Kenmore Elite Hybrid Water Softener Owners Manual 7332880Eng_Sears

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P/N 7332880 (Rev. E 11/7/12)

Use & Care Guide

Manual de Uso y Cuidado

English / Español

Model / Modelo No. 625.385200

Kenmore Elite®

Hybrid Water Softener

A water softener and a whole home filter in one

Ablandador Híbrido de Agua

Un ablandador de agua con filtro integrado para toda la casa

Sears Brands Management Corporation

3333 Beverly Road

Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

www.kenmorewater.com

www.kenmore.com

www.sears.com

System tested and certified by NSF International

against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction

of chlorine taste and odor, and Standard 44 for

hardness reduction, efficiency and the reduction

of barium and radium 226/228,

and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 372.

Este sistema ha sido probado y certificado por

NSF International según la norma NSF/ANSI 42

para la reducción del sabor y el olor a cloro, y la

norma 44 para la reducción de la dureza, eficiencia

y la reducción del bario y del radio 226/228,

y certificado según la norma NSF/ANSI 372.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Warranty

WARRANTY ON KENMORE ELITE®HYBRID WATER SOFTENER

ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON HYBRID WATER SOFTENER

When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if this

Kenmore appliance fails due to a defect in material and workmanship within one year from the date of pur-

chase, 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 1-800-4-MY-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 or carbon, which are expendable items.

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 intend-

ed 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 dam-

ages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential dam-

ages, 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 Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Table of Contents

Safety Guides

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.

pRead all steps and guides 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 manual will also help you to get all the

benefits from your water softener.

pYour Kenmore Elite®Hybrid Water Softener will

reduce hardness minerals from water. This is meas-

ured in grains per gallon (gpg). It will also remove

some clear water iron*. This is measured in parts

per million (ppm). See the specifications page for

the maximum limit of hardness removal. It will also

reduce taste and odor in water, and will reduce bar-

ium and radium 226/228 in water (see performance

data sheet for details).

pA water softener will not improve other water problems

such as acidity or iron other than clear water iron.

pDo not attempt to use this product to make safe

drinking water from non-potable water sources. Do

not use the system on microbiologically unsafe water,

or water of unknown quality without adequate disin-

fection before or after the system.

pCheck with your local public works department for

plumbing and sanitation codes. You must follow

their guides as you install the system. Follow your

local codes if they differ with guides in this manual.

In Massachusetts, plumbing code 248-CMR 3.00 and

10.00 shall be adhered to. Consult with a licensed

plumber.

* The capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiat-

ed by Water Quality Association test data.

pUse only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-solder

connections, as required by federal codes, when

installing soldered copper plumbing.

pUse care when handling the water softener. Do not

turn upside down or drop.

pAvoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive heat may

cause distortion or other damage to non-metallic parts.

pThis water softener works on water pressures of 20 psi

(minimum) to 125 psi (maximum). If your house water

pressure is over the maximum, install a pressure reduc-

ing valve in the water supply pipe to the softener.

pTemperature of the water supply to the softener must be

between 40°F and 120°F. Do not install on hot water.

pIf installing the water softener outdoors, do not locate

where it will be exposed to wet weather, direct sunlight

or extreme hot or cold temperatures.

pThis softener works on 24 volt, 60 Hz electrical power

only, supplied by a direct plug-in transformer (includ-

ed). Be sure to use the included transformer and plug

it into a nominal 120V, 60 cycle household outlet that

is properly protected by an overcurrent device such as

a circuit breaker or fuse. If transformer is replaced,

use only the authorized service, Class II, 24V 10VA

transformer.

pThis water softener has a non-metallic valve system.

Installing it on metal plumbing will break electrical

continuity, which may interrupt grounding for the

home. You must restore electrical continuity in your

metal plumbing system (See Page 12).

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Safety Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Specifications & Performance Claims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Packing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Plan Your Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12

Programming the Softener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14

Flushing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Adding Salt to the Storage Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

What Your Hybrid Water Softener Will Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Controller Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-20

Care of Your Water Softener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-25

Exploded View & Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-29

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Specifications & Performance Claims

SPECIFICATIONS

Model No. 625.385200

Model Code 520

Rated Softening Capacity (Grains @ Salt Dose) 11,000 @ 2.6 lbs.

24,700 @ 7.8 lbs.

31,100 @ 13.4 lbs.

Rated Efficiency (Grains/Pound of Salt @ Minimum Salt Dose) 4,230 @ 2.6 lbs.

Water Used During Regeneration @ Minimum Salt Dose 5.0 gallons / 1,000 grains

Total Water Used Per Regeneration @ Maximum Salt Dose 54.7 gallons

Rated Service Flow Rate 8.0 gpm

Amount of High Capacity Ion Exchange Resin 0.98 cu. ft.

Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow 6.5 psig

Water Supply Max. Hardness 100 gpg

Water Supply Max. Clear Water Iron 3 ppm*

Water Pressure Limits (minimum / maximum) 20 - 125 psi

Water Temperature Limits (minimum / maximum) 40 - 120 °F

Minimum Water Supply Flow Rate 3 gpm

Intermittent Flow @ 15 psi 13.7 gpm**

Maximum Drain Flow Rate 2.0 gpm

0.50 ppm

0.75 ppm

Rated Capacity at Chlorine Concentration*** of: 1.0 ppm

1.5 ppm

2.0 ppm

2,280,000 gal.§

1,520,000 gal.§

1,140,000 gal.§

760,000 gal.§

570,000 gal.§

* Capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by WQA test data. State of Wisconsin

requires additional treatment if water supply contains clear water iron exceeding 5 ppm.

** Intermittent flow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate used for deter -

mining the softener’s rated capacity and efficiency. Continuous operation at flow rates

greater than the service flow rate may affect capacity and efficiency performance.

*** Typical residential chlorine concentration is 0.5 to 1.0 ppm.

§ From independent laboratory test data.

This system conforms to NSF/ANSI Standards 42 & 44 for the specific performance claims as

verified and substantiated by test data.

Variable Salt Dose: The salt dose is selected by the electronic controls at regeneration time

based on the amount needed.

This model is efficiency rated. The efficiency rating is valid only at the minimum salt dose. The softener has a

demand initiated regeneration (D.I.R) feature that complies with specific performance specifications intended to mini-

mize the amount of regenerant brine and water used in its operation.

This softener has a rated softener efficiency of not less than 3,350 grains of total hardness exchange per pound of salt

(based on sodium chloride) and shall not deliver more salt than its listed rating or be operated at a sustained maxi-

mum service flow rate greater than its listed rating. This softener has been proven to deliver soft water for at least ten

continuous minutes at the rated service flow rate. The rated salt efficiency is measured by laboratory tests described

in NSF/ANSI Standard 44. These tests represent the maximum possible efficiency that the system can achieve.

