kenmore 350 water softener manual
Kenmore 350 Water Softener Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This manual provides detailed instructions for installing, operating, and maintaining your Kenmore 350 water softener system, ensuring years of reliable, soft water enjoyment.
It covers everything from initial setup and programming the control valve to troubleshooting common issues and understanding warranty details.
The Kenmore 350 Water Softener System is designed to effectively remove hardness minerals – calcium and magnesium – from your home’s water supply. This 32,000-grain capacity system offers a compact design, making it suitable for various installation locations. It’s engineered with salt-saving technology, contributing to efficient operation and reduced salt consumption over time.
This system is a whole-house solution, meaning it treats all the water entering your home, providing soft water for showers, laundry, dishwashing, and more. The Kenmore 350 boasts proven reliability and is backed by a comprehensive warranty, including coverage for parts, labor, electronics, and the tank itself – 1 year, 3 years, and 10 years respectively.
Included with the unit is a bypass valve, installation kit, and a detailed installation guide to simplify the setup process. Access to the user manual and installation manual in PDF format is readily available online, offering further support and guidance. The IntelliSoft 350 Series is built to last, offering benefits for years to come.
Key Features and Specifications
The Kenmore 350 Water Softener stands out with its 32,000-grain capacity, effectively addressing moderate to high water hardness levels. It features a high-flow valve, ensuring consistent water pressure throughout your home even during regeneration cycles. Iron reduction capabilities are also included, tackling common water quality issues.
Key specifications include a compact design for easier installation in various spaces. The system utilizes a resin bed to capture hardness minerals, requiring periodic cleaning for optimal performance. Salt-saving technology minimizes salt usage, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
The control valve allows for programmable regeneration cycles, tailored to your specific water usage and hardness levels. The unit includes a bypass valve for easy maintenance and servicing. Dimensions and detailed item specifications are available in the user guide, alongside a comprehensive parts list. It operates on standard household electrical power.
Understanding Water Hardness
Water hardness is determined by the concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. These minerals, while not harmful to health, cause several undesirable effects. Hard water leads to scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, and appliances, reducing efficiency and lifespan. It also interferes with soap’s ability to lather, requiring more detergent for cleaning.
The severity of water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (GPG). Levels below 3 GPG are considered soft, 3-7 GPG are moderately hard, 7-10 GPG are hard, and above 10 GPG are very hard.
The Kenmore 350 is designed to effectively remove these hardness minerals through a process called ion exchange. This process replaces calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, resulting in softened water. Knowing your water’s hardness level is crucial for properly programming the softener’s regeneration cycle for optimal performance and efficiency.
Benefits of Using a Water Softener
Employing a water softener, like the Kenmore 350, delivers numerous advantages for your home and family. Soft water extends the life of water-using appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters by preventing scale buildup. This translates to reduced repair costs and improved energy efficiency.
Furthermore, softened water enhances cleaning effectiveness. Soap lathers more readily, requiring less detergent for laundry and dishes, saving you money and reducing chemical residue. It also leaves skin and hair feeling softer and smoother, minimizing dryness and irritation.
Beyond these benefits, a water softener eliminates unsightly soap scum and hard water stains on fixtures and glassware, contributing to a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing home. Enjoy the long-term cost savings and improved quality of life with consistently soft water.
Installation Process
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. This section details the steps, including unboxing, site preparation, connecting to the water supply, and drain line attachment.
Unboxing and Component Check
Carefully unpack the Kenmore 350 water softener and verify all components are present before beginning installation. The package should include the softener unit itself, a bypass valve, a complete installation kit, and this owner’s manual.
Inspect each item for any shipping damage. Check the softener tank for dents or cracks, and ensure the control valve is securely attached. The installation kit typically contains fittings, connectors, and tubing necessary for connecting to your water supply and drain line.
Refer to the packing list included within the manual to confirm you have all the required parts. Note any missing or damaged components immediately and contact customer support for replacements. The softener is heavy; avoid unnecessary lifting or movement to prevent injury or damage. A careful component check ensures a smooth installation process.
