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Decode Whirlpool washing machine Top loading model number (Europe) TDLR 60810 – Whirlpool washing machine with top loading (T-top loader) and inverter motor. AWE 6516/1 – a series of washing machines, with an ordinary engine. Decode Whirlpool built-in washing machine 2015-2019. To point you in the right direction, we'll need to first identify your water heater. Please locate your water heater's serial number and enter it in the box below. The serial number may be found on the label near the bottom of the water heater. Age: For units manufactured up through the 1970's, the date of manufacture information is found as a number and a letter in the serial number where the number is the single digit year and the letter indicates the month. A=Jan, B=Feb, C=Mar and so on.
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 sofener parts & repairs for many water softener brands.
We also provide a MASTER INDEX to this topic, or you can try the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX as a quick way to find information you need.
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 2020-05-03 by (mod) - look further for water softener data tags
Whirlpool Water Heater Serial Number
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 2020-03-13 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, unfortunaty 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 2020-01-03 by (mod) - Water-Right water softener made by Fleck
Thanks, I'll pass this on to the programmer.
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
Oh here's another sticker
Dan yes sorry I did not get a notification about my comment being posted, the comment box stayed highlighted, and nothing happened. So of coarse I clicked it a few times and nothing change.
The box was just highlighted. So actually I backed out and went back in to post, and see thing..lol it took a few try's til I got a the comment box to disappear and the message to appear that it was received.
On 2020-01-03 by (mod) -
Yes I agree that Softener Identification can be confounding; basically a few manufacturers make equipment sold under many other brands.
I'm not familiar with re-manufactured water softener equipment nor that market; The sticker on your unit is probably not 'wrong', just confusing.
On a 2002 water softener by now it's possible that its resin is exhausted and needs replacement. If you have to buy a new control head and replace the resin the total labor costs and parts cost may approach a new unit.
I'd try cleaning and sanitizing the unit, running a manual regen cycle, and then test the water hardness IN to the unit and OUT of the unit to see what it's doing.
Let me know what you find.
Help me out by letting me know what you did or did not see that led to confusion about posting images - why do we have the same image posted so many times? I think it's because the Comments-Box coder Clark Van Oyen has not made his message to you prominent enough - you're supposed to see a note saying your image will appear after it's approved by the moderator.
I'd like to make a specific suggestion to him about improving his messages so that the system works better for you.
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
Dan, yes thank you I saw that before I posted.
Was hoping for more info. I need to know the age to see if it's worth repair or best to replace.
Also the stickers on the controller show a diff company and the model number is to an analog controller.
I tried to add all pic but was only able to post one.
Here is one of the stickers. Is it possible the is a remanufactured unit, or already repaired to the point of an upgrade? Why the wrong sticker? I was trying to find a manual to disassemble the control head, which I have found thanks to the previous post.
But still want to know the age. And still confused about the sticker.
Thanks again for all the help
On 2020-01-03 by (mod) -
Susan the same water softener as in your photo is described earlier on this page
'Photo: an early Fleck 5600 SE water softener per reader Neil Iddison's comment 2019/07/29.'
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
What brand, model, age is the water softener?
Am thinking a fleck, possibility rebuilt?
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
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!
Whirlpool Dryer Serial Number Decoder
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
where I have details about returning a water softener to operation.
On 2019-10-28 by paul wysocki
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 2019-10-30 by (mod) -
Luke:
The water softener in your photo is made by Fleckstein or 'Fleck' water softeners, A Fleck 5600 SXT.
But take care: Fleckstein as do other major water softener manufacturers often produce equipment that is re-labeled and sold under regional or even local water softener brands.
It would be helpful to
- have the age of the softener in your photo or at least the age of the home where it is installed, as well as the country and city of location
- to see photos (1 per comment) of any labels, patent number stickers, etc. you find on the back of the control head or inside the control head cover or elsewhere on the equipment.
On 2019-10-30 by Luke
What brand of water softener is this?
