Kenmore Elite 625394260 User Manual WATER SOFTENER Manuals And Guides L0811491

KENMORE ELITE Water softener Manual L0811491 KENMORE ELITE Water softener Owner's Manual, KENMORE ELITE Water softener installation guides

User Manual: Kenmore Elite 625394260 625394260 KENMORE ELITE WATER SOFTENER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your KENMORE ELITE WATER SOFTENER #625394260. Home:Plumbing Parts:Kenmore Elite Parts:Kenmore Elite WATER SOFTENER Manual

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 52

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

OWNER'S

MANUAL

Water Softeners
With High Performance Valve

MODEL

NOS.

IntelliSoft 420 Series 625.384260
IntelliSoft 420 Series 625.394260

Caution:
Read and follow all safety rules and operating
instructions before first use of this product.

• Warranty

Questions

• How It Works

• Installation
• Start Up / Setting Timer

Visit www.KenmoreWater.com
or call toll free 1-800-426-9345

(M - F, 7AM - 8 PM CST)

• Care Of

Repair or Paris ? Call toll free 1=800-469=4663

• Specifications

See back cover for other Sears service numbers.

• Repair Parts

SAVE THIS MANUAL
Use the plastic bag and tie provided, to hang manuals nearby
the softener for future reference.

Systems Tested and Certified by NSF International against
NSF/ANSI Standard 44 for softener performance,
and the reduction of barium and radium 226/228.

Sears,

Roebuck

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

and Co.,

3333

Beverly

Road,

www.KenmoreWater.com

Hoffman

Estates,

60179

U.S.A.

Part No. 7282611 (Rev. K 11/12/08)

WARRANTY
ONE YEAR LiMiTED WARRANTY

ON WATER

SOFTENER

ON WATER SOFTENER

When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if this
Kenmore Elite appliance fails due to a defect in material and workmanship within one year from the date of
purchase, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ®to arrange for free repair,
THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

ON ELECTRONIC

PARTS

When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if any of the
following electronic parts fail due to a defect in material or workmanship, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ®to arrange
for free part replacement: Brine Tank Light, Electronic Board, Sensor Housing, Wiring Harness, Transformer,
Micro Switch, Drive Motor, Power Cable. After the first year you must pay an initial trip charge.
TEN YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY AGAINST LEAKS
When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if the water
softener tank or salt storage drum develops a leak within ten years from the date of purchase, call 1-800-4MY-HOME ®to arrange for free tank or drum replacement. After the first year you must pay an initial trip
charge.
All warranty coverage does not include water softener resin, which is an expendable item.
If this appliance is used for other than private family purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the
date of purchase.
This warranty covers only defects in material and workmanship. Sears will NOT pay for:
1. A service technician to instruct the user in correct product installation, operation or maintenance.
2. A service technician to clean or maintain this product.
3. Damage to or failure of this product if it is not installed, operated or maintained according to the all instructions supplied with the product.
4. Damage to or failure of this product resulting from accident, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intended purpose.
5. Damage to or failure of this product caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals or utensils other
than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.
6. Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this product.
Disclaimer of implied warranties; limitation of remedies
Customer's sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair as provided herein.
Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to
one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Sears shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitation on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.
This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States or Canada.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to
state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Sears Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

Questions?
2

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Guides ..................................................................................................................................................
Unpack and Check Shipment ........................................................................................................................
Plan Your Installation: Tools Needed, Materials Needed ...........................................................................
Install Inlet/Outlet Adapters or Bypass Valves, Three Way Valves ...........................................................
Install Softener and Connect Pipes ................................................................................................................
Connect Valve and Salt Tank Drains ..............................................................................................................
Leak Test ........................................................................................................................................................
Electrical Requirements .................................................................................................................................
Install Covers and Restart Water Heater .......................................................................................................
Program the Timer ....................................................................................................................................
Sanitize the Water Softener ...........................................................................................................................
Add Salt to Storage Tank ................................................................................................................................
Install Check List ............................................................................................................................................
Faceplate Timer Features .........................................................................................................................
How Your Water Softener Works ..............................................................................................................
Care of Your Water Softener .....................................................................................................................
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................
Performance Claims .......................................................................................................................................
Service Tech Information ...........................................................................................................................
Exploded Views and Parts Lists ................................................................................................................
Sears Tech Support .........................................................................................................................
Back

FACTS AND FIGURES TO KEEP
Fill in the blanks below and keep this
so you always have these facts.

book

Salt Hole Cover

in a safe place

Rating
Decal

Water Softener Model No.*
Serial Number
Date Installed
Water Hardnes-s
Iron Content
pH.....................................
_ .........
Water Pressure
Water Flow Rate

Grains Per Gallon
Parts Per Million
Taste and/or Odor

Pounds/Square
inch
Gallons Per Minute

* The model number is on the rating decal, located on the rim under the salt hole cover.

,uestions?
Cal| the

Kenmore
or visit

Water Line at 1=800=426=9345
KenrnoreWater,
corn

For repair or replacement parts, call toll-free 1-800-366-7278
See back cover for other Sears service numbers.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

4
5
6-10
11-12
13
14
15
16
17
17-19
20
21
22
23-28
29-31
32-35
36-37
37
38-44
45-51
Cover

A Read all steps, guides and rules carefully before installing and using your new water softener. Follow all steps exactly to correctly install. Failure to follow them could cause personal
injury or property damage. Reading this book will also help you to get all of the benefits from
your water softener.

A Your Kenmore Water Softener will remove hardness minerals from water. This is measured
in grains per gallon (gpg). It will also remove some clear water iron*, barium and radium
226/228"*. These are measured in parts per million (ppm). See the specifications page for
the maximum limits of hardness and iron, barium and radium 226/228 removal.

A A water softener will not improve other water problems such as acidity, tastes and odors, or
iron other than clear water iron. It will not purify contaminated water, or make unsafe water
safe to drink.

A Check with your local public works department for plumbing, electric and sanitation codes.
You must follow their guides as you install your softener. Use only LEAD FREE SOLDER
AND FLUX, as required by federal and state codes, when installing soldered copper plumbing.

A Protect the softener and piping from freezing. Damage from freezing voids the softener warranty. See how to protect from freezing on page 34.
CAUTION: Please read and comply with the following guides to prevent damage to the softener or other property, personal injury, or possible fatal shock.

A This softener works on 24 volts only. Be sure to use only the transformer

included.
Plug it into a nominal 120V, 60 cycle household outlet that is grounded and properly
protected by an overcurrent device such as a circuit breaker or fuse. If transformer is
replaced, use only the authorized service Class II, 24 volt, 10 VA transformer.

,& Unplug the transformer right away if the power cable should become damaged or frayed.
Make repairs, or replace the transformer, before plugging back into the power outlet.
,& Always unplug the softener from electrical power before removing outer valve covers.
,& This system is not intended to be used for treating water that is microbiologically
of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system.

* The capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated

unsafe or

by WQA test data.

** If conditioner is being used to remove barium and/or radium 226 and 228, please verify performance by contacting 612-607-1700, ext. 6470 for testing treated water supply, or check
the water testing section of your local phone directory.

European Directive 2002/96/EC requires all electrical and electronic equipment to
be disposed of according to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
requirements. This directive or similar laws are in place nationally and can vary
from region to region. Please refer to your state and local laws for proper disposal
of this equipment.

iNSPECT

SHIPMENT

Your water softener is shipped complete in one carton.
Use care when handling the softener. DO NOT turn
upside down. DO NOT drop, or set on sharp objects that
could make a hole in the bottom. The water softener is
heavy, do not try to lift it or move more than is necessary.
Remove all items from your shipping carton.
Check all items against the packing list below. Note any
items lost or damaged in shipment.
Note any damage to the shipping carton. Refer to the
exploded view and parts list in the back of the manual for
the part names and numbers of missing or damaged
items.
Contact the store where purchased if problems exist.

PARTS DESCRIPTIONS
Salt Hole
Cover
(Open)

Nozzle
Assembly

SMALL

Valve
Assembly

PARTS

Bypass Valve

Face
owner's

manual

;over
(Main)

Salt

O-Ring Seals (2)
Clips (2)

Storage
Tank
AId:tptll°a_°(____._
Brinewell
Cover

Brinewell
Drain Tubing

Tube Clamp

Tube Adaptor
Brine Valve

Ground Clamp Kit
Grommet

Additional Installation Fittings available from
Sears (see parts listing in back of manual)

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

_:_? Tube Clamp

FIG. 1

PLAN

YOUR INSTALLATION

It is recommended to read through the entire manual before
beginning your installation. Follow all steps exactly. Reading this
manual will also help you get all the benefits from your system.
TOOLS

NEEDED:

• Safety glasses
• Flathead screw driver
• Phillips screw driver
• Adjustable slip joint pliers
• Tape measure or ruler

J
Flathead Screwdriver

Safety Glasses

ADDITIONAL

TOOLS

SOLDERED

COPPER

•
•
•
•
•
•

NEEDED

Phillips Screwdriver

FOR THE FOLLOWING
THREADED

Tubing Cutter
Propane Torch
Solid Core LEADFREE Solder
Paste Flux
Emery Cloth
or Sandpaper

THE PROPER

•
•
•
•

ORDER

or Taste &

Odor Cartridge

PIPE

TO INSTALL

Slip Joint Pliers

CPVC OR PVC PLASTIC
• Hacksaw
• Adjustable Wrench
• Primer and Solvent Cement
approved for use on potable water-

WATER TREATING

EQUIPMENT

only. Seldom, if ever, would all items be needed.)

City Water Supply

Cold Faucet
Kitchen or Bathroom

Tape Measure or Ruler

INSTALLATIONS:

Hacksaw or Pipe Cutter
Pipe Wrenches
Pipe Threading Tool
Pipe Joint Compound approved
for use on potable water

(Shows sequence of equipment

Sediment

Adjustable

Filter

Hard Water to
Outside Faucets

Cold, soft water
--

Well Water Supply

Hot, soft water

Pressure or
Captive Air

Sotution
Dispensing
System

I
I

Sediment
Water

Cartridge Filter
(Optional
Location)

Heater

Water
Softener

*Taste &
Odor Filter

Iron
Filter

Neutralizer

Tank

Clarifying
Filter

• Always place an Iron Filter UPSTREAM of the water softener.
• Always place a Neutralizer UPSTREAM of an Iron Filter, etc., as shown.
• Place a Taste & Odor Filter UPSTREAM of a water softener on a chlorinated
and DOWNSTREAM of a water softener on a non=chlorinated water supply.

Questions?
6

Call The Kenmore

Water

Welt Water

water supply

Line 1-800-426-9345

FIG. 2

outside faucet
(hard water)

soft, col-----_

water

to R.O. faucet

¢-

___
soft, hot

_ter
_-:"_-'___-"%

• o_r

water

/ .

