GE Water System FNSF31Z01 User Manual

GE Appliances  
Water Softening System  
Owners Manual  
GXSF23Z01  
PNSF31Z01  
GE Answer Center ® 800.626.2000  
Part No. 215C1002P002–4 Pub. No. 49-5800–4 3-98 CG  
7196551  
 
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.  
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.  
SafeyInstr  
WARNING!  
For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of electric shock,  
property damage or personal injury.  
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
Check and comply with your state and local  
Keep the salt hole cover in place on the softener  
unless servicing the unit or refilling with salt.  
codes. You must follow these guidelines.  
Use care when handling the water softening  
system. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag,  
or set on sharp protrusions.  
The water softening system works on 24 volt-60 Hz  
electrical power only. Be sure to use only the  
included transformer.  
OpeaigInstr  
Water softening systems using sodium chloride  
(salt) for regeneration add sodium to the water.  
Persons on sodium restricted diets should consider  
the added sodium as part of their overall intake.  
Potassium chloride can be used as an alternative to  
sodium chloride.  
WARNING: Do not use with water that is  
microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality  
without adequate disinfection before or after the  
system.  
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PROPER INSTALLATION  
This water softening system must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation  
Instructions before it is used. If you did not receive Installation Instructions, you can receive one by  
calling us toll-free at the GE Answer Center® 800.626.2000.  
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Install or store where it will not be exposed to  
temperatures below freezing or exposed to any  
type of weather. Water freezing in the system will  
break it. Do not attempt to treat water over 120°F.  
The water softening system requires a minimum  
water flow of three gallons per minute at the inlet.  
Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125  
psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime  
pressure may exceed the maximum. Use a  
pressure reducing valve to reduce the flow  
if necessary.  
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Do not install in direct sunlight. Excessive sun heat  
may cause distortion or other damage to non-  
metallic parts.  
WARNING: Discard all unused parts and packaging  
material after installation. Small parts remaining  
after the installation could be a choke hazard.  
Properly ground to conform with all governing  
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codes and ordinances.  
Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-  
solder connections, as required by state and  
federal codes.  
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Read and follow this Safety Information carefully.  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
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Specification guidelines.  
Rated Capacity & Service flow rate (gpm)—See rating decal, located on the System  
GXSF23Z  
PNSF31Z  
Amount of high capacity resin (lbs/cu. ft)  
31.2/.6  
41.6/.8  
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Resin tank nominal size (in., dia. x height)  
Water supply maximum hardness (gpg)*  
Water supply maximum clear water iron (ppm)*  
Water pressure limits (min-max psi)  
8 x 35  
50  
10 x 35  
95  
3
5
SafeyInstr  
20–125  
120  
3
20–125  
120  
3
Water temperature maximum (°F.)  
Water supply minimum flow rate (gpm)  
11-1/2”  
uctions  
3-3/8”  
INLET - OUTLET  
OpeaigInstr  
24”  
14”  
45-1/4”  
36-1/4”  
35”  
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About the water softener system.  
SafeyInstr  
A video describing important use and care instructions has been included with the product for your use.  
Hard water  
IN  
Soft water  
OUT  
Service  
Salt storage  
tank (salt  
When the water softening system is providing soft water, it is called “Service.” During service, hard  
water flows from the house main water pipe into the water softening system. Inside the water softening  
system resin tank is a bed made up of thousands of tiny, plastic resin beads. As hard water passes  
through the bed, each bead attracts and holds the hard minerals. This is called ion-exchanging. It is  
much like a magnet attracting and holding metals. Water without hard minerals (soft water) flows  
from the water softening system and to the house pipes.  
not shown)  
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Resin  
tank  
Resin  
bed  
Brine  
valve  
After a period of time, the resin beads become coated with hard minerals and they have to  
be cleaned. This cleaning is called regeneration, or recharge. Regeneration is started at 2:00 AM  
(factory setting) by the water softening system control, and consists of five stages or cycles. These are  
FILL, BRINING, BRINE RINSE, BACKWASH and FAST RINSE.  
OpeaigInstr  
Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration  
For emergency needs, hard water is available to  
the home during the regeneration cycles.  