The picture is below
On 2019-10-28 by (mod) - How to Identify & Get A 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
- 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. - Clean and sanitize the softener resin tank and brine tank -
see WATER SOFTENER CLEANING & SANITIZING - 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 - Add salt to the softener's brine tank
- 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 - Run a manual regeneration cycle
- Set the softener for automatic operation
- Test the hardness of water produced by the water softener to confirm that it's working
On 2019-10-28 by paul wysocki
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 2019-10-27 by (mod) - Tracing patent numbers gives the earliest date for a water softener as well as it's probable manufacturer
Or you're right that's not a controller that's familiar to me either. However can we be clear on what problem we're solving? Is it that system simply doesn't work?
The patent citations (I've added them below) tell us that the design for this water softener dates back as early as 1981, though of course your individual softener could be newer (or it could be 'new old stock').
Tip for other readers: if you want to find the 'newest' or 'youngest' date associated with a water softener, use Google Scholar to search for the highest patent number shown. For this softener that was Patent 4290451 issued in 1981.
On 2019-10-25 by paul wysocki
I ran the patent #'s and found them to be Fleckenstein (the latest patent dated 1980) - but this control head does not show up anywhere. It has a unique vertical profile with 3 knobs - a distinctive combination. I exhausted Google image searches and many softener system manufacture sites - with no joy.
This control head must not have been very popular based on its lack of web presence. In light of that, and the age of the system, it is time for Plan B - break down and purchase a new system. Thanks for your comprehensive website - it provided lots of resources to explore.
Any thoughts on a best value new system? -Paul
Here is a picture of the patents tag. Thanks again.
[Patent citations shown below are for the patent numbers on this water softener were added by Editor - all point to Fleckstein]
- Fleckenstein, Andrew, and Michael Mortl. 'Water conditioning system controls.' U.S. Patent 4,290,451, issued September 22, 1981.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J., and Herman C. Mitchell. 'Timing motor drive mechanism for water softener valves.' U.S. Patent 3,874,412, issued April 1, 1975.
- Fleckenstein, A., and H. Mitchell. 'Timing motor drive mechanism for water softener valves.' U.S. Patent 3,742,768, issued July 3, 1973.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J. 'Softener valve.' U.S. Patent 3,616,820, issued November 2, 1971.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J. 'Timing motor mechanism for control valves and the like.' U.S. Patent 3,457,792, issued July 29, 1969.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Control valve for water softeners.' U.S. Patent 3,349,915, issued October 31, 1967.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Sealing ring for piston and cylinder assemblies.' U.S. Patent 3,347,556, issued October 17, 1967.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Control valve for water softeners.' U.S. Patent 3,249,122, issued May 3, 1966.
On 2019-10-24 by (mod) - Fleckstein or Fleck type Water Softener photo
Paul
See the live link for WATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENT & CONTROLS
given just above on this page
and don't hesitate to ask follow-up questions
On 2019-10-24 by paul wysocki
New to me softener system, just resin and brine tanks and controller. Any ID assistance will be greatly appreciated.
On 2019-10-21 by (mod) - to Date a water softener you need both brand/model & serial number
This serial number alone won't be enough. However if you atte ach a photograph of the data tag and any other markings or brands on the water softener perhaps it can be identified.
On 2019-10-21 by Anonymous
I have a water softener and don't recall manufacturer. Can I check with serial number?
On 2019-07-29 by (mod) - early pattern Fleck 5600SE Water Softener Identification
Thank you Neil that photo will help other readers. I'll add your note in our discussion of Fleck softeners at
IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL
Any idea of the range of years this softener was made would be helpful.
D
On 2019-07-2 by Neil Iddison
This is an early pattern Fleck 5600SE
[Click to enlarge any image]
On 2019-06-23 by Anonymous - Pure Tel Water Softener
pure tel water softner SN100111U how to reset unit.
On 2019-07-29 by (mod) - Fleck water softener piston, model may be 3600, 4600, 5600
Thank you Neil I've added your comment in the article above. If you work in the field and want to be identified with contact information let us know by an email contact or by posting further here.
On 2019-07-29 by Neil Iddison
Hi,
this is a Fleck piston. Uncertain of the model may be 3600, 4600, 5600
On 2019-07-28 by (mod) -
Thanks Neil
On 2019-07-28 by Neil Iddison
The mystery Fleck Valve is a model 3600
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.
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 2020-03-13 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, unfortunaty 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 2020-01-03 by (mod) - Water-Right water softener made by Fleck
Thanks, I'll pass this on to the programmer.
