How to Troubleshoot the Kenmore Elite
Water softeners use sodium (salt) to remove calcium and magnesium---the two elements that make water hard. Hard water can cause scale to form in pipes and in appliances like water kettles. The scale creates inefficiency because water flow is reduced. Hard water is also less pleasant to bathe in---soap doesn't lather as well. Kenmore makes water softeners under the Elite brand. They are easy to troubleshoot. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Check that the power cord is plugged in completely if the water softener doesn't work.
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2
Make sure there is salt in the tank. Add salt if the tank is empty and then regenerate the system.
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3
Make sure there aren't any salt bridges that could hinder the system from functioning properly. Use a broom handle to break up the salt bridge and then regenerate the system.
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4
Take a look at the valve. Make sure the valve isn't in the "Bypass" position. Move it to "Service."
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Take a close look at the system. Make sure the unit is in soft water cycle and slide the faceplate cover forward. Unscrew the cap. Carefully remove the parts and make sure that the nozzle and venturi aren't clogged up or dirty. Clean or replace the dirty parts.
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Check that the drain line isn't restricted or kinked. Correct any bends or obstructions.
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Make sure the drain line isn't too high above the softener. Drainage won't take place if it's too high. Lower the drain line.
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Have a water analysis performed on your household water to verify that the hardness settings are correct. They might have changed since the water softener was installed.
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Let the water softener regenerate fully before running hot water. The water heater can refill with hard water, defeating the object of having a water softener.
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