Water softener / water conditioner identification questions & answers.

This article series has advice for identifying your water softener or water conditioner brand and we give contact information for water softener parts & repairs for many water softener brands.

Q&A on How to Identify Water Softeners or Water Conditioners

These questions and answers about how to identify the brand and model of a water softener or water conditioner were found originally at IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL - be sure to review the advice found there.

 

On 2022-12-14 by InspectApedia (Editor)

@Dan,

Take a look at

IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL

On 2022-12-14 by Dan

Hi there! I was wondering if you might be able to help me identify this water softener - I'm looking at maybe doing a DIY media replacement, as when the softener is in service, the water pressure in the house is poo. (No beads in the plumbing or water heater, thankfully.)

The image is a plastic sweat jacket, as I would have to remove the valve head to take it off and I'm just not there, yet. I can tell, however, that the media tank is black and shiny underneath the jacket (aquapure?)

The head is a WS-1 series...pretty sure that's clack...or something. forgive me, I'm new. I'm in San Antonio, if that helps (Maybe Nelson Elite is a...local company?)

The tank itself is ~5 feet tall and fairly skinny.

On 2022-07-07 by InspectApedia (mod)

@Val,

Since just the patent numbers didn't help us with Mark, look for a data tag inside the cover of the control head or on the back you may find some data - attach a photo of that and we can perhaps identify it and find the manual.

Also a photo of the control head for your softener may help identify its brand.

One photo per comment but as many comments as you like.

On 2022-07-07 by Val

@Mark, did you figure out what brand yours is. Mine has a similar serial number and label and haven’t been able to determine yet.

On 2022-04-19 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Mark,

Sorry to be a PITA but those patent numbers as you wrote them are a bit hard to parse into individual documents

On 2022-04-19 by Mark

TeSTED BY
PATENT NOS.
8,500,159,
8,800,687,5,828,890,
8,880,088,5,741,000,
0,818,280,8,820, 133
OTHER PATENTS PENDING
MADE IN UBA
SERIAL NO. 74448--001 .000-0011C00-

On 2022-03-29 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Ruby,

Check the data tag for either an explicit date or a serial number.

Post a photo of the data tag.

On 2022-03-29 by Ruby

I bought a home with a water softener. How do I determine how old it is.? It is a Marlo model number ML 15S

On 2022-03-28 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - Fleck 5600 valve repair kit

@Seb,

Glad to assist. Keep us posted on how this repair progresses.

On 2022-03-28 by Seb

@Inspectapedia Com Moderator, Thank you for the help with this. Ordering a kit.

On 2022-03-27 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Seb,

Worth a shot replacing pistons and seals; compare your piston to those in the rebuild kit, and if you don't have it, here is the

FLECK 5600 SOFTENER SERVICE MANUAL [PDF] https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Fleck-5600-Service-Manual

On 2022-03-27 by Seb

@Inspectapedia Com Moderator,

Rogers, MN. House build in 2000, and water softener likely installed within 1-2 years after the the build give or take. Just guessing as I am 3rd owner of the house, without much records left by previous owners.

On inside of the head unit, stamped on the plastic gears manufacture date indicates year 9 month 9 day 12. Also dates on internal components might not be indicator of build date of unit. I am leaning on Fleck 5600 control head at this point as well.

Found the water softener in the In Service state on controller, but running water non stop. Rotating the dial didn’t change the flow of water. Ended up switching the lever to Bypass till I had time to inspect it.

Disconnected the control head and found the valve would not close, as it hang up due to corrosion on the valve shaft. I cleaned up the corrosion, then coated it with silicone grease and now the valve rebounds nicely. I also believe the rubber o-rings are worn out and dry.

Wondering if a Fleck 5600 rebuild kit would work?

On 2022-03-27 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Seb,

OK so checking a couple of those we know this is a FLECK water softener control citing patents from the 1960s. For example:

Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. "Control valve for water softeners." U.S. Patent 3,249,122, issued May 3, 1966.

Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. "Sealing ring for piston and cylinder assemblies." U.S. Patent 3,347,556, issued October 17, 1967.

So, Hop over to our page FLECK WATER SOFTENERS ID & MANUALS

at https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Fleck-Water-Softener-Manuals.php

where you'll find Fleck manuals, one or more of which ought to be helpful with the control on your water softener.