However, you should avoid using HOT water because  
the water heater will fill with the hard water.  
Fill  
Brine Rinse  
Salt dissolved in water is called brine. Brine is  
needed to clean the hard minerals from the  
resin beads. To make the brine, water flows into  
After a pre-measured amount of brine is used,  
the brine valve closes. Water continues to flow  
in the same path as during brining, except for the  
uctions  
the salt storage area during the fill stage as shown. discontinued brine flow. Hard minerals and  
brine flush from the resin tank to the drain.  
Hard water  
IN  
Soft water  
OUT  
Backwash  
Salt storage tank  
During backwash, water travels up through the resin  
tank at a fast flow rate, flushing accumulated iron,  
dirt, and sediments from the resin bed and to drain.  
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Hard water  
IN  
Hard water  
bypass OUT  
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Brine  
valve  
Drain  
Fill water  
Brining  
Resin bed  
lifted and  
expanded  
During brining, brine travels from the salt  
storage area into the resin tank. Brine is the  
cleaning agent needed to remove hard minerals  
from the resin beads. The hard minerals and  
brine are discharged to the drain.  
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Fast Rinse  
The nozzle and venturi create a suction to move  
the brine, maintaining a very slow rate to get the  
best resin cleaning with the least salt.  
Backwash is followed by a fast flow of water down  
through the resin tank. The fast flow flushes brine  
from the bottom of the tank, and packs the resin  
bed.  
Hard water  
IN  
Hard water  
bypass OUT  
CustomSer  
After fast rinse, the water softening system returns  
to soft water service.  
Nozzle &  
venturi  
Drain  
Soft water  
OUT  
Hard water  
IN  
Drain  
Brine  
valve  
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Brine  
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About the water softener system.  
SmartWater Softener System  
uctions  
UP (+)  
button  
Display  
DOWN (-)  
button  
TOUCH or  
HOLD button  
SafeyInstr  
RECHARGE TONIGHT  
SELECT  
button  
TOUCH  
or  
HOLD  
TIME  
HARDNESS  
SELECT  
RECHARGE NOW  
Control Settings Required  
uctions  
Upon installation and after an extended power outage. See the Program Memory section.  
When the transformer is plugged into the electrical outlet, 12:00 AM is flashing and  
PRESENT TIME shows in the display area. Program the control as instructed below. If SR- -  
is flashing, use the UP button to set the correct SR code as follows: SR17 for model  
GXSF23Z, SR22 for model PNSF31Z. If you pass by the correct code number, use the  
DOWN button. Then, press the SELECT button and program the control below.  
OpeaigInstr  
If the wrong SR code shows for your model, see Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics section.  
A “beeper” sounds while pressing buttons for control programming. One beep signals a  
change in the control display. Repeated beeps mean the control will not accept a change  
from the button you have pressed and you should use another button.  
To set the control, you will use the UP, DOWN and SELECT buttons.  
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Set Present Time of Day  
NOTE: If the words PRESENT TIME do not show in the display, press the SELECT button until  
they do.  
Press the UP or DOWN button to set. UP moves the display ahead; DOWN moves the  
1
time backward. If present time is between noon and midnight, be sure PM shows  .  
If present time is between midnight and noon, be sure AM shows  
.
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2 When the present time shows in display, press SELECT to set.  
Set Water Hardness Number  
NOTE: If 15 and HARDNESS (factory default) do not show in the display, press SELECT until  
they do.  
Press the UP or DOWN button to set your water hardness number in the display. DOWN  
1
moves the display down to 1. UP moves the display up to the maximum setting of 50 for  
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GXSF23Z or 90 for PNSF31Z .  
NOTE: Each press of a button changes the display by 1 between 1 and 25. Above 25, the  
display changes 5 at a time…25, 30, 35, etc. Holding a button in changes the numbers twice  
each second.  
2 When the water hardness number shows, press SELECT to set.  
You can get the grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of your water supply from a water analysis  
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laboratory, or call and ask your local water department, if you are on a municipal supply.  
NOTE: If there is clear water iron in your water supply, you will need to increase the hardness  
setting by 5 for each 1 ppm of clear water iron in your water supply.  
