Are you having trouble with your Novosoft Water Softener? Here’s an Ultimate Guide to help you troubleshoot those issues.
You can trust WaterSmart to service your Novosoft water softener, as we have been proudly servicing all brands of water softeners including Novosoft in the Waterloo Region for more than 25 years. Let us put our expertise to work for you.
This guide will give you solutions to some of the most common problems you might encounter, as well as maintenance and service tips. So, let's get started!
Learn DIY repairs on your Novosoft water softener or contact WaterSmart if you need expert help!
Part 1: YOU HAVE NO SOFT WATER
There are several reasons why your Novatek water softener may not be producing soft water. These common water softener problems include:
Your Softener Has a Salt Bridge
Your Softener Isn’t Getting Power
Your Manual Bypass Valve Is In the Wrong Position
You Need to Add More Salt
You Don't Have Enough Water Flowing Into the Brine Tank
You Have Problems With the Brine Line Flow Control
1. Your Softener has a salt bridge:
A salt bridge is probably one of the most common problems. A salt bridge occurs when your salt solidifies in an arc above your water level creating an empty cavity between the salt and the water. This can occur due to humidity or using the wrong kind of salt in your tank.
When this happens, the brine solution is not able to reach the salt in your tank, so your water softener cannot do its job.
This is a frequent issue with many water softeners, including the Novatek Metermatic SE water softener.
Solution:
You can break up the salt bridge by softly tapping on the outside of the tank with a rubber mallet. Also, you can try pouring some warm water over the bridge to dissolve it. If this doesn't break up the bridge, then use a long tool, such as a broom handle to chop through the salt bridge.
Once you have broken up the bridge, you should use up the leftover salt and then clean out your brine tank. Before you begin to clean your tank, wait 4 hours until a brine solution has been produced and then manually regenerate your softener.
Refer to your Novatek water softener manual or Nova water softener manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
You can pour warm water over the bridge and then BREAK it UP WITH A BROOM HANDLE
How to do a Manual Regeneration:
Step 1: If the screen is locked, press the MENU for 3 seconds. This will unlock your screen.
Step 2: Press the SET /REGEN button for 3 seconds. You will see an option for "Delayed" or "Immediate" Regeneration.
Step 3: Press the SET / REGEN button again and “Delayed” will begin flashing.
Step 4: Press the down arrow so that "Immediate" will start flashing instead.
Step 5: Press the SET / REGEN button and then press the MENU button and the valve will immediately start to manually regenerate.
2. Your Softener Isn’t Getting Power
If your Novatek Metermatic SE loses power, it won’t function. If it gets unplugged accidentally or if a fuse or circuit breaker has blown, then it won't be getting any power.
Solution:
Ensure the unit is securely plugged in and check your circuit breaker or fuse box. If the issue persists, consult a professional or refer to the Novatek reverse osmosis manual for further troubleshooting.
You can also test the outlet itself by plugging in a small lamp that you know is working in the outlet, if the lamp lights up, you know that the outlet is working properly. If the lamp does not light up then you know there is a problem with the outlet, in this case, it is best to contact a professional.
Check to see that you haven’t blown a fuse or tripped a breaker
3. Your Manual Bypass Valve Is in the Wrong Position
The bypass valve controls water flow through the system. If it’s in the closed position, your Novatek water softener model 7500 won’t work correctly.
Solution:
The bypass valve is located at the back of the control. In order to have soft water, your bypass valve needs to be open. To do this your ON/OFF knobs should be in line with the inlet and outlet pipes. If your valve is closed, you can open it by turning the knob counter-clockwise.
For more details, consult the Novatek Metermatic SE manual.
4. You Need to Add More Salt
If you don't have enough salt or if you have run out of salt then your water softener won't work properly.
Solution:
To prevent this issue, make sure that your softener is at least 1/3 full of salt at all times. The salt level should always be above the water level in your brine tank. It is a good idea to check your salt levels at least once a month.
After adding salt, press the RECHARGE button on your Novatek controller to initiate a regeneration cycle.
Make sure your salt level is always above your water level
5. You don't have enough water flowing into the brine tank
If you don’t have enough water flowing into your brine tank, you won’t have soft water.