Can you tell us
- the location of the home where this is installed
- the age of the home
- any clues of age of the water softener

Thanks

On 2022-03-27 by Seb

@Inspectapedia Com Moderator, these are the only identifying patent numbers and serial number. No branding on the head unit that I can see on all sides. Of course I have no manual.

On 2022-03-27 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Seb,

I can't see enough to make a certain identification of your water softener.

Two easy steps can help confirm your water softener control brand.

Look for labels, even patent numbers, that can identify the brand of control head.

Compare the control head with those in this article and others in this series starting with

FLECK WATER SOFTENERS https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Fleck-Water-Softener-Manuals.php

On 2022-03-27 by Seb

Trying to figure out the brand of the water softener control valve. Serial number under the control valve is 5161360. It looks similar to Fleck just uncertain if this would take a fleck 5600 valve repair kit.

On 2022-03-12 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Cristian,

Help us out by telling us the brand and a model number if you have it. And post a photo of any label, sticker or tag if you can.

On 2022-03-12 by Cristian

Anyone can help me find a manual for this controller?

On 2022-03-03 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Chantaye,

See if you can find and post a photo of any stickers or tags on the control head on any side and don't forget to include patent numbers if you see those

On 2022-03-03 by Chantaye

What kind is this its where I moved to and I know nothing about it.

On 2022-01-19 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Canda e,

Please find our complete collection of Kinetico water softener manuals and also a link to operating the Bypass Valve on a water softener now at

KINETICO WATER SOFTENER MANUALS

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Kinetico-Water-Softener-Manuals.php

On the Kinetico Softener page I recommended, look at the Kinetico CONCEPT water softener manual as that includes the instructions for your Kinetico Model 30 water softener.

On 2022-01-19 by Canda e

Kenetico water conditioning system serial number0119967 model 30 how can I get information on this system what the name and how to bypass

On 2021-12-26 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Keff,

Please read the article above which gives several possible ways by using contextual clues that may help in your water softener identification question. In addition, there are many photo examples that may help

You are also welcome to post your own photo here (one photo per comment but as many comments as you like) which could help with its ID as well.

On 2021-12-26 by Keff

How do I know what make and model I have

On 2021-12-04 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Btm,

Give list of patent numbers on labels in the device

On 2021-12-04 by Btm

Identify water softener control brand/model

On 2021-09-17 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@norwood,

Using the on-page search box to search InspectApedia for "water filters"

we find WATER FILTERS, HOME USE

where we list every filter brand we could locate.

Look for and post on that page (along with your follow-up questions or comments) sharp photos of any labels or stickers you can find on your system. Even a Patent Number is often enough for us to identify the specific brand.

If all else fails you'll have to turn off the water into and out of the filter, then remove the canister; if you can't get a replacement O-ring don't assume you absolutely need one. Often, if the O-ring isn't cut or badly nicked or damaged I simply coat it with silicone grease and re-use it.

On 2021-09-17 by norwood

I realize this is a filter and not a softener, but this seemed like the closest page for that. It is leaking, presumably at the O ring. Any clues for identifying it, so that I can have the O ring in hand before I open it? If all else fails I could open it and measure the ring, but I'm concerned that it won't seal at all after I do that, so I'd really rather have the O ring ready at that point.

On 2021-09-14 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod) - contact & manual for for WSM, Inc. water softeners

@j blair,

• Contact: WSM, Inc., Water softening equipment assembly. Physical Address: 580 Golden Oak Pkwy. Oakwood Village, OH 44146 Mailing Address: 580 Golden Oak Pkwy Oakwood Village, OH 44146-6502
  
  The company is almost certainly using other mainstream water softener manufacturer control heads and parts so check the control on your water softener against the ones shown on this page
  

On 2021-09-14 by j blair

need manual to clean non-functional WSM water softener...no model number obviously present...how to get manual or fine repair help

On 2021-08-26 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod) - Autotrol 460TC Timer Control for Performa Series water softeners.

@shoottoscorehockey,

Specifically your photo looks like the Autotrol 460TC Timer Control for Performa Series water softeners.

It's confusing I know to slog through the blizzard of water softener brands and names and models because a few manufacturers make popular controls that are sold under many brand names.

Take a look at this PENTAIR WATER SOFTENER CONTROL HEAD MANUAL for the 460i/460TC Control System [PDF] (2011)
as it looks to match your unit:

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Autotrol-Pentair-Water-Softener-469T-Control-Manual.pdf

I've also seen this water softener sold under the DWC label and

I've also seen this water softener sold in the U.K. as a "NorthStar water softener control head" sold on eBay as NORTHSTAR Water Softener Circuit Board 7285627 1" VALVES

I'm pretty sure that's an AutoTrol or Pentair water softener control head. Probably an Autotrol Logix or Autotrol /Pentair 460-Series water softener control.