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SafeyInstr  
Set Regeneration (Starting) Time  
NOTE: RECHARGE TIME and a flashing 2:00 AM  
NOTE: Each press of the buttons changes the time  
(factory default) should show in the display. This is by one hour. Holding the buttons in changes the  
a good time for regeneration to start (over in about time twice each second.  
uctions  
2 hours) in most households because water is not  
in use. HARD WATER is bypassed to house  
faucets during regeneration. See the Automatic  
Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration section.  
Be sure to observe the AM or PM  
did when setting the time of day.  
as you  
2 Press the SELECT button once more.  
The display shows the present time of day and  
Press the UP or DOWN button to set the  
RECHARGE TONIGHT  
.
1
desired regeneration start time.  
Normal Operation, Control Displays  
OpeaigInstr  
During normal operation, the present time of day and AM or PM show in the control display  
area. When the demand computer determines a regeneration is needed, RECHARGE TONIGHT begins to  
flash in the display along with the present time. RECHARGE TONIGHT  
flashes until the next  
regeneration start time, then changes to RECHARGE NOW, which flashes until the regeneration is over.  
uctions  
Feature: Optional Recharge Controls  
Sometimes, a manually started regeneration  
(recharge) may be desired or needed. Two  
examples:  
Touch (do not hold) the TOUCH or HOLD button.  
RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes in the control display  
area. A regeneration will occur at the next preset  
regeneration start time. If you decide to cancel this  
regeneration, touch the same button once more.  
You have used more water than usual (house  
guests, extra washing, etc.) and you may run out  
of soft water before the next regeneration.  
RECHARGE NOW  
You did not refill the storage tank with salt.  
Press and hold the TOUCH or HOLD button until  
RECHARGE NOW starts to flash in the control  
display area. The water softening system begins an  
immediate regeneration and, when over in about  
two hours, you will have a new supply of soft water.  
Once started, you cannot cancel this regeneration.  
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Use one of the following features to start a  
regeneration immediately, or at the next preset  
regeneration start time.  
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RECHARGE TONIGHT  
Feature: Program Memory  
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If electrical power to the water softening system is  
interrupted, the control display is blank, but the  
control keeps correct time for about six hours.  
When power is restored, you have to reset the  
If the time is flashing after a long power outage,  
the water softening system continues to work as  
it should to provide you with soft water. However,  
regenerations may occur at the wrong time of day  
present time only if the display is flashing. All other until you reset the control to the correct time of day.  
settings are maintained and never require resetting  
unless a change is desired.  
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Feature/Service: Automatic Electronic Diagnostics  
The control computer has a self-diagnostic  
function for the electrical system (except input  
power and water meter). The computer monitors  
The chart on Error Codes  
codes that could appear and possible reasons for  
each code. While an error code is displayed, all  
shows the error  
the electronic components and circuits for correct control buttons are inoperable except for the  
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operation. If a malfunction occurs, an error code  
appears in the control display.  
SELECT button. SELECT remains operational so the  
service person can make the Manually Initiated  
Electronic Diagnostics to further isolate the defect  
and check the water meter.  
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About the water softener system.  
Service: Electronic Demand Time Features and Service  
ERROR CODE DISPLAYED ERR 01  
ERR 02  
ERR 03  
ERR 04  
ERR 05  
uctions  
POSSIBLE DEFECT  
• motor  
inoperative  
• position  
switch  
• motor  
• position  
switch or  
wiring  
• control  
(PWA)  
inoperative  
or wiring  
harness  
harness  
• wiring harness • control  
• control  
(PWA)  
• control  
(PWA)  
or connection  
to switch  
(PWA)  
SafeyInstr  
• position switch  
• control (PWA)  
To remove an error code: (1) Unplug transformer.  
(2) Correct defect.  
(3) Plug transformer in.  
(4) Wait for at least 6 minutes. The error code will return if the reason  
for the error code was not corrected.  
uctions  
Service: Control/Softener, Service Checkout Procedure  
If you are not getting soft water, and an error code is not displayed, use the procedures below to  
find the problem. First make the following visual checks.  
VISUAL CHECKS:  
Is there electrical power to the outlet the water softening system transformer  
is plugged into?  