Solution:
Check the brine line flow control for blockages or debris. Clean or replace the part as necessary. For step-by-step guidance, refer to the Novatek reverse osmosis manual or contact Novo water softener tech support.
Your brine tank fill time may have been changed. This time is a factory preset and if it has been changed then it needs to be reset. Contact a professional to adjust this properly.
6. You have Problems with the Brine Line Flow Control
If you get any debris in your brine line flow control, then this can prevent your softener from working properly.
Solution:
Disconnect the brine line and retainer clip. Remove the brine line flow control assembly and remove the flow washer retainer with pliers.
Clean off the washer with water to get rid of any debris. If the washer is worn, you should replace it. For more detailed instructions, consult your owner's manual.
Replacing your brine line flow control is a more complicated procedure than the previous problems. If you would like a professional to do this for you, contact us.
If you need help with more difficult repairs, contact a professional
Part 2: You sometimes have hard water
There are a few possible reasons why you sometimes have hard water. These include:
Your Water Softener Setting Is Too Low
Your Softener Is Regenerating When You Are Using Hot Water
You Have a Mechanical Defect
1. Your Water Softener Setting Is Too Low
The Waterloo region has extremely high levels of water hardness—some of the hardest water in all of Canada. If your Novatek water softener or Novatek Metermatic SE water softener hasn’t been programmed properly to handle the high hardness level, or if the hardness setting has been adjusted too low on your system, you won’t experience soft water.
Solution:
Reprogram the control settings to the correct regeneration type, inlet water hardness, capacity, or flow meter size.
Press the button on your control panel with the four arrows in a circle until your screen displays a capital letter "H."
Use the up and down arrows to adjust the hardness level to your desired setting, as described in the Novatek water softener manual or the Nova water softener manual.
If you’re unsure about your water hardness level or need help programming your Novatek water softener model 7500, contact the local experts at WaterSmart. We can assist with Novo water softener troubleshooting, ensuring your system is optimized for the Waterloo region’s water conditions.
Source: DanaMaps
Make sure your Novosoft water softener is programmed correctly for the hard water level in your area
2. You Are Using Hot Water While Your Softener Is Regenerating
If you use hot water during your Novatek water softener’s regeneration cycle, your hot water tank will fill with untreated water, leading to hard water in your home. The regeneration cycle for most Novatek Metermatic SE water softeners lasts about 2 hours, after which soft water service will be fully restored.
Solution:
Avoid using hot water while your Novatek Metermatic SE or Novatek water softener model 7500 is regenerating.
Set the system to regenerate automatically at night when water usage is minimal.
If performing a manual regeneration, schedule it during a time when no one needs hot water.
For detailed guidance, refer to the Novatek water softener manual or the Nova water softener manual. If issues persist, consult Novo water softener tech support or contact a professional for assistance.
3. You Have a Mechanical Defect
Generally speaking, your Novatek water softener will function properly for many years. However, like any appliance, it may eventually experience mechanical issues that affect its performance.
Solution:
Call a professional to repair to your Novatek Metermatic SE water softener, Novatek water softener model 7500, or other systems. Whether it’s troubleshooting Novo water softener error codes, replacing worn Novo water softener parts, or resolving a water softener E2 error code, a trained technician can restore your system to full functionality.
For additional help, refer to the Novatek water softener manual or consult Novo water softener tech support for guidance.
If you notice that your water is hard sometimes, make sure that your softener is regenerating properly
Part 3: How to Clean Your Injector Assembly
Salt, silt, or sediment buildup in your softener's injector can clog it and prevent your Novatek water softener from functioning properly. Follow these steps to clean the injector assembly on your Novatek Metermatic SE water softener:
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to your softener.
Step 2: Release water pressure by turning on a cold soft water faucet.
Step 3: Unscrew the two screws holding the injector cover to the control valve body.
Refer to page 12 of your Novatek water softener manual for a detailed diagram showing the location of these parts.
Step 4: Carefully remove the injector assembly and disassemble it.
Lay the parts on a clean surface in the order you remove them to simplify reassembly.
Step 5: Remove the injector orifice and throat from the valve body.
Use a large screwdriver for this step.