Line

Line -_4:_

__
[T_

soft wa er

Shu -offII toR
...... t
-V lvep..'--.jj

water
heater

hard i
i
wat:rartd°

_ _::::Y

I llI1

water
softener

o :to:,sIt

house

/#
floo/

storage
tank

gap
main

_
"_

drain

FIG. 3

Typical Installation
WHERE

TO INSTALL

THE WATER

SOFTENER

Review the following points before you choose a place to put your softener.
1. Place as close as possible but always after, the
pressure tank (well water) or water meter (city
water). See Fig. 3.
2. Place as close as possible to a water drain such as
a floor drain, laundry tub, sump or standpipe. See
Fig. 3.
3. Connect to the house main water pipe BEFORE
THE WATER HEATER. See Fig. 3. Temperature of
water going through the softener must not be
more than 120°F (49°C). Hot water will damage
inner softener parts. To reduce the risk of hot water
backup, piping between the softener and water
heater should be as long of a run as possible.
4. Keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft
water and salt. See Fig. 3.
5. Do not install in a place where the softener could
freeze. Damage caused by freezing voids the warranty by Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

6. Put the softener in a place where water damage is
least likely to occur if it develops a leak. Sears or
the manufacturer will not repair or pay for water
damage.
7. A grounded, 120V electrical outlet is needed within
10 feet of the softener. See Fig. 3. This is to plug in
the transformer. The softener has a 10 foot power
cable. Be sure the outlet and transformer are in
an inside place, to protect from wet weather. Use
a continuously "live" outlet, which cannot be accidentally switched off.
8. When installing in an outside location, you must take
the steps necessary to assure the softener, installation plumbing, and wiring, are protected from the
elements, contamination, vandalism, etc.
9. Keep the softener out of direct sunlight. The sun's
heat can melt plastic parts.

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

Suggested

Slab Foundation

Installation
outside
- hard

Plug the softener transformer
into an inside, 120 volt 60Hz
electrical outlet. If an outside
outlet is used, be sure it has
approved weather protection.

For outside hard
water, trench underground as needed.

outside
- hard
WATER SOFTENER
(install in garage, car port,
or other sheltered area)

water in
Run drain tubing to laundry tub or
p-trap inside home, if possible.
Otherwise, run to a dry well.

FIG. 4

DRAW IN YOUR PIPES
AND FITTINGS

Your House Main Water Pipe

Draw the plans for your "IN" and "OUT"
piping here. Include all pipe, fittings and
accessories you will use.

Left
Right

Make a list of all materials you will need
and buy them before you begin to install
the water softener.

120V - 60Hz
Electrical
Outlet

* In what

direction

does

the water

flow?

Be sure to plan "IN" and "OUT" piping so water
flow is to the softener valve inlet. Plan a
crossover if flow is from left to right.

CROSS-OVER
Main Water Pipe
Raw
Valve Outlet Side
Soft Water

Outlet

Inlet

Valve Inlet

To Water Softener

FIG. 5

Questions?
8

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

PIPE, FITTINGS, OTHER MATERIALS
NEEDED
You must first decide how to run "in" and "out" pipes to
the softener. Look at your house main water pipe at the
point you will connect the softener. Is the pipe soldered
copper, glued plastic, or threaded galvanized or brass?
What is the pipe size? What kind of pipe and fittings is it
easiest for you to work with, and what tools do you have?

OUT

IN
1" NPT sweat
adaptor (2)*

Use teflon tape,

pipejoint compound.
or both.

1" NPT
adaptor

Now look at the common plans for "in" and "out" piping
on soldered copper. See Fig. 6. Use it as a guide to plan
what materials you will need. Get all the materials you
will need before you start.

2 of each

clip

included

\
\

" Valve

Use Fig. 5 to make a plan drawing for your specific
installation. "In" and "out" fittings included with the softener are 1" NPT threaded adaptors. You should maintain
the same, or larger, pipe size as the water supply pipe,
up to the softener inlet and outlet. Use copper, brass,
galvanized or PVC plastic pipe and fittings for the "in"
and "out" pipes. Be sure to check local codes.

Toconnect to 1-1/4"
, copper household
'
plumbing

Note: If converting from galvanized to copper pipe
use approved dielectric insulating connectors.
ALWAYS install the bypass valve (that is included with
the unit) or a three valve bypass. See Fig. 9 to13.
Bypass valves let you turn off water to the softener if
needed for repairs, but still have water in the house
pipes.

Valve
Bypass

\\\\

,
'
Y

OUT

1" NPT sweat
adaptor (2)*

Use teflon tape,
pipe joint compound_
or both.
/

Drain tubing (3/8" inside diameter), is needed for the
valve and salt tank drains. See Fig. 16. If a rigid valve
drain is needed to comply with plumbing codes, you can
buy the parts needed (see Fig. 16) to change the softener to a 1/2 inch minimum copper tubing drain.

_clip

/f.,j,

1" NPT
adaptor

2 of each
included

Valve
Inlet

\
/

To connect to 1-1/4"
copper household j,
_.

plumbing

FIG. 6

*NOTE:
For plumbing connection, buy 2 sweat adaptors and plumb
directly to the inlet - outlet adaptors. Threads on the inlet - outlet
adaptors are 1" NPT.
CAUTION:
DO ALL SOLDERING BEFORE CONNECTING SWEAT ADAPTORS TO INLET-OUTLET ADAPTORS OR BYPASS VALVE.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

BEFORE iNSTALLiNG CHECKS & TESTS
Your water supply needs to be checked for chemical
analysis, water pressure and water flow rate. To accomplish this, complete the following steps:
Check Water's Chemical Analysis: Sears sells a complete line of water treating equipment to correct various
water problems. To be sure you have the proper type
and size equipment, You must have your water tested.
Your Sears store can give you a water test results for
hardness, iron and acidity, and tell you what equipment
you need. Simply take at least a 4 oz. sample of your
water to Sears, and they will test it while you wait. if you
need help to get your water tested, or if you have other
questions about your water, ask at your Sears store.
NOTE: Add these readings
table on page 3.

to the Facts and Figure

Check Your Water Pressure: For your softener to work
right, a water pressure of no lower than 20 pounds per
square inch (psi) is needed in the house water pipes.
The highest pressure allowed in the water pipes is 125
psi. if pressure is over 125 psi, buy and install a pressure reducing valve in the water inlet pipe to the softener.
NOTE: ff water pressure during the day is 100 psi or
more, pressure during the night may go over 125 psL
Adding a pressure reducing valve may reduce the
flow.
NOTE: Add these
table on page 3.

readings

to the Facts

Questions?
10

and Figure

Call The Kenmore

If you have a well water system, look at the pressure
gauge to find the water pressure. Call your local water
department if you have city water. They will tell you what
the water pressure is where you live.
NOTE: Add these readings
table on page 3.

to the Facts and Figure

Check your water flow rate: A water flow of at least 3
gallons per minute is needed. A lower flow will keep your
softener from working as well as it should. Complete the
following steps to make an easy check of your flow rate.
1. Fully open two cold water faucets close to the point
water enters the house.
2. With both faucets open, fill a gallon container at one
faucet while looking at a watch or clock to see how
many seconds it takes.
3. Empty the container and go to the second faucet (be
sure BOTH faucets are still on). Fill the gallon container
at the second faucet and see how many seconds it
takes.
4. Turn off both faucets. Now add the number of seconds
it took to fill the container at both faucets.
5. A total of 90 seconds, or less, means the system flow
rate is good.
NOTE: Add these readings
table on page 3.

to the Facts and Figure

NOTE: Codes in the state of Massachusetts
require
installation by a licensed plumber. For installation,
use plumbing code 248CMR of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts.

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

ASSEMBLE
OR SINGLE

INLET OUTLET ADAPTORS,
BYPASS VALVE

Shutoff
Valve

. Pressure
,z/ Tank

Complete the following steps to assemble the adaptors or
bypass valve.
1. Close the shutoff valve on the house main water pipe,
near the water meter or pressure tank, to turn off the
water. See Fig. 7.

Pump

2. Shut off the gas or electric supply to the water heater.
See Fig. 7.
3. Open the highest and lowest water faucets in your
house. This will let water drain from the pipes. Close
faucets after water has drained.

Electrical
Panel

4. Remove the main cover. See Fig. 8.
Pull outward on two (2) tabs to release.

FiG. 7

The salt hole cover remains attached to the main cover
when removed. Set both covers aside so they will not get
scratched or broken.

Salt Hole Cover

INSTALL SEARS BYPASS VALVE AND / OR THE
INLET OUTLET THREADED
ADAPTORS
NOTE: If you will not instafl the bypass valve because
you will have a three (3) valve bypass, skip steps 6 &
7, but do steps 5 and 8.
5. Visually check and remove any foreign materials from
the valve inlet and outlet ports. See Fig. 9. Carefully
remove the two large plastic clips (you will use them).
Check to be sure the turbine and turbine support are
firmly in place. See Fig. 10.
BYPASS

VALVE:

6. Put a light coating of silicone grease on the o-ring seals
and slide onto the bypass valve.

FIG. 8

INSTALLING
BYPASS VALVE, AND/OR
iNLET AND OUTLET THREADED
ADAPTORS
Clip (2)

7. Push the bypass valve into the softener valve as far as it
will go. Snap the two large holding clips into place,
from the top down as shown. See Fig. 11.
CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so
the bypass valve will not puff out. See Fig. 11.
INLET AND

OUTLET

THREADED

Valve Outlet

Included with
Softener

ADAPTORS:

8. Put a light coating of silicone grease on the o-ring seals
and slide into the threaded adaptors. Push the adaptors
into the valve inlet and outlet ports, or bypass valve
ports, as far as they will go. Both adaptors are the same
and fit either port. Snap the two large holding clips
into place, as shown. See Fig. 11.
CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly
the tubes wifl not pull out. See Fig. 11.

Questions?

Valve Inlet_

into place so

Call The Kenmore

Water

Included with
Softener

Line 1-800-426-9345
11

iNSTALLiNG

HOLDING

Black Clip

Cross Section of Valve

Bypass Valve or
Installation Adaptor

Inlet or Outlet

Before installing the bypass valve, or
copper tube, be sure the turbine and
support are firmly in place in the
valve outlet port.
Turbine
Support

CLIPS

Sensor Port

O-Ring
Clip Snaps into Place
Between Larger Diameter Rings

BYPASS

VALVE TURNED

FIG,

DOWNWARD

Turbine

FiG. 10

Turn bypass valve upside
down to connect to floor
level plumbing.

OUT

INSTALLING

3 VALVE

BYPASS

AND

3 VALVE

PIPES

BYPASS

Complete the following steps to install the three (3)
valve bypass:
• Cut the house main water pipe where you will connect the softener.
• Loosely put together pipe, fittings, and the three
(3) valves.
• Place valve(s) within easy reach.
When all pipe, fittings and valves make a good fit
together, tighten all threaded joints (use pipe dope
on outside threads), or solder all sweat joints,

TO
Softener Inlet
Questions?
12

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

FiG. 13

POSITION

SOFTENER

INTO PLACE

Complete the following steps to position the softener.
1. Grip under the ridge on the salt tank sidewall.
2. Carefully rock back and forth into position.
3. Move the softener into position.
4. Place on a level and smooth surface. If needed, put a
piece of 3/4" plywood, at least 17" x 20", under the
tank. Then put spacers under the plywood to level the
softener. See Fig. 14.

MOVE SOFTENER

INTO PLACE

Grip under ridge
to move softener.

NOTE: Do not put shims or spacers directly under
the tank, without the plywood. The weight of the softener, when full of salt and water, may cause the tank
to puncture or break at the shim or spacer.
CONNECT

THE SOFTENER

Plywo_

Shims

Refer to your plan drawing. See Fig. 5.
Measure, cut (thread if needed) and put all pipe and fittings together up to the main water pipe, or to the
bypass valve(s) you installed in the previous step.
CAUTION: Never solder fittings while connected
nonmetallic parts. Wait until soldered pipe has
cooled before connection. See Fig. 15.

FIG. 14

TYPICAL SOLDERING
CONNECTIONS

Main Water Pipe

CAUTION: Be careful when putting pipe fittings
together. Do not cross thread, and do not overtight=
Hard Water

en.

4. Solder
NOTE: To be certain heat will
not travel down the pipe and
into the bypass valve (or
installation adaptors), wrap
the bottom of the pipe and the
bypass valve in a wet rag.

