Today we are going to tell you how you can put your water softener in bypass.
2. How to Operate a Handle Bypass Valve
3. How to Operate a Button Bypass Valve
4. How to Operate a Lever Bypass Valve
5. Water Softener Bypass FAQ
At WaterSmart, we have over 25 years of experience in the water softener and plumbing industry; and we'd love to share our expertise with you. We'll step you through the process of putting your water softener in bypass for different types of units. So, let's get started.
Learn how to put your water softener in bypass
How to Put Your Water Softener in Bypass
1. Types of Bypass Valves
There are 3 main types of bypass valves for water softeners. Most residential units will have a valve that you either push in or turn to put your water softener in bypass. Commercial softeners often have a three-valve bypass operation.
To find out what type of bypass valve your water softener has, take a look at the top or back of your unit. Your bypass valve should be located close to where your water pipes are connected to your softener.
A turn "to bypass" unit will have one or two handles or knobs that you can turn
A "push to" bypass unit will have a button that you can push in
A lever-style bypass has a lever that you can move from side to side
If you have a commercial unit, you may see three separate valves connected to the pipes that are attached to your softener.
If you are still not sure what type of bypass valve you have or where it is located, consult your owner's manual or contact your water softener company.
2. How to Operate a Handle Bypass Valve
Turn the handle bypass valve to stop water entering your softener
Step 1:
Locate the large turnable bypass knob(s) or handle(s) on your unit. Depending on how it was installed, it could be on either the right or left side of your softener.
Step 2:
Turn the knob or handle clockwise (or if there are arrows on your handles then turn in the direction of the arrows) all the way until it stops turning.
It may be stiff, especially if you haven't put your water softener in bypass before or if it has been a long time since you last did it.
Tip: If your handle is really hard to turn you can try turning the water on full blast in your tub or shower to release some of the water pressure going to your softener. This should make it easier to turn.
Step 3:
Once you are finished using your hard water, simply turn your knob or handle all the way back counterclockwise.
3. How to Operate a Button Bypass Valve
If the button is stiff, try hitting it with a rubber mallet - Image Source: Peterson Salt & Water Treatment Co.
Step 1:
Locate the bypass button.
Step 2:
Firmly push in on the button until it goes all the way in. You may need to exert a lot of pressure especially if you haven't used it before or if it has been a while since your last bypass.
Tip: If you are having trouble pushing the button, try turning it clockwise for one or two rotations to loosen it up. If this doesn't work, try tapping it with a rubber mallet. Do not use a regular hammer as this may break the button.
Step 3:
To re-activate your softener, simply press the button in fully on the opposite side of your bypass valve.
4. How to Operate a Lever Bypass Valve
Move the lever sideways to activate the bypass - Image Source: Peterson Salt & Water Treatment Co.
Step 1:
Locate the level bypass valve.
Step 2:
Move the level to bypass mode. Most units will have this written on them. If not, you simply move the lever to the opposite side of where it currently is.
Step 3:
When you want to stop the bypass mode, then move the lever back to its original position.
5. Water Softener bypass FAQ
a) what happens if I put my water softener into bypass?
Putting your water softener in bypass means that you don't want your water to go into your water softener to get softened. You want to "bypass" your water softener.
B) How does a water softener bypass valve work?
A water softener bypass valve is a component that allows you to temporarily redirect water flow around the water softener system, effectively bypassing it.
In other words, a water softener bypass valve provides a convenient way to divert water around the water softener when needed, allowing for maintenance or providing untreated water to specific outlets.
Put your water softener in bypass when you are watering your lawn or garden
b) Why Would You Want to Put Your Water Softener in Bypass?
There are times when you may not require soft water or you may want to conserve water and salt. Maybe you are planning to use a large amount of water and it doesn't have to be softened. For example, you could be:
Watering your lawn or garden
Washing your car
Filling up a pool or pond
The good news is that if you have a bypass valve, and most quality water softeners do have one, then you can choose to put your water softener in bypass and just use hard water.
Trust Watersmart For Water Softener Repairs and Installation in the Kitchener-Waterloo Region
If you need your water softener repaired in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, you can trust WaterSmart. We'd be happy to help you with any repair or service on any type of water softener you have, at a reasonable rate.
Our expert, experienced plumbers will come to your home, take a look at your system, and advise you about the best course of action.
Whenever possible, we will fix your existing unit, and if you need a replacement, we can advise you on what type of softener would best meet your needs. We even offer financing.
WaterSmart Can Also Assist You with All of Your Plumbing Needs
Not only is WaterSmart your water softener expert in Kitchener-Waterloo, but we are also a full-service plumbing company. Our services include but are not limited to:
Kitchens/Bathrooms: new plumbing and renovations
Toilet & Taps: installations and repairs
Clogged or Slow Moving Drains: leaks and repairs
Countertops: pre and post installations
Dishwashers: installations
Tankless Hot Water Heater & Sump Pump: repairs and installations
Backflow Devices: testing and installation
Contact us today to book an appointment.