Autotrol and Pentair controls are also sold and appear on other water softeners sold under other brands. But an Autotrol manual should suffice.

Reader Todd posted an image of this same water softener control head in April 2020, saying it was installed in 2003.

If you can post a photo of any numbers or stickers that you find on the control head, even patent numbers, we can probably confirm the manufacturer and then the manual for this softener. (One photo per comment, as many comments as you like).

Why are those plastic handcuffs all over this softener control head? Perhaps its cover clips are broken?

If you can remove the cover there may be additional stickers or identification inside.

let's take a look.

We list Autotrol Water Softener manuals at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS under "A" on that page

inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php#A

and similarly you'll find Pentair softener manuals under "P"

On 2021-08-26 by shoottoscorehockey

Little Help? Looking for a manual.

On 2021-07-25 by mak.church (mod) - identify Fleck water softeners

@Randall Greinert,
This section in the article above:

Question: how do I identify the model and brand of my water softener? Where do I get water softener operating instructions.

shows a photo of the same control panel as yours. Please review this section on how to identify the brand of your specific unit as you will see that this panel is used by many manufacturers.

On 2021-07-25 by Randall Greinert

Can you identify the brand and model #? I am trying to find a users manual. I was told this is a Fleck.

On 2021-07-19 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@Anonymous,
Follow the piping to and from your "unit" - assuming you're talking about a water heater;

Look at the water heater itself: gas water heaters have controls completely different from electric or oil.

search InspectApedia.com for "gas water heaters" to read details.

You are posting on a page about water softeners - used to remove minerals from water, but not to heat it, and not using gas piping.

That's ok, it's not a crime, but we want you to read the best information for answering your question.

or if I've misunderstood the question just say so.

On 2021-07-19 by Anonymous

how to know if your unit is hooked to a gas line

On 2021-07-17 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod) - ID water softener from serial number alone?

@Robin Lippitt,

The serial number alone can make water softener identification tough - try some of the suggestions given above on this page;

Examples of Water Softener Identification by surrounding Context Information

Photo any logos, stamps, stickers,
Look for the original instruction manual often stored nearby
Consider the installation's location: country, city, age, building age
Look for indirect clues such as a patent number on a sticker that can give the manufacturer by patent search

On 2021-07-17 by Robin Lippitt

I am trying to figure out the manufacturer of this water softener to get a operation manual for it.

 

On 2021-07-16 by inspectapedia.com.moderator

@chris,

Please see

GE WATER HEATER AGE

On 2021-07-16 by chris

how old is my water softener
GE:Auto control
mod# 255/460i
ser# 255060059406

On 2021-05-13 by (mod)

@John,

Unless you need to remove water from the brine tank as part of cleaning, OR because a stuck brine tank float caused the brine tank to become flooded with excess water, the (otherwise) normal procedure would be to leave the water in the brine tank alone and simply add salt tablets or crystals

To bail out a flooded water softener brine tank that does not have a drain at the bottom (most do not)

I use a combination of bailing by small bucket and a portable pony pump (also called a "transfer pump")

See details at PUMPS, PONY PUMPS https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Pony_Pumps.php

On 2021-05-13 by John

Model number WHES33 and serial number WHES332-14098-3338 how do I get the water out of it needs salt but the water is up to the number 7

On 2021-04-08 by danjoefriedman (mod)

@Rodney, You'll find that control head for your water softener at IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL - topic home,
inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water-Softener-Identification.php

On 2021-04-07 by Rodney

Not good at this hopefully you get , Wendy I have that blue tank and head like yours and need instructions also , by chance did you figure out brand and model

On 2021-04-21 by (mod)

@CarolLedford,

The good news is that most water softeners use control heads from the smaller number of manufacturers. You might be able to identify the control head by labels or in Princeville sometimes even by a patent number included on the label. You'll also see a notification numbers and manufacturer contact information in the article above. If you don't have the operating manual for your water softener you want to download one from here.

On 2021-04-20 by CarolLedford

Hi. How do I find parts for my water softener? I have spent hours looking for a timer for my water softener so I'm sure I'm not looking in the right places.

