A O Smith AO-WH-SOFT-350C Water Softener Owner’s Manual

: October 30, 2023
: A O Smith

A O Smith AO-WH-SOFT-350C Water Softener

Product Information

The AO-WH-SOFT-350C, AO-WH-SOFT-400T, and AO-WH-SOFT-450T are whole-house water softeners manufactured by A. O. Smith. These water softeners are designed to remove calcium and magnesium from hard water through a process called ion exchange. The water flows through fine mesh resin beads, which trade places with sodium ions, removing the hardness from the water. The water softeners come with a self-cleaning pre-filter that is cleaned through a process called regeneration. The regeneration process consists of four cycles: First Backwash, Brine Rinse, Second Backwash, and Brine Refill. The water softeners are designed, engineered, and built to last while providing you with soft water.

Product Usage Instructions

Before installation, read the entire owner’s manual to ensure all parts listed are present.
If any part is missing or damaged, do not attempt to install the softener and contact A. O. Smith at 855.424.9892 for assistance.
Recommended tools for installation include pliers, a pipe cutter, Teflon tape, and a wrench.
Choose a location for the water softener that is dry, level, and has access to a 120-volt electrical outlet and a drain.
Connect the water softener to the main water supply line using the inlet and outlet connections.
Connect the drain line and overflow line to the water softener.
Connect the brine tank to the water softener using the nozzle provided.
Connect the overflow elbow to the brine tank.
Connect the 12V transformer to the control valve.
Connect the ground wire and clamps to the copper pipe (if applicable).
Install a shut-off valve before the water softener to allow for easy maintenance.
Plug in the 12V