1. Cut pipe to
correct length.

2. Solder (WHEN
COOL, do Step 3).

3. Put threaded adaptor
into bypass valve
port.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

FIG. 15

Line 1-800-426-9345
13

CONNECTTHEVALVEDRAINHOSE
Takea lengthof 3/8"insidediameterdraintubingand
attachoneendto thedrainfitting.SeeFig.16.Usea
tubeclampto holdit in place.Puttheotherendofthe
tubingovera floordrain,intoa laundrytub,standpipe,
or othersuitabledrain.Checkyour local codes.
Leaveanair gapofabout1=1/2"betweentheendof
thehoseandthe drain.Thisgapis neededsoyou
don'tgeta backflowof sewerwaterintothesoftener.
Donotputthe endof thehoseinto thedrainor connectwithoutthe airgap.
Placeandsupportthe hoseso it doesnotkinkor have
sharpbends.Securethehoseendso waterpressure
doesnotcausethe hoseto "whip".Tieor wireit in
place.Donotpinchthe hoseshut.Thesoftenerwill
not workif this drain hoseis pinched,plugged,
closedor restrictedin anyway.Directdrainflow
downintodrainfromdrainlineasflowcouldpossibly
overshootthedraincover.

per tube is also best to use for an overhead drain. Use
a copper drain tube if the softener is installed outside,
or in the sunlight. Heat from the sun can soften, flatten
and close up some kinds of tubes.
To adapt a copper drain tube to the softener, buy a
compression fitting (1/4" female pipe threads x 1/2"
O.D. tube) and tubing from your local hardware store.
CONNECT

SALT TANK OVERFLOW

TUBING

1. Locate the rubber grommet, tube adaptor and tube
clamp (see Fig. 16) that are in the parts bag.
2. Push the grommet into the hole in the salt tank wall
so half is inside and half is outside.
3. Push the bigger end of the tube adaptor into the
grommet.
4. Push one end of a length of 3/8" I.D. tubing onto
the tube adaptor, using the tube clamp to hold it in
place.
5. Put the other end of the tubing over the floor drain.
IMPORTANT." Overflow

Keepthe hoselowerthanthe drainfitting.Insome
homes,togetto a drainyoumustraisethehoseand
runit overhead.If youneedanoverheaddrain,do not
raisethe hosemorethan 8' abovethefloor.A copper
draintubeis bestto use.

water must run downward

through the tubing. Do not raise the tubing higher
than the grommet and tube adaptor. See Fig. 16.
IMPORTANT." Do not connect to the valve drain
hose you installed in step 1. Both drains must
have a separate hose or tube.

COPPER DRAIN TUBE: The local plumbing codes
may require the use a copper valve drain tube. A cop-

NOTE: Overflow drain tubing is available
Sears. See parts list in back of manual.

Drain
Fitting

•

from

1/4 NPT Threads

CIIp_
\

/
!

Barbs

Comp Fitting. t/4 NPT x I/2 in.
O.D. Tube (Not furnished)

Tube ,_
Clamp
L

Cut Barbs from
\\

Grommet.._

Tube
Adaptor

t/2" Outside Diameter
Copper Tube (Not furnished)

\_,,
\-,
\\

Valve Drain
Hose

_"
_"_

To drain
point other .....
than floor
drain•
Support
tubing in
place

Tie
or Wire
Tubing
in
Place

drain tubing is availNOTE:
Overflow
able
from
Sears,
Item No. 42-3433
(20 ft).

Drain Fitting (Pull
clip and remove
fitting from valve.)

1-t/2"
Air
Gap

needed•
['=- ==_

STANDPIPE
'_

_--T
II ! -I/2''
_J Air Gap

J
1-1/2" Air Gap

Overflow Drain Tubing "I'_

FLOOR DRAIN

LAUNDRY TUB

FiG. 16

Questions?
14

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

LEAK TEST
To check for leaks, complete the following steps:
CAUTION:
To avoid water or air pressure
damage to softener
inner parts, and to flush pipe
chips or other residue
from the water pipes, be
sure to do the following
steps exactly
as
instructed.

HOUSE MAIN WATER
SHUTOFF VALVES

Shu_
Sh t ff Vale

--_:_=

Pressure Tank

Meter

1. Fully open two cold, soft water faucets near the
softener.

Water

2. Look at the pictures in Fig. 18 and 19 to determine your kind of bypass valve(s). Place bypass
valve(s) in "bypass" position. On a single valve,
slide the stem inward to bypass. On a three (3)
valve system, close the inlet and outlet valves and
open the bypass valve.
3. Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff
valve. Observe steady water flow from both open
faucets.

Well Pump

FIG. 17

SINGLE

4. Place bypass valve(s) in SERVICE EXACTLY as
follows: Keep soft water faucets open.
a. Single Bypass Valve: Slowly, slide pull the
valve stem outward toward service, pausing sev=
oral times to allow the softener to pressurize slowly.
b. Three Valve Bypass: Fully close the bypass
valve and open the outlet valve. Slowly, open the
inlet valve, pausing several times to allow the softener to pressurize slowly.
5. After about three minutes, open a hot water
faucet for about one minute, or until all air is
expelled, then close.
6. Close both cold water faucets.

Pull Stem Outward
For Service

Push Inward
For Bypass

Note: Stem may be installed
in either direction. The end
with writing should be pulled
out for service position.

FIG. 18

7. Check your plumbing work for leaks and fix right
away if any are found. Be sure to observe previous caution notes.
NOTE: If this procedure is performed on a new
softener, water coming from the taps may initially be discolored. This normally occurs the first
time water runs through the resin bed. The discolored water is not harmful, and the discoloration will not last more than a few minutes.

BYPASS

VALVE

BYPASS

FOR SERVICE
Close bypass valve.
Open inlet & outlet
valves.

Valve

Outlet
Valve

FOR BYPASS
Open bypass valve.
Close inlet & outlet
valves.

Inlet
Valve

FIG. 19

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
15

INSTALLGROUNDINGCLAMPBETWEEN
THE SOFTENER

IN AND

COLD WATER

PiPE GROUNDING

OUT PIPES

The house cold water pipe (iron or copper) is often
used to ground all electrical outlets in the home.
Outlets are grounded to protect you from shock when
you touch any electric appliance plugged into the outlet. If you installed the single bypass valve, the cold
water pipe ground is broken. See Fig. 20 and 21.

TO
Valve Inlet
Ground

Clamp (2%

IMPORTANT." Be sure the cold water pipe has
direct metal to metal contact all the way to the
ground. Plastic, rubber or other electrically insulating parts such as hoses, fittings, washers or gaskets can break the direct metal to metal contact.
Also check the water meter (city water) or the well
pump. Install #4 copper jumper wires, clamped
tightly on both ends, across insulated parts. See
Fig. 21.
To restore the ground, take the ground clamp kit that is
in the parts bag. Install across the inlet and outlet copper tubes. See Fig. 20. Be sure good contact is made
between the pipe and the clamps.
ELECTRICAL
POWER
YOUR SOFTENER

OUTLET

Screw with lock j
washer and nut

FROM
Valve Outlet

FIG. 20

WATER

FOR

METER JUMPER

WiRE

Water Meter

The softener works on 24 volt, 60 Hz electric power.
The included transformer changes standard 120 volt
AC house power to 24 volts. You must plug the transformer into a grounded, 120 volt outlet only. Be sure
the outlet is always "live" so someone cannot turn it off
by mistake. See Fig. 22.

#4 Groundwire

FiG. 21

Note: The included transformer is made for inside use
only. Be sure the electrical outlet you plug the transformer into is inside, to protect from weather.

CONNECTING

TRANSFORMER

Transformer

PLUG IN THE TRANSFORMER
Plug the transformer into the electrical outlet.

Electrical
120V-60Hz

Outlet

|
Power Cable

_.._-.---

From Face Plate-Timer

FiG. 22

Questions?
16

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

iNSTALLCOVERS
Afterinstallingyourwatersoftener,replacethecovers.
Anglethe coversso themaincoverclipsontothe back
first,thenbringdowninfrontandcliponthetwo(2)tabs
insidetherimofthe saltholeandlowerthe saltcover
closed.SeeFig.23.
RESTART

THE WATER

Salt Hole
Cover

Cover
(Main)

HEATER

Turn on the gas (or electric) supply to the water heater
and light the pilot.
YOUR PLUMBING INSTALLATION AND ELECTRICAL
WORK ARE NOW COMPLETE.
FiG. 23

Display

REGENERATION

Button

UP Button

SELECT Buttons

DOWN Button

PROGRAM

FIG. 24

THE TIMER

1. When the transformer is plugged in, the model code H46
or H47, and a test number (example: G1.1) show in the
face plate display for 4 seconds. Then, 12:00 AM and
PRESENT TIME begin to flash.
NOTE: If '" - - -" shows in the display, press the UP or
DOWN button until H46, for Model 38426, or H47 for
Model 39426, shows in the display. Then, press the
SELECT button to set, and change to the flashing
PRESENT TIME display.
2. To check the model code, unplug the transformer at the
wall outlet and plug in again. If other than this code
shows, refer to the Troubleshooting
Section.
SOUND "BEEPER": A "beeper" sounds while pressing
buttons for timer setup. One beep signals a change in the
face plate display. Repeated beeps mean the timer will not
accept a change from the button you have pressed, telling
you to use another button. For example, while setting the
hardness the beeper sounds repeatedly when the display
reaches 1 using the DOWN button, or the highest hardness setting using the UP button.time rapidly.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Model 38426
Model:
Version:

1146
GI.I

Present Time:
PM

Thank You
1:oi-Choosing Kenmore
...1:ot-Quality Water

/_ V
Model

Model:
Vcrskm:

CIIANGE

SELECT

39426

1147
GI.I

Present Time:
_PM

Thank You
For Choosing Kenmore
...For Quality Water

CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 25

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
17

SET PRESENT

TiME OF DAY

Present Time:

If the words PRESENT TIME do not show in the display,
press the SELECT button until they do show in the display.
Press the UP or DOWN buttons to set the present time.
Press UP to move the display ahead; press DOWN to move
the time backward. If the present time is between noon and
midnight, be sure PM shows. If the present time is between
midnight and noon, be sure AM shows. Each press of the UP
or DOWN buttons changes the time by one (1) minute.
Holding the buttons in changes the time rapidly.
SET WATER

HARDNESS

Present Time:

_Av

A V

_PM

CHANGE

SELECT

A V

NUMBER

A V

CHANGE

Press the UP or DOWN buttons to set your water hardness number in the display. The DOWN button moves the
display to 1. The UP button moves the display to the highest setting (see maximum setting for your model in the
specifications).
NOTE: Each press of the UP or DOWN button changes
the display by 1 between I and 25. Between 25 and the
highest number, the display changes 5 at a time (25,
30, 35, etc.) Holding the UP or DOWN button in
changes the display twice each second.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

SELECT

FiG. 27

2ppmironx5=
10
20 gpg hardness
+10
30 HARDNESS NUMBER

SELECT

FiG. 26

To set the water hardness number, complete the following
steps:
1. Press the SELECT button once to display 25 (flashing)
and HARDNESS. The grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of
your water supply is on your water analysis report. Be sure
to enter water test results on the Facts & Figure Chart on
page 3.
2. If your water supply contains iron, compensate for it by
adding to the water hardness number. For example,
assume your water is 20 gpg hard and contains 2 ppm
iron. Add 5 to the hardness number for each I ppm of iron.
In this example, you would use 30 for your hardness number.

