rinse times on the timer display.

B. Filter Applications

IMPORTANT: Have your water tested by a qualified laboratory. Consult your Sears store or the Kenmore Water Line (1-800-426-9345) for assistance.

Clarifying Filter: Removes sediments like dirt, sand, silt, clay, and fine organic matter. It uses "filter aggregate" mineral to trap these particles. Often used with a water softener.

Neutralizer Filter: Treats acid water (pH 6.0-6.7) using "Neutralite" mineral to raise the pH. Acid water can damage pipes and fixtures.

Taste & Odor Filter: Removes tastes, odors, and organic colors using activated carbon. The carbon bed adsorbs these substances.

Note: If your water has a hydrogen sulfide odor (rotten egg smell), consult a laboratory for proper treatment recommendations.

C. Filtered Water Service, and Backwash

Service: Water flows down through the mineral bed, trapping sediment. Clean water exits the filter.

Neutralizer Filter Service: Acid water flows down, dissolving Neutralite to raise pH. New mineral needs to be added annually or more often.

Taste & Odor Filter Service: Water flows down through activated carbon, which adsorbs tastes and odors. Carbon needs replacement when effectiveness decreases (typically after one year).

Backwash: Water flows UPWARD through the mineral bed to flush out dirt, sediment, and iron. The bed is lifted and expanded for cleaning. Water then flows downward to repack the bed.

Fast Rinse: Water flows downward through the bed to flush remaining sediments. The bed is packed for return to service.

Figure 6 Description: Diagrams illustrating water flow paths during Service, Backwash (25 minutes), and Fast Rinse (5 minutes) cycles, showing water entering, passing through the mineral bed, and exiting to the drain or filtered water outlet.

Section 3: Care of Your Filter

A. Keep the Filter from Freezing

If the filter might freeze (e.g., in a cabin or lake home), drain all water to prevent damage.

1. Unplug the transformer.
2. Close the main water shut-off valve.
3. Open a filtered water faucet to vent pressure.
4. Move the bypass valve stem to bypass (single valve) or close inlet/outlet valves and open bypass valve (three valves).
5. Pull the holding clip to remove the drain fitting and hose. Do not lose the flow plug and retainer.
6. Remove plastic clips and pull adaptors/bypass valve from the filter valve.
7. Move the filter near a floor drain. Carefully tip the filter over the drain to empty water. Do not rest the filter on fittings.
8. Tip the bottom up to drain completely. Leave the filter tilted. Plug inlet/outlet with rags to keep out dirt and bugs.

B. Adding Mineral... Neutralizer Filter

Neutralite mineral dissolves to neutralize acid. Dissolution rate depends on water usage and pH. Add new mineral about 6 months after installation.

Measure the distance to the top of the mineral bed (freeboard) to determine when to add mineral. If distance is 32" or less, over half the bed remains; wait 9-10 months. If distance is 38" or more, less than 1/4 remains; add mineral every 5 months.

Figure 7 Description: Diagram illustrating how to measure freeboard (distance from top of tank to mineral bed) and showing the components of the mineral bed (funnel, shroud, resin tank, mineral bed, sand, gravel).

Steps to Add Mineral:

1. Press and hold RECHARGE until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
2. When water flows from the drain hose, place bypass valve(s) in BYPASS position.
3. Unplug the transformer.
4. Remove clips and slide adaptors/bypass valve from the filter valve.
5. Remove valve assembly by releasing clamp retainers and sections.
6. Remove o-rings and top distributor.
7. Use a hose to siphon water from the tank to make room for new mineral.
8. Use a large neck funnel to add new mineral.
9. IMPORTANT: Do not add mineral into the bottom distributor. Temporarily plug the distributor tube.
10. Do not overfill; freeboard is needed for backwashing. Use remaining mineral later if any.
11. Flush the tank top opening with water. Replace top distributor and o-rings, ensuring correct placement.
12. Install the valve assembly and clamps, ensuring they are securely fastened.
13. Reconnect the filter to plumbing, ensuring firm placement of plumbing at the valve inlet and outlet.
14. Place the valve drain hose at the drain point.
15. Return bypass valve(s) to SERVICE position.
16. Plug in the transformer. The filter will complete backwash and return to service.