On 2021-03-30 by (mod) - Proper replacement O-Ring Size for a Clack water softener - O-ring 215

@MOORE,

There are multiple O-rings in your water softener; if you're asking about the common O-ring shown below, that's a standard O-Ring #215 widely sold, for example at Grainger.com

Watch out: there is a variety of O Ring 215 materials and they may vary, but in general this O-ring seal has these dimensions:

Inside diameter: 1 - 1/16"

Outside diameter: 1 - 5/16"

Actual outside diameter: 1.324"

Watch out: check the parts explosion in the manual for your specific Clack WS1 water softener manual to be sure you're ordering the correct part.

If you don't have the manual for your softener, see

WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads

at

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php

where you will find manuals for Clack water softeners listed under "C"

On 2021-03-30 by MOORE

What is the size of the o ring on WS1 Clack dome hole ca

On 2021-03-23 by (mod) CYGNA water softener Model YD32B manual

@Bob Marcantonio, we have just a little information about Cygna water softeners, listed under "C" at

WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php

Including these product specifications:

Cygna TWO TANK SOFTENER

• Automatic (YA) or Demand (YD) • Poly Wound Mineral Tank

• Includes Bypass

• 16 x 33 Brine Tank Assembly Includes: • Safety Float Assembly

• Overflow Elbow

• Salt Grid

• 4ft. of brine tubing

In our index to water softener manuals, also see those for the Fleck 5600 water softener control and service manuals.

On 2021-03-23 by Bob Marcantonio

I have a CYGNA water softener Model YD32B and can't find any information about the company or product. Are you familiar with them or this model?

On 2021-02-02 by danjoefriedman (mod)

You'll find that control head for your water softener at IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL - topic home,

WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads

may also be of help

On 2021-02-02 by Wendy

Need to identify so I can find instructions to set it.

Here is the information I found on the bottom side of the control head.

On 2021-01-16 by (mod)

Wayne, see the settings at WATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENT & CONTROLS and the control head above on this page.

On 2021-01-16 by Wayne

My softener is constantly flowing water and I would like to verify the settings. Can you help identify the model and manual? Thanks.

On 2020-11-14 - by (mod) -

Not much should make you panic unless you see sparks flying or your home is being flooded.

But if your home needs a water softener and it's not maintained and kept supplied with salt the risk is that over time mineral scale clogs your pipes, especially the hot water system, leading to a costly repair.

Take a look in the ARTICLE INDEX above and you'll see articles on setting the softener controls - backwash frequency and salt dose, on running a manual regeneration cycle (to confirm that the softener works) - and on testing your water for hardness so you can determine the right salt dose.

You'll also find this link to our collection of water softener manuals. https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php

Often even if you don't find your exact softener the controls are so common across so many softener brands and models that you'll find a manual that tells you what you need to know. There under "Water Right Water Softener Manuals" you 'll find the manual for your softener or one close to it.

On 2020-11-14 by RJ

Just bought a new house. We have a well. Never had a well or a water softener before. Best I can tell the water softener is a Crystal Currents Model:CCR-948-M. Just trying to get some general information about my model and also how to maintain and service it. Also, if you could describe or offer a scenario in which I should begin to panic, that's useful too. Thanks.

On 2020-10-30 - by (mod) -

Chris

Please find your question and my detailed reply now at the Reader Q&A section near the bottom of the article above on this page. You may need to clear or refresh your browser cache to see the updated page. We welcome your further photos, comments, questions.

On 2020-10-30 - by (mod) -

Patent numbers can ID a water softener control head manufacturer

Right, Chris, I was not claiming that the example illustration of a two-tank control patent is exactly your system, but the patent numbers on the sticker on your softener control identifies that control head as a Fleck device.

On 2020-10-29 by Chris

but my system only has one tank?

On 2020-10-29 by (mod) - Identifying water softener control as manufactured by Fleck

Sure Chris,

That control for your water softener is a Fleck product.

At FLECK WATER SOFTENER MANUALS

you can download manuals as PDF files or you can see company contact information.

Keep in mind that Fleck water softener controls are used on many water softeners sold under other brands.

It's no secret how I figured this out: I just researched the two patent numbers in your photo: US Patent 5816290 and US Patent 5628899, both of which show they were filed by Fleck Controls Inc. - an excerpt from the second patent is shown here.

Thanks for asking. Post another photo of the front of the control if you like. That may help others.