Step 6: Clean all parts thoroughly.
Rinse each part, including the screen, to remove debris. Use a mild acid like vinegar or Pro-Rust Out to clean the small holes in the orifice and throat.
Step 7: Reassemble the injector in reverse order.
Note: Using pure water softener salt reduces debris and minimizes the risk of clogging. For additional troubleshooting, refer to the Nova water softener manual or the Novatek reverse osmosis manual. If you encounter issues, consult Novo water softener tech support or contact a professional for service.
Only use pure water softener salt in your Novosoft water softener
Part 4: How to Sanitize Your Softener
Sanitizing your Novatek water softener, such as the Novatek Metermatic SE water softener, is an important maintenance task to ensure optimal performance and water quality. Follow these steps to sanitize your system:
Step 1: Add Bleach to the Brine Well
Pour 3/4 ounces of common 5.25% household bleach into the brine well.
Step 2: Unlock the Screen
If the screen is locked, press the MENU button for 3 seconds to unlock it.
Step 3: Start Manual Regeneration
Press the SET/REGEN button for 3 seconds. You will see options for "Delayed" or "Immediate" Regeneration.
Step 4: Select “Immediate” Regeneration
Press the SET/REGEN button again, and “Delayed” will begin flashing.
Press the down arrow until "Immediate" starts flashing.
Step 5: Initiate Regeneration
Press the SET/REGEN button and then the MENU button. The valve will immediately start a manual regeneration cycle.
Note: This sanitizing regeneration will take about two hours to complete. During this time, avoid using hot or soft water. Once the process is complete, your system will be sanitized, and you’ll have soft water again.
For further details, consult your Novatek water softener manual, Nova water softener manual, or the Novatek Metermatic SE manual. If you encounter any issues, contact Novo water softener tech support or reach out to WaterSmart for professional water softener service.
You can sanitize your brine tank periodically using household bleach
Part 5: Water Softener Maintenance Tips and Tricks
Proper maintenance of your Novatek water softener, such as the Novatek Metermatic SE water softener, ensures it continues to function efficiently and provides soft water for years to come. Here are some essential tips:
Use only pure salt designed specifically for water softeners. Avoid using regular table salt, as it contains impurities that can clog your system.
Don’t overfill the brine tank. The salt level should only come up about two-thirds of the tank. Wait until almost all the salt has been used before adding more.
Clean your brine tank annually. Refer to the Novatek water softener manual or Nova water softener manual for step-by-step instructions.
Check for repairs before replacing your system. Many Novatek Metermatic water softener repairs are relatively inexpensive and can extend the lifespan of your unit.
Clean or replace the injector assembly yearly. This depends on your inlet water quality and usage. Follow the guidance in the Novatek reverse osmosis manual to ensure proper cleaning.
Inspect seals and spacer cartridges annually. Clean or replace them as needed, particularly if you have high water hardness.
For additional help, troubleshooting Novo water softener error codes, or sourcing Novo water softener parts, contact WaterSmart for professional water softener service. Regular maintenance will prevent common water softener problems and keep your system running smoothly.
Your water softener needs to be cleaned periodically to work properly
Part 6: Novosoft WATER SOFTENER REPAIR Services
If you need your Novosoft water softener repaired, contact WaterSmart. Our fully trained technicians are highly experienced and are able to work on any make or model of water softener you may have. We will always try our best to repair your water softener before we would recommend replacing it.
If you do, however, need to replace your softener, we can recommend the right type and size of softener that you need for the size of your household.
Even if you didn't purchase your water softener from us, you can still rely on us to fix it for you at an affordable price. You can trust WaterSmart for your water softener repair, purchasing, and installation as well as all your plumbing needs.
WaterSmart has been serving the Kitchener region including Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and surrounding areas since 1994 with innovative water softening products and excellent service.
We are committed to helping you improve the quality of your home's water. We live and work in the Kitchener-Waterloo region so we understand the hard water challenges of this area. We know how to program your water softener for maximum efficiency and are familiar with the types of water softener repairs that you might need.
Contact WaterSmart today to book an appointment.
WaterSmart also offers a full range of plumbing services that include, but are not limited to:
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