Figure 8 Description: Diagram showing the components of the valve assembly, including outer covers, clamp sections, clamp retainers, valve assembly, o-rings, and distributor parts.

C. Replacing Mineral... Taste & Odor Filter

Replace the activated carbon bed when tastes/odors return (average life is about one year).

Steps to Remove and Add Mineral:

1. Press and hold RECHARGE until "RECHARGE NOW" flashes.
2. When water flows from the drain hose, place bypass valve(s) in BYPASS position.
3. Unplug the transformer.
4. Remove clips and slide adaptors/bypass valve from the filter valve.
5. Remove valve assembly by releasing clamp retainers and sections.
6. Remove o-rings and top distributor.
7. Carefully tip the tank over a floor drain to empty used carbon into a suitable container. Remove and flush the bottom distributor assembly.
8. CAUTION: The tank is heavy when full. Do not attempt to lift alone. Do not drop.
9. Stand the tank upright. Replace the bottom distributor assembly. Temporarily plug the top end of the distributor to prevent spills.
10. Using a large neck funnel, add 17 lbs. of gravel, then 10 lbs. of filter sand, then 1 cu. ft. of activated carbon. Use water sparingly to help carbon flow.
11. Note: Ensure the bottom distributor is centered.
12. Flush the tank top opening with water. Replace top distributor and o-rings.
13. Carefully install the valve assembly and clamps, ensuring secure fastening.
14. Reconnect the filter to plumbing, ensuring firm placement.
15. Place the valve drain hose at the drain point.
16. Return bypass valve(s) to SERVICE position.
17. Plug in the transformer. The filter will complete backwash and return to service.

Note: New carbon may contain "fines." Backwashing removes them. If fines persist, repeat step 1 for additional backwashing.

D. Before You Call for Service... Helpful Hints Checklist

Troubleshooting Table:

Notes: Trace plumbing to ensure faucets are on filtered water service.

Section 4: Other Things to Know

A. Dimensions / Specifications

Figure 9 Description: Diagrams illustrating single-plastic and 3-valve bypass valve configurations, and showing the overall dimensions of the mineral tank.

* At 35 psi inlet water pressure

Section 5: Service Tech. Information

A. Troubleshooting

Wiring Schematic Description: A diagram showing the electrical connections, including a transformer, 24VAC output, motor (M), and position switch (NC, NO).

Face Plate Timer Description: An image of the Kenmore Specialty Filtration control panel with buttons for RECHARGE, VACATION, NOW, SELECT, UP, and DOWN.

Always Make These Initial Checks First:

• Does the time display show the correct time? If blank, check power. If flashing, power was off for over two days; operation resumes, but recharges may be at the wrong time.
• Plumbing bypass valve(s) must be in SERVICE position (see Figure 9, page 4-1).
• Inlet and outlet pipes must connect to the filter inlet and outlet respectively.
• Is the transformer plugged into a live, grounded outlet, and the power cable securely fastened?
• The valve drain hose must be free of kinks and sharp bends.

If problems persist after initial checks, perform MANUAL ADVANCE DIAGNOSTICS.

Manual Initiated Electronics Diagnostic:

1. To enter diagnostics, press and hold SELECT until "000--" displays.
2. Press RECHARGE to manually advance the valve through cycles and check switch operation.
3. While in diagnostics, UP button shows days since power applied; DOWN button shows regenerations initiated since model code entry.
4. Press and hold SELECT for 3 seconds to view the model code. "SPF" is required for correct operation. Reset if necessary using UP/DOWN buttons.
5. Press SELECT to return to the time display. If the code was changed, reset all timer settings (pages 1-3, 1-4).

Note: The display returns to preset time automatically if no button is pressed within 4 minutes.