CHANGE

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

SET REGENERATION

TiME
Recharge Time:

To complete setting the regeneration time, complete the following steps:
1. Press the SELECT button to display 2:00 AM (flashing) and
RECHARGE TIME.
/_ V

CHANGE

SELECT

FiG. 28

2. At the 2:00 AM recharge time setting, the softener begins
regeneration (see pages 29 - 31 ) at 2:00 AM. This is a good
time in most households because water is not being used. If
a different recharge time setting would be better for your
household, complete the following step.
3. Press the UP or DOWN buttons to set the desired recharge
starting hour. Be sure to observe the AM-PM as you did when
setting the present time of day.
Note: Each press of the UP or DOWN buttons changes
the display one hour. Holding the buttons in changes the
display twice each second.

5:39 pM

Recharge Tonight
_

_
Water

MTre
Flow

4. Press the SELECT button once again, to complete initial
programming, and the current time of day shows in the display.

FiG. 29

Normal Operating Screen has several useful items that
can be viewed at a glance. The black bars on the left column display the amount of salt in the storage tank. The
present time is shown in the upper right hand corner.
Options are shown in the top center of the display. If the
unit is going to recharge tonight or is in a recharge, this is
shown. By pressing the Up arrow displays the "More"
screen.
"More" Screen shows the water used today, average daily
use, average pounds of salt used per recharge and
recharge count. If the recharge count is reset to zero, the
average

pounds

of salt per recharge

is reset also.

PROGRAM MEMORY If electrical power to the softener
goes off, the time display is blank but the face plate timer
keeps the correct time for about 72 hours. When electrical
power comes on again, you have to reset the present
time only if the Set Present Time display is showing. The
HARDNESS and RECHARGE
TIME never require resetting unless a change is desired. Even if the timer is incorrect after a long power outage, the softener works as it
should to keep your water soft. However, regenerations
may occur at the wrong time of day until you reset the
timer to the correct time of day.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
19

SANITIZETHE

WATER

SOFTENER

Care is taken at the factory to keep your water softener clean
and sanitary. Materials used to make the softener will not
infect or contaminate your water supply, or cause bacteria to
form or grow. However, during shipping, storage, installing
and operating, bacteria could get into the softener.
\

SANITIZE YOUR WATER SOFTENER AS FOLLOWS:
1. Be certain the bypass valve is pulled out to
"service" position.
2. Lift the salt hole cover and use a pail add up to 3 gallons
of water to the salt storage tank.
3. Remove the brine well cover (Fig. 30) and pour about 3/4
ounce, or 1 to 2 tablespoons, of common 5.25% 1, unscented, household bleach (Clorox, Linco, BoPeep, White Sail,
Eagle, etc.) in the softener brinewell. Replace the brinewell
cover.
4. Press the REGENERATION button and hold for 3 seconds
to start a recharge. This first recharge does several things.
• It draws the bleach into and through the softener to sanitize it.
• It fills the salt tank to the water level needed.

Brinewell Cover
(Remove and
add about
3/4 oz. bleach)

Brinewell

Water
About 3 gallons

• It gets all the air out of the resin tank.
• It prepares the resin bed (see page 26) for service and
flushes residual chlorine from the softener.
NOTE: This recharge takes about 2=1/2 to 2=3/4 hours,
depending on the salt type setting.

FiG. 30

NOTE: During a recharge the water softener bypasses
raw water to the home. You will not get salty water or
affect the regeneration cycle if water is used at this time.
You can sanitize
storage tank.

the softener

with or without

salt in the

1Recommended by the Water Quality Association. On some
water supplies, the water softener may need periodic disinfecting.
Your new Sears softener is now softening the water for your
household needs. However, your WATER HEATER is filled
with hard water. To have fully soft water right away, you can
drain the water heater so it refills with soft water. If you don't
drain the water heater, it will take a few days before you have
fully soft water.
To drain the water heater, open a hot water faucet and let it
run until the water runs cold. Then close the faucet.
NOTE: If this procedure is performed on a new softener,
water coming from the taps may initially be discolored.
This normally occurs the first time water runs through
the resin bed. The discolored water is not harmful, and
the discoloration
will not last more than a few minutes.

Questions?
2O

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

ADDING

SALT TO THE STORAGE

TANK

Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for each and
every regeneration. The water for making brine is
metered into the salt storage tank by the softener. You
must keep salt in the tank, but because the water softener is very efficient, it is not necessary to keep it full.
Especially in humid areas, it is best to fill the storage
tank one quarter to one half full, and to add salt more
often. Salt bridging occurs more often when conditions
are humid.
Use NUGGET or PELLET water softener salt. DO NOT

Cover

use rock salts, as they have dirt and sediments that will
stop the softener from working.To maintain optimum performance of your water softener, the salt tank should be
cleaned out every 2 to 3 years.

Brinewell

Before adding salt, be sure the brinewell cover is in place
on the top of the brinewell. It is recommended to set the
salt monitor system, although it is not required for proper
operation.

Salt
Storage_'_
Tank

NOTE: The salt monitor system is calibrated to the
density of nugget or pellet water softener salt. The
monitor will not work as accurately with other types
of salt including rock and solar.
If you choose Potassium Chloride (KCI) as a regenerant,
following these suggestions will help give you years of
maintenance free service.

FIG. 31

1. Place only one bag of KCI in your softener at a time
(the salt storage tank should contain no more than
60 pounds of KCI at any one time).
2. A softener using KCI should not be placed in areas
with temperature fluctuations and high humidity (KCI
will harden in these environments and may make the
softener inoperable).
3. Check the brine tank and brine well (black tube in salt
storage tank) monthly. If hardening is present, pour
small amounts of warm water on hardened areas until
they loosen.
Persons who are on sodium restricted diets should consider the added sodium as part of their overall sodium
intake. For example, if your water supply is 15 grains
hard, and you drank 3 quarts of softened water you would
consume 335 milligrams of sodium. That is equivalent to
eating 2-1/2 slices of white bread.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

WATER SOFTENING
SALT WITH
REMOVING
ADDITIVES

IRON

Some salts have an additive to help the softener handle
iron in the water supply. These salts may be used if
your water supply has a high iron content. It is recommended to use Sears Resin Bed Cleaner (refer to the
Parts List in back of manual for part number) for periodic treatments to keep your resin bed clean. This is available at your local Sears store.
Persons who are concerned about their drinking water
should consider a Kenmore Drinking Water System that
will remove or reduce in excess of 90% of the sodium
and other drinking water contaminants.

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
21

CHECKLiST

OF STEP-BY-STEP

GUIDES

iNSTALL

Water Supply

Review the following list to ensure you have completed all
the installation procedures,
1.

Check the incoming water, Has incoming water
been tested?

\
Valve Inlet
Bypass

Valve(s)

2. Remove cardboard packaging from salt tank,
Single
Bypass Valve

3. Is the incoming water going to the valve inlet?
4. Is the bypass valve placed into the service
position?
5. Is the ground clamp installed?
6. Are the drain lines clamped and secured?

Note: Stem may be installed in
either direction. The end with writing should be pulled out for service
position.

7. Is the unit plugged into a continuously live outlet?
8. Has salt been added to the salt tank?

Bypass
Valve

9. Has the unit been sanitized? See page 20.
FOR SERVICE
Close bypass valve.
Open inlet & outlet
valves.

Outlet
Valve

Inlet
Valve

3-Valve

FIG. 32

EXTRARECHARGE
Sometimes,
a manuallystartedregeneration
(recharge)
maybedesired,or needed.Twoexamples are:
• You have used more water than usual (guests visiting)
and you may run out of soft water before the next timer
started regeneration.
• You did not refill the softener with salt before it was
gone. Add salt to the softener before regenerating.
You can start a regeneration right away, or you can set
the timer to regenerate at the next 2:00 AM (or other preset recharge time).
RECHARGE
NOW
Press the REGENERATION button and hold until
*RECHARGE screen shows in the display and the green
recharge LED is flashing. This screen shows the regeneration time and cycle time remaining. After regeneration,
you will have soft water again.

14l:07

RECIIARGE
Time Left
Cycle:
Backwash
Time Left 4:35

FIG. 33

* NOTE: ff the CLEAN feature is set to ON, a cleaning
backwash (CLEAN and Bkwsh or Rinse flashes in
the display, along with the minutes of the clean
cycle remaining) precedes the recharge.
RECHARGE

TONIGHT

Press and release (do not hold) the REGENERATION
button. RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes in the display, the
green recharge LED is on and the softener begins regeneration at the next preset recharge time. Press and
release the REGENERATION button once more if you
decide to cancel the regeneration, RECHARGE
TONIGHT will no longer be displayed on the screen and
the green recharge LED will turn off.
MENU

Recharge Tonight

5:39 I'M
._

More
Water Flow

FIG. 34

SELECTIONS:
MAIN MENU
Settings
Options
Units
Service Mode

The timer has menu driven programming. To get to the
main menu from the normal operating screen view, press
the SELECT button. Once in a menu, pressing the UP or
DOWN buttons will move the black bar over the menu

choices, and pressing the SELECT key will enter the
individual menus which are described below. By placing
the black bar over the word "Back" and pressing
SELECT, will move back one screen. By placing the
black bar over the word "Exit" will return the screen to

A V

CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 35

the normal operating screen.
SETTINGS
Language
Present Time
tlardness
Recharge Time
Back
Exit
A V
CtlANGE

SETTINGS:
In this menu, changes can be made to Language,
Present Time, Hardness and Recharge Time.
Language for all screens can be in English, Spanish or
French. Move the black bar to Language, and press
SELECT. Move black bar over your choice and press
SELECT. Screen returns to Settings Menu.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

SELECT

FIG. 36

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
23

forallscreenscanbein English,Spanishor
French.Movethe blackbarto Language,
andpress
SELECT.
Moveblackbaroveryourchoiceandpress
SELECT.
Screenreturnsto SettingsMenu.

Language
English
Espafiol
Frangais

NOTE: If Language has been mistakenly changed,
press SELECT button until you see English, Espa_ol
and Francais in the display. The maximum number of
presses is six and it could be fewer depending on
which screen was displayed. Use the UP or DOWN
arrows to place the black bar over language desired.
Press SELECT twice to return to normal operating
screen.

A V

CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 37

Present Time changes the current time of the faceplate.
Be sure to have correct AM or PM time, or softener will
recharge at the wrong time of day. One press of the UP
or DOWN button changes the time by one minute intervals. Press and hold either the UP or DOWN arrow, to
scroll through the time at a faster rate.

A V

CIIANGE

SELECT

FiG. 38
1lardness:
_Grains

Hardness changes the hardness setting. Default is 25.
Pressing the UP or DOWN button changes the number by
one. Once correct number is shown, press SELECT to
change to new setting.

A V

CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 39
Recharge Time:

_AM

Recharge Time is the when the softener is scheduled to
start a recharge. Default is 2:00 AM. Using the UP or
DOWN arrows changes the time by one hour increments.
When the desired time is shown, press SELECT to
change and return to Settings menu.

A V

CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 40

OPTIONS:

OPTIONS
Salt Options

Choices are Salt Options, QuickCharge,
and Recharge Count.

Rinse Option

QuickChargc
Rinse

Option

Recharge
Back

Count

Exit

Salt Options has several selections:

CHANGE

SELECT

FIG. 41

When salt is added to tank, Salt Level must be changed
to the new salt level in the tank. Use the UP or DOWN
arrows to set. Observe the bars and the corresponding
number value in the display. This number must match the
number on the brine tube in the brine tank that the salt
level is closest to. When the correct number is displayed,
press the SELECT key. Screen will return to Salt Options
screen. The salt monitor is an estimate of your salt level;
accuracy depends on type of salt used and regeneration
characteristics.