Operational efficiency is the actual efficiency after the system has been installed. It is typically less than the rated

efficiency, due to individual application factors including water hardness, water usage, and other contaminants that

reduce a softener's capacity.

While testing was performed under standard laboratory conditions, actual performance of the system may vary based

on local water conditions. This system has been tested according to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction of

chlorine taste and odor. The concentration of the indicated substance in water entering the system was reduced to a

concentration less than or equal to the permissible limit for water leaving the system, as specified in NSF/ANSI

Standard 42.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Specifications & Performance Claims

17"

21"

48"

41-1/2"

IN - OUT

34"

3-3/4"

INOUT

FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW

IN - OUT

41-1/2”

48”

34”

21”

17”

3-3/4”

OUT IN

FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW Figure 1

Dimensions

PERFORMANCE CLAIMS

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

Substance Influent Challenge Level Reduction Requirement

Chlorine 2.0 ±10% mg/L 50%

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Packing List

Drain Hose

Adaptor Elbow

Installation

Adaptors

Hose Clamps Grommet

The parts required to assemble and install the water

softener are included with the unit. Thoroughly check

the water softener for possible shipping damage and

parts loss. Also inspect and note any damage to the

shipping carton.

Remove and discard (or recycle) all packing materials.

To avoid loss of small parts, we suggest you keep the

small parts in the parts bag until you are ready to use

them.

Small Parts

Figure 2

Clips

(including 1 spare)

Plan Your Installation

THE PROPER ORDER TO INSTALL WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT

(Shows sequence of equipment only - not all items are needed in all applications)

Hybrid

Water

Softener

Sediment

Cartridge

Filter

Water

Heater

Untreated Water to

Outside Faucets

Hot Water

to House

Cold Water

to House

Iron

Filter

Pressure

Tank

City Water Supply

Well Water Supply

Well

Pump

Figure 3

=Always locate an Iron Filter UPSTREAM of the Hybrid Water Softener.

Bypass Valve O-rings

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Plan Your Installation

TYPICAL INSTALLATION

5. Do not install in a place where the softener could

freeze. Damage caused by freezing voids the war-

ranty by Sears Brands Management Corporation.

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, 60 Hz. electrical outlet is needed

near the softener to plug in the transformer

(See Fig. 4). Be sure the outlet and transformer are

in an inside location, protected 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 ele-

ments, direct sunlight, contamination, vandalism, etc.

Water

Heater

Hybrid

Water

Softener

Outside Faucet

(hard water) Outside Faucet

(hard water)

Soft, cold water)

Soft, hot water

Figure 4

WHERE TO INSTALL THE HYBRID WATER

SOFTENER

Review the following points before you choose a place

to put your softener:

1. Place as close as possible to, but always downstream

from, the pressure tank (well water) or water meter

(city water).

2. Place as close as possible to a water drain such as a

floor drain, laundry tub, sump or standpipe (See Fig. 4).

3. Connect to the house main water pipe UPSTREAM

OF THE WATER HEATER (See Fig. 3). The tempera-

ture 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 as possible.

4. Keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft

water and salt. See Fig. 4.

120V,

60 Hz

to R.O. Faucet

1-1/2”

Air Gap

Floor

Drain

Main

Shutoff

Valve

R.O.

Storage

Tank

Reverse

Osmosis

System

Hard

Water

House

R.O. Drain

Soft Water

to R.O.

System

Water

Meter

Shutoff

Valve

Soft Water Line

Hard Water Line

Grounding wire must

connect metal pipes

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Plan Your Installation

psi, buy and install a pressure reducing valve in the

pipe supplying water to the softener’s inlet.

NOTE: If water pressure during the day is 100 psi or

more, pressure during the night may go above

125 psi.

Installation

For your water softener to work properly, incoming

water pressure in your house pipes must be no lower

than 20 pounds per square inch (psi). The highest

allowable pressure is 125 psi. If pressure is above 125

CHECK YOUR WATER PRESSURE BEFORE INSTALLING

5. Visually check and remove any foreign mate-

rials from the valve inlet and outlet ports (see

Fig. 6). Carefully remove the two large plastic

clips (you will use them). Check to be sure

the turbine and support are firmly in place

(see Fig. 7).

NOTE: If you will not install the included bypass

valve because you will have a 3-valve

bypass in your plumbing, skip step 6, but

perform step 7.

Complete the following steps to assemble the adaptors

and/or the included single 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.

2. Shut off the gas or electric supply to the water

heater.

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.

4. Remove the top cover. Pull outward on the two tabs

to release top cover (see Fig. 5). The salt lid remains

attached to the top cover when removed. Set both

covers aside so they will not get scratched or broken.

INSTALL SINGLE BYPASS VALVE AND/OR THREADED INSTALLATION ADAPTORS

SINGLE BYPASS VALVE:

6. Lightly coat the o-rings with silicone grease and slide

them onto the bypass valve. Push the bypass valve

into the softener valve’s inlet and outlet ports as far

as it will go. Snap the two large holding clips into

place, from the top down as shown (see Fig. 8).

CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so

the bypass valve will not pull out.

INLET AND OUTLET THREADED ADAPTORS:

7. Lightly coat the o-rings with silicone grease and slide

them onto the installation adaptors. Push the adap-

tors 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. 8).

CAUTION: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place so

the adaptors will not pull out.

Salt Lid

Top Cover

Figure 5

Single

Bypass Valve

Figure 6

Clips

Threaded

Installation

Adaptors

Valve

Outlet

Valve Inlet

Clip

O-Rings

Clip

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Installation

INSTALL SINGLE BYPASS VALVE (cont.)

Before installing the bypass valve and/or installation

adaptors, make sure that the turbine and support are

firmly in place inside the softener valve’s outlet port.

ASSEMBLE INLET AND OUTLET PLUMBING

Measure, cut (thread if needed) and put together all

pipe and fittings up to the main water pipe. Make sure

that the incoming water supply pipe goes to the valve

inlet side.

CAUTION: Never solder fittings while connected to

nonmetallic parts. Wait until soldered pipe

has cooled before connection. See Fig. 10.

CAUTION: Be careful when putting pipe fittings togeth-

er. Do not cross thread, and do not over-

tighten.

