How to Run a Bleach Cycle Through a Water Softener

Written By
Lisa Wampler
Lisa Wampler
Published: Jan 30, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

You can clean this system by running a bleach cycle, which kills bacteria in the water system.

  1. Locate the brine tank and remove the lid. Measure across the top of the brine tank with a tape measure to determine if you have a 9-inch tank or a 12-inch tank.

  2. Pour 1 cup bleach into a 9-inch tank or 2 cups bleach into a 12-inch tank. Place the lid back onto the brine tank.

  3. Locate the cycle panel on the water conditioner. Configure the control module to run a manual recharge cycle. This process depends on the unit you own. Refer to the owner’s manual if the process is not clearly displayed on the module.

  4. Do not use water in the home for drinking until you run the manual recharge process.

The Drip Cap

  • Water softeners use rock salt to neutralize hard water.
  • You can clean this system by running a bleach cycle, which kills bacteria in the water system.
  • Locate the brine tank and remove the lid.
  • Measure across the top of the brine tank with a tape measure to determine if you have a 9-inch tank or a 12-inch tank.
Lisa Wampler

Lisa Wampler began writing professionally in 2005 and has published on various websites. She specializes in content writing and search engine optimization, drawing from previous positions as an account manager and a social media manager…

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