Drain Your Water Softener Like a PRO! Here's How!
Water softeners improve water quality, and regular maintenance, including understanding how to drain a water softener resin tank, is crucial. The process involves understanding the Bypass Valve's function, which isolates the system from your household plumbing, therefore preventing water flow during maintenance. Resin beads within the tank remove hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium. Ignoring this maintenance can impact the effectiveness of brands like Whirlpool and their efficiency, leading to decreased water quality and potential plumbing issues. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know to effectively maintain your water softener by detailing how to drain a water softener resin tank.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Dave Wirth , from the video titled Water Softener Resin Replacement - How to Replace Media in Tank .
Drain Your Water Softener Like a PRO! Here's How!
This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to drain a water softener resin tank. Properly draining your water softener is essential for maintenance, cleaning, relocation, or preparing it for long periods of inactivity. Following these instructions will help you perform the task efficiently and safely.
Why You Need to Drain Your Water Softener Resin Tank
Understanding the "why" behind this process makes it easier to grasp the importance of each step.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Draining the tank allows you to inspect and clean the resin beads, removing sediment and buildup that can hinder performance.
- Relocation: A full water softener is incredibly heavy. Emptying the tank significantly reduces its weight for easier and safer moving.
- Winterization: If you're leaving your home during cold weather, draining the softener prevents the water inside from freezing and potentially damaging the system.
- Repair: Some repairs require the tank to be empty before you can access internal components.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary equipment. This will streamline the process and prevent interruptions.
- Garden Hose: A standard garden hose long enough to reach a suitable drainage point.
- Bucket or Basin: To catch any residual water or brine.
- Screwdriver (Phillips or Flathead): Depending on the softener's fittings.
- Pliers or Adjustable Wrench: For loosening stubborn connections.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: To protect your eyes and skin.
- Towels or Rags: To clean up spills.
- Optional: Wet/Dry Vacuum: Useful for removing the last bit of water.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drain a Water Softener Resin Tank
This detailed process outlines the exact steps for successfully draining your water softener.
1. Bypass Your Water Softener
Bypassing the softener isolates it from your home's plumbing system. Most softeners have a three-valve bypass system.
- Turn the inlet valve to the bypass position.
- Turn the outlet valve to the bypass position.
- The bypass valve itself should be in the open position.
If your system only has a single bypass valve, turning it will automatically redirect water flow. Refer to your water softener's manual for specific instructions.
2. Turn Off the Power
Disconnect the power supply to the water softener. This prevents the system from initiating a regeneration cycle during the draining process.
3. Locate the Drain Line and Connect the Hose
The drain line is usually a flexible tube connected to the softener's control valve.
- Identify the drain line connection point on the control valve.
- Attach the garden hose securely to the drain line connection. Ensure a tight fit to prevent leaks.
4. Direct the Hose to a Suitable Drain
Choose a suitable drainage location. Acceptable options include:
- Floor Drain: The most convenient option.
- Utility Sink: Ideal for controlled draining.
- Outside: Make sure to check local regulations regarding saltwater discharge if you use this option.
- Toilet: Use extreme caution as the high salt concentration in brine can damage some toilet components over time.
Ensure the hose is securely positioned in the chosen drain to prevent spills.
5. Initiate the Drain Process
Depending on your softener model, the draining process can be initiated in several ways:
- Manual Regeneration Cycle: Initiate a manual regeneration cycle on your water softener. This will force water through the resin tank and out the drain line. This is the PREFERRED method. Consult your owner's manual on how to initiate a manual regeneration.
- Manually Open the Drain Valve (If Applicable): Some models have a manual drain valve. Open this valve to start the draining process.
- Backwash Cycle Override (Less Common): If your system has this function, you can use it to expedite the draining process. Again, consult your manual.
6. Monitor the Drainage
Observe the water flowing from the hose. The initial flow may be strong, but it will gradually decrease as the tank empties. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the tank size and water pressure.
7. Remove Residual Water (Optional)
Once the majority of the water has drained, there may still be some residual water remaining in the tank.
- Tilt the Tank: Carefully tilt the water softener unit to encourage more water to drain.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: Use a wet/dry vacuum to suction out any remaining water from the bottom of the tank.
8. Disconnect the Hose and Reassemble
Once the tank is completely drained:
- Disconnect the garden hose from the drain line connection.
- Reattach the drain line to its original position on the control valve.
- Return the water softener to service by reversing the bypass procedure (step 1).
- Reconnect the power supply (step 2).
- Initiate a regeneration cycle to flush the system and ensure proper operation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Drainage | Clogged Drain Line | Check the drain line for kinks or obstructions. Disconnect and flush with water. |
| No Drainage | Bypass Valve Incorrectly Positioned | Double-check that the bypass valve is correctly set to allow water to flow through the drain line. |
| Leaks at Hose Connection | Loose Connection | Tighten the hose connection to the drain line. Use Teflon tape to seal threads if necessary. |
| Foul Odor during Drainage | Bacterial Growth in the Resin Tank | Sanitize the resin tank with a bleach solution (follow manufacturer's instructions) after draining. |
| Hose Kinks | Hose isn't positioned properly. | Ensure the hose is clear of any obstacles preventing a smooth draining. Reposition the hose as needed. |
Video: Drain Your Water Softener Like a PRO! Here's How!
Drain Your Water Softener: FAQs
Want to be absolutely sure you’re draining your water softener the right way? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get it right.
Why do I need to drain my water softener?
Draining your water softener is important for maintenance, repairs, or if you’re moving the unit. It allows you to inspect components, clear out sediment, and prevent damage during relocation. Knowing how to drain a water softener resin tank helps extend its lifespan and maintain optimal performance.
How often should I drain my water softener?
You generally only need to drain your water softener when performing maintenance (like cleaning the resin tank) or if you are moving it. Regular backwashing cycles handle the routine cleaning. Draining too often isn't necessary.
What's the best way to dispose of the wastewater?
The wastewater from draining your water softener contains salt. It's best to drain it into a utility sink connected to your sewage line. Avoid draining it onto your lawn or into storm drains, as the salt can harm plants and the environment.
Can I drain my water softener myself, or do I need a professional?
In most cases, you can drain your water softener yourself by following the correct steps. The process is usually straightforward. However, if you're uncomfortable or unsure, consulting a plumber is always a safe option. Knowing how to drain a water softener resin tank properly will save you time and money.