Figure 7

Turbine

Support

Valve Outlet Turbine

Figure 8

INSTALL HOLDING CLIPS

Bypass Valve or

Installation Adaptor

Plastic Clip

O-Ring

Valve Inlet or Outlet

Plastic clip snaps

into groove in

bypass or adaptor

ALTERNATE BYPASS VALVE INSTALLATION

Figure 9

IN OUT

If connecting to floor

level plumbing, install

the bypass valve turned

downward, as shown.

Figure 10

Incoming

Hard

Water

Main Water Pipe

1. Cut pipe to

correct length

2. Solder. When

cool, do step 3.

3. Put threaded

adaptor into

bypass valve

port.

4. Solder.

NOTE: To be certain

that 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

with a wet rag.

Clip

O-Ring

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Installation

CONNECT THE VALVE DRAIN HOSE

Take a length of 3/8” inside diameter drain tubing

(supplied) and attach one end to the drain fitting (see

Fig. 11). Use a tube clamp from the parts bag to hold it

in place. Put the other end of the tubing over a floor

drain, into a laundry tub, standpipe, or other suitable

drain. Check your local codes.

Leave an air gap of about 1-1/ 2'' between the end of

the hose and the drain. This gap is needed so you

don’t get a backflow of sewer water into the softener.

Do not put the end of the hose into the drain or con-

nect without the air gap.

Locate and support the hose so it does not kink or have

sharp bends. Secure the hose end so water pressure

does not cause the hose to “whip”. Tie or wire it in

place. Do not pinch the hose shut. The softener will

not work if this drain hose is pinched, plugged, closed

or restricted in any way. Direct drain flow down into

drain from drain line as flow could possibly overshoot

the drain cover.

Keep the hose lower than the drain fitting. In some

homes, to get to a drain you must raise the hose and

run it overhead. Do not raise the hose more than 8 feet

above the floor.

COPPER DRAIN TUBE: Local plumbing codes may

require the use a copper valve drain tube. A copper

tube is also best to use if running a drain line overhead.

To adapt a copper drain tube to the softener, purchase

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 HOSE

1. Locate the rubber grommet, adaptor elbow and tube

clamp (see Fig. 11) that are in the parts bag.

2. Push the grommet into the hole in the salt tank wall

so that half is inside and half is outside.

3. Push the larger end of the adaptor into the grommet.

4. Push one end of a length of 3/8'' I.D. tubing (sup-

plied) onto the tube adaptor, using a tube clamp

from the parts bag to hold it in place.

5. Put the other end of the tubing over the floor drain.

IMPORTANT: Overflow water must run down by gravity

through the tubing. Do not raise the tub-

ing higher than the adaptor (see Fig. 11).

IMPORTANT: Do not connect this hose to the valve

drain hose you just installed (see above).

Both drains must have a separate hose.

Figure 11

LAUNDRY TUB

Valve

Drain Hose

Salt Tank

Overflow Hose FLOOR DRAIN

STANDPIPE

1-1/2”

Air Gap

1-1/2”

Air Gap

1-1/2”

Air Gap

Tie or wire

tubing in

place

To drain

point other

than floor

drain.

Support tub-

ing in place

as needed.

Tube

Clamp

Tube

Adaptor

Grommet

NOTE: Drain Hose

(20 ft.) is included.

See also parts list.

Drain

Fitting

Tube

Clamp

SUBSTITUTING RIGID DRAIN LINE

Clip

Barbs

1/4 NPT

Threads Compression Fitting, 1/4 NPT x

1/2” O.D. Tube (not supplied)

1/2” Outside

Diameter Copper

Tube (not supplied)

Cut barbs from drain fit-

ting (pull clip and remove

fitting from valve)

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Installation

METAL WATER PIPE GROUNDING

IMPORTANT: This water softener has a non-metallic

valve system. Installing it on metal

plumbing will break electrical continuity,

which may interrupt grounding for the

home. You must restore electrical conti-

nuity in your metal plumbing system.

If you installed a 3-valve bypass system (Fig. 14), elec-

trical continuity will be maintained. If you installed the

non-metallic bypass valve (Fig. 13), restore the ground

as follows:

Install a #4 copper wire (parts not included) across the

removed section of metal water pipe, securely clamping

it at both ends (See Fig. 12). Be sure the pipes are

clean under the clamps, to assure good contact.

NOTE: If you are installing a sediment filter or other

item(s) into the plumbing system, along with the

water softener, be sure to restore electrical con-

tinuity across all removed metal pipe sections.

INSTALL COVERS

After installing your water softener, put the covers on.

Angle the covers so the top cover clips onto the back

first, then bring down in front and clip on the tabs

inside the rim and lower the salt lid closed (See Fig. 5).

CONNECT TO ELECTRICAL POWER

The softener works on 24 volt, 60 Hz electrical power.

The included transformer changes standard 120 volt AC

house power to 24 volts. You must plug the water soft-

ener’s transformer into a grounded, 120 volt outlet only.

Be sure the outlet is always “live” so it cannot be

switched off by mistake.

NOTE: The electrical outlet you plug the transformer

into must be indoors, protected from weather.

RINSE OUT CARBON FINES

Small particles of carbon filtration material are gener-

ated during manufacturing and shipping, which will exit

the media tank with the first water flow. These carbon

“fines” are not harmful, but give the water a gray color

and should be rinsed down the drain before any water

from the softener is directed to the home’s faucets or

water heater.

CAUTION: To avoid water or air pressure damage to

soft ener inner parts, and to flush pipe chips

or other residue from the water pipes, be

sure to do the following steps exactly as

instructed.

1. Make sure the softener’s valve drain hose is hooked

up and the open end directed to a floor drain, laun-

dry tub or other suitable type of drain.

2. The system should be connected to electrical power.

3. Place bypass valve(s) in “bypass” position (see

Figures 13 & 14). On a single valve, slide the stem

inward to bypass. On a 3-valve bypass, close the

inlet and outlet valves and open the bypass valve.

4. Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff valve.

5. Initiate a regeneration by pressing and holding for 3

seconds the REGENERATION button (see Figure 15

on page 13). The valve motor will start running and

the valve will advance to the “Fill” position.

6. After you hear the valve motor stop running (valve in

“Fill” position), press, but do not hold, the REGENER-

ATION button. The valve will advance to the “Brine”

position.

7. After you hear the valve motor stop running (valve in

“Brine” position), press, but do not hold, the REGEN-

ERATION button. The valve will advance to the

“Backwash” position.

8. Once the unit is in backwash, place bypass valve(s)

in SERVICE, EXACTLY as follows:

a. Single Bypass Valve: Slowly, slide pull the valve

stem outward toward service, pausing several times

to allow the softener to pressurize gradually.

b. 3-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 pres-

surize gradually.

