Unclog and freshen your harvey water softener in 7 simple steps

Maintaining a clean and efficient water softener is crucial for ensuring the quality of your water and the longevity of your appliance. Harvey water softeners are renowned for their reliability and effectiveness, but regular cleaning is essential to keep them operating at their best. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of cleaning a Harvey water softener, ensuring you enjoy sparkling water without the hassle.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials

Before embarking on the cleaning process, gather the following materials:

• Soft cloth or sponge
• Mild dish soap
• White vinegar
• Water softener cleaner (optional)
• Bucket or large container

Step 2: Disconnect the Water Supply

Safety first! Begin by turning off the water supply to the water softener. Locate the shut-off valve on the main water line and close it.

Step 3: Bypass the Water Softener

Next, bypass the water softener to prevent water from flowing through it during the cleaning process. Locate the bypass valve, which is usually a lever or handle, and turn it to the “bypass” position.

Step 4: Clean the Exterior

Wipe down the exterior of the water softener using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with mild dish soap. This will remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the surface.

Step 5: Clean the Resin Tank

The resin tank is the heart of the water softener, containing the resin beads that remove minerals from the water. To clean the resin tank:

• Open the brine tank lid.
• Remove the resin basket from the brine tank.
• Place the resin basket in a bucket or large container.
• Fill the bucket with warm water and add 1 cup of white vinegar.
• Soak the resin basket in the vinegar solution for 30 minutes.
• Rinse the resin basket thoroughly with clean water.
• Replace the resin basket in the brine tank.

Step 6: Clean the Brine Tank

The brine tank holds the salt solution that regenerates the resin beads. To clean the brine tank:

• Empty any remaining salt solution from the brine tank.
• Fill the brine tank with warm water and add 1 cup of white vinegar.
• Allow the vinegar solution to sit in the brine tank for 30 minutes.
• Rinse the brine tank thoroughly with clean water.

Step 7: Clean the Injector

The injector is a small device that injects the salt solution into the resin tank. To clean the injector:

• Remove the injector from the water softener.
• Soak the injector in a vinegar solution for 30 minutes.
• Rinse the injector thoroughly with clean water.
• Reinstall the injector.

Step 8: Reconnect the Water Supply

Once all components are clean, reconnect the water supply to the water softener. Open the shut-off valve on the main water line.

Step 9: Bring the Water Softener Online

Turn the bypass valve back to the “service” position. This will allow water to flow through the water softener again.

Step 10: Run a Regeneration Cycle

Initiate a regeneration cycle to flush out any remaining vinegar solution and ensure the water softener is operating properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for initiating a regeneration cycle.

A Final Touch: Water Softener Cleaner

For an even deeper clean, consider using a water softener cleaner specifically designed for Harvey water softeners. These cleaners contain ingredients that help dissolve mineral buildup and enhance the overall performance of your water softener.

Beyond Cleaning: Maintenance Tips

Regular cleaning is essential, but there are additional maintenance tips to keep your Harvey water softener in top shape:

• Check the salt level regularly and refill as needed.
• Inspect the water softener for any leaks or damage.
• Schedule professional maintenance every 1-2 years to ensure optimal performance.

Troubleshooting: Restoring Sparkling Water

If you notice a decline in the performance of your water softener, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check the salt level and add salt if necessary.
• Clean the resin tank and injector.
• Inspect the water softener for any leaks or damage.
• Contact a qualified technician if issues persist.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I clean my Harvey water softener?
A: It’s recommended to clean your water softener every 3-6 months, or more often if you have hard water.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my water softener?
A: No, bleach is not recommended for cleaning water softeners. It can damage the resin beads and other components.

Q: What are the signs of a dirty water softener?
A: Reduced water pressure, increased water hardness, and a salty taste to the water can all indicate a dirty water softener.

Q: How can I prevent mineral buildup in my water softener?
A: Regular cleaning, using a water softener cleaner, and maintaining the proper salt level can help prevent mineral buildup.

Q: Can I clean my water softener without disconnecting the water supply?
A: It’s not recommended to clean your water softener without disconnecting the water supply. This can lead to flooding or damage to the appliance.