Is there sufficient salt in the storage tank? The tank should be at least 1/3 to  
1/2 full of salt.  
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1
2
3 Is the softener bypass valve directing water for soft water service?  
Is the valve drain hose open to the drain, not more than 8above the  
softener, and unobstructed?  
4
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If you do not find a problem with the visual checks, continue below.  
CONTROL SHOWS  
WRONG TIME AND DAY,  
AND/OR IS FLASHING.  
NO SOFT  
WATER  
Electrical power was off.  
Reset the correct time of  
day.  
Investigate reason for  
power loss.  
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REPAIR AS  
Do manual  
diagnostics to  
verify proper  
function.  
Check electrical  
power to control  
(outlet, transformer,  
power cable, all  
connections).  
NO POWER  
POWER OK  
NEEDED  
CONTROL  
DISPLAY  
BLANK.  
CONTROL  
DEFECTIVE  
CONTROL DISPLAY SHOWS  
CORRECT TIME AND DAY  
AND IS STEADY.  
Do manual  
diagnostics.  
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SafeyInstr  
Service: Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics  
1 To enter diagnostics, press and hold the SELECT button until (000 – –) shows in the display.  
Turbine Switches  
A The first 3 digits indicate water meter operation as follows:  
000 (steady) = soft water not in use…no flow through the meter.  
OPEN A NEARBY SOFT WATER FAUCET—  
OR  
uctions  
Switch (B)  
Water  
000 to 199 (continual) = repeats display for each gallon of water passing through the meter.  
Meter (A)  
Motor  
Position  
switch  
Sensor  
housing  
Turbine  
OpeaigInstr  
Turbine  
Valve  
support &  
outlet  
shaft  
If you don’t get a reading in the display, with faucet open, pull the sensor from the valve outlet port. Pass  
a small magnet back and forth in front of the sensor. You should get a reading in the display. If you get a  
reading, shut off water supply, unhook the in and out plumbing and check the turbine for binding.  
uctions  
B The letter (P) and dash(es) indicate POSITION switch operation. The letter appearing means the  
switch is closed; the dash means the switch is open. Use the TOUCH or HOLD (RECHARGE TONIGHT–  
RECHARGE NOW) button to manually advance the valve into each cycle and check correct switch  
operation.  
CORRECT SWITCH  
DISPLAYS  
VALVE CYCLE STATUS  
— —  
Valve in service, fill, brining, backwash  
or fast rinse position.  
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— P  
Valve rotating from one position to another  
C While in this diagnostic screen, the following information is available and may be beneficial for  
various reasons. This information is retained by the computer from the first time electrical power  
is applied to the face plate.  
CODE  
Press and hold the UP button to display the number of days this control has had electrical power  
applied.  
Model GXSF23Z  
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Press and hold the DOWN button to display the number of regenerations initiated by this face plate  
since the SR code number was entered.  
CODE  
Press the SELECT button and hold in three seconds until a Service Rating code appears in the display.  
Repeat this step if the SR code is not displayed.  
For correct water softening system operation, the SR number must be SR17 for model GXSF23Z and  
SR22 for model PNSF31Z.  
2
Model PNSF31Z  
To reset the code, press the UP or DOWN button until the correct number shows.  
CustomSer  
3 Press SELECT to return to the present time display. If the code was changed, make ALL the timer settings.  
NOTE: If the face plate is left in a diagnostic display or a flashing display when setting times or hardness,  
present time automatically returns if a button is not pressed within four minutes.  
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About the water softener system.  
Service: Manually Advanced Regeneration Check  
This check verifies proper operation of the valve motor, brine tank fill, brine draw, regeneration  
flow rates and other controller functions. First, make the initial checks and the Manually Initiated  
Electronic Diagnostics.  
uctions  
NOTE: The face plate display must show a steady time (not flashing).  
Press the TOUCH or HOLD button and hold in for three seconds. RECHARGE NOW begins to  
1
flash as the water softening system enters the fill cycle of regeneration. Remove the brinewell  
SafeyInstr  
cover and, using a flashlight, observe fill water entering the brine tank.  