Preparing the Installation Site
Select a location for your Kenmore 350 that is level, dry, and protected from freezing temperatures. Ensure the site is close to both a water supply line and a suitable drain. Adequate space is crucial for maintenance and future servicing, allowing access to all components;
Confirm the floor can support the softener’s weight when full of water and salt – it’s a substantial load! Verify the water supply line is of appropriate size and material for connection. A nearby electrical outlet is required to power the control valve.
Plan the drain line route, ensuring it allows for proper gravity flow and complies with local plumbing codes. Consider the proximity to the brine tank for efficient salt replenishment. Proper site preparation minimizes installation challenges and ensures optimal softener performance.
Connecting to Water Supply
Before connecting, ensure the main water supply is shut off. Carefully identify the cold water inlet and outlet on the softener. Use appropriate plumbing fittings and Teflon tape to create watertight connections. Follow the installation manual’s diagrams precisely to avoid leaks or damage.
Connect the inlet to the incoming water supply and the outlet to the house plumbing. It’s vital to maintain proper flow direction, as indicated on the softener housing. Consider installing a shut-off valve upstream of the softener for easy maintenance.
Slowly turn the water supply back on, checking all connections for leaks. Tighten fittings as needed. Proper water supply connection is fundamental for the softener’s effective operation and preventing water damage.
Bypass Valve Installation
The bypass valve, included in the installation kit, allows you to isolate the softener for maintenance or repairs without shutting off water to your entire home. Carefully examine the valve’s orientation and connect it to the softener’s inlet and outlet ports, following the provided diagrams.
Ensure the valve handles are in the ‘bypass’ position during installation. This prevents water from flowing through the softener while you complete the plumbing connections. Use Teflon tape on all threaded connections to guarantee a leak-proof seal.
Once the softener is fully connected, slowly switch the bypass valve to the ‘service’ position to allow water to flow through the softener. Regularly test the bypass valve to confirm its functionality.
Drain Line Connection
Proper drain line connection is crucial for the softener’s regeneration cycle. Locate a suitable drain – a floor drain, laundry tub, or standpipe – near the softener. Avoid connecting the drain line directly to a sewer line, as backflow prevention is essential.
Use the provided drain tubing and secure it firmly to the softener’s drain port using a hose clamp. Ensure the drain line has an air gap of at least two inches to prevent potential contamination. The drain line must be positioned to prevent siphoning of wastewater back into the softener.
Check for kinks or obstructions in the drain line, as these can impede the regeneration process. Confirm the drain can handle the flow rate during regeneration, typically around 2-3 gallons per minute.
Operation and Settings
Successfully operating your Kenmore 350 requires understanding the control valve, programming the regeneration cycle, and consistently monitoring salt levels for optimal performance.
Initial System Startup
Before initiating the system, carefully inspect all connections for leaks, ensuring the bypass valve is in the bypass position. Slowly open the main water supply valve, allowing the softener to fill with water. This process expels air from the resin tank and brine tank, a crucial step for proper function.
Once the system is full, observe for any leaks around the connections and valve. If leaks are detected, immediately shut off the water supply and tighten the fittings. Next, plug in the softener to a grounded electrical outlet. The control valve will power on and initiate a self-test.
Allow the system to run through at least one full regeneration cycle with salt in the brine tank before using softened water. This initial cycle cleans and prepares the resin bed for effective water softening. Monitor the regeneration process to confirm proper operation and adjust settings as needed. Refer to the programming section for detailed instructions on setting the time and regeneration parameters.
Programming the Control Valve
The Kenmore 350’s control valve is programmed using the buttons on the panel. Begin by setting the current time, crucial for accurate regeneration scheduling. Press the “Time” button, then use the up and down arrows to adjust the hour and minute, confirming each selection.
Next, program the regeneration cycle based on your water hardness level and household water usage. The “Regen” button allows you to select the regeneration frequency – typically set for nighttime to minimize water usage interruption. Adjust the salt dosage using the appropriate buttons to optimize efficiency.