_ Salt
A

Level:
V

CIIANGE

FIG. 42

NOTE: The display automatically
defaults to this
screen and the tank light turns on when the salt
cover is opened on the softener and returns to nor=
mal operating screen when salt cover is closed.

Questions?
24

Call The Kenmore

SELECT

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

Salt Alert Level is the level at which you want your softener
to signal that the salt level is low. When salt level drops to
this point, the low salt LED will flash on the faceplate. Move
the small cursor up or down by pressing the UP or DOWN
arrows and observe the number in the display. When the
correct number is displayed, press the SELECT key. Screen
will return to Salt Options screen.

Salt Alert

Level:
/_ V

m
CIIANGE

SELECT

FIG. 43

NOTE: This warning will indicate the softener's inability
to reduce barium and radium 226/228 efficiently.
Changing the Salt Alert Level to less than 2 will void the
proper function of this indicator.

Salt Type:
NaCI

Potassium Chloride
See Owner's Manual

Salt Type allows you to chose between sodium chloride
(NaCI), which is regular softener salt, or potassium chloride
(KCI), which is an alternative to sodium chloride. KCI should
be used in accordance to the following steps to help give
you years of maintenance free service.
1. Place only one bag of KCI in your softener at a time (the
salt storage tank should contain no more than 60 pounds
of KCI at any one time).
2. A softener using KCI should not be placed in areas with
high temperature changes or high humidity (KCI will harden in these environments and may make the softener
inoperable).
3. Check the brine tank and brinewell (black tube in salt storage tank) monthly. If hardening is present, pour small
amounts of warm water on hardened areas until they
loosen.
4. Be sure to set the correct salt type depending on which
salt type is used (NaCI or KCI). Use the UP or DOWN
arrows to toggle between NaCI or KCI and press SELECT
to enter information and return to Salt Options screen.

A V

CHANGE

SELECT

FIG. 44

NOTE: If KCI is selected the normal operating screen
will display KCI in the lower right hand corner of the dis=
play.
Salt Efficienc_ has three options.
H_i h Performance, Salt Efficient and Max. Salt Efficient.
Using Sodium Chloride (NaCI) with these options, High
Performance allows the softener to operate at a normal efficiency rate. This is good for households with high water
usage. At the Salt Efficient setting, the softener operates at a
minimum of 4,000 grains per pound of salt and set at Max.
Salt Efficient, the softener operates at a minimum of 4,250
grains per pound of salt. Use the UP or DOWN arrows to
move the black bar over your choice. Press SELECT, and a
warning screen will appear. Changing this setting will affect
performance. Choose either Cancel or Accept. Display will
return to Salt Options menu, press SELECT once more to
return to normal operating screen. An "E" will be displayed
on the screen if either Salt Efficient or Max. Salt Efficient is
selected.
NOTE: The state of California requires
Efficient or Max. Salt Efficient.

Questions?

a setting

[_
[m[m_

5:39 PM
Water Flow

FIG. 45

of Salt

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
25

TheQuickCharcLe.
optionis an integralpartofthe
IntelliSoft
waterandsaltsavingsystem.Whenthis
optionis selected,
the softenerwillautomatically
rechargeif95%ofcapacityhasbeenunexpectedly
usedandthereis lessthan1/2gpmflow.Therecharge
willlast30minutesandgivethesoftenerapproximately
5,000grainscapacity.Thesoftenerwillalsorunthrough
a normalrechargecyclethatnight.Movethe blackbar
overOnor OffandpressSELECT.
Displaywillreturnto
SaltOptionsmenu,pressSELECToncemoreto return
to normaloperatingscreen.A "Q"willbedisplayedon
thenormaloperatingscreenifthisoptionis chosen.
TheQuickCharge
optionis ONwhenthesoftener
leavesthefactory.

_'1
._

5:39PM
More

Water Flow

FiG. 46

Rinse Option has three choices.
WaterSaver reduces by 20% the amount of water used
during regeneration. This option should only be used if
feed water is from a municipal supply, 8 grains of hardness maximum, and no iron present. At Normal setting
the softener operates at normal water usage for regenerations, and Clean Feature adds an extra backwash
and fast rinse in the regeneration cycle. Clean feature
may be used when feed water has higher sediment or
iron content. Default setting is "Clean". Move the black
bar over choice and press SELECT. Display will return
to Salt Options menu, press SELECT once more to
return to normal operating screen. A "W" or "C" will be
displayed on the normal operating screen if WaterSaver
or Clean Feature option is chosen.

_
._

5:39 PM
More

Water Flow

FIG. 47

Recharcle Count keeps track of the number of
recharges, either from initial set up, or since last reset.
Use the UP or DOWN arrows to move the black bar
over Yes or No and press SELECT. On the "More"
screen, Avg. Salt/Rchg is reset to 0 also, if yes is
selected. Display will return to Salt Options menu,
press SELECT once more to return to normal operating
screen.
UNITS:
UNITS
12 / 24 ltour Clock
Gallons / Liters
Grains / PPM
Pounds / Kilograms
Back
Exit
A V
CHANGE

Choices are 12/24 Hour Clock, Gallons/Liters,
Grains/PPM and Pounds/Kilograms.
12/24 Hour Clock option allows you to choose how the
time is displayed on the normal operating screen. Move
the black bar over 24 Hour or 12 Hour and press
SELECT. Display will return to Units menu, press
SELECT once more to return to normal operating
screen. If 12 Hour clock is chosen, an AM or PM will be
displayed, be sure that time is correctly set for AM or
PM.

Questions?
26

Call The Kenmore

SELECT

FIG. 48

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

Gallons/Liters option allows you to choose how the
water usage is displayed on the normal operating
screen. Move the black bar over Gallons or Liters and
press SELECT. Display will return to Units menu, press
SELECT once more to return to normal operating
screen. Display will show either "lpm" for liters per
minute or "gpm" for gallons per minute.
Grains/PPM option allows you to choose either grains
or parts per million. Move the black bar over Grains or
PPM and press SELECT. Display will return to Units
menu, press SELECT once more to return to normal
operating screen. All settings will be measured in grains
or parts per million.
Pounds/Kilo rclrams option allows you to choose either
pounds or kilograms of salt used. Move the black bar
over Pounds or Kilograms and press SELECT. Display
will return to Units menu, press SELECT once more to
return to normal operating screen.
SERVICE

MODE:

Choices are Time Options, Diagnostics, Set Model and
Factory Defaults.

SERVICE MODE
Time Options
Diagnosics
Set Model
Factory Defaults
Back
Exit
/_ V
CHANGE
SELECT

Time Options has several selections. Clean Time,
Backwash Time, Fast Rinse Time and Max
Days/Recharges can be modified to different time settings. Use the UP or DOWN arrows to change the number of minutes desired for each cycle and press the
SELECT key. Screen returns to Time Options menu.
Press SELECT once more to return to normal operating
screen.

FIG. 49

Diagnostics is a view only screen that displays information about the softener. What position the valve is in, if
the motor is on or off, is the position switch open or
closed, is some of the information on this screen.
Set Model screen changes the model code from either
H46 or H47 to HF45. H46 or H47 are the required
codes for your softener to function properly.
Factory Defaults resets all settings. You must reprogram the timer to any customized settings if this option
is used.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
27

KENMORE'SULTRACLEANSINGFEATURE
Theultracleansingfeaturekeepslargerparticlesofsedimentfromenteringthe home'splumbingsystem.As
waterpassesthroughthesoftener,the largersediment
particlesarecollectedin theintegratedbasketandthen
rinsedtothe drainbeforeeachregeneration.
Theultra
cleansingfeatureprovidesaddedprotection
forwater
usingappliances
by reducingthechanceof largerparticlesenteringthevariousproductsvalvesandscreens.
An
extrabackwash
willbepreprogrammed
intotheelectronicsby thefactory.Thisextrabackwash
will helpkeepthe
ultracleansingfeaturescreenclean.

Ultra Cleansing Screen

\\\\

important: The ultra cleansing feature is not intended
to replace pretreatment
filtration. For problem water
applications,
additional sediment filtration is recommended.

Top Distributor

FIG. 50
Sears offers a full line of dedicated sediment filtration
products,

Questions?
28

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

SOFT WATER

SERVICE

AND REGENERATION

WATER FLOW THROUGH
THE SOFTENER
IN SERVICE

SERVICE
When the softener is giving you soft water, it is called
"Service". During service, hard water comes from the
house main water pipe into the softener. Inside the softener 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 hardness minerals. This is called ion exchanging. Water without the
hardness minerals (soft water) flows out of the softener
and into the house soft water pipes. After a period of
time, the resin beads hold all of the hardness minerals
they can, and cleaning with salt brine is needed. This
cleaning is called regeneration or recharge.
Regeneration is started at 2:00 a.m. by the electronic
timer. It takes place in 5 stages or cycles.

Soft Water
OU_

Hard Water
'_IN

Salt Storage Tank\
(Salt not shown)

Resin Tank

Brine Valve X
Resin Bed

These are: 1. Fill
2.
3.
4.
5.

Brining
Brine Rinse
Backwash
Fast Rinse
FIG. 51

NOTE: If the Clean Feature is set to "On" additional
backwash and fast rinse cycles occur before the fill
cycle.

WATER FLOW THROUGH
THE SOFTENER
IN FiLL

REGENERATION
The five steps listed above are described in detail over
the next several pages.
FILL: Salt, dissolved in water, is called brine. Brine is
needed to clean the hardness minerals from the resin
beads. To make the brine, water flows into the salt storage area during the fill stage. Fill cycle length depends
on how much soft water making capacity you have
used since the last regeneration. As you use more
water, fill time increases so more brine is made. The
greater amount of brine cleans more hardness minerals
from the resin bed.

Soft Water

Hard Water

Salt Storage Tank

Brine Valve_

\
Fill Water

FIG. 52

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
29

SOFT WATER

SERVICE

AND REGENERATION

WATER FLOW THROUGH
THE SOFTENER IN
BRINING AND BRINE RINSE

BRINING: During brining, the brine is moved from the
salt storage area, into the resin tank. Inside the resin
tank, brine cleans hardness minerals from the resin
beads and they are discharged out the drain. How
much brine is needed to clean the resin depends on:
• The amount of water used between regenerations.
• The amount of resin in the softener,
• How fast the brine goes through the bed.
The nozzle and venturi makes suction to take brine
from the salt tank and put it into the resin tank. They
keep the brine flow down to a very slow rate to get the
best resin cleaning with the least salt.

Hard Water
Bypass OUT

Hard Water

Nozzle & Venturi

Brine Valve...._.

BRINE RINSE: After all of the brine is moved into the
resin tank, the brine valve closes. Water keeps flowing
the same way it did during brining except the brine flow
has stopped. Hardness minerals and brine flush from
the resin tank to the drain. Brining and brine rinse
together vary in the length of time they take, relative to
the fill cycle length.

Brine

FIG. 53

BACKWASH: During backwash, water flows UP
through the resin tank at a fast rate to flush iron minerals, dirt and sediments from the bed and to the drain.
The bed lifts and expands for good cleaning.

WATER FLOW THROUGH THE
SOFTENER IN BACKWASH
Hard Water
Bypass OUT

Hard Water
IN

t
Drain

_'Resin

Bed Lifted

and Expanded

FIG. 54

Questions?
30

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

FASTRINSE:Backwash
is followedby a fastflowof
waterdownthroughthe resintank.Thefastflowpacks
theresinbedandgetsit readyforreturntoservice.