If water does not enter the tank, look for an obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug, brine  
tubing, or brine valve riser pipe. See Care and cleaning of the water softener system section.  
After observing fill, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into  
2
brining. A slow flow of water to the drain will begin. Verify brine draw from the brine tank by  
shining a flashlight into the brinewell and observing a noticeable drop in the liquid level  
over an extended period of time.  
NOTE: Be sure a salt bridge is not preventing water from contacting salt. See Care and cleaning of  
the water softening system section.  
uctions  
If the water softening system does not draw brine, check:  
nozzle and/or venturi dirty or defective.  
nozzle and venturi not seated properly on gasket.  
restricted drain (check drain fitting and hose).  
defective nozzle and venturi seal.  
other inner valve defect (rotor seal, rotor & disc, wave washer, etc.).  
NOTE: If water system pressure is low, an elevated drain hose may cause back pressure, stopping  
brine draw.  
OpeaigInstr  
Again, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into backwash.  
3
Look for a fast flow of water from the drain hose.  
A slow flow indicates a plugged top distributor, backwash flow plug, or drain hose.  
Press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into fast rinse. Again  
4
look for a fast drain flow. Allow the water softening system to rinse for a few minutes to flush  
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out any brine that may remain in the resin tank from the brining cycle test.  
5 To return the water softening system to service, press the TOUCH or HOLD button.  
Care and cleaning of the water softening system.  
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Checking the Salt Storage Level and Refilling  
Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for  
each and every regeneration. The water for  
making brine is metered into the salt storage  
area by the water softening system valve and  
control. However, you must keep the tank at  
least 1/3 to 1/2 full of salt.  
salts. They contain dirt and sediments, or  
mush and cake, and will create maintenance  
problems.  
Keep the salt hole cover in place on the softener  
unless servicing the unit or refilling with salt.  
CAUTION: Water softening salt with iron-  
removing additives: Some salts have an  
additive to help the water softening system  
handle iron in the water supply. Although  
this additive may help to keep the water  
softening system resin clean, it may also  
release corrosive fumes that weaken and  
shorten the life of some water softening  
system parts. Do not use salt with iron-  
removing additives.  
When to refill with salt: Check the salt level a  
few weeks after you install the water softening  
system and every week after that. Refill when  
the brine tank is from 1/3 to 1/2 full. Never  
allow the water softening system to use all the  
salt before you refill it. Without salt, you will  
soon have hard water.  
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Use clean water softening salts only, at least  
99.5% pure. NUGGET, PELLET or coarse  
SOLAR salts are recommended. Do not use  
rock, block, granulated or ice cream-making  
CustomSer  
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SafeyInstr  
Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System  
Your water softening system takes hard minerals (calcium and magnesium) out of the  
water. Also, it can control some (see Specification guidelines section) “clear water” iron. With  
clear water iron, water from a faucet is clear when first put into a glass. After 15 to 30  
minutes, the water begins to cloud or turn rust-colored. A water softening system WILL NOT  
remove any iron that makes the water cloudy or rusty as it comes from the faucet (called red  
water iron). To take red water iron out of water, or over the maximum of clear water iron,  
an iron filter or other equipment is needed.  
uctions  
If your water supply has clear water iron, periodic resin bed cleaning is needed. Clean the  
bed at least every six months, or more often if iron appears in the soft water between  
treatments, using a resin bed cleaner. Follow directions on the resin bed cleaner container.  
Resin bed cleaner is available from most hardware stores.  
OpeaigInstr  
Sanitizing Procedure  
Care is taken at the factory to keep your water softening system clean and sanitary. Materials  
used to make the water softening system will not infect or contaminate your water supply  
and will not cause bacteria to form or grow. However during shipping, storage, installing  
and operating, bacteria could get into the softener. For this reason, sanitizing as follows is  
suggested upon installation and once per year thereafter.  
uctions  
NOTE: Sanitizing is recommended by the Water Quality Association for disinfecting.  
1 Be sure to complete all installation steps, including control programming.  
Mix about 3/4 oz. of common 5.25% household bleach (Clorox, Linco, Bo Peep, White  
2
Sail, Eagle, etc.) with about 1 quart of water. Pour the mixture into the brinewell. It is  
important not to pour straight bleach into the softener.  