Manual Advance Diagnostics:

• Advance the filter valve through regeneration cycles to check operation. Remove the top cover to observe cam and switch operation.
• Ensure household water pressure is at least 20 psi.
• Press RECHARGE to move to backwash. Look for fast drain flow. An obstructed flow indicates a plugged component.
• Press RECHARGE to move to fast rinse. Look for similar drain flow.
• Press RECHARGE to return the filter to service.

Automatic Electronic Diagnostics: The faceplate monitors electronic components. Malfunctions trigger error codes on the display.

• Error Codes: Err 01, Err 03, Err 04 likely indicate wiring/connection issues or motor problems. Err 05 indicates a faceplate defect.
• Procedure for Removing Error Code: Unplug transformer, correct defect, plug in transformer, wait 12 minutes. If the defect persists, the code returns. Pressing and holding RECHARGE for 3 seconds can also clear an error code.

Troubleshooting Flowchart Description: A flowchart guides users through diagnosing issues based on filter type (Neutralizer, Sediment, Taste & Odor) and observed problems (low pH, sediments, taste/odor, no backwash, etc.), leading to potential causes and solutions.

Faceplate Replacement Note: After replacing the faceplate, ensure the valve is in the service position by using the MANUAL ADVANCE procedures until "RECHARGE" no longer flashes.

B. Rotary Valve Service

WARNING: Turn off water supply and disconnect electrical power before working on the valve.

Bypass Valve Operation: Instructions for 3-valve and Sears special bypass systems are provided.

Disassembly: Use common tools like screwdrivers and pliers. Refer to the valve drawing for parts.

Servicing the Valve: Inspect o-rings, seals, and gaskets for wear. Check the rotor and disc surfaces for scratches or wear.

Assembly: Ensure all parts are in place. Lubricate all o-rings and seals with FDA-approved silicone grease. Follow specific instructions for installing the rotor seal and wear strip. Assemble rotor and disc onto the rotor seal. Lower the cover, install screws, and then install the valve cam and gear. Turn the rotor clockwise to the SERVICE position before tightening screws. Torque screws to 30-40 inch-pounds.

Lubricate the motor gear and valve cam gear with Molykote grease. Ensure the switch is oriented correctly.

Rotary Valve Diagram Description: An exploded view of the rotary valve assembly, showing components like the motor, valve cam, gear, rotor, disc, seals, o-rings, and flow plug.

C. Water Flow Through the Filter Valve

Service Cycle: Unfiltered water enters the valve, flows down through the top distributor, through the mineral bed, and exits as filtered water.

Backwash Cycle: Water flows DOWN and OUT the bottom distributor, UP through the bed, and out the top distributor to the drain. A flow plug controls the fast flow to flush sediments.

Fast Rinse Cycle: Water flows DOWN through the bed and out the bottom distributor to the drain, flushing remaining sediments and repacking the bed.

The timer then returns the valve to service.

Water Flow Diagrams Description: Illustrations showing the path of water through the valve during the Service, Backwash, and Fast Rinse cycles, highlighting the movement of water and the position of the rotor and disc.

Section 6: Repair Parts

Kenmore Clarifier, Neutralizer, Taste & Odor Models

Exploded View Diagram Description: A detailed exploded view showing all the numbered parts of the water filter assembly.

Parts List:

Parts not included with filter - available from Sears Stock No. 42-3441

Sears Service Information

Get it fixed, at your home or ours!

Your Home Service: For repair of major appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems. Also for replacement parts, accessories, and owner's manuals. For Sears professional installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers and water heaters.

Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME® (1-800-469-4663) anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada).

Visit www.sears.com or www.sears.ca.

Our Home Service: For repair of carry-in items like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics. Call or go online for your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

Call 1-800-488-1222 anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only).

Protection/Maintenance Agreements:

• U.S.A.: 1-800-827-6655
• Canada: 1-800-361-6665

Spanish Service: 1-888-SU-HOGARSM (1-888-784-6427)

French Service (Canada): 1-800-LE-FOYERMC (1-800-533-6937)

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