BWT AQUADIAL softlife: Mounting and Operating Instructions

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 General Information

This manual covers the BWT AQUADIAL softlife appliance, available in the following types: softlife 10, softlife 15, softlife 20, and softlife 25. Local standards and technical specifications must be observed. Operating instructions should be interpreted in accordance with all national accident prevention and environmental protection legislation.

1.2 Manufacturer Address

BWT UK Ltd.
Coronation Road, BWT House
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire, HP12, 3SU
Tel.: +44 / 1494 / 838 100
Fax.: +44 / 1494 / 838 101
E-mail: enquiries@bwt-uk.co.uk

1.3 Safety Instructions

Risk: Electrical! If working on areas marked with this symbol, always call an electrician. If the power cable is damaged, the power supply unit must be replaced entirely.

Important: Do not use aggressive detergents!

In case of a power outage during wastewater evacuation into a collection pit, flooding may occur (e.g., water softener regenerating).

Note: Personnel performing installation, setup, commissioning, maintenance, and service must be qualified for these tasks. The customer is responsible for clearly defining responsibilities and supervising the work.

Important: NEVER operate the appliance with the cover removed.

Attention: Never exceed the determined maintenance and service periods.

Note: Use protective equipment if necessary.

1.4 Intended Use

The BWT AQUADIAL softlife appliance is designed for the complete or partial softening of domestic water (in accordance with valid legislation). Any other use is strictly prohibited and at your own risk.

Chapter 2: Quick Operation

2.1 Display and Control Elements

The display shows the current time and a charge bar indicating the percentage of remaining capacity. When programming, the modifiable value will flash.

Control Buttons:

• [UP] (Up Arrow): Moves the cursor to modify entries.
• [DOWN] (Down Arrow): Moves the cursor to modify entries.
• [SET/RETURN] (Enter Button): Confirms entries.
• [RECHARGE] (Regeneration): Initiates regeneration, typically programmed for nighttime.

2.2 Default Settings

Phase change duration: Depends on internal appliance settings (a few minutes).

Regeneration time: New setting modifiable for nighttime [RECHARGE TONIGHT].

Hardness for drinking water / capacity: 300 ppm, 1566 liters for the 10-liter model.

BWT bestsoft 11 Settings Overview:

2.3 Programming Procedure

1. Adjusting Time and Date (Fig. 1): The first two digits (00) of the display flash, allowing user adjustment. Use [UP] and [DOWN] to set the hour, then press [SET] to confirm. Use [UP] and [DOWN] to set the minutes, then press [SET] to confirm. The display will then show the hardness setting.

2. Adjusting Water Hardness (Fig. 2): The default setting is 300 ppm, suitable for hard water. Use [UP] and [DOWN] to adjust the hardness value as needed. Refer to the previous page for details. Press [SET] to validate the hardness and proceed to regeneration time setting.

3. Adjusting Regeneration Time (Fig. 3): For efficient operation, the softener requires periodic regeneration based on hardness and water consumption. The factory default regeneration time is 2 AM. Use [UP] and [DOWN] to adjust this time. Press [SET] to confirm. The display will then show the salt type setting (this option may vary by model).

Chapter 3: Installation

3.1 Installation Prerequisites

Directives and National Regulations: Comply with all installation regulations, general directives, hygiene recommendations, and technical specifications of the system. The hard water supply must conform to national drinking water ordinances or EU Directive 98/83/CE. Dissolved iron or manganese content should not exceed 0.1 mg/l. Untreated feed water must be free of air bubbles.

Frost Protection, Ambient Temperature: The installation location must be dry, protected from frost, and shielded from chemicals, paints, solvents, and vapors. Ambient temperature should not exceed 40°C before power-on. Avoid proximity to heat sources like infrared radiators or direct sunlight.

Safety Instructions: Do not exceed the maximum system operating pressure (refer to technical specifications). Install a pressure reducer upstream of the appliance if pressure is high.