9. Let the softener complete the backwash and fast

rinse cycles (takes about 20 minutes). When the

regeneration ends, the softener’s valve returns to the

service position.

METAL PIPE GROUNDING

(parts not included)

Ground Wire

Clamp (2)

Figure 12

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Installation

Figure 14

3-VALVE BYPASS

Bypass

Valve

Inlet

Valve

Outlet

Valve

FOR SERVICE

Close bypass valve.

Open inlet & outlet

valves.

FOR BYPASS

Open bypass valve.

Close inlet & outlet

valves.

LEAK TEST

To check for leaks, complete the following steps:

1. Fully open two nearby cold water faucets down-

stream from the softener.

2. Observe steady weater flow from both open faucets.

3After about three minutes, open a hot water faucet

for about one minute, or until all air is expelled, then

close.

4. Close both cold water faucets.

5. 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 dis-

colored. This normally occurs the first time

water runs through the resin bed. The discol-

ored water is not harmful, and the discoloration

will not last more than a few minutes.

RESTART THE WATER 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.

Figure 13

SINGLE BYPASS VALVE

Pull stem outward

for Service

Push inward

for Bypass

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Programming the Softener

BLUE LIGHT

When the Kenmore Elite®Hybrid Water Softener is

connected to electrical power, the blue light on the con-

trol panel will be on or flashing, as follows:

=Blue light flashing rapidly, with “PRESENT TIME”

shown in the display and the clock flashing slowly -

The present time needs to be set, either during initial

start up or after a long power outage. See “Set

Present Time of Day”, at right.

=Blue light flashing slowly, along with the salt level

indicators in the display - The salt monitor system

indicates a low salt level and needs to be set. See

“Salt Monitor System” on Page 17.

=Blue light flashing rapidly, with “Err” shown in the

display - The electronic self-diagnostics have detect-

ed a problem. See “Troubleshooting” on Page 22.

=Blue light on steady (not flashing) - The system has

power applied and does not require any attention.

PROGRAM THE SOFTENER

When the transformer is plugged into the electrical out-

let, the model code (520) and a test number (example:

J3.0), are briefly shown in the display. Then the words

“PRESENT TIME” appear and 12:00 PM begins to flash.

SET PRESENT TIME OF DAY

If the words “PRESENT TIME" do not show in the dis-

play, press the SELECT button a few times until they do.

1. Press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the

present time. Up moves the display ahead; down

sets the time back. Be sure AM or PM is correct.

NOTE: Press buttons and quickly release to slowly

advance the display. Hold the buttons down for

fast advance.

2. When the correct time is displayed, press the SELECT

button, and the display will change to show the

“Hardness” screen.

continued on next page

Figure 17

Figure 16

Select

press for tonight

hold for immediate

Salt

Set

Level Use

Water

Figure 15

BLUE LIGHT (see below)

SET SALT LEVEL button DOWN button

WATER USE button

Display UP buttonREGENERATION button SELECT button

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1. Press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the

hardness of your water supply, in grains per gallon.

The default is 25.

NOTE: 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 1 ppm of iron. In this example,

you would use 30 for your hardness number.

20 gpg hardness

2 ppm iron x 5 = 10 +10

(times) 30 HARDNESS NUMBER

If your water supply contains iron, it is recom-

mended that you clean your water softener resin

bed at least every 6 months. Your local Sears

store has Water Softener Cleaner (Part Number

34427) available.

2. When finished setting your water’s hardness number,

press the SELECT button, and the display will change

to show the “Recharge Time” screen.

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Programming the Softener

SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER

If you completed the previous step, the word “HARD-

NESS" should show in the display. Otherwise, press the

SELECT button several times until it does.

If you completed the previous step, the words “RE -

CHARGE TIME" should show in the display. Otherwise,

press the SELECT button several times until they do.

1. The softener’s default recharge start time is 2:00 AM.

This is normally a time of day when water is not

being used in the household. Hard water bypasses

the softener if the household draws water during the

recharge cycle. If a different recharge start time is

desired, press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to

change the time, in 1-hour increments. Be sure AM or

PM is correct.

2. When the desired recharge start time is displayed,

press the SELECT button, and the display will change

to show one of the “Salt Type” screens shown below.

SET RECHARGE (REGENERATION) START TIME

SET SALT TYPE

If you completed the previous step, either “NaCl” (for

Sodium Chloride) or “KCl” (for Potassium Chloride)

should show in the display. Otherwise, press the

SELECT button several times until one of them does.

1. Press the rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the type

of salt you will be using in your water softener. The

default is NaCl (standard Sodium Chloride water sof-

tener salt). If you will be using KCl (Potassium

Chloride) instead, be sure to set salt type to KCl. This

setting adjusts the regeneration cycle times to com-

pensate for the different rate at which KCl dissolves.

See also the following page for more information on

salt types.

2. When the correct salt type is displayed, press the

SELECT button, and the display will return to the nor-

mal run (time of day) screen.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Adding Salt to the Storage Tank

ADDING SALT TO THE STORAGE TANK

You must keep salt in the tank, but it is not necessary to

fill it full. Especially in humid areas, it is best to fill the

storage tank no more than 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

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.

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE (KCl) SALT

If you choose Potassium Chloride (KCl) as a regenerant,

following these suggestions will help give you years of

maintenance free service.

1. Place only one bag of KCl in your softener at a time

(the salt storage tank should contain no more than

60 pounds of KCl at any one time).

2. A softener using KCl should not be placed in areas

with temperature fluctuations and high humidity (KCl

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 onto hardened

areas until they loosen.

4. Be sure to set “Salt Type” on the controller to “KCl”.

This setting adjusts the regeneration cycle times to

compensate for the different rate at which KCl dis-

solves. See “Set Salt Type” on the previous page.

Persons who are on sodium restricted diets should con-

sider 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.

Persons who are concerned about their drinking water

should consider a Kenmore reverse osmosis drinking

water system that will remove in excess of 90% of the

sodium and other drinking water contaminants.

WATER SOFTENING SALT WITH IRON

REMOVING ADDITIVES

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 con tent. It is recom-

mended to use Sears Water Softener Clean er (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.

Flushing the System

After all installation steps have been completed:

1. Make sure the bypass valve(s) is in the “service”

(open) position.

2. Start a recharge: Press the REGENERATION button

and hold for 3 seconds, until “RECHARGE”, “Serv”

and “Fill” begin to flash in the display. The recharge

will take about 2 hours to complete.

3. After the recharge has completed, fully open a cold

water faucet, downstream from the softener, and

allow 50 gallons of water to pass through the system.

This should take at least 20 minutes.