IMPORTANT: Press and hold (for 3 seconds) the TOUCH or HOLD button on the control  
3
panel to start an immediate regeneration. RECHARGE NOW begins to flash in the display.  
The bleach is drawn into and through the water softening system to sanitize it. This  
sanitizing regeneration is over in about 2 hours. Then soft water is available for your use.  
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NOTE: When the above sanitizing regeneration is over, your house COLD water supply is  
fully soft immediately. However, your water heater is filled with hard water and, as hot water  
is used, it will refill with soft water. When all the hard water is replaced in the water heater,  
hot only, and mixed hot and cold water will be fully soft. If you want totally soft water  
immediately, after the above regeneration, drain the water heater until the water runs cold.  
DANGER: If you do drain the water heater, use extreme care as the hot water could  
cause burns.  
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CustomSer  
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11  
 
Care and cleaning of the water softener system.  
Breaking a Salt Bridge  
Push tool into salt  
bridge to break  
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the salt storage area. It is usually caused by  
high humidity or the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges, an empty space forms  
between the water and salt. Then salt will not dissolve in the water to make brine.  
1- 2″  
uctions  
If the brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if you have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top,  
but the bridge is under it. The following is the best way to check for a salt bridge.  
Salt  
Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of the tank. Take a broom handle or like tool,  
and carefully push it down into the salt, working it up and down. If the tool strikes a hard  
object (be sure it’s not the bottom or sides of the tank), it’s most likely a salt bridge.  
Carefully break the bridge with the tool. Do not pound on the walls of the tank.  
Pencil  
mark  
SafeyInstr  
Salt  
bridge  
Broom  
handle  
If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out. Then fill the tank with nugget or pellet  
salt only. In humid areas, it is best to fill with less salt, more often.  
Water  
level  
uctions  
Clean the Nozzle and Venturi Assembly  
A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the water softening system to work properly. This small  
unit makes the suction to move brine from the salt storage area to the resin tank during  
regeneration. If it becomes plugged with sand, dirt, etc., the water softening system will not  
work and you will get hard water.  
Cap  
Screen  
support  
OpeaigInstr  
O-ring seal  
*Flow plug  
To get to the nozzle and venturi remove the water softening system top cover. Be sure the  
water softening system is in service cycle (no water pressure at nozzle and venturi). Then,  
while holding the nozzle and venturi housing with one hand, remove the cap. Lift out the  
screen support and screen, then the nozzle and venturi. Wash and rinse the parts in warm  
water until clean. If needed, use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Also check and clean  
the gasket.  
Screen  
Screen  
Nozzle &  
Venturi  
Gasket  
NOTE: Some models have a small flow plug located in the nozzle and venturi, and/or a small  
cone shaped screen in the housing. Be sure to check and clean these parts, if your model is so  
equipped.  
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*Fill flow  
plug  
Nozzle &  
Venturi  
housing  
Carefully replace all parts in the correct order. Lightly lubricate the o-ring seal with clean  
silicone grease and place in position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only. Do not over-  
tighten the cap or housing  
.
IMPORTANT: Be sure small holes in  
the gasket are centered directly  
over the small holes in the nozzle  
and venturi housing.  
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*Install with numbered side up,  
concave side down.  
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CustomSer  
12  
 
Before you call for service…  
SafeyInstr  
Troubleshooting Tips  
Save time and money! Review the charts on the following  
pages first and you may not need to call for service.  
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Problem  
Possible Causes  
What To Do  
Water feels slippery  
after installation of  
water softening system  
Absence of hard minerals  
This is normal.  
Water softening system  
not using any salt  
Water softening system  
is a “demand” unit  
Does not use much salt to regenerate—very efficient.  
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Possible salt bridge  
See the Care and cleaning section.  
See the Care and cleaning section.  
Possible plugged nozzle  
and venturi  
Water is blue color after  
water softening system  
was installed  
Acidic water in  
copper plumbing  
Have the water tested at once.  
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WARNING:  
Do not drink the water until problem has been corrected.  
Water softening system  
not regenerating  
Meter turbine stuck  
Call for service.  