Protection Against Fluctuations: Attention: The maximum water service pressure must never be exceeded: 5.0 bar GB and 8.0 bar EU. If the supply pressure exceeds 4.0 bar GB or 6.0 bar EU (or if unsure), a pressure switch (pressure reducer) must be installed upstream. For pressure variations and spikes, the sum of the pressure spike and static pressure must not exceed the nominal pressure.

Electrical Interference: Electromagnetic emissions (EMI) must not exceed the maximum values specified in EN 61000-6-3.

Water Hardness Analysis: Continuous operation with water containing chlorine or chlorine dioxide is possible if free chlorine/chlorine dioxide concentration does not exceed 0.5 mg/l. Pre-treatment type must be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Intuitive Regeneration Principle: The system should be sized so that water flow requires at least one regeneration per day. A shut-off device should be fully open for at least 5 minutes before drawing water when the water drawn decreases. Idea: Initiate automatic regeneration upon return from absence (vacation).

Brine Tank Overflow Hose Connection: The chosen installation location must allow easy connection to the water network. A direct connection to the sewer (at least DN 50) is required for wastewater transport and disposal (note: this is passive flow, ground evacuation). A suitable fitting for the brine tank safety overflow hose is needed for transport and disposal to the sewer (note: passive flow, ground evacuation).

Hydraulic Installation Prerequisites: Please observe the hydraulic installation prerequisites described in Chapter 5.

Warranty Exclusion: Failure to comply with mounting prerequisites and operator duties voids the warranty. Warranty: For any failure during the warranty period, contact BWT after-sales service, specifying the appliance type and serial number. Warranty work must be performed exclusively by local maintenance personnel or a specialized company with express authorization.

3.2 First Start-up

For installation by a professional (e.g., plumber):

• Have all supplies (16) been removed from the salt tank?
• Is there a protection filter upstream of the appliance?
• Is the water and electricity supply continuous (network pressure at least 1.7 bar GB / 1 bar EU)?
• Is the pressure reducer engaged on the stop limiter?
• Were the flexible hoses properly connected? Observe the arrows indicating flow direction on the check valve.
• Were the flexible hose and overflow properly routed and connected separately to the wastewater system? (See installation).
• Have you informed the operator about the usual verification plan? (Check salt supply and outlet water hardness at least every two months).
• Have you informed the operator about the maintenance plan? (Annual tasks, or every 6 months for collective appliances).
• Check for leaks on pipe connections and joints.

Handover to Operator: If there is a delay between installation and handover, perform a manual regeneration. Inform the operator about the appliance's function, usage, and inspection. Ensure the operator receives the technical manual.

3.3 Notes for Installation and Operation

1. Before Commencement: Installation is straightforward, but plumbing work should be performed by a qualified professional. Ensure you are familiar with the instructions and necessary elements.

2. Appliance Placement: Measure the softener to ensure it fits the intended location. Account for additional space for piping and regular access for salt refilling. Ideally, the distance to the nearest drain should be minimal (2 meters is ideal, but longer distances are permissible depending on upstream pressure). Attention: The appliance's weight increases significantly when filled with salt; ensure the installation location is adequately reinforced (approx. 40 kg). The softener is designed for an upstream pressure between 1.7 and 5.0 bar GB, or 1.0 and 8.0 bar EU. If pressure exceeds these limits, install a booster pump or pressure reducer.

Pressure of service: 3.5 bar GB / 4.5 bar EU

If pressure is above 5.0 bar GB / 8.0 bar EU, install a pressure reducer.

Do not operate with pressure below 1.7 bar GB / 1.0 bar EU.

Important: Do not install the softener if connections are exposed to extreme temperatures (-0°C to +40°C).

If installing above ground level (e.g., on an upper floor), follow specific instructions.

Diagram Description (Page 9): The image shows the softener with labeled parts: 12. Salt tank, 14. Salt tank, 15. Brine inlet opening, 16. Supplies, 17. Identification plate and serial number.