4. Close the faucet.

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.

NOTE: If this procedure is performed on a new softener,

water coming from the taps may initially be dis-

colored. This normally occurs the first time

water runs through the resin bed. The discol-

ored water is not harmful, and the discoloration

will not last more than a few minutes.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

What Your Hybrid Water Softener Will Do

The Kenmore Elite®Hybrid Water Softener has been

designed to include two different types of media, a

high quality media that reduces tastes and odors and a

high efficiency media to remove hardness minerals.

This Hybrid Water Softener will provide you and your

home all the benefits of soft water, while providing

whole home chlorine taste and odor reduction and bar-

ium and radium 226/228 reduction. You can have fil-

tered water from your kitchen faucet for food prepara-

tion and drink, in the bath and shower which will

reduce chlorine’s aesthetic effect on your skin and hair,

and at every bathroom sink for brushing your teeth.

There are no filters to change.

Based on NSF-tested rated capacity under NSF/ANSI

Standard 42*, the Kenmore Elite®Hybrid Water

Softener has an estimated useful life for chlorine taste

and odor reduction of over 10 years.

*NSF rated capacity is 570,000 gallons.

Controller Features

EXTRA RECHARGE

Sometimes, a manually initiated recharge (regeneration)

may be desired, or needed. Two examples are:

=You have used more water than usual (guests visiting)

and you may run out of soft water before the next

automatic regeneration.

=You did not add salt to the softener before it ran out.

Add salt to the softener before regenerating.

You can start a regeneration immediately, or you can

set the controller to regenerate at the next preset

recharge time (2:00 AM, or as set).

RECHARGE NOW

Press the REGENERATION button and hold for 3 sec-

onds, until the words “RECHARGE”, “Serv” and “Fill”

begin to flash in the display. The softener enters the fill

cycle of regeneration immediately. This regeneration

will take about 2 hours to complete. Then, you will

have soft water again.

NOTE: If the “Clean Feature” is set ON, the normal

regeneration cycle is preceded by a cleaning

backwash and rinse. The words “CLEAN” and

“Bkwsh” or “Rinse” flash in the display, along

with the minutes of the clean cycle remaining.

RECHARGE TONIGHT

Press and release (do not hold) the REGENERATION

button. “RECHARGE TONIGHT” will begin flashing in

the display, and the softener will begin regeneration at

the next preset recharge time (2:00 AM, or as set). If

you decide to cancel the regeneration before it starts,

press and release the REGENERATION button once

more. “RECHARGE TONIGHT” will stop flashing in the

display.

Figure 22

Figure 23

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Controller Features

Figure 25

LEVEL

SALT

press for tonight

hold for immediate

Salt

Set

Level

Figure 24

Salt

Level

Decal

Salt Level

Bars

Brinewell

3. Press the SET SALT LEVEL button as many times as

necessary to make the salt level bars in the display

(see Fig. 24) match the number on the decal. At

level 2 or below, the salt level bars, signal level indi-

cators and blue light will flash.

4. If you want to turn the salt monitor off, press the SET

SALT LEVEL button past 8, until “OFF” shows in the

display next to the number 8.

SALT MONITOR SYSTEM

The water softener has a blue light that will flash to

remind you to add salt to the storage tank.

NOTE: You must set salt level each time salt is added

to the water softener.

NOTE: The salt monitor system estimates salt levels, and

accuracy will vary with different salts.

To set this monitor system:

1. Lift the salt lid and level the salt in the storage tank.

2. The yellow salt level decal, on the brinewell inside

the tank, has numbers from 0 to 8 (see Fig. 24).

Observe the highest number the leveled salt is at, or

closest to.

Figure 26

OPTIONAL SETTINGS:

=SALT EFFICIENCY

=CLEAN FEATURE

=CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES

=97% FEATURE

=12 / 24 HOUR CLOCK

=GALLONS / LITERS

=MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERA-

TIONS

=BACKWASH & FAST RINSE TIMES

1. To set any of these options, press and hold SELECT

for 3 seconds until “000” shows in the display. Then

press (do not hold) SELECT again to display one of

the “Salt Efficiency” screens shown below.

SALT EFFICIENCY: When this feature is ON, the

water softener will operate at salt efficiencies of

4000 grains of hardness per pound of salt or higher.

The softener may recharge more often using smaller

salt dosage and less water. This softener is shipped

with the efficiency feature set OFF. Installations in

the State of California require this setting to be

turned ON. Use the rUP or sDOWN buttons to

change between OFF and ON.

California Efficiency Requirement

Your Kenmore Water Softener has a “High

Efficiency” feature that can be set ON or OFF.

This softener is shipped with the efficiency feature

set OFF, which will utilize the maximum rated

capacity while most often achieving maximum salt

efficiencies. When installing this unit in the State

of California, you MUST turn the efficiency feature

ON. The softener may initiate more frequent

recharges, but it will operate at 4000 grains per

pound of salt or higher.

Efficiency Icon

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Controller Features

Figure 28

Figure 27

2. Press SELECT again to display one of the “Clean”

screens shown below.

CLEAN: This feature is beneficial on water supplies

containing iron and/or high amounts of sediments

(sand, silt, dirt, etc.). When set to ON, a backwash

and fast rinse cycle will occur first, preceding the

normal regeneration sequence. This provides extra

cleaning of the resin bed before it is regenerated

with the salt brine. To conserve water, if your water

supply does not contain iron or sediments, be sure

this feature is set to OFF. The default is OFF. Use

the rUP or sDOWN buttons to change between

OFF and ON.

3. Press SELECT again to display the “Clean Time”

screen shown below.

CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES: If you have set the

Clean Feature ON, the length of the extra backwash

cycle auto matically is set to 2 minutes. However, you

can ad just this time from 1 to 15 minutes in length.

To change this cycle time, use the rUP button to

increase the time, or the sDOWN button to short-

en the time. If no change is desired, continue to next

step.

Figure 30

Figure 29

4. Press SELECT again to display the “97%” screen.

97% FEATURE: The 97% Feature can save salt and

water by regenerating when 97% of the softener’s

capacity has been used up. With this feature ON,

the regeneration can occur at any time (whenever

the system has reached 97% of its capacity). The

default is OFF. If this feature is desired, turn it on by

pressing the rUP button.

5. Press SELECT again to display the “12 or 24 hr”

screen.

12 OR 24 HOUR CLOCK: All time displays are shown

in standard clock time (1 to 12 AM; and 1 to 12 PM)

at the 12 hr default setting. If 24 hour time format is

desired, set to 24 hr by pressing the rUP button.