Familiarize yourself with the “Select” button for navigating through the menu options. The manual provides a detailed table correlating water hardness with optimal regeneration settings. Regularly review and adjust these settings to maintain peak performance and ensure consistently soft water. Incorrect programming can lead to inefficient operation or inadequate softening.
Understanding the Control Valve Display
The control valve display provides vital information about your Kenmore 350’s operation. The primary display shows the current time and the status of the regeneration cycle. During regeneration, you’ll see indicators for brine draw, backwash, rinse, and refill phases.
Error codes, if present, will flash on the display, signaling a potential issue – refer to the troubleshooting section for interpretation. The display also indicates salt levels, prompting you to add salt when low. Pay attention to the water usage display, which can help monitor water consumption.
Familiarize yourself with the icons representing each function. The manual includes a detailed diagram explaining each display element. Regularly checking the display allows for proactive maintenance and quick identification of any operational anomalies, ensuring consistent soft water quality.
Setting the Regeneration Cycle
The regeneration cycle is crucial for maintaining your Kenmore 350’s efficiency. It automatically replenishes the resin bed with brine, removing accumulated hardness minerals. You can program the regeneration frequency based on your water hardness and household water usage.
Access the programming mode through the control valve display, typically using the “Select” button. Options include setting a regeneration time – ideally during low water usage hours – and choosing a regeneration method, such as demand-initiated or time-clock based.
Demand-initiated regeneration triggers the cycle based on water usage, while time-clock regeneration occurs at a pre-set interval. Adjusting these settings optimizes salt consumption and ensures consistent water softening. Consult the manual for specific programming steps and recommended settings for your water conditions.
Salt Level Monitoring
Regularly monitoring the salt level in the brine tank is essential for optimal performance of your Kenmore 350 water softener. Low salt levels can lead to insufficient brine production, reducing the system’s ability to effectively remove hardness minerals. Visually inspect the salt level at least monthly, and replenish as needed.
Maintain a salt level that keeps the brine well dissolved, typically several inches above the water level. Avoid overfilling, as this can cause salt bridging and prevent proper brine draw. Use high-quality water softening salt – rock salt, solar salt, or evaporated salt – to prevent system issues.
The control valve may also display a low salt warning. Promptly address these alerts to ensure continuous soft water supply. Consistent salt level monitoring contributes to the longevity and efficiency of your Kenmore 350 system.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Consistent upkeep ensures peak performance and extends the life of your Kenmore 350. Regularly address issues like salt levels, tank cleaning, and potential error codes.
Adding Salt to the Brine Tank
Maintaining the correct salt level in the brine tank is crucial for effective water softening. Typically, the tank should be approximately one-third to one-half full of salt. Use only high-quality water softening salt – rock salt, solar salt, or evaporated salt – avoiding salts with red or orange coloring, as these can damage the system.
Carefully pour the salt directly into the brine tank, avoiding spillage onto the surrounding area. Do not allow salt to bridge or form a solid crust over the water level; break up any bridges with a broom handle or similar tool. Regularly check the salt level, especially after regeneration cycles, and replenish as needed. The frequency of salt addition will depend on your water hardness and household water usage. A properly maintained brine tank ensures consistent resin regeneration and optimal water softening performance.
Cleaning the Brine Tank
Periodically cleaning the brine tank is essential to prevent salt buildup and ensure optimal softener performance. It’s recommended to clean the tank at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice a thick salt crust or debris accumulation. Begin by disconnecting the power supply to the water softener. Remove any remaining salt from the tank and inspect for sediment or sludge.
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove loose debris, then wash the tank interior with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the tank. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent. Inspect the brine well for any obstructions and clear them if necessary. Finally, refill the tank with fresh salt to the appropriate level before restoring power.