WATER FLOW THROUGH
THE SOFTENER
IN FAST RINSE

Afterfastrinse,the softenerreturnstoservice.Hard
watergoesintothe resintankwheretheresinbed
againtakesoutthehardnessminerals.Softwatergoes
tothe housesoftwaterpipes.

Soft Water
OUT

Hard Water
IN

Drain

SOFT WATER

SERVICE

AND REGENERATION

AUTOMATIC BYPASS
During the brining, brine rinse and backwash cycles of
regeneration, HARD water goes through the softener
valve and to the house pipes. If a faucet is opened,
hard water is there for your needs. However, you should
not use hot water, if possible, because the water heater
will refill with hard water. The softener, as factory programmed, regenerates from 2:00 AM to about 4:20 AM,
a time when not much water is used.

FiG. 55

If you start your day prior to 4 AM, you may need to
change the recharge starting time. Set the recharge
time to 12:00 AM or 1:00 AM. Then regeneration will
start and end that much earlier and your water heater
will not refill with hard water if a hot faucet is opened.
ELECTRONICS
Two main parts of the softener's electronics are:
a WATER METER, and a COMPUTER.
• WATER METER The water meter is in the softener
valve outlet. As water flows through the meter, it sends
electric pulses to the computer. The computer
changes the pulses to a measure in gallons of water.
• COMPUTER The computer is part of the faceplate
timer circuit board. It is programmed to know the softener's capacity (how many grains of hardness minerals it will take out of the water before a regeneration is
needed). When starting the softener, you set it for the
grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of the water.
To find a regeneration pattern best for your needs, the
computer uses:
(1) water usage from the meter
(2) hardness setting
(3) softener capacity
(4) time since the last regeneration.
The computer always adjusts this pattern to your water
using habits. It works toward providing you with soft
water for the longest time and at the most efficient salt
usage.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Softening capacity is used as hard water goes through
the softener and hardness minerals are removed. When
the computer determines that only enough capacity
remains to provide soft water up to the next regeneration starting time (2:00 AM, or as otherwise set) it will
schedule a regeneration. When the regeneration
begins, *RECHARGE or RECHARGE TIME REMAINING flashes during the regeneration.
* Note: If the CLEAN feature is set to ON, a cleaning
backwash (CLEAN and Bkwsh or Rinse flashes in
the display, along with the minutes of the clean
cycle remaining), precedes the recharge.

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
31

SALT BRIDGE
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the salt
storage tank. 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 (melt) in the water to make brine. Without
brine, the resin bed does not regenerate and you will
have hard water.
If the storage 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 should be loose all the way to the bottom of the tank.
Hold a broom handle, or like tool, up to the softener as
shown in Fig. 56. Make a pencil mark on the handle, 1" or
2" below the top height of the rim. Then, carefully push it
straight down into the salt. If a hard object is felt before
the pencil mark gets to the top of the tank, it's most likely
a salt bridge. Carefully push into the bridge in a few
places to break it. Do not try to break the salt bridge
by pounding on the outside of the salt tank. You may
damage the tank.

SALT BRIDGE

Push tool into
salt bridge to break

- 2"

__L_
Pencil Mark

J
Broom Handle

Salt
Salt Bridge
_/empty

space

Water Level

FiG. 56
If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out. Then
fill the tank with nugget or pellet salt only.

Questions?
32

Call The Kenmore

Water Line 1-800-426-9345

KEEPING

THE WATER

SOFTENER

CLEAN

CLeaning NozzLe

& Venturi

NOZZLE & VENTURI
A clean nozzle and venturi (see Fig. 57) is a must for
the softener to work right. This small unit moves brine
from the salt storage tank to the resin tank during
regeneration. If it becomes plugged with sand, silt, dirt,
etc., the softener will not work and you will get hard
water.
To clean the nozzle and venturi, complete the following
steps:
1. Remove the softener top cover. Be sure the softener
is in service cycle (no water pressure at nozzle and
venturi).
2. Turn off the cap from the nozzle and venturi housing.
3. Lift out the screen support and screen. Do not lose
the large o-ring seal.

the gasket are centered directly
over the small holes in the nozzle &
venturi housing.
*Flow Plug
(HVDC)

4. Remove 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

Nozzle & Venturi f
Housing

clean the gasket, flow plugs and screens.
5. Carefully replace all parts in the correct order.
6. Lubricate the o-ring seal with silicone grease or
Vaseline and place in position.

*Install with numbered side up concave
side down. Be sure the largest flow plug
is located in the nozzle & venturi housing.

7. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only. Do not
overtighten, which may break the cap or housing.
IRON FROM

RESIN

FIG. 57

BED

Your water softener takes hardness minerals (calcium
and magnesium) out of the water. It can also control
some "clear water" iron. See maximum allowed in the
specifications section in this manual. 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 softener WILL NOT remove
any iron which 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. Your local Sears store has trained people to
help you with iron water problems.
If your water supply has clear water iron, even though
less than the maximum allowed, regular resin bed
cleaning is needed. Your local Sears store has resin
bed cleaner for this. See Parts List in back of manual
for part numbers. Clean the bed at least every six (6)
months. If iron shows up in the soft water before six (6)
months, clean more often. Printed instructions are on
the resin bed cleaner bottle.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
33

PROTECT
FREEZING

THE WATER

SOFTENER

FROM

DRAIN ALL WATER

FROM SOFTENER

If the softener is installed where it could freeze (summer cabin, lake home, etc.), you must drain all water
from it to stop possible freeze damage. To drain the softener:
1. Close the shut-off valve on the house main water
pipe, near the water meter or pressure tank.
2. Open a faucet in the soft water pipes to vent pressure in the softener.
,

Move the stem in a single bypass valve to bypass.
Close the inlet and outlet valve in a 3 valve bypass
system, and open the bypass valve. If you want
water in the house pipes again, reopen the shut-off
valve on the main water pipe.

Unplug the transformer at the wall outlet. Remove
the salt hole cover and the main cover. Take off both
drain hoses.

Carefully remove the large holding clips at the softener inlet and outlet. Separate the softener from the
plastic installation adaptors, or from the bypass
valve.

Wood Block

Remove the brinewell cover and disconnect the brine
valve tubing at the nozzle and venturi assembly. Lift
the brine valve out of the brinewell. Tip the brine
valve upside down to drain water.

Lay a piece of 2 inch thick board near the floor drain.
Move the softener close to the drain. SLOWLY and
CAREFULLY, tip it over until the rim rests on the
wood block with the inlet and outlet over the drain.
Do not allow the softener's weight to rest on the
inlet and outlet fittings or they will break.

Tip the bottom of the softener up a few inches and
hold until all water has drained. Leave the softener
laying like this until you are ready to use it. Plug the
inlet and outlet with rags to keep dirt, bugs, etc. out.

Questions?
34

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

FIG. 58

CHECKLIST

TO HELP YOU SAVE MONEY

If your water softener fails to work, make the following easy checks. Often, you will find what is wrong yourself and
you won't have to call and wait for service. If you do not find anything wrong, while making the checks, and your softener still does not work, call your Sears Service Department.
1. Also read ERROR CODE.
2. If an error code is not displayed, press and hold the SELECT button until the display changes. Then, press the
SELECT button again and hold until a flashing code appears. It must show H46 for Model 38426 or H47 for model
39426. If any other number shows, the face plate computer is working on incorrect input and would probably be
the cause of the problem. To set the correct code, press either the UP or DOWN button. When correct model
code shows, press SELECT to return a flashing 12:00 AM display. Reset the present time, hardness number, etc.

PROBLEM
No soft

Water

Brine

CAUSE

water

hard

sometimes

tank flooded

Salty tasting
immediately
regeneration

water
after

CORRECTION

No salt (or salt bridged) in the storage tank

Add salt, see page 21, or break the salt bridge,
see page 29. Press REGENERATION button
and hold to start a regeneration, see page 23.

Transformer unplugged at the wall outlet, or
power cable leads loose from the electronic
board, fuse blown, circuit breaker popped, or
circuit switched off.

Check for loss of power due to any of these
and correct. With the power back on, look at
the time display and read PROGRAM MEMORYI see page 19.

Manual bypass valve(s) in bypass position

Look at Fig. 18 & 19 on page 15. Move the
stem in a single valve to service. In a 3-valve
bypass, open the inlet and outlet valve, and be
sure to fully close the bypass valve.

Dirty, plugged or damaged nozzle venturi

Take apart and clean or replace damaged
parts, see page 33.

Valve drain hose plugged or restricted

The drain hose must not have kinks, sharp
bends, or be raised too high above the softener, see page 14.

Hardness number setting too low

Press and release the SELECT button until
HARDNESS shows in the display. Read the
hardness number in the display and be sure
the same grains per gallon number is shown
as on your water analysis report. See page 18
to reset. Press and release the SELECT button
until the present time shows in the display.

Using hot water when softener is regenerating

Avoid using hot water during this time because
the water heater refills with hard water, see
Automatic Bypass, page 31.

Increase in the grains of hardness in your
water supply

Ask your Sears retail store for a new water
analysis. Then make a new hardness number
setting, page 18.

Restricted drain line

Check for kinks, bends or obstructions,
page 14.

Plugged or dirty nozzle & venturi

Take apart and clean or replace damaged
parts, see page 33.

Valve rotor-disc & seals

Check for scratches or grooves, replace if
needed.

Restricted drain line

Check for kinks, bends or obstructions,
page 14.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

see

Line 1-800-426-9345
35

BYPASS

VALVES

Bypass valve(s) should always remain in soft water
service position. Position in "bypass" only if needed for
softener repairs.

[

SINGLE BYPASS
pull stem
outward for
service

E
D

push
inward for
bypass
\

Inches

A i Salt Tank Height

86.4

25.4

Resin Tank Diameter
(nominal)

Resin Tank Height (nominal)

101.6

Inlet-Outlet Height

41-1/2

105.4

E Overall Height

121.9

F 1 Length

53.3

F 2 Width

43.2

3-3/4

8.6

Distance between inlet-outlet
centerlines

3 VALVE BYPASS
FOR SERVICE

Bypass
valve

close bypass valve
open inlet & outlet valves
FOR BYPASS

Outlet

open bypass
close inlet & outlet

valve

Inlet
valve

FIG. 59
MODEL
MODEL

384260
394260

TIMER
TIMER

WATER SUPPLY TO WATER SOFTENER

CODE H46
CODE H47
MODEL 384260

MODEL 394260

Minimum water system flow (gpm)
Minimum-maximum

water pressure (psi)

20 - 125

Minimum-maximum

water temperature

40 - 120

160

Type of salt needed

nugget

Alternate type of salt

pure, evaporated, compacted
water softener salt

(°F)

Maximum water hardness (gpg)
Maximum "clear water" iron (ppm)*
SALT FOR WATER SOFTENER

gpm = gallons per minute gpg = grains per gallon
psi = pounds per square inch
ppm = parts per million
* Capacity to remove clear water iron is substantiated by WQA test data. State of Wisconsin requires additional treatment if water supply contains
greater than 5 ppm clear water iron.