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Figure 31

Figure 32

6. Press SELECT again to display the “Gallons or Liters”

screen.

GALLON OR LITER READINGS: Water usage and

flow rate displays are shown in gallons at the default

setting. If you prefer liters, change this setting from

“Gals” to “Liter” by pressing the rUP button.

7. Press SELECT again to display the “Recharge Days”

screen.

MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERATIONS: The

electronic controller automatically determines regen-

eration fre quency. This provides the greatest operat-

ing efficiency and, under most conditions this feature

will be left in its default mode. However, you can set

this feature to force a regeneration every set number

of days. You may want to do this if, for exam ple,

your water supply contains iron and you want the

softener to regenerate at least once every few days

to keep the resin bed clean. Use the rUP or s

DOWN buttons to change the number of days (up to

15). If no change is desired, continue to next step.

Controller Features

8. Press SELECT again to display the “Backwash Time”

setting screen.

Figure 33

BACKWASH & FAST RINSE TIMES: If you experience

salty tasting water after regeneration, you may need

to increase the backwash and fast rinse times. The

default backwash time is 13 minutes and the default

fast rinse time is 6 minutes. However, you may

increase or decrease the backwash and fast rinse

times, in 1 minute increments.

If you wish to change the backwash time, use the r

UP or sDOWN buttons to set the backwash time

between 1 and 30 minutes. Then press SELECT to

display the “Fast Rinse Time” setting screen.

Figure 34

If you wish to change the fast rinse time, use the

rUP or sDOWN buttons to set the fast rinse

time between 1 and 30 minutes.

9. Press SELECT to return to the normal run (time of

day) screen.

TANK LIGHT

A light inside the salt storage tank will come on when-

ever you open the salt lid. A “Tank Light” icon is dis-

played when this light is on. The light turns off when

you close the salt lid. It will also turn off automatically

after 15 minutes if the salt lid is left open.

Figure 35

Tank Light

Icon

Figure 35

Tank Light

Icon

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Controller Features

Figure 36

Figure 37

Figure 38 Figure 39

Top

Distributor

Ultra Cleansing Screen

Resin

Tank

AVERAGE DAILY GALLONS OR LITERS

Press the WATER USE button a second time to display

the average number of gallons (or liters) of soft water

that the household uses each day. This water usage

figure is recalculated daily by the elctronic controller.

To turn this display off, press the WATER USE button

once again.

WATER FLOW THROUGH THE SOFTENER

To view the flow rate through the softener in gallons (or

liters) per minute, press the WATER USE button. If soft

water is in use, the flow rate will be displayed to the

nearest tenth of a gallon (or liter). The display will

show “0” when all faucets and water using appliances

are off.

RECHARGE TIME REMAINING & VALVE

POSITION INDICATORS

One of the valve position indicators (Serv, Fill, Brine,

Bkwsh, Rinse) is displayed while the softener is recharg -

ing. RECHARGE flashes in the display and, beginning

with Brine, the minutes of recharge remaining before

return to service appears in place of the present time.

When the valve is moving from one cycle to another,

both position indica tors are flashing.

PROGRAM MEMORY

If electrical power to the softener goes off, the time dis-

play is blank but the electronic controller keeps the cor-

rect time for several hours. When electrical power

comes on again, you will have to reset the present time

only if the display is flashing. The HARDNESS and

RECHARGE TIME never require resetting unless a

change is desired. Even if the clock 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 clock to the

correct time of day.

KENMORE’S ULTRA CLEANSING FEATURE

The ultra cleansing feature keeps larger particles of

sediment from entering the home’s plumbing system. As

water passes through the softener, the larger sediment

particles are collected in the integrated basket and

then rinsed to the drain before each regeneration. The

ultra cleansing feature provides added protection for

water using appliances by reducing the chance of larg-

er particles entering the various products valves and

screens. The “Clean Feature” may be turned ON to

provide an extra backwash that will help keep the ultra

cleansing screen clean. The default is OFF.

IMPORTANT: The ultra cleansing feature is not intended

to replace pretreatment filtration. For

problem water applications, additional

sediment filtration is recommended.

Sears offers a full line of dedicated sediment filtration

products.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Care of Your Water Softener

SALT BRIDGE

Sometimes, a hard crust or salt “bridge” forms in the

brine 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 the salt. Then, salt

will not dissolve in the water to make brine. Without

brine, the resin bed is not recharged and hard water

will result.

If the storage tank is full of salt, it is difficult to tell if

you have a salt bridge. A bridge may be underneath

loose salt. Take a broom handle, or like tool, and hold

it next to the water softener. Measure the distance

from the floor to the rim of the water softener. Then,

gently push the broom handle straight down into the

salt. If a hard object is felt before the pencil mark is

even with the top, it is most likely a salt bridge. Gently

push into the bridge in several places to break it. Do

not use any sharp or pointed objects as you may punc-

ture the brine tank. Do not try to break the salt bridge

by pounding on the outside of the salt tank. You may

damage the tank. Figure 40

Salt Bridge

Salt

Empty Space

Water Level

1” - 2”

Pencil

Mark

Broom

Handle

Push tool into

salt bridge

to break

Service Information

ALWAYS MAKE THESE INITIAL CHECKS FIRST

1. Does the time display show the correct time of day?

=If display is blank, check power source to the sof-

tener.

=If time is flashing, power was off for a long peri-

od. The softener resumes normal operation but

regenerations occur at the wrong time.

=If an error code (example: “Err3”) shows in the dis-

play, go to “Troubleshooting”.

2. Are bypass valve(s) fully in service position?

3. Are the inlet and outlet pipes connected to the sof-

tener inlet and outlet respectively?

4. Is the softener’s transformer plugged into a “live”,

grounded wall outlet, and the power cable fastened

securely to the controller?

5. Is the valve drain hose free of kinks and sharp bends,

and not elevated more than 8 ft. above the floor?

6. Is there salt in the storage tank?

7. Is the brine tubing connected? Brine tubing connects

to nozzle/venturi and brine valve assembly.

8. Press the SELECT button twice to display the hard-

ness setting. Make sure it is correct for the house-

hold’s water supply. Perform a hardness test of the

untreated incoming water and compare with the

hardness setting. Also test a soft water sample to

verify if a problem exists. Press the SELECT button

several more times to return to present time display.

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Service Information

TROUBLESHOOTING

If your water softener does not work properly, 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 properly, call your Sears Service Department.

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

No soft water

No salt in the storage tank. Add salt and then use RECHARGE NOW

feature.

No soft water & dis-

play is blank

Transformer unplugged at wall outlet, or

power cable disconnected from back of

electronic board or transformer malfunction.

