Many homeowners have experienced their water softener units not fully draining between cycles, causing them to overflow with liquid. When this happens, you may wonder what the cause is.
This blog post will explain why your water softener is full of water, as well as what to do about it. Any issues should always be handled by a professional, so if you notice any signs indicating that this could be the problem, get in touch with a plumber immediately.
Let’s get into it.
Causes of a water softener full of water
There are many reasons your softener unit could be brimming with water. Here are some of the most common causes and how they contribute to this situation.
Blockages
A blockage in the lines leading to or from your unit can prevent it from draining effectively, leading to an accumulation of water. This blockage can be due to sediment build-up or debris trapped in the lines.
A malfunctioning brine valve
Your softener’s brine valve controls how much water enters its brine tank. If this valve becomes damaged or stuck, excess liquid could flow in, filling up your brine tank constantly.
A broken float assembly
The float assembly in the brine tank helps regulate liquid levels. If this part is broken or not functioning properly, your softener can end up with excess liquid.
Issues with the drain line flow control (DLFC)
The DLFC helps regulate the flow of water during the regeneration process. If this component is malfunctioning, it might result in your unit overfilling.
Resin beads wearing out
Over time, the resin beads in your softener (that are responsible for the actual softening process) can degrade or break. This can cause them to block the system, preventing liquid from exiting and causing the tank to fill up.
A faulty timer
Softener units use a timer to control regeneration cycles. If the timer is faulty, it may cause the softener to add water at incorrect times, leading to an overly full tank.
Incorrect water pressure
If the water pressure in your home is too high, it may lead to the unit’s tank filling up more than necessary.
Worn-out seals and rotors
With age and continuous use, the seals and rotors in your unit can wear out and fail, causing the device to malfunction. This can lead to the tank filling over its capacity.
Remember, these are just possible causes. Your unit may be full due to a completely different issue altogether. It’s always best to consult with a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.
How to maintain your water softener system
Preventing a water softener full of water means regularly maintaining your system. Proper maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your system but also increases efficiency and decreases the need for repair.
Here are various ways you can maintain and care for your system.
Clean the system regularly
Routinely cleaning your system (particularly the brine tank) can help prevent sediment build-up, which is often a leading cause of blockages. Regular cleaning can also help you spot and address minor issues before they become costly repairs.
Check and replace components
Regular inspection and timely replacement of critical parts can keep your system in top-tier condition. It’s important to replace components showing signs of wear and tear or malfunction in order to maintain peak performance.
Schedule regeneration
Set your softener system to regenerate as per your household’s water usage. An overworked system can lead to serious problems that, if left unaddressed, can compound and can long-term damage.
Use quality salt
Ensuring you’re using high-quality salt can reduce the likelihood of salt bridges forming (which can prevent the system from properly regenerating).
Have your system professionally maintained
DIY maintenance can cause you to overlook potentially serious issues. Nothing beats getting a professional to do the job. Professional maintenance services can ensure your system receives a thorough inspection, cleaning, and any necessary repairs.
With their expertise, plumbers will be able to pick up on issues that would normally be missed by the average homeowner, so it’s highly recommended to have your unit looked over on a regular basis.
Remember, prevention is better than cure. With regular maintenance, your unit system will function more efficiently to ensure you always have access to soft water when you need it.
Is your water softener full of water? Contact Plumb-Tech!
Taking care of your water softener is essential for both its lifespan and performance. Remember, it’s always best to reach out to professionals for comprehensive maintenance and to address serious issues that may prove challenging to fix on your own.
At Plumb-Tech, we’re committed to offering expert solutions for all your water softener concerns. If you’re experiencing issues with your unit being full or overflowing, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact us today and let our team know how we can help!