On 2020-10-29 by Chris

I'm trying to identify what make and model water softener I have. Is there any way you can help me with the pictures I have provided?

On 2020-10-28 by (mod) -

Kim:

Post any other identification stamp or sticker data from the control head, even patent numbers, as those will help ID the unit.

Also you can simply take a look at photos of the various softener control heads in the article above. There's not an exact match but several Hellenbrand softeners are very similar to yours.

Also it's helpful to know that many water softeners, sold under a wide range of brands, make use of control heads made by just one or two manufacturers. For that reason we can often find a suitable instruction manual.

It also helps us identify your water softener to know the country and city where your softener was purchased and where it is installed.

For example, Zodiac is a water softener and spa chemical company operating in Australia. So IF you or your softener are in or came from Australia, you can contact that Zodiac company at 1800 688 552 or their website Zodiac.com.au

Finally, it is very unusual to find a brand new water softener that was sold without an installation and user's manual. I would go back to the vendor to insist that that missing documentation be provided.

On 2020-10-28 by Kim

If anyone can help identify this water softener, it is a brand new unit but I have no paperwork. There is just a sticker that says "zodiac systems" but Google searches are coming up blank. I was told the unit was about $1,000 installed. Thanks in advance.

Kim

On 2020-07-19 - by (mod) -

Eric:

The patent numbers confirm that your label is from a Fleck water softener control head.

But from a photo of the label I can't say which parts in your control are defective and need replacement. It could be something as simple as a mere O-ring or gasket.

Take a look at the parts explosion for your particular softener model and focus on the control head and valves to find the best candidate parts for replacement, combined of course with a careful wiping dry and inspection to find the point of leakage.

On 2020-07-19 by Eric

I have a Fleck 5600 filter valve that's leaking. I'm trying to find replacement parts and/or replacing the whole head but there seem to be variations of a theme.
I'm attaching a few pics here [above].

Can you advise which unit or parts I need and perhaps who may have them?
I have several other pics available.
dornenterprises94@gmail.com
Thanks!

On 2020-07-12 - by (mod) - Identify an Angel

Sure MG

See ANGEL WATER SOFTENERS

On 2020-07-12 by mgarmone@gmail.com

I do not see a manufacture name on the unit. Need to find the softener manual. Does not seem to be regenerating automatically. Serial number BR102305; bar code# 01023050 please help. thank you Mike

...

On 2020-06-15 - by (mod) - Identify a Fleck or Fleckstein water softener controlhead

Thanks Chris.

Those are older (1960's 1970's) Fleckstein patent numbers
e.g.

Fleckenstein, L. W., & Fleckenstein, A. J. (1966). U.S. Patent No. 3,249,122. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Fleckenstein, A. J., & Mitchell, H. C. (1975). U.S. Patent No. 3,874,412. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Fleckenstein, Andrew, and Michael Mortl. "Water conditioning system controls." U.S. Patent 4,290,451, issued September 22, 1981.

so it's most-liklely a Fleck water conditioner control that was made after 1981.

See FLECK WATER SOFTENER MANUALS

On 2020-06-15 by Chris_jacomet11

Numbers again 3249122. 3874412. 3347536. 4290451. 3349915. 3457792. 3616820. 3742768

On 2020-06-14 - by (mod) - how can I identify this water softener

Chris

Please post an additional note with the list of patent numbers on that red label

On 2020-06-14 by chrisjacomet11

Can u identify this water conditioner [photo above of a water softener control head with cover removed)

On 2020-05-03 by Mod - look further for water softener data tags

Ferrell

I don't recognize this water softener either, but often on a data tag inside the cover of the control head or on the back you'll find some data - attach a photo of that and we can perhaps identify it and find the manual.

On 2020-05-03 by Ferrell Heeter

I just moved into a new house and there is no documentation for our water softener. I don’t see any identification.

On 2020-05-03 - by (mod) - McLean water softeners

Anon

As McLean water softeners are not a brand with which we're familiar I'll have to some digging.

Meanwhile can you post a photo of the control head for your softener, and of any data tags or ID information? (one photo per comment)

On 2020-05-03 by Anonymous

I’m looking for a part for a McLean water softener motor which is 13 400

On 2020-04-24 by Neil Autotrol 255-460i meter control softener head.

Hi,
this is an Autotrol 255-460i meter control softener head.