Check for loss of power and correct.

Reprogram electronic control and then use

RECHARGE NOW feature.

Fuse blown, circuit breaker tripped, or cir-

cuit switched off (see “Power Outage

Memory”).

Replace fuse, reset circuit breaker, or switch

circuit on, and then use RECHARGE NOW

feature.

No soft water & salt

level not dropping

Salt storage tank “bridged”. Refer to “Breaking a Salt Bridge”.

Bypass valve(s) in “bypass” position. Move bypass valve(s) to “service” position.

No soft water & salt

storage tank full of

water

Dirty, plugged or damaged nozzle & ven-

turi assembly

Take apart, clean and inspect nozzle & ven-

turi (see instruction decal under salt lid).

Valve drain hose is plugged or restricted. Hose must not have any kinks, sharp bends or

any water flow blockage (See “Valve Drain

Requirements”).

Intermittent hard

water

Incorrect time set. Check and change time setting.

Incorrect water hardness set. Refer to “Set Water Hardness Number” to

set correctly.

Hot water being used when softener is

regenerating.

Avoid using hot water while the softener is

regenerating, as the water heater will fill with

hard water.

Possible increase in water hardness. Test untreated water for hardness and iron.

Program the water softener accordingly (see

“Set Water Hardness Number”).

Brine tank flooded

Valve drain hose is plugged or restricted. Hose must not have any kinks, sharp bends or

any water flow blockage (See “Valve Drain

Requirements”).

Dirty, plugged or damaged nozzle & ven-

turi assembly.

Take apart, clean and inspect nozzle & ven-

turi (see “Cleaning the Nozzle & Venturi”).

Salty tasting water

immediately after

regeneration

Backwash and fast rinse cycle times are not

long enough.

Increase backwash & fast rinse times (see

“Back Wash & Fast Rinse Times”).

Valve drain hose is plugged or restricted. Hose must not have any kinks, sharp bends or

any water flow blockage (see “Valve Drain

Requirements”).

Error code appears

(example: “Err3”)

Fault in electronic controller or wiring har-

ness connections to position switch, position

switch inoperable or motor inoperable.

Unplug power cord. Check all wiring con-

nections to be sure they are secure. Plug in

power cord and wait 8 minutes. If error

code returns, call Kenmore Water Line.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Figure 41

Figure 42

Service Information

1. To enter diagnostics, press the SELECT button and

hold for three seconds. The display will change to

show turbine count, valve cycle position, and position

switch status (open or closed).

MANUALLY INITIATED ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS

Number of Days since

the last Regeneration

Valve Position Indicator

Turbine Count

(No Water Flowing)

Position Switch Indicator (Open)

Minutes of Cycle (ex -

am ple: Fill) Remaining

3. Press the SELECT button, and the electronic controller

will restart.

4. Set the present time, hardness, etc., as described on

pages 13 & 14.

=Press and hold the sDOWN button to display the

number of regenerations initiated by this controller

since the model code number was entered.

NOTE: If the electronic controller is left in the diagnos-

tic display (or a flashing display when setting

times or hardness), the normal time of day dis-

play automatically returns if a button has not

been pressed for 4 minutes. To return to the

diagnostic display, repeat step 1, above.

RESETTING TO FACTORY DEFAULTS

To reset the electronic controller to its factory default

for all settings (time, hardness, etc.):

1. Press the SELECT button and hold it until the display

changes twice to show the flashing model code.

2. Press the rUP button to display a flashing “SoS”.

TURBINE OPERATION: If no water is flowing through

the softener, the turbine indicator displays three 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 dis-

play with faucet open, pull the sensor housing from the

valve outlet port (see Fig. 43). 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

inlet and outlet plumbing and check the turbine for

binding.

POSITION SWITCH STATUS: With the valve in service,

or any of the recharge cycle positions, the position

switch indicator will show the switch open. While the

valve is rotating from one position to another, the posi-

tion switch indicator will show the switch closed. There

is likely a problem if indications vary from this pattern.

Figure 44

OTHER INFORMATION: While in the diagnostics

screen, the following information is available and may

be beneficial for various reasons. This information is

retained by the electronic controller from the first time

electrical power is applied to the unit.

=Press and hold the rUP button to display the num-

ber of days this controller has had electrical power

applied.

Turbine Count

(Water Flowing)

Figure 43

Motor

Turbine

Support

& Shaft

Sensor

Housing

Turbine

Valve Outlet

Position

Switch

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

MANUAL ADVANCE REGENERATION CHECK

This check verifies proper operation of the valve motor,

brine tank fill, brine draw, regeneration flow rates, and

other controller functions. Always make the initial

checks first, and perform the manually initiated elec-

tronic diagnostics.

NOTE: The display must show a steady time (not flash-

ing). If an error code shows, first press the

SELECT button to enter the diagnostic display.

1. Press the REGENERATION button and hold in for 3

seconds. “RECHARGE”, “Serv” and “Fill” begin to

flash in the display as the softener enters the fill

cycle of regeneration.

2. When valve reaches “Fill” position, 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.

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 liq-

uid level.

5. If the softener does not draw brine:

=nozzle and/or venturi dirty

=nozzle and venturi not seated properly on gasket

=restricted drain (check drain fitting and hose)

=ineffective nozzle and venturi seal

=other inner valve problem (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.

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 distribu-

tor, 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 REGENERA-

TION once more.

Service Information

Figure 45

Position Markers

(valve in service)

Motor

Cam

24 VAC

Transformer

Turbine

Sensor

OUT

GND

Position

Switch

grn

brn

Valve

Motor

Back of Controller (PWA)

AC INPUT POS. / TURBINE MOTOR

Figure 46

WIRING SCHEMATIC

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Service Information

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Water Softener Exploded View

Kenmore

Model No.