Resin Bed Cleaning
Maintaining a clean resin bed is crucial for the Kenmore 350’s efficiency in removing hardness minerals. Over time, iron, sediment, and other contaminants can foul the resin beads, reducing their capacity. The system utilizes a regeneration cycle to periodically flush and clean the resin, but a more thorough cleaning may be needed annually.
Consider using a resin cleaner specifically designed for water softeners; follow the product’s instructions carefully. Typically, this involves adding the cleaner to the brine tank and initiating a regeneration cycle. Ensure the system is operating correctly after cleaning, checking for any unusual noises or changes in water quality. Regular resin bed cleaning extends the life of your softener and ensures consistently soft water.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Kenmore 350 isn’t performing as expected, several common issues can be addressed. Low water pressure can stem from a partially blocked bypass valve or sediment in the inlet screen – inspect and clean these components. Hard water despite regeneration may indicate insufficient salt levels or a malfunctioning control valve; verify salt supply and check for error codes.
Unusual noises during regeneration could signal air in the system or a problem with the motor; try manually initiating a regeneration cycle. Water leakage often points to loose connections or a faulty valve – carefully inspect all fittings. Consult the error code section for specific diagnostics and solutions. If problems persist, contact a qualified plumber.
Error Codes and Their Meanings
The Kenmore 350’s control valve utilizes error codes to diagnose system malfunctions. Code 1 typically indicates a communication error between the valve and the control board, requiring a power cycle. Code 2 suggests a low salt level or brine tank issue – check and replenish salt as needed. Code 3 often signals a flow meter problem, potentially needing replacement.
Code 4 points to an issue with the motor, possibly requiring professional repair. Code 5 indicates a bypass valve malfunction, hindering water softening. Refer to the full manual for a comprehensive list and detailed troubleshooting steps for each code. Ignoring error codes can lead to further damage; address them promptly for optimal performance.
Warranty Information
The Kenmore 350 boasts a comprehensive warranty: one year for parts and labor, three years for electronics, and a robust ten years for the tank itself.
Parts and Labor Coverage
The Kenmore 350 water softener is protected by a one-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for all parts and labor; This means that should any component of your softener fail due to a manufacturing defect within the first year of ownership, Kenmore will cover the cost of both the replacement part and the labor required for a qualified technician to install it.
This coverage includes, but is not limited to, the control valve, brine tank components, and internal plumbing. It’s important to retain your proof of purchase, as this will be required to validate any warranty claim. The labor coverage ensures that you won’t incur additional expenses beyond the initial purchase price if a repair is necessary during this period.
Please note that this warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, misuse, abuse, or failure to follow the maintenance guidelines outlined in this manual.
Electronics Coverage
The electronic components of your Kenmore 350 water softener, including the control valve and associated circuitry, are covered by a more extended warranty period of three years. This coverage protects against defects in materials and workmanship specifically related to the electronic aspects of the system.
Should the control valve or any of its electronic parts malfunction within these three years, Kenmore will provide a replacement part free of charge. However, it’s crucial to understand that this electronics coverage does not automatically include labor costs for installation.
Labor for electronic component replacement may be subject to an additional fee, unless covered under the initial one-year parts and labor warranty. Maintaining accurate records of purchase and any service performed is vital for warranty validation. Proper operation and adherence to the manual’s guidelines are essential for maintaining this coverage.
Tank Coverage
The Kenmore 350 water softener tank, representing a significant investment, is protected by the most extensive warranty period offered – a full ten years. This comprehensive coverage safeguards against defects in materials and workmanship affecting the tank’s structural integrity and functionality.
Should the tank develop a leak, crack, or otherwise fail due to manufacturing defects within this ten-year timeframe, Kenmore will provide a replacement tank at no cost to you. However, it’s important to note that this tank coverage does not extend to damage caused by improper installation, freezing, or physical abuse.
Maintaining proper water pressure and avoiding external impacts are crucial for preserving the tank’s warranty. Regular visual inspections for any signs of damage are recommended. Proof of purchase and adherence to the installation guidelines are essential for successful warranty claims.