3.4 Installation Diagram

Diagram Description (Page 11): The diagram illustrates the water connections for the softener. Key components include: Inlet (untreated water), Outlet (softened water), Bypass valve, Check valve, Main shut-off valve, Salt tank, and drain connections (wastewater, overflow). Labels explain the function of each connection point (A-G, H-P). For example, C is the inlet valve (3/4"), E is the outlet valve (3/4"), and J is the drain connection.

3.5 Overview of the Appliance

Diagram Description (Page 12): This diagram shows a detailed view of the softener unit with labeled connections:

• C: Inlet valve
• E: Outlet valve
• G1: Salt tank (brine)
• G2: Brine connection
• O: Drain hose connection
• L: Mixer valve with adjustment wheel (green)
• M: Drive servo
• I: Regeneration water drain hose

Attention: Piping (J) minimum diameter DN50. Use only DN20 flexible hoses supplied. Ensure all connections are sealed and correctly adjusted before commissioning.

Attention: The rinse water hose must be fixed to the drain at least 20 mm above the maximum residual water level (free outlet, according to EN 14743).

Attention: Ensure a physical disconnection (air gap) between the drain and the regeneration water/salt tank overflow hoses, as per EN 3131.

Appliance Protection: To extend the softener's lifespan, ensure it is kept in a clean, dry environment with an ambient temperature between 5 and 40°C. Protect the resin or components from damage.

3.6 Installing Your Water Softener

1. Mounting the Water Softener: It is crucial to check water pressure before installation. Insufficient pressure will prevent proper operation, while excessive pressure can damage components.

Test water pressure at an external tap. Note that pressure can increase during periods of low consumption (e.g., at night). If daytime pressure exceeds 5.0 bar GB or 8.0 bar EU, or if unsure, install a pressure reducer. Conversely, if pressure is below 1.7 bar GB or 1.0 bar EU, install a circulation pump.

2. Inlet and Outlet Connections: Open the bypass valve and close the inlet/outlet valves to connect the appliance to the plumbing. Arrows on the pipes indicate flow direction. Connections can be made with standard copper pipes or supplied high-flow flexible hoses. Ensure hoses are not kinked.

3. Drain Hose Connection: Push the drain hose onto the connector and secure it with the supplied clip. Connect the drain hose to a cast iron pipe or drain. Maintain a 20 mm air gap. Softened water will not negatively affect septic tanks. The drain hose can be extended up to 9 meters if pressure is sufficient (above 3 bars). To prevent salt tank overflow, do not kink the hose.

Frost Protection: If the drain hose or piping may be exposed to temperatures below 0°C, protect them from frost. Failure to do so may cause salt tank overflow.

Drain Hose Lifting: If water pressure exceeds 3 bars, the hose can be lifted up to 3 meters above the valve head.

4. Overflow Connection: Connect the overflow hose (not supplied) to the rear of the salt tank (see diagram, letter O). Connect the hose downstream to the drain. Ensure the overflow system is leak-proof to prevent appliance damage. If the softener is in a basement, the overflow can be connected to a storage tank. Do not lift the overflow hose.

Note: Do not use Teflon tape or thread sealant for accessories.

5. Electrical Connections: The softener is powered by low voltage via a plug-in transformer. Connect the transformer to a switched socket. Attention: Plug the transformer into the socket, and ensure the switch is in the 'OFF' position.

6. Salt Tank Filling, Salt Usage, and Alarm: Fill the salt tank with salt tablets or blocks. Your softener requires salt in the tank for regeneration. The salt level must not drop below 15 cm from the bottom of the tank. For initial setup, do not add water to the salt tank; it will be filled automatically during regeneration. Salt is safely evacuated to the drain during regeneration.

The salt alarm is optional. If equipped, it signals a low salt level with an audible alarm and the code "SALt" on the display. To reset, refill the salt and press [SET].

7. Mixer Valve: All appliances are factory-set to produce softened water. If you prefer less softened water, turn the mixer valve counter-clockwise until the water meets your specifications.