Sensor wire corroded  
Face plate defective  
No power to unit  
Call for service.  
Call for service.  
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Check the circuit breaker or fuses.  
Cloudiness on glassware  
(automatic dishwashers)  
Combination of soft  
water and too much  
detergent  
This is called etching and is permanent. To prevent this  
from happening, use less detergent with soft water. Wash  
glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean.  
Salty tasting water  
after installation  
Low water pressure  
Check pressure; should be minimum 20 psi.  
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Restricted drain hose  
Cracked distributor  
Clean and reconnect hose.  
Call for service.  
Resin beads showing up  
in drinking water and sink  
Sounds you might hear  
Running water from the  
unit into a drain  
This is normal.  
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Water has air bubbles  
and is cloudy  
Air in system after installation  
Will go away after it runs for a while.  
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Before you call for service…  
Problem  
Possible Causes  
What To Do  
No soft water  
Faucet or fixture where sample  
was taken not plumbed to soft  
water. NOTE: Be sure sample  
To conserve salt, the installer may have isolated some  
fixtures (outside faucets, toilets, etc.) from soft water.  
From the outlet of the water softening system, trace the  
water flow path, in house plumbing. If soft water is not  
directed to a faucet or fixture where wanted, consult a  
plumber.  
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s from a faucet that does not mix  
soft and hard water. For example,  
a single lever kitchen faucet, if  
the cold side is plumbed to hard  
water  
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No salt in the brine tank  
or salt bridged  
Check for a salt bridge or, if the tank is empty, refill with  
recommended salt. Press (for 3 seconds) the TOUCH or  
HOLD button to start an immediate regeneration and  
restore soft water supply.  
Transformer unplugged  
at wall outlet or power  
cable to water softening  
system not connected  
Check for a loss of electrical power to the water softening  
system due to any of these conditions and correct as  
needed. With the power supply restored, observe the  
control display and read Program Memory section.  
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Fuse blown or circuit  
breaker popped on circuit  
to electrical outlet  
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Electrical outlet on  
a circuit that can be  
switched off  
NOTE: The electrical outlet for the water softening system  
should be continuously live so it cannot be accidentally  
switched off.  
Manual bypass valve in  
bypass position  
Be sure the bypass valve stem is positioned properly.  
Observe instruction on the decal at the end of the stem.  
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Valve drain hose pinched,  
plugged, elevated too high  
or otherwise restricted  
Any restriction in this drain hose may prevent proper  
operation of the nozzle and venturi and reduce or  
prevent brine draw during regenerations.  
Nozzle and venturi dirty,  
incorrectly assembled or  
damaged  
With water pressure to the water softening system off, take  
the nozzle assembly apart. Inspect, clean and replace as  
needed. Any foreign particle(s), scratches, nicks, etc., in  
the passages can prevent operation. Be sure holes in the  
gasket are centered over holes in the housing.  
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Water hard sometimes  
Using hot water while the  
water softening system  
is regenerating  
Avoid using hot water during water softening system  
regenerations because the water heater will refill with  
hard water. See Automatic Hard Water Bypass During  
Regeneration section.  
Control hardness number  
setting too low  
Press and release the SELECT button until HARDNESS shows  
in the display. Be sure the number shown is the same as the  
actual grains per gallon hardness of your water supply.  
See the Control section if a change in the setting is needed.  
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Grains of hardness in your  
water supply have increased  
Water hardness can change over time, especially in well  
water. To check, have the water tested by a water analysis  
laboratory or call your local water department. Adjust the  
hardness number setting as needed.  
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Notes  
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Notes  
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GE Service Protection Plus  
GE, a name recognized worldwide for quality and dependability, offers you Service  
Protection Plus —comprehensive protection on all your appliances—No Matter  
What Brand!  
Benefits Include:  
Backed by GE  
Well Cover Any Appliance.  
Anywhere. Anytime.*  
All brands covered  
Unlimited service calls  
All parts and labor costs included  
No out-of-pocket expenses  
No hidden deductibles  
One 800 number to call  
You will be completely satisfied with our service protection or you may request your money back  
on the remaining value of your contract. No questions asked. It’s that simple.  
