How to Clean a Venturi Valve
- 1). Locate the rod-like bypass valve under the pipes on the front of the water softener unit and turn it to the "Service" mode to prevent the softener from running water into the venturi valve during removal.
- 2). Remove the lid of the water softener tank. Locate the dome cap over the appliance's motor. Remove this domed cap, along with the screen and O-ring, to access the venturi valve for removal.
- 3). Remove the venturi valve from the water softener. Removal procedures will vary depending on the appliance model. In many cases, to remove the venturi valve, you just pull the valve straight out. Some models may attach the venturi valve with a flange and two nuts or bolts. If this is the case, remove these first, then pull the valve out of the water softener.
- 4). Fill a saucepan about half way with water and heat to boiling. While the water is heating, place the venturi valve on a towel and wipe down the outer surfaces of the with a warm, wet dish cloth. Use a brush to scrub any stuck on debris from the cracks or crevices.
- 5). Locate the intake hole on the bottom of the venturi valve and push a piece of air tubing into it. This will allow the valve to suck in water. Let the other end of the tubing sit in the pan of boiling water. Holding the venturi valve over the saucepan with kitchen tongs, allow the venturi valve to take in some of the water to clear away any dirt or debris clogging the valve. Let the water sit for a few minutes to dissolve any build-up. The water will be sucked into the valve and then pushed back out of the top.
- 6). Remove the tubing from the venturi valve with a hot pad after rinsing for several minutes. Place the valve on a towel to air dry. Replace the venturi valve on the water softener once it has completely dried. Be sure to turn the water softener switch from "Service" mode when finished in order for the water softener to resume normal working order.
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