Maintenance, Checking the salt level, Adding salt – Hydrotech 5600 Meter Initiated Valve Water Softener User Manual
Page 9: Caution, Bridging, Care of your softener, Cleaning the injector assembly, Resin cleaner

7
Maintenance
Checking the Salt Level
Check the salt level monthly. Remove the lid from the cabinet or brine tank, make sure salt level is always above the brine level (you
should not be able to see water).
Adding Salt
Use only clean salt labeled for water conditioner use, such as crystal, pellet, nugget, button or solar.
The use of rock salt is discouraged because it contains insoluble silt and sand which build up in the brine tank and can cause
problems with the system’s operation. Add the salt directly to the tank, filling no higher than the top of the brine well.
Caution
Liquid brine will irritate eyes, skin and open wounds - gently wash exposed area with fresh water. Keep children away from your water
conditioner.
Bridging
(Figure 7)
Humidity or wrong type of salt may create a cavity between the water and the salt. This action,
known as “bridging”, prevents the brine solution from being made, leading to your water supply
being hard.
If you suspect salt bridging, carefully pound on the outside of the brine tank or pour some warm
water over the salt to break up the bridge. This should always be followed up by allowing the unit
to use up any remaining salt and then thoroughly cleaning out the brine tank.
Allow four hours to produce a brine solution, then manually regenerate the softener.
Care of Your Softener
To retain the attractive appearance of your new water softener, clean occasionally with mild soap solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners,
ammonia or solvents. Never subject your softener to freezing or to temperatures above 110°F (43°C).
Cleaning the Injector Assembly
(Figure 8)
Sediment, salt and silt will restrict or clog the injector. A clean water supply and
pure salt will prevent this from happening.
The injector assembly is located on the right side of the control valve. This
assembly is easy to clean.
Shut off the water supply to your softener and reduce the pressure by opening
a cold soft water faucet. Using a screwdriver, remove the two screws holding
the injector cover to the control valve body. Carefully remove the assembly
and disassemble as shown in Figure 8. The injector orifice is removed from
the valve body by carefully turning it out with a large screwdriver. Remove the
injector throat the same way. Carefully flush all parts including the screen. Use
a mild acid such as vinegar or Pro-Rust Out to clean the small holes in the
orifice and throat.
Reassemble using the reverse procedure.
Resin Cleaner
An approved resin cleaner must be used on a regular basis if your water supply contains iron. The amount of resin cleaner and frequency
of use is determined by the quantity of iron in your water (consult your local representative or follow the directions on the resin package).
Figure 7
INJECTOR BODY
INJECTOR THROAT
INJECTOR NOZZLE
“O” RING
INJECTOR COVER
INJECTOR SCREEN
SCREW
Figure 8