8. Water Hardness Evaluation: Test your water hardness using the supplied AQUATEST kit. Adjust the mixer valve (L) until the desired hardness is achieved. Use the table provided to convert hardness values (d°H, f°H) to ppm (mg/l).

Table Description (Page 10): This table lists water hardness in ppm (mg/l) and corresponding capacity in liters for different models (10, 15, 20, 25 liters) and regeneration cycles.

9. First Commissioning:

• Verify inlet and outlet pipes are correctly connected (inlet-inlet, outlet-outlet). Ensure the bypass valve is open.
• Check that the main shut-off valve (F) is open and the salt tank (G) contains salt.
• Verify the softener and overflow hose are connected to the drain (J). Ensure proper drainage and overflow routing.
• Gently open the inlet valve (C) to allow water into the resin tank.
• Power on the appliance. Once the positioning process is complete (up to 5 minutes), the mechanism stops. The appliance is ready for programming.
• Close the bypass valve (D).
• Gently open the outlet valve (E).
• Check for leaks and take corrective action.

The water softener is now in service and ready for programming as described in the next section.

Chapter 4: Operation

4.1 Function and Characteristics

Electronic Capacity Calculation: The appliance uses intelligent regeneration based on average capacity, automatically adjusting to consumption over the past two weeks. The preset is suitable for most needs.

Intelligent Regeneration Based on Remaining Capacity: Upon startup, the appliance is programmed with remaining softened water capacity based on water hardness. It checks daily if sufficient softened water is available. If not, regeneration is initiated to restore full capacity, preventing waste.

This intelligent regeneration is enabled by an accurate flow meter that adjusts brine quantity. Water and salt consumption for regeneration are minimized. Power outages do not affect saved data for a limited time.

An optional disinfection device for the resin tank during regeneration is available, along with a spring-loaded check valve (18).

Automatic Regeneration Trigger: This setting is optional and not factory-set on all appliances.

4.2 Description and Operation Sequence

Salt Type Setting: For efficient operation, set the softener according to the salt type used (salt tablets are recommended). Press [SET] to return to normal operation. No further adjustments are needed. Check water and salt levels weekly.

Charge Bar: The charge bar on the display shows the percentage of remaining softener capacity since the last regeneration. It resets to 100% after regeneration.

Resetting Display During Operation: To adjust the time, press any button to light up the display, then press [SET]. The time will flash, allowing adjustment using the [UP] and [DOWN] buttons.

Power Outage: The AMECS system retains programming parameters for several hours. After this, the display will show "00:00". Reset the time upon power restoration.

Flow Indicator: In normal operation, a pulse appears on the screen for each liter of water passing through the softener.

Cleaning: Clean the softener with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use bleach, solvents, or alcohol, as they can damage surfaces.

Manual Regeneration Button [Recharge]: The softener regenerates automatically. For manual regeneration, press any button to illuminate the screen, then briefly press the "Recharge" button (rightmost). The "Recharge Tonight" indicator will appear, initiating regeneration at 2:00 AM, regardless of remaining capacity. Pressing the button again cancels this. Holding the button for six seconds starts immediate regeneration, which cannot be canceled.

Salt Consumption: Refill salt if the "SALt" symbol appears or if the salt level is below 15 cm. Confirm Low Salt Alarm: This is optional. Remove the cover (12), add salt to the tank (14). Press and hold [SET] until "SALt" disappears. Ensure no impurities enter the tank. Clean salt and tank if necessary.

Salt Consumption: The softener's microprocessor monitors water consumption to optimize economic operation, ensuring a continuous supply of softened water. Calibrated brining minimizes salt and water usage during frequent regenerations.

Increase in Residents: Exceptional water consumption changes should not affect performance. However, if the number of occupants increases, water consumption may fluctuate, leading to more frequent regeneration. Normal operation resumes when consumption returns to normal.

Water Level in Salt Tank: The water level fluctuates with regeneration. It must not reach the overflow connection. If overflow occurs, refer to the troubleshooting guide. After overflow, reduce water level by half and initiate manual regeneration.