On 2020-04-10 - by (mod) - Oh So Soft water softener details

Daniel

Look on the control head and any data tags and let me know all of the patent numbers you can find - if there are any

Post a photo of the control head using the add image button

On 2020-04-10 by Daniel Arnold

I have an older, manual water softener. I would like to get a manual for it, but don't know what type it is

The label on the cover says Oh So Soft. There is a label on the inside of the control mechanism with the following information: Soft Water Treatment, Brookfield, WI and the following number : 449857-004.000-0020C00
Any help identifying this would be appreciated.

On 2020-04-10 - by (mod) - Oh So Soft

Brian

You saw that it's labelled as a Culligan water softener, right?

On 2020-04-10 by BrianJ

There is a model number on the head of this water softener but internet searches using number does not yield any results

On 2020-03-14 - by (mod) -

not a control I've seen before.

Post a photo of any additional stickers or data tags, particularly anything that includes a patent number.

There is a "model no" on a tag on your softener but I couldn't read it. Possibly a Pentair model M 233-2.

On 2020-03-11 - by (mod) -

Charlie, try taking a look at the photos at

inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water-Softener-Identification.php

On 2020-03-10 by Charlie

The unit does not have any stickers except made in the USA, don’t see and dates or labels

On 2020-03-13 by Dave

Brand?

On 2020-03-13 - by (mod) -

Dave

try the add image button

On 2020-03-13 by Dave

What brand is this?

On 2020-02-09 - by (mod) - What brand is a AVCM-MP32-21

Dave, unfortunately as softener control heads and parts are often used across brands i cant say without more info, and perhaps some photos.

On 2020-02-09 by Dave

What brand is a AVCM-MP32-21

On 2019-12-11 by (mod) -

A fun trick that you and I both like when trying to identify equipment that doesn't bear a clear brand ID is to look up the patent numbers.

The large number on your label is a serial no but below it are patent numbers such as

3249122 Control valve for water softeners Application filed by Lambert W Fleckenstein, Andrew J Fleckenstein

US 3347556 is Sealing ring for piston and cylinder assemblies Lambert W FleckensteinAndrew J Fleckenstein

US 3349915 Control valve for water softeners LW Fleckenstein, AJ Fleckenstein - US Patent 3,349,915, 1967

- so we know that this is a Fleck water softener or is using enough 1960s design Fleck parts that it's not likely to have been made by someone else to a different design.

You'll find Fleck softener manuals at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS

On 2019-12-10 by Ryan

I could use some help identifying this. It has duplex tanks, identical control panels and a Google search of one of the patent numbers on the sticker suggests it could be a Fleck control but it would help to know which one.

The system was here when I bought the house 6 years ago and I don’t know it’s age. I would like to know how to check and clean/replace the brine valve. Thank you! [Photo above]

On 2019-10-30 by (mod) - "drop-in" replacement control heads for water softeners

Thank you for those comments, Paul, that will be helpful to other readers;

I don't know how to inspect a resin bed visually, but if a water softener isn't softening and it is getting a proper brine charge and the regen cycle seems to run through all of its phases correctly, and if the softener is 5 years old or older an exhausted resin bed is a reasonable assumption; surprisingly some softener manuals want us to change the resin bed often.

Anybody who has ever actually been through a complete softener installation can see that doing that is plenty of work.

See details at WATER SOFTENER RESIN REPLACEMENT

On 2019-10-30 1 by paul wysocki - The Fleck 5000 power head design proved to be very unreliable, and was discontinued after a few years.

Now to the next chapter:

Further research led me to the "drop-in" replacement control heads for my system - substantially reducing the cost of acquiring a working and reliable softener. Having a fixed income, every dollar counts! Can you share your thoughts on this process, should I replace the resin bed or just inspect the resin and let its condition drive the replacement question? Many thanks!

Thanks for your comprehensive reply. I did a new search campaign and got lucky with a positive ID on my unit.

Quote: The Fleck 5000 power head design proved to be very unreliable, and was discontinued after a few years.

The valve body is still used by Fleck and many "proprietary" brands ( such as Rainsoft ), but the mechanical power head parts are not available from any source. Looks like the end of the road for this unit, but thanks again for your thoughtful assistance!

On 2019-10-28 by (mod) -

Paul:

Please see your original question about identifying and getting instructions for an older Fleckstein water softener - now found at

FLECK WATER SOFTENER MANUALS

also see

WATER SOFTENER / TREATMENT TURN-ON

where I have details about returning a water softener to operation.