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
Oh here's another sticker
Dan yes sorry I did not get a notification about my comment being posted, the comment box stayed highlighted, and nothing happened. So of coarse I clicked it a few times and nothing change.
The box was just highlighted. So actually I backed out and went back in to post, and see thing..lol it took a few try's til I got a the comment box to disappear and the message to appear that it was received.
On 2020-01-03 by (mod) -
Yes I agree that Softener Identification can be confounding; basically a few manufacturers make equipment sold under many other brands.
I'm not familiar with re-manufactured water softener equipment nor that market; The sticker on your unit is probably not 'wrong', just confusing.
On a 2002 water softener by now it's possible that its resin is exhausted and needs replacement. If you have to buy a new control head and replace the resin the total labor costs and parts cost may approach a new unit.
I'd try cleaning and sanitizing the unit, running a manual regen cycle, and then test the water hardness IN to the unit and OUT of the unit to see what it's doing.
Let me know what you find.
Help me out by letting me know what you did or did not see that led to confusion about posting images - why do we have the same image posted so many times? I think it's because the Comments-Box coder Clark Van Oyen has not made his message to you prominent enough - you're supposed to see a note saying your image will appear after it's approved by the moderator.
I'd like to make a specific suggestion to him about improving his messages so that the system works better for you.
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
Dan, yes thank you I saw that before I posted.
Was hoping for more info. I need to know the age to see if it's worth repair or best to replace.
Also the stickers on the controller show a diff company and the model number is to an analog controller.
I tried to add all pic but was only able to post one.
Here is one of the stickers. Is it possible the is a remanufactured unit, or already repaired to the point of an upgrade? Why the wrong sticker? I was trying to find a manual to disassemble the control head, which I have found thanks to the previous post.
But still want to know the age. And still confused about the sticker.
Thanks again for all the help
On 2020-01-03 by (mod) -
Susan the same water softener as in your photo is described earlier on this page
'Photo: an early Fleck 5600 SE water softener per reader Neil Iddison's comment 2019/07/29.'
On 2020-01-03 by Susan
What brand, model, age is the water softener?
Am thinking a fleck, possibility rebuilt?
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
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!
Whirlpool Dryer Serial Number Decoder
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
where I have details about returning a water softener to operation.
On 2019-10-28 by paul wysocki
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 2019-10-30 by (mod) -
Luke:
The water softener in your photo is made by Fleckstein or 'Fleck' water softeners, A Fleck 5600 SXT.
But take care: Fleckstein as do other major water softener manufacturers often produce equipment that is re-labeled and sold under regional or even local water softener brands.
It would be helpful to
- have the age of the softener in your photo or at least the age of the home where it is installed, as well as the country and city of location
- to see photos (1 per comment) of any labels, patent number stickers, etc. you find on the back of the control head or inside the control head cover or elsewhere on the equipment.
On 2019-10-30 by Luke
What brand of water softener is this?
The picture is below
On 2019-10-28 by (mod) - How to Identify & Get A 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
- 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. - Clean and sanitize the softener resin tank and brine tank -
see WATER SOFTENER CLEANING & SANITIZING - 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 - Add salt to the softener's brine tank
- 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 - Run a manual regeneration cycle
- Set the softener for automatic operation
- Test the hardness of water produced by the water softener to confirm that it's working
On 2019-10-28 by paul wysocki
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 2019-10-27 by (mod) - Tracing patent numbers gives the earliest date for a water softener as well as it's probable manufacturer
Or you're right that's not a controller that's familiar to me either. However can we be clear on what problem we're solving? Is it that system simply doesn't work?
The patent citations (I've added them below) tell us that the design for this water softener dates back as early as 1981, though of course your individual softener could be newer (or it could be 'new old stock').
Tip for other readers: if you want to find the 'newest' or 'youngest' date associated with a water softener, use Google Scholar to search for the highest patent number shown. For this softener that was Patent 4290451 issued in 1981.
On 2019-10-25 by paul wysocki
I ran the patent #'s and found them to be Fleckenstein (the latest patent dated 1980) - but this control head does not show up anywhere. It has a unique vertical profile with 3 knobs - a distinctive combination. I exhausted Google image searches and many softener system manufacture sites - with no joy.