Protect your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, range, TV, VCR and much more—any brand!  
Plus there’s no extra charge for emergency service and low monthly financing is available. Even icemaker  
coverage and food spoilage protection is offered. You can rest easy knowing that all your valuable  
household products are protected against expensive repairs.  
Place your confidence in GE and call us in the U.S. toll-free at 800-626-2224  
for more information.  
*All brands covered, up to 20 years old, in the continental U.S.  
Cut here  
Please place in envelope and mail to:  
General Electric Company  
Warranty Registration Department  
P.O. Box 34070  
Louisville, KY 40232-4070  
17  
 
Consumer Product Ownership Registration  
Dear Customer:  
Thank you for purchasing our product and thank you for placing your  
confidence in us. We are proud to have you as a customer!  
Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:  
Complete and mail  
your Consumer  
After mailing  
Read your Owner’s  
Manual carefully.  
It will help you  
operate your new  
appliance properly.  
If you have questions,  
or need more  
the registration  
below, store this  
document in a safe  
place. It contains  
information you  
will need should  
Product Ownership  
Registration today.  
Have the peace of  
mind of knowing we  
can contact you in  
the unlikely event of  
a safety modification.  
you require service.  
information call the  
2 3  
1
Our service number  
is 800-GE-CARES  
(800-452-2737).  
GE Answer Center  
800.626.2000.  
®
Model Number  
Serial Number  
Important: If you did not get a registration card with your product,  
detach and return the form below to ensure that your  
product is registered.  
Cut here  
Consumer Product Ownership Registration  
Model Number  
Serial Number  
Mr. Ms. Mrs. Miss ■  
First  
Name  
Last  
Name  
Street  
Address  
Apt. #  
City  
Zip  
Code  
State  
Date Placed  
In Use  
Month  
Day  
_
Year  
Phone  
Number  
_
GE Appliances  
General Electric Company  
Louisville, Kentucky 40225  
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GE Water Softening System Warranty  
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All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician.  
For service, call 800-GE-CARES.  
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For The Period Of: GE Will Replace, At No Charge To You:  
One Year  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
Any part of the Water Softening System which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship.  
During this full one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home  
service to replace the defective part.  
Three Years  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
The electronic monitor, if it fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this  
three-year limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in-home service costs.  
Ten Years  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
A replacement cabinet (brine tank) or resin tank, if either fails due to a defect in materials or  
workmanship. During this ten-year limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor  
or in-home service costs.  
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What GE Will Not Cover:  
Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the  
product.  
Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit  
breakers.  
Improper installation.  
Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or  
acts of God.  
Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for  
other than the intended purpose or used commercially.  
Incidental or consequential damage to personal property  
caused by possible defects with this appliance.  
Filters, membranes or batteries.  
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This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home  
use within the USA. In Alaska, the warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives  
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal  
rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your states Attorney General.  
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Warrantor: General Electric Company. Louisville, KY 40225  
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Service Telephone Numbers.  
GE Answer Center® 800.626.2000  
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The GE Answer Center® is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
In-Home Repair Service 800-GE-CARES (800-432-2737)  
Expert GE repair service is only a phone call away.  
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Special Needs Service 800.626.2000  
800-TDD-GEAC (800-833-4322)  
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GE offers, free of charge, a brochure to assist in planning a barrier-free kitchen for persons  
with limited mobility.  
Service Contracts 800-626-2224  
Purchase a GE service contract while your warranty is still in effect and you’ll receive a  
substantial discount. GE Consumer Service will still be there after your warranty expires.  
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Parts and Accessories 800-626-2002  
Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly  
to their homes (VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted).  
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Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing  
generally should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since  
improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.  
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Service Satisfaction  
If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE:  
First, contact the people who serviced your appliance.  
Next, if you are still not pleased, write all the details—including your phone number—to:  
Manager, Consumer Relations  
GE Appliances  
Appliance Park  
Louisville, KY 40225  
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Finally, if your problem is still not resolved, write:  
Major Appliance Consumer Action Program  
20 North Wacker Drive  
Chicago, IL 60606  
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Printed in Louisville, KY  
 

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