On 2019-10-28 by paul wysocki - bought water softener at low price at auction

Absolutely. I purchased this softener at auction - at a very fair price. It appears, on the outside, to have had light duty - and I would like to perform all needed maintenance (o rings, resin, etc) and put it back into service. I am reluctant to invest time and $$ into this softener without any manufacturer info. Thanks for your support so far!

On 2019-10-28 by (mod) - How to Identify & Get a Used Water Softener Working

Paul

Even when water softener dials vary slightly in appearance they're usually performing pretty much the same basic functions. Your used softener is perhaps a Fleck or Fleckstein water softener, or a softener made by that company to be sold under another brand such as Sears.

[Click to enlarge any image]

To get a used water softener of unknown condition into operation

1. Download the Installation and Operation Manual(s)
   
   for your water softener or one close to it in design and brand
   
   Try looking through some of the manuals including Fleck at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads
   
   will give you help with those.
   
   Follow those instructions, of which we give a general outline below.
2. Clean and sanitize the softener
   
   resin tank and brine tank -
   
   see WATER SOFTENER CLEANING & SANITIZING
3. Test your home's water for hardness
   
   so that you can determine the probable softener settings - note that water hardness may vary by season - test water using a sample obtained ahead of the water softener itself.
   
   see WATER HARDNESS: HOW TO MEASURE
4. Add salt
   
   to the softener's brine tank
5. Adjust the Softener's Settings
   
   

   The functions will include
   
   - setting the timer clock
   

   - set the salt dose
   

   - set the time of day for regeneration ("backwash") etc
   

   - set the regen frequency - depends on volume of water use
   
   WATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENT & CONTROLS

6. Run a manual regeneration cycle
7. Set the softener for automatic operation
8. Test the hardness of water produced by the water softener
   
   to confirm that it's working
   

On 2019-06-23 by Anonymous - Pure Tel Water Softener

pure tel water softner SN100111U how to reset unit.

On 2019-03-08 by (mod)

Thanks for an interesting question and photo, Anon.

1. We need to establish that what's shown is indeed a water softener and not some other type of water treatment equipment, as there are similar looking machines that treat other water contaminants and that would not use salt.

2. If this is a water softener (removing Ca and Mg associated with hard water) most likely it would have a separate salt tank or brine tank reservoir that is not shown in the photo, connected by a flexible tube used to send water into the brine tank to dissolve salt and to extract brine to use in backwashing

3. There used to be (back when I was younger) a common "exchange tank" water softener system distributed by Culligan and others that used "green sand" (potassium permaganate) to remove minerals from water.

Those systems, as installed in the consumer's home, had no salt tank. Instead the tank was periodically swapped out for a fresh one by Culligan who then re-charged the potassium permaganate exchange tanks back at their facility.

4. To physically change out the resin in the treatment tank (shown in your photo) would require disassembly of the unit, removal of the control head, and exchange of resin - not something a homeowner would normally do.

In sum: do we even know that this is a water softener and not something else?

On 2019-03-08 by Anonymous

Question: Do you have any idea how to recharge the resin or add salt to the tank pictured in this setup?

IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.

On 2019-02-27 by (mod) -

Try the contact in the note below

On 2019-02-27 by larry stahl

@Kip Hoskins,
Hell-o, and well did you get an answer? I have the same looking controller.

On 2018-12-27 by (mod) - information on Abacus water softeners - G.E.

Hayley,

To help you find information about your Abacus water filter it would help me if you tell me the country and city of the building where the Abacus equipment is installed. That's because there are several companies enjoying the Abacus name.

You'll note on your label that the Abacus label is also associated with GE products.

If by chance you live in the U.S. in

New England (Massachusetts, or Raymond New Hampshire)
Abacus Water Systems, (Felder Industries), near Raymond NH, Tel: (603) 778-2984 , Email: AbacusWaterSystems@Gmail.com Website: https://www.abacuswatersystems.com/

Texas:
Abacus Water Systems
4001 Kendrick Plaza Drive
Houston, TX, 77032
713-766-3605
Website https://www.abacusplumbing.net

Almost certainly the water treatment systems these companies sell or install is not manufactured by them but will be a more-standard product by one of the major manufacturers. Often by looking at photographs of the equipment in our article above you can recognize your equipment.

In your case if your equipment is not a water softener but an reverse osmosis system or a water filter system, then use the ARTICLE INDEX found near the end of the article on this page to find our articles on those two types of equipment and their maintenance.