This control head must not have been very popular based on its lack of web presence. In light of that, and the age of the system, it is time for Plan B - break down and purchase a new system. Thanks for your comprehensive website - it provided lots of resources to explore.
Any thoughts on a best value new system? -Paul
Here is a picture of the patents tag. Thanks again.
[Patent citations shown below are for the patent numbers on this water softener were added by Editor - all point to Fleckstein]
- Fleckenstein, Andrew, and Michael Mortl. 'Water conditioning system controls.' U.S. Patent 4,290,451, issued September 22, 1981.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J., and Herman C. Mitchell. 'Timing motor drive mechanism for water softener valves.' U.S. Patent 3,874,412, issued April 1, 1975.
- Fleckenstein, A., and H. Mitchell. 'Timing motor drive mechanism for water softener valves.' U.S. Patent 3,742,768, issued July 3, 1973.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J. 'Softener valve.' U.S. Patent 3,616,820, issued November 2, 1971.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J. 'Timing motor mechanism for control valves and the like.' U.S. Patent 3,457,792, issued July 29, 1969.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Control valve for water softeners.' U.S. Patent 3,349,915, issued October 31, 1967.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Sealing ring for piston and cylinder assemblies.' U.S. Patent 3,347,556, issued October 17, 1967.
- Fleckenstein, Lambert W., and Andrew J. Fleckenstein. 'Control valve for water softeners.' U.S. Patent 3,249,122, issued May 3, 1966.
On 2019-10-24 by (mod) - Fleckstein or Fleck type Water Softener photo
Paul
See the live link for WATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENT & CONTROLS
given just above on this page
and don't hesitate to ask follow-up questions
On 2019-10-24 by paul wysocki
New to me softener system, just resin and brine tanks and controller. Any ID assistance will be greatly appreciated.
On 2019-10-21 by (mod) - to Date a water softener you need both brand/model & serial number
This serial number alone won't be enough. However if you atte ach a photograph of the data tag and any other markings or brands on the water softener perhaps it can be identified.
On 2019-10-21 by Anonymous
I have a water softener and don't recall manufacturer. Can I check with serial number?
On 2019-07-29 by (mod) - early pattern Fleck 5600SE Water Softener Identification
Thank you Neil that photo will help other readers. I'll add your note in our discussion of Fleck softeners at
IDENTIFY WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL
Any idea of the range of years this softener was made would be helpful.
D
On 2019-07-2 by Neil Iddison
This is an early pattern Fleck 5600SE
[Click to enlarge any image]
On 2019-06-23 by Anonymous - Pure Tel Water Softener
pure tel water softner SN100111U how to reset unit.
On 2019-07-29 by (mod) - Fleck water softener piston, model may be 3600, 4600, 5600
Thank you Neil I've added your comment in the article above. If you work in the field and want to be identified with contact information let us know by an email contact or by posting further here.
On 2019-07-29 by Neil Iddison
Hi,
this is a Fleck piston. Uncertain of the model may be 3600, 4600, 5600
On 2019-07-28 by (mod) -
Thanks Neil
On 2019-07-28 by Neil Iddison
The mystery Fleck Valve is a model 3600
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.
Chopin complete edition torrent flac download. 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 2018-11-04 14:03:32.421608 by (mod) -
Kip:
After inspecting all of the exterior of the control head, try removing the cover. There is likely to be a data tag inside the cover or on the control head giving the model number.
I think this is an older Fleck 2750-series control head but I'm uncertain.
You will find most fleck manuals at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Water_Softener_Manuals.php free PDF downloads
On 2018-11-04 by Kip Hoskins
I'm looking for a manual to set this controller I know it is a Fleck but not sure what number it is can you help there's an image
IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.
On 2018-11-04 by (mod) - Which Fleck Water Softener Control Head is This?
Kip:
After inspecting all of the exterior of the control head, try removing the cover. There is likely to be a data tag inside the cover or on the control head giving the model number.
I thought this was an older Fleck 2750-series control head but I'm uncertain.
In a comment posted on this page 2019/07/29, reader Neil Iddison said: This is an early pattern Fleck 5600SE.
