How to Move a Water Softener?

Moving a water softener requires careful steps to avoid damage and ensure proper reinstallation. Here's how to do it:

Preparation is Key

Before physically moving the water softener, take these preparatory steps:

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the main water valve and shut off the water supply to the water softener.

2. Unplug the unit: Disconnect the water softener from its power source to prevent electrical hazards.

3. Bypass the water softener: Activate the bypass valve to allow water to flow through your plumbing without going through the softener. This ensures you still have water service during the move.

4. Drain the brine tank:

   • Disconnect the brine line.
   • Carefully drain as much water as possible from the brine tank. You can use a wet/dry vacuum for this purpose.
   • Remove the salt from the brine tank into a suitable container (buckets or bags).

5. Drain the resin tank:

   • Initiate a manual regeneration cycle to flush the resin tank. This helps remove excess water.
   • Disconnect the water lines to the resin tank. Have a bucket ready to catch any residual water.

The Physical Move

This is where careful handling is critical.

• Keep it Upright: The water softener must be in an upright position when you are transporting it, or even just moving it across the room. According to reliable sources, laying the softener on its side can damage the control head, covers, or tanks.

• Use a Dolly: A furniture dolly can make the move significantly easier and safer, especially for heavier units. Secure the water softener to the dolly to prevent it from tipping over.

• Protect the Unit: Wrap the water softener with moving blankets or padding to protect it from scratches and bumps during transport.

Reinstallation

Once you've moved the water softener to its new location, follow these steps to reinstall it:

1. Position the Unit: Place the water softener on a level surface near a drain and a power outlet.

2. Reconnect the Water Lines:

   • Attach the inlet and outlet water lines to the softener, ensuring they are properly tightened to prevent leaks. Use Teflon tape on the threads for a secure seal.
   • Reconnect the brine line.

3. Add Salt: Return the salt to the brine tank.

4. Plug in the Unit: Reconnect the water softener to its power source.

5. Slowly Turn on the Water Supply: Gradually open the main water valve to allow water to flow into the softener. Check for any leaks and tighten connections as needed.

6. Initiate a Regeneration Cycle: Perform a manual regeneration cycle to flush the system and prepare the resin bed for softening.

7. Test the Water: After the regeneration cycle, test the water to ensure the water softener is functioning correctly.