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Servicing

5.1 Special Maintenance Tasks

Regular checks are required for proper operation and warranty coverage.

• Check salt level and refill as needed.
• Check water hardness: Verify drinking water hardness and outlet hardness twice a year. Correct mixed water hardness if necessary.
• Check for leaks: Inspect connection pipes and fittings for leaks.
• Check salt tank cleanliness every two months. Clean and rinse with clean water if necessary. Inspection intervals are indicative and should be adjusted based on site conditions.

NB: Check water level weekly and after any abnormal situation, e.g., power outage.

4.3 Adjusting Outlet Water Hardness

The appliance is factory-set to 300 ppm. Test water hardness using the AQUATEST kit. Adjust the mixer valve (L) until the desired hardness is achieved.

Note: To convert water hardness from d°H and f°H to ppm (mg/l), use the table detailed previously.

5.2 Operator Duties

Regular checks by the operator are essential for proper functioning and warranty application. Always be informed about the quality and pressure of the water to be treated. If water quality varies, settings may need adjustment; consult a professional. For flawless operation and to maintain warranty rights, regular verification according to the instructions is necessary.

User Verification Intervals:

• Regularly: Check salt level and refill tank as needed.
• Twice a year: Check pressure.
• Twice a year: Check water quality.
• Once a year: Clean salt tank.

5.3 Maintenance and Wear Parts

Regular maintenance and replacement of wear parts are necessary for proper functioning and warranty. The softener requires annual maintenance. Wear parts must be replaced by qualified personnel (installer or after-sales service). Consider an maintenance contract.

Cleaning Information: Do not use alcoholic solutions, as they can damage plastic surfaces.

5.4 Waste Disposal and Environmental Information

When the appliance reaches the end of its life cycle, contact BWT After-Sales Service for replacement arrangements. The softener and its electrical components (e.g., capacitor) must be disposed of separately in designated containers (WEEE).

Chapter 6: Faults and Troubleshooting

6.1 Troubleshooting Guide

Attention: If your water softener is not functioning correctly, consult the list below.

Note: In case of overflow, reduce the salt tank water level by half. If performing any of the above actions, initiate a manual regeneration.

Note: If the starting position is not found within ten minutes, "Err 1" is displayed, indicating a control error, and an alarm will sound. Reset by powering off and on.

Attention: If these steps are insufficient, contact BWT factory technical service. If water does not stop flowing despite the service position, isolate the appliance (put it in bypass).

Chapter 7: Technical Data

7.1 BWT AQUADIAL softlife 10

*) Tested with HIFLOW connections available as an option.

Diagram Description (Page 19): Shows the dimensions of the BWT AQUADIAL softlife 10 model: L (width), P₂ (depth), H (height), A₁ and A₂ (connection heights/overflows), P₁ and P₂ (connection points).

7.2 BWT AQUADIAL softlife 15

*) Tested with HIFLOW connections available as an option.

7.3 BWT AQUADIAL softlife 20

*) Tested with HIFLOW connections available as an option.

7.4 BWT AQUADIAL softlife 25

*) Tested with HIFLOW connections available as an option.

EU Declaration of Conformity

BWT UK Ltd. declares that the water softener meets the following specifications:

• Commercial Designation: BWT AQUADIAL softlife
• Type: 10, 15, 20, 25
• Model: 10 litres, 15 litres, 20 litres, 25 litres
• Serial Number: refer to technical specifications
• Manufacturing and Identification Number: refer to technical specifications

The appliance is designed, manufactured, and assembled in conformity with EU directives:

• 2014/35/UE: Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
• 2014/30/UE: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

Note: Do not make modifications or alterations to the appliance without prior authorization from BWT UK Ltd., as this will invalidate the declaration. Ensure all installation prerequisites are met.

Buckinghamshire, 12. 03. 2018

Ian Threadgill
General Manager (Supply Chain)
Manufacturer: BWT UK Ltd. – Coronation Road – Buckinghamshire, HP12, 3SU

*) Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC annex II, part II, part A, para. B