Details are at FLECK WATER SOFTENERS
and more history of the company is at FLECKSTEIN WATER CONDITIONERS
You will find manuals for most water sofener brands including Fleck and Fleckstein and their sisters Pentair and Autotrol
at FLECK WATER SOFTENERS where we also give contact information for the company in the event that you want to ask them directly.
and at WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS
Also for AUTOTROL water softeners (same company's control heads) - see PENTAIR
On 2018-11-04 by Kip Hoskins
I'm looking for a manual to set this controller I know it is a Fleck but not sure what number it is can you help there's an image
I know this is a Fleck control but I was just wondering what type it was and where I can get a manual for it
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 2018-08-07 by (mod) - Older Fleck 2750
Whirlpool Serial Number Search
I'm not sure I've seen that exact control head before but this looks like a Fleck / Pentair Water Softener, possibly an older Pentair / Fleck model 2750.
It may be useful to know that often there are generic controls sold under various brands.
Take a look carefully on all sides of the control head and also inside the cover and I think you'll see at least one sticker that will give part number and perhaps a manufacturers name. If you see something like that post a photo and I will research it further
At our water softener manuals page (links given above and at page end) you will find contact information for Fleck / Pentair.
On 2018-08-07 by Stephen
Can anyone identify this water softener?
On 2017-10-23 by (mod) - early Fleck water softener patent by Andrew Fleckstein
Good going Sara, sending along that patent number. From that we can find the actual patent - that I cite below, And from that we can figure that the control on which you probably found this tag was for a Fleck brand water softener, or depending on its age, a Pentair water softener as I'll explain below.
- Fleckenstein, Andrew J., and Michael C. Mortl. 'Control system for meter actuated regeneration in a water treatment system.' U.S. Patent 4,313,825, issued February 2, 1982.
Abstract:
This invention relates to a control system for regeneration of a water treatment system in which a water meter monitors water usage and mechanically drives a water volume wheel to an operative position to call for regeneration when a predetermined volume of water has been treated and then automatically resets itself.
A timer wheel driven by a motor is included within the control system such that the timer wheel and the water volume wheel coact to activate the regeneration cycle mechanism at a predetermined time after a predetermined volume of water has passed through the water meter.
The mechanism is adjustable relative to the water treating capacity of the treatment system and the condition of the water being treated so as to be able to vary the predetermined volume of water treated which will call for regeneration.
Original Assignee L. W. Fleckenstein, Inc.
Fleckstein, an inventor of a number of water softener parts and controls, is probably the progenitor of Fleck Water Softener Company.
In 1955, L.W. Fleckenstein saw the need for a safe, quick open-close cover for the water softener tank industry and patented the original Fleck Closure. Fleck valves were a water softener control. Currently Fleck Controls is owned by a more widely-known water softener company, Pentair.
You are welcome to send me photos for posting - use the page top and bottom CONTACT link to find our email. Our Comments Box is supposed to accept photos but I, too, haven't figured out yet how to make that work. I'll ask the programmer again about posting photos.
On 2017-10-23 by pmod.saraba
I have a Unidentified water softener , I found a metal tag that says PAT. NO. 4,313,825 SERIAL NO. 129552
I want to post pictures of it but I don't see where I can do that here.
saraba@outlook.com please email me.
Thank you
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.
..
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- WATER CONDITIONER / SOFTENER MANUALS for instructions for most water softener brands and models, free PDF downloads
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WATER SOFTENER BRAND / MODEL IDENTIFICATION FAQs at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.
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Technical Reviewers & References
- [1] North Dakota Standards for Water Softeners, North Dakota General Authority Law, Chapter 62-04-08, Water Softener Units http://www.legis.nd.gov/information/acdata/pdf/62-04-08.pdf. 'The objective of this chapter is to provide a standard of quality, capacity,and performance for water softener units. Water softener performanceis to be based upon referee tests procedures described in section62-04-08-09.'
- [2] Culligan Mark 10 Water Softener 1994-1998 Installation and Operating Instructions (covering models manufactured after 1995) (1-96) 01881948.pdf available from www.culligan.com
- [3] Water Softeners, CMHC, Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/maho/wawa/wawa_005.cfm - October 2008. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation acknowledges the contribution of Health Canada to the development of this document. For further questions regarding water treatment and water quality, contact Health Canada at watereau@hc-sc.gc.ca or call 613-957-2991 or 1-866-225-0709.
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