Questions?
36

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

Pressure

Drop (PSI) vs. Flow Rate (GPM)

25
A

1/}

a
.=

(/)

420 Series

9,5gpm @ lOpsi

13.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011 121314151617181920212223

FiG. 60

Flow Rate (GPM)

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL 384260

MODEL 394260

high capacity

1.20

12,500 @ 2.5
33,300 @ 9.4
42,300 @ 16.3

5010 @ 2.5

Rated Service Flow Rate (gpm)

9.5

Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow Rate (psi)

Intermittent FLow Rate @ 15 psi (gpm) _t

13.0

Max. Drain Flow Rate (gpm)

2.0

Type of ion exchange material (resin)
Amount of resin (cu. ft.)
Rated Softening Capacity (Grains @ Pounds Salt Dose)

Efficiency Rating (Grains / Pound of Salt @ Minimum Salt Dose)

_' Intermittent fLow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate used for determining the softeners rated capacity and
efficiency. Continuous operation at flow rates greater than the service flow rate may affect capacity and efficiency performance.
These systems conform to NSF / ANSI 44 for the specific performance

claims as verified and substantiated

by test data.

The efficiency rating is only valid at the minimum stated salt dosage. These softeners were efficiency rated according to NSF /
ANSI Standard 44.

Contaminant

Influent Challenge

Level

Maximum Allowable
Product Water Level

Barium

10 +10% mg/L

2.0 mg/L

Radium 226/228

25 pCi/L

5 pCi/L

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water Line 1-800-426-9345
37

WIRING

SCHEMATIC

BACK OF TIMER (

switch
salt
cover

POS/TURBINE

_OR

ll'

valve motor

Sensor
Turbine

Iii_
y->

24 VAC

II_L>Transformer
tank light

grn

_,_NO
bm

Position Switch

o NC

FACEPLATE

FIG. 61
Keep this manual with your water softener. If repairs are
needed, the service technician must have the information on the following pages.
ALWAYS

MAKE THESE

INITIAL

CHECKS

1. Does the time display show the correct
day?

FIRST

time of

• If display is blank, check power source to the softener.
• If time is flashing, power was off for over 48 hours.
The softener resumes normal operation but regenerations occur at the wrong time.
• If an error code (Example: Err3) shows in the faceplate display, go to AUTOMATIC ELECTRONIC
DIAGNOSTICS.
.

Plumbing
position.

bypass

valve(s) must be fully in service

The inlet and outlet pipes must connect
softener inlet and outlet respectively.

Is the transformer
plugged
waft outlet, and the power
ly to the controller?

Is there salt in the storage

tank?

7. Is the brine tubing connected? Brine tubing connects to nozzle venturi and brine valve assembly.
.

Is the brine

valve

float set right?

9. Press the SELECT button two times to display the
hardness setting.
Be sure it is the correct setting for the household's
water supply. (Make a hardness test of the raw water
and compare with the hardness setting. Also test a
soft water sample to verify if a problem exists.) Press
the SELECT button twice more to return to present
time in the display.
If you do not find the problem after making initial
checks, do the MANUAL INITIATED ELECTRONIC
DIAGNOSTICS, and the MANUAL ADVANCE REGENERATION CHECK.

into a "live"
grounded
cable fastened
secure-

Questions?
38

to the

5. The valve drain hose must be free of kinks and
sharp bends, and not elevated over 8 ft. above
the floor.

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

Thefaceplatetimer(PWA)computerhasa self-diagnosticfunctionfortheelectricalsystem,exceptforinput
powerandwatermeter.Thecomputermonitorselectroniccomponents
andcircuitsforcorrectoperation.If a
malfunction
occurs,an errorcodeappearsinthefaceplatedisplay.
Thechartbelowshowstheerrorcodesthatcould
appear,andthepossibleproblemsforeachcode.

Error # ]

Service Required
See Owner's Manual

Diagnostics

FIG. 62

POSSIBLE PROBLEM
CODE

MOST LIKELY

Err1, Err3, Err4

wiring harness connections

Err5

faceplate

LESS LIKELY

_
at switch and faceplate

not connected

/ position switch inoperable / motor inoperable

timer (PWA)

While an error code appears in the display, all faceplate
buttons are inoperable except the SELECT button.
SELECT remains operational so the service person can
make the MANUAL INITIATED ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS (below) to further isolate the problem, and
check the water meter.
PROCEDURE
FOR REMOVING
FROM FACEPLATE:

ERROR

CODE

1. • Unplug transformer from outlet.
• Plug in transformer.
• Wait for 8 minutes.
.

•
•
•
•

Unplug transformer from outlet.
Correct problem.
Plug in transformer.
Wait for 8 minutes.
valve position indicator

The error code will return if the problem was not corrected.
MANUAL INITIATED ELECTRONICS DIAGNOSTICS:
1. To enter diagnostics, press the SELECT button once
to go to the Main Menu. Move the black bar to
Service Mode and press Select. Move black bar to
Diagnostics and press Select.

SERVICE

0 : 00

Req Pos: SERVICE
Motor:
I

You will see the display, showing valve cycle position,
position switch status (open or closed), and turbine
operation.
TURBINE OPERATION: If no water is flowing through
the softener, the turbine indicator displays 3 zeros.
When water is flowing, a 000 to 140 count repeats for
each gallon of water passing through the turbine. To
check for positive operation of the turbine if zeros are
shown, open a nearby soft water faucet and observe
the turbine count. 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, unhook the in and out plumbing and
check the turbine for binding.

Questions?

l0 : 39 : 56 AM
Pos: SERVICE 0 : 00
Req Pos: SERVICE
Motor: Off .........
o _ ........
Trbn: 126
Gals: 0
Days: 1 _
Rchgs: 0

l0 : 39 : 5(,_M
Pos:

Call The Kenmore

..........
O ,_.........

Off

Trbn: 00_0

Gals: 0

Days:

Rchgs:

11_

_k
()_

Last Rchg __

position
indicator

switch
(open)

turbine count (no
water flowing)

turbine

count

(water

flowing)

FIG. 63

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
39

POSmONSWITCHSTATUS:Withthevalvein service,
or anyofthe rechargecycles,theswitchindicatorwill
showopen,whilethevalveis rotatingfromoneposition
toanother,the indicatorwillshowtheswitchclosed.A
defectis probableif indications
varyfromthispattern.

Motor
Housing

Position Switch
Turbine

NOTE: If the faceplate 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 4 minutes. To return to the
diagnostic display, repeat step 1.
2. Press the RECHARGE button to advance the valve
to each position and observe the switch and position
indicators to verify component operation, or to possibly isolate a defect.

Turbine
Support
and Shaft

Valve Outlet

FiG. 64

3. Press Select once to move back to the Service Mode
screen. Move black bar to Set Model and press
Select. Verify the model code.

Set Model

This code identifies the softener nominal capacity size.
If the wrong number shows, the softener will operate on
incorrect programming. Do the following as needed.

A V

CHANGE

SELECT

CHANGE

SELECT

HF46 or HF47 does show - Press the SELECT button
until the normal operating display shows.
Set Model :

To change HF number- Press the UP or DOWN button
until either HF46 for Model 38426, or HF47 for Model
39426, shows in the display. Then, press the SELECT
button and reset the timer.

A V

FiG. 65

TIMER PWA REPLACEMENT
Be sure the valve is in service position when replac=
ing the timer PWA (observe valve cycle indicator). If
after installing and programming the replacement timer
PWA, the valve is not in service position, do the following
to assure correct cycle orientation, or timing, between the
faceplate and valve.
Use the MANUAL ADVANCE procedures with the
RECHARGE NOW button, advance through the recharge
cycles until the valve stops in service position, and
RECHARGE no longer flashes in the display.

Position markers
(Valve in service)

NOTE: The valve motor may automatically drive through
several valve positions while searching for service. If an
error code occurs, unplug the transformer, then plug in
again.

Questions?
40

Call The Kenmore

FiG. 66

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

MANUAL

ADVANCE

REGENERATION

This check verifies proper
brine tank fill, brine draw,
other controller functions.
checks, and the manual

CHECK

operation of the valve motor,
regeneration flow rates, and
Always make the initial
initiated diagnostics.

NOTE: The faceplate display must show a steady
time (not flashing). If an error code shows, first
press the SELECT button to enter the diagnostic
display.

Brine VaNe
Float Setting

1. Press the REGENERATION button and hold in for 3
seconds. *RECHARGE and Fill begin to flash (or
clean backwash begins, if set) as the softener enters
the fill cycle of regeneration.
* NOTE:

ff the CLEAN

feature

is set to ON, a clean=

Float Stop

I__

Float

ing backwash
(CLEAN and Bkwsh
or Rinse flashes
in the display,
along with the minutes
of the clean
cycle remaining),
precedes
the recharge.

1 O"

2. When FILL is on steady, remove the brinewell cover
and, using a flashlight, observe fill water entering the
tank.
3. If water does not enter the tank, look for an obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug, brine tubing, or brine
valve riser pipe.
CYCLE FLOW RATES (GALLONS

FIG. 67

PER MIN.)

FILL (flow to salt storage tank)

0.3 (1.1 liters)

BRINING (flow to drain)

.22 (.83 liters)

BRINE RINSE (flow to drain)

.15 (.57 liters)

MAX. BACKWASH (flow to drain)

2.0 (7.6 liters)

MAX. FAST RINSE (flow to drain)

2.0 (7.6 liters)

4. After observing fill, press the REGENERATION button to move the softener into 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.
NOTE:

Be sure a salt bridge
with salt contact.

is not preventing

water

5. If the softener does not draw brine:
•
•
•
•

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.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

6. Again press REGENERATION to move the softener
into backwash. Look for a fast flow of water from the
drain hose.
7. An obstructed flow indicates a plugged top distributor,
backwash flow plug or drain hose.
8. Press REGENERATION

to move the softener into

fast rinse. Again look for a fast drain flow. Allow the
softener to rinse for a few minutes to flush out any
brine that may remain in the resin tank from the brining cycle test.
9. To return the softener to service, press REGENERATION once more.

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
41

ROTARYVALVESERVICE
IMPORTANT: Before working
water supply and disconnect
TO RELIEVE

on the valve, turn off the
from electrical power.

PRESSURE:

• 3 VALVE BYPASS: Close the inlet valve and open a
soft water faucet. Then close the outlet valve and open
the bypass valve.
• SEARS SPECIAL BYPASS: Slide the bypass valve
stem to bypass position. Loosen three hex head screws
toward the back side of the valve to allow pressure
water to bleed out. Catch water with a rag.
DISASSEMBLY
To remove a part or group of parts, refer to the valve
drawing. A common screwdriver or nut driver, Phillips
screwdriver and pliers are the only tools needed to completely disassemble.
SERVICING

THE VALVE

Inspect all o-rings, seals and gaskets for wear or defects.
Inspect the bottom surface of the rotor for scratches,
chips or wear.
Note: If replacement
current replacement

is needed, be sure to use the
part.

ASSEMBLY
Be sure all parts are in place and in the proper position.
Lubricate ALL o-rings and seals with FDA approved silicone grease. To install the rotor seal, first place the seal
into the valve groove, rounded side down (see cross-section). Apply a light coating of silicone grease to the seal's
crossing ribs. Then, carefully center the wear strip on the
seal, and push it downward onto the seal.
Install the nozzle and venturi seal and drain seal.
Assemble wave washer bearing, the wave washer, and
two o-rings, onto the rotor top shaft. Then center the rotor
in the valve body, on the rotor seal.

See Nozzle
Assembly

Service

Lower the cover onto the valve body and rotor shaft. Then
install the cover holding screws. Before tightening the
screws, install the valve cam and gear.

FIG. 68

Then, turn the rotor (clockwise only) to service position.
Tighten the screws using a criss-cross pattern. If a torque
wrench is available, torque to 30-40 inch pounds. Do not
over tighten.
Lubricate the gear on the motor, and the valve cam gear
with Molykote grease, or other high quality gear lubricant.
Be sure to orient switch as shown, with lever toward the
cam.

