Replacing the resin media in a water softener or iron filtering system

These are instructions for replacing the resin media in a water softener. This should be done to improve water filtering and removal of iron taste.

Safety Precautions

• Turn off the water supply to the softener before you begin.
• Unplug the unit from electrical power.

Disassembly

1. Close the water lines to the softener.
2. Disconnect the water lines from the unit.
3. Loosen the water softener bypass valve (usually located near the bottom of the unit) to relieve any pressure.
4. Use a crescent wrench to loosen the tank clamp that holds the softener tank in place.
5. Carefully unscrew the control unit from the top of the tank. Be mindful of the o-ring to avoid damaging it.

Resin Removal and Tank Cleaning

1. Measure the depth of the old resin with a measuring tape. This will be a reference for adding the new resin.
2. Remove the dip tube and inspect it for any clogs or cracks. Clean it if necessary.
3. Empty the remaining water out of the tank.
4. Remove the old resin media from the tank. You can use a shop vac to help with this process but be cautious not to damage the tank or plumbing.
5. Rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water using a hose.
6. Clean the screen on the dip stick before reinserting it.
7. To prevent resin from falling into the tank while refilling, you can temporarily cover the dip tube hole with tape.

Refilling and Reassembly

1. Place a funnel made from cut plastic next to the dip tube opening.
2. Pour the new resin media into the funnel.
3. Measure the depth of the new resin bed to ensure it's slightly higher than the old bed.
4. Apply a food-grade lubricant to the o-ring on the control unit.
5. Clean and lubricate the threads on the control unit where it screws into the tank.
6. Screw the control unit back onto the tank, tightening it securely but not over-tightening it.
7. Reattach the water lines to the unit, using new Teflon tape on the threads to ensure a good seal.
8. Reconnect the water softener to the bypass valve and close the bypass valve.
9. Slowly open the water supply to the softener.
10. Set the softener into bypass mode and run a regeneration cycle to clean the new resin bed.
11. Open faucets throughout the house to flush any trapped air or debris from the lines.

Additional Tips

• Consult your water softener's owner manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
• Depending on the size of your softener tank, you may need help lifting the tank during the replacement process.
• Dispose of the old resin media according to local regulations. Resin media typically contains contaminants and should not be thrown away in regular trash.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully replace the resin media in your water softener tank.