I can't guess at the error 3 code on your system because I don't know what kind of equipment we're discussing nor which actual manufacturer it is. Error 3 code meanings vary depending on those variables.

On 2018-12-27 by Hayley

I can not find a manual or anything to do with my Abacus water system. I have an error 3 code and it doesn't seem to be running due to a possible sensor wire that I found hanging but I can't find where it goes.

IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.

On 2018-11-28 by Paulette

I’m trying to identify this water softener. The serial number is torn off. It begins with F104..., it’s a Stainless steel (two cylinders) they are made in the USA.

IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.

On 2018-10-03 by (mod) -

I'm sorry, but no. Not from just that number.

Three good news is that a lot of vendors sell generic mode like this, so one of the free manuals listed at

WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS May work for you

You can also .post a photo or two.

On 2018-10-03 by Jim

I have a water softener that has been stripped of all manufacturer ID by a vendor who sells potassium chloride on a subscription service. Can you tell me who the manufacturer is? Water softener serial # BND02997519

On 2018-08-28 by (mod) - Culligan Mark 29 water softener

Cathy

I think you're asking about a Culligan Mark 29 water softener - probably made in 1986. I'm not aware of a "Beatrice" water softener brand.

If you can do so, attach a photo - 1 per comment - but multiple comments are ok - showing me the whole unit, the control head, and any brand or label or sticker information.

On 2018-08-28 by Cathy Hillis

How old is my water softener? The serial #867823437.
Beatrice mark 29

On 2018-08-24 by Dave

How old is this culligan conditioner ?

On 2017-05-09 by (mod) - Kisco water softener

Eric, check out our list of water softener and control manuals at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php

And there see the AUTOTROL 155-400 CONTROL MANUAL as this may explain the control commonly installed on Kisco-brand water softeners.

On 2017-05-09 by eric

Kisco water softner 42x72-2" serial # 043097 date 12~89 need any help finding manual

On 2017-04-03 0 by (mod) -

Typically the year is coded in the serial number; guessing, your unit could have been made on July 28, 2003.

On 2017-04-03 by (mod) - Aquasoft water conditioner serial numbers

I'm researching the decoding of Aquasoft water conditioner serial numbers, Charity. It's a little tricky since quite a few companies claim the name "Aqua Soft". I'll add what I can find including contact information for the company into this article - so if we don't find a better decoder you can still contact Aquasoft directly to ask.

On 2017-04-02 by Charity

what year is my aqua system model # 9100TW.75D150TBBLKHS serial # 072803131337

On 2017-03-22 by (mod) - generic control

I'll see what I can find - probably this is a generic control

On 2017-03-22 by Bruce

Help me identify the Brand & Model of my water Softener.
Serial number BR78959
Where can I obtain operating & repair instructions for this water softener?

Thank you,
Bruce

Question: blue water softener with no electricity

(Jan 24, 2015) Mark Morales said:
We bought a house that has a blue water softener (2 tanks and a brine tank) with no electricity connected it it. The taller tank has controls on top with one "knob" that looks like a wind-up key and a small "button" to the right of that key.

There is the large bypass valve that is concerted to the water line, and one other bypass that has a red handle on it. There are no brand markings or model numbers anywhere that I can find.
Any thoughts on what kind of softener this could be and how it functions?
Thanks for any help you can give me!

Reply:

Mark

Some water softener or other water treatment systems don't use any electricity - water passes through a treatment tank that must be exchanged - swapped in - periodically. Use our CONTACT link to send me some photos of your system and we can comment further.

Question: water too salty

(Jan 2, 2016) Jerry Hall said:
our water has excessive salt in our drinking water how do I stop this or change this

Reply:

Jerry:

Check the salt dose setting on your water softener.
Check the backwash or regeneration cycle frequency setting on your water softener/
Then have the hardness of your water tested.

With that data you can first be sure that your softener is at the proper settings - or search InspectApedia.com for WATER SOFTENER SETTINGS to read the details.

If the softener is properly set but the salt dose remains excessive then the water softener control or brine tank float or a similar control needs repair or replacement.

...

Continue reading  at IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL - topic home, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• DIAGNOSE WATER SOFTENER PROBLEMS
• WATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENT & CONTROLS
• WATER SOFTENERS & CONDITIONERS - home
• WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads

Suggested citation for this web page

WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL IDENTIFICATION FAQs at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

Or see this

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS

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