Questions?
42

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

WATER

FLOW THROUGH

THE SOFTENER

VALVE
SERVICE

SERVICE

CYCLE

Hard water enters the valve inlet port. Internal
valve porting routes the water down and out the
top distributor, into the resin tank. Hard water is
softened as it passes through the resin bed, then
enters the bottom distributor. Soft water flows back
into the valve and out the valve outlet, to the
house soft water pipes.

From Valve Inlet
(Hard Water)
Top Distributor

To Valve
(Soft Water)

Resin Tank
4
Position
Switch

Bottom
Distributor

FIG. 69

FILL CYCLE
valve cam
position switch

rotor & disc

FILL CYCLE
To begin a regeneration, the electronic timer energizes the circuit to the valve motor. The valve
motor rotates the rotor and disc and the valve cam
until the position switch lever drops, to open the
motor circuit and position the valve in FILL. As the
rotor and disc rotates, the port opens for SOFT
water fin through the venturi. Fill flow continues to
the brine valve, and into the salt storage tank. Soft
water is still available to the house lines.in.

fill flow
Valve Inlet
(hard water)

plug
fill water
(soft)

Distributor
Resin Tank

To Valve Outlet
(Soft Water)

Position

4._"N
,4"k?"----'-,_
__iI_'4_"_,

_*_I

FIG. 70

BRINING
BRINING

AND

BRINE

RINSE

CYCLES

After fill, timer/switch action allows the motor to
turn the rotor and disc into BRINING position.
Water flow is directed to the nozzle. Suction, created by the nozzle and venturi, draws brine from the
salt storage tank and injects it into the resin bed
via the bottom distributor. Flow continues out the

AND BRINE

RINSE CYCLE

Venturi

Drain
from valve inlet
Brine from Salt

(Hard Water)

Storage Tank

top distributor and to the drain. Hard water is avail- BypassHard
able at the valve outlet.
WaterTo

Position
_,_
Switch--.'_;" i _

Valve Outlet

When the brine valve closes to end brine draw,
water flow continues in the same directions to
slowly RINSE brine from the resin bed and to the
drain,

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

FIG. 71

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
43

WATER

FLOW THROUGH

THE SOFTENER

VALVE
BACKWASH

BACKWASH

CYCLE

CYCLE
Plug

Timer/switch action again allows the motor to turn
the rotor & disc to place the valve in BACKWASH,
stopping water flow to the nozzle. Water is routed
down and out the bottom distributor, up through
the bed, and out the top distributor to the drain.
The fast flow (controlled by a flow plug in the drain
fitting) flushes dirt, sediments, iron deposits,
remaining brine and hardness to the drain.

Bypass Hard
Water To Valve
Outlet

Position
Switch
\

FiG. 72

FAST RINSE CYCLE
FAST RINSE CYCLE
During FAST RINSE, the rotor & disc is positioned
so water flow enters the resin tank through the top
distributor, and exits through the bottom distributor,
to the drain.
The electronic timer again energizes the motor to
return the valve to service. As the valve rotates,
the position switch lever drops to open the circuit.
The valve remains positioned in service until the
electronic timer initiates the next regeneration.

Drain

Soft Water
To Valve Outlet

FIG. 73

Questions?
44

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345

- . .

ing Decal
Location

12
28

16
17
18

Questions?
46

Call The Kenrnore

Water Line 1=800=426=9345

Kenmore

MODEL

Nos. 625.384260

A. WATER SOFTENER
Key No.
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

Part Number

7284396
7284435
7284443
7088033
7176292
7232446
7288578
7288586
7275907
7229956
7286306
7284736
7252268
7286021
7265025
7219888
7082150
7003847
7109871
7214236
7287158
7284613
0900431
1103200
9003500
7239155
7105047
0502272
7301075
7170270
7077870
7170254
7170296
3442699
7287213
7282611

and 625.394260

COMPLETE

Part Description
Cover Lock (Required for shipping only)
Rim Insert (Required for shipping only)
Cover (main)
Salt Hole Cover (order following decal)
Instruction Decal
Clamp Retainer (2 required)
Clamp Section (2 required)
Vapor Barrier
Timer Repl. (PWA) Model 38426
Timer Repl. (PWA) Model 39426
Transformer, 24 V - 10 VA •
Faceplate (order following decal)
Faceplate Decal
Rim (includes key no. 11 & 12)
O-Ring, 11/16" x 1-1/32"
Light Asm.
Ultra Cleansing Screen
Brinewell Cover, with decal
Wing Nut, 1/4"
O-Ring, 1/4" x 1/2"
Brinewell
Decal, Salt Level O
Salt Storage Drum
Plastic Screw, 1/4" x 5/8"
Tube Clamp •
Tube Adaptor •
Grommet •
Brine Valve Asm (see pages 48 & 49 also)
Replacement Distributor
Resin
Resin Tank (includes key no. 26)
O-Ring, 2-3/4" x 3"
Top Distributor
O-Ring, 13/16" x 1-1/16"
O-Ring, 2-7/8" x 3-1/4"
Resin Bed Cleaner
Parts Bag (includes parts marked with a • pages 47,
49 & 51). Order manuals separately if needed.
Owner's Manual

Not illustrated.
O Aligns with top of brinewell.
• Included in parts bag.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
47

17
3

INLET - OUTLET
GROUNDING CLAMPS

Questions?
48

Call The Kenmore

Water Line 1-800-426-9345

Kenmore

MODEL

Nos. 625.384260

and 625.394260

B. BRINE VALVE ASSEMBLY
Key No.

Part Number

Part Description

7168647

Ceramic Weight

0513860

Float Stop

3
4

7097202
0516947

Float (includes Key No. 4)
Float Seal

7220627

Float Rod & Stem

7092278

Guide Cap

7
8

7170288
0516211

O-Ring, 15/16"×
Seal

0516924

Retainer, Bottom Seal

1205500

Clip

7092252

Brine Valve Body

12
13

7080653
7131365

Clip
Screen

7094979

Insert

7092294

Retaining Ring

16
17

7176161
7221746

O-Ring, 15/16" x 9/16"
Brine Tube

18
19

7113016
7171349

Tubing Assembly (includes Key Nos. 14, 15 & 16)
Cone Screen

7248706

Grounding Kit •

1-3/16"

• Included in parts bag.

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
49

¢
8
10

Wear-Strip
42_._
41

0
Seal

Cross-Section
View

39
28
22

16
17

18
30

23
24
34

25
26

33
32

Questions?
5O

Call The Kenrnore

Water Line 1=800=426=9345

Key
No.

Part
Number

Part Description

Key
No.

Part
Number

7224087

Part Description

Screw, #8-32 x 1" (2 req.)

7195482

Seal (Nozzle & Venturi)

7286039

Motor (incl. 2 ea. of Key No. 1)

7171145

Valve Body

7231393

Motor Plate

7170319

O-Ring, 1/4" x 3/8" (2 req.)

0900857

Screw, #6-20 x 3/8" (3 req.)

7081104

Nozzle & Venturi Housing

5
6

7171250
7283489

Bearing
Cam & Gear

35
36

1202600
7095030

Nut-Ferrule
Cone Screen

7169180

Clip (Drain)

1148800

Flow Plug, .3 gpm

0900431

Hose Clamp

7114533

Nozzle & Venturi - Gasket Kit

7271270

Drain Hose Adaptor

7204362

Gasket only

7170288

O-Ring, 15/16" x 1-3/16"

7084607

Flow Plug, .15 gpm

0501228

Flow Plug, #18

7146043

Screen

7170327

O-Ring, 5/8" x 13/16"

7167659

Screen Support

7173024

O-Ring, 1-1/8" x 1-1/2"

. 7170262

7174313

Bearing, Wave Washer

7199729

Cap

7185500

Rotor & Disc

7175199

Wave Washer

7171161

Valve Cover

. O-Ring, 1-1/8"x 1-3/8"

7173032

O-Ring, 4-1/2:" x 4-7/8"

7185495

Rotor Seal

7172989

Seal

46
47

7172997
7305150

Screw, #10 x 2-5/8" (8 req.)
Switch

7171187

Plug (Drain Seal)

7140738

Screw, #4-24 x 3/4" (2 req.)

7129889

Spring

3479901

Adaptor Kit, 1" to 1-1/4"

7262506

Installation Adaptor Kit, 1"
(includes 2 copper tubes,
clips & o-rings) "k

7253808

Nozzle & Venturi Asm. (includes
Key Nos. 34, & 36 - 43)

7185487

7089306

Clip (4 req.) •

Seal Kit (includes Key Nos. 12,
13, 16, 17, 18 & 31)

7271204

Installation Adaptor, 1" NPT
(2 req.) •

7139999

Drain Tubing, 3/8" I.D. x 20' A

42-34403

Flexible Connectors,

7170262

O-Ring, 1-1/8" x 1-3/8" (4 req.)

7123613

Silicone Grease (for O-Rings)

7094898

Turbine Support

7101548

Turbine

7232234

Copper Reducer Bushing,
1"x 3/4" (2 req.) -k

7276084

Wire Harness (Sensor)

0900060

O-Ring

7081201

Retainer (Nozzle & Venturi)

Not included.
• Included in parts bag, see page 43.
Not illustrated.
A Included with softener.

100

22
99

Key
No.

Part
Number

Part Description

7175238

C Ring

7214155

Bypass Body

99
100

7173016
7172882

O-Ring, 1.109 ID x 1.387 OD (4)
Stem

7214317

Bypass Valve (Complete) •

Questions?

Call The Kenmore

Water

Line 1-800-426-9345
51

iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!_
....

Your Home

iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii For expert troubleshooting and home solutions advice:
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
www.managemyhome.com
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiFor repair - in your home - of all major brand appliances,
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems,
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
For the replacement parts, accessories and
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself.
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii For Sears professional installation of home appliances
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii and items like garage door openers and water heaters.
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
1-800=4=MY=HOME ® (1-800-469-4663)
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Call anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada)
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
www.sears.com
www, sears,ca
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
Our Home
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
For repair
of carry-in
items
like vacuums,
lawn
equipment,
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
and electronics,
call anytime
for the location
of your
nearest
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
Sears
Parts
& Repair
Service
Center
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
1-800-488=1222 (U.S.A.)
1-800=469=4663 (Canada)
www.sears.com
www.sears.ca
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
To purchase a protection agreement on a product serviced by Sears:
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
1-800=827-6655 (U.S.A.)
1-800-361-6665 (Canada)
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n
Au Canada pour service en fran(_ais:
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
a domicilio, y para ordenar piezas:
1-800-LE-FOYER Mc
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
1-888-SU-HOGAR ®
(1-888-784-6427)

® Registered

Trademark / TMTrademark

® Marca Registrada

(1-800-533-6937)
www.sears.ca

,i_!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!!i!

/ SMService Mark of Sears Brands, LLC

/ TMMarca de F_brica / SM Marca de Servicio de Sears Brands, LLC

MCMarque de commerce / MDMarque deposee de Sears Brands, LLC

LLC

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.2
Linearized                      : No
Page Count                      : 52
Page Layout                     : SinglePage
Page Mode                       : UseNone
Producer                        : Goby Monitor Application version 4, 0, 0, 13
Create Date                     : Fri Nov 21 04:14:07 2008
Author                          : 
Title                           : 
Subject                         :

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Kenmore Elite 625394260 User Manual WATER SOFTENER Manuals And Guides L0811491

KENMORE ELITE Water softener Manual L0811491 KENMORE ELITE Water softener Owner's Manual, KENMORE ELITE Water softener installation guides

Navigation menu

Versions of this User Manual:

Views

Navigation