625.385200

Valve Assembly

See Pages 28 & 29

for parts

Rating Decal

Location

3029

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Softener Parts List

Key

No. Part No. Description

1 7329803 Top Cover

2 7330600 Salt Lid (includes Kenmore badge

& instruction decal)

3 7275907 Transformer, 24V, 10VA

4 7329942 Repl. Electronic Controller (PWA)

5 7330626 Faceplate

(includes faceplate decal)

6 7265025 Ultra Cleansing Screen

– 7112963 Distributor O-Ring Kit

(includes Key Nos. 7-9)

7áO-Ring, 2-7/8” x 3-1/4”

8áO-Ring, 13/16” x 1-1/16”

9áO-Ring, 2-3/4” x 3”

10 7077870 Top Distributor

11 7247996 Repl. Resin Tank, 10” x 40”

12 0502272 Resin

7175149 Activated Carbon

13 7327584 Repl. Bottom Distributor

14 7124415 Gravel

15 7325508 Salt Storage Tank

– 7327576 Brinewell Mounting Hardware Kit

(includes Key Nos. 16-18)

16 áScrew, 1/4-20 x 5/8”

17 áO-Ring, 1/4” x 1/2”

18 áWing Nut, 1/4-20

Key

No. Part No. Description

– 7214375 Brinewell Assembly

(includes Key Nos. 19 & 20)

19 áBrinewell

20 áDecal, Salt Level

– 7331258 Overflow Hose Adaptor Kit

(includes Key Nos. 21-23)

21 áAdaptor Elbow

22 áGrommet

23 áHose Clamp

24 7219888 Brinewell Cover

25 7325396 Rim

26 7232446 Vapor Barrier

– 7331177 Tank Neck Clamp Kit

(includes 2 ea. of Key Nos. 27 & 28)

27 áClamp Section (2 req.)

28 áRetainer Clip (2 req.)

29 7171349 Cone Screen

30 7310202 Brine Valve Assembly

31 7327568 Float, Stem & Guide Assembly

¢3442707 Water Softener Cleaner Ù

¢7278581

Parts Bag (includes

4 ea. of Key Nos. 70 & 72,

3 ea. of Key No. 71,

2 ea. of Key No. 23,

1 ea. of Key Nos. 21 & 22)

¢7332880 Owner’s Manual

¢Not illustrated.

ÙNot included with water softener.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Valve Assembly Exploded View

78 73

Seal

Wear Strip

Cross-Section

View

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Valve Parts List

Key

No. Part No. Description

50 7224087 Screw, #8-32 x 1” (2 req.)

51 7286039 Motor (incl. 2 ea. of Key No. 50)

52 7231393 Motor Plate

53 0900857 Screw, #6-20 x 3/8” (2 req.)

54 7171250 Bearing

55 7283489 Cam & Gear

– 7331169 Drain Hose Adaptor Kit

(incl. Key Nos. 56-60)

56 áClip, Drain

57 áHose Clamp

58 áAdaptor, Drain Hose

59 áO-Ring, 15/16” x 1-3/16”

60 áFlow Plug, 2.0 gpm

– 7185487 Seal Kit (includes Key Nos. 61-66)

61 áO-Ring, 5/8” x 13/16”

62 áO-Ring, 1-1/8” x 1-1/2”

63 áO-Ring, 4-1/2” x 4-7/8”

64 áRotor Seal

65 áSeal

66 áSeal, Nozzle & Venturi

67 7174313 Bearing, Wave Washer

68 7185500 Rotor & Disc

69 7262506

Installation Adaptor Kit, 1”,

(includes 2 ea. copper tubes, clips

& washers) Ù

70 7089306 Clip (4 req.)

71 7271204 Installation Adaptor, 1” NPT (2 req.)

72 7311127 O-Ring, 1-1/16” x 1-5/16” (4 req.)

73 7232234 Copper Reducer Bushing,

1” to 3/4” (2 req.) Ù

74 7171187 Plug, Drain Seal

Key

No. Part No. Description

75 7129889 Spring

76 7081201 Retainer, Nozzle & Venturi

– 7290931

Turbine & Support Assembly

(includes 1 ea. of Key Nos. 77, 78

& 2 ea. of Key No. 72)

77 áTurbine Support & Shaft

78 áTurbine

79 7171145 Valve Body

80 7170319 O-Ring, 1/4” x 3/8” (2 req.)

81 1202600 Nut - Ferrule

– 7253808 Nozzle & Venturi Assembly

(includes Key Nos. 82-90)

82 7081104 Housing, Nozzle & Venturi

83 7095030 Cone Screen

84 1148800 Flow Plug, 0.3 gpm

85 7114533 Nozzle & Venturi Gasket Kit

7204362 Gasket (only)

86 7084607 Flow Plug, 0.15 gpm

87 7146043 Screen

88 7167659 Screen Support

89 7170262 O-Ring, 1-1/8” x 1-3/8”

90 7199729 Cap

91 7309811 Wire Harness (Sensor)

92 7175199 Wave Washer

93 7171161 Valve Cover

94 7172997 Screw, #10-14 x 2-5/8” (8 req.)

95 7305150 Switch

96 7140738 Screw, #4-24 x 3/4” (2 req.)

97 7214383 Bypass Valve Assembly

(incl. 2 ea. of Key Nos. 70 & 72)

¢7139999 Drain Tubing, 3/8” I.D. x 20 ft.

¢7123613 Silicone Grease (for O-Rings) Ù

¢3479901 Adaptor Kit, 1” to 1-1/4” Ù

¢42-34407 Flexible Connectors, 1” Ù

¢Not illustrated.

ÙNot included with water softener.

Questions? Call the Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345 or visit www.kenmorewater.com

Notes

FOR IOWA USE ONLY

All sales in Iowa require the following signature before consummation of sale. These signatures must be retained by

seller/renter for 2 years minimum.

Buyer/Renter __________________________________________________________ Date _________________

Seller ________________________________________________________________ Date _________________

Seller’s Address ________________________________________________________________________________

Seller’s Phone No. ______________________________________________________________________________

Model 625.385200

"– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

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For Sears professional installation of home appliances

and items like garage door openers and water heaters.

1-800-4-MY-HOME®(1-800-469-4663)

Call anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada)

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For repair of carry-in items like vacuums, lawn equipment,

and electronics, call anytime for the location of your nearest

Sears Parts & Repair Service Center

1-800-488-1222 (U.S.A.) 1-800-469-4663 (Canada)

www.sears.com www.sears.ca

To purchase a protection agreement on a product serviced by Sears:

1-800-827-6655 (U.S.A.) 1-800-361-6665 (Canada)

® Registered Trademark / TM Trademark of KCD IP, LLC in the United States, or Sears Brands, LLC in other countries

® Marca Registrada / TM Marca de Fábrica de KCD IP, LLC en Estados Unidos, o Sears Brands, LLC en otros países

MC Marque de commerce / MD Marque déposée de Sears Brands, LLC

Get it fixed, at your home or ours!

Au Canada pour service en français:

1-800-LE-FOYERMC

(1-800-533-6937)

www.sears.ca

Para pedir servicio de reparación

a domicilio, y para ordenar piezas:

1-888-SU-HOGAR®

(1-888-784-6427)

www.sears.com

Your Home

For expert troubleshooting and home solutions advice:

www.managemylife.com

Kenmore Elite Hybrid Water Softener Owners Manual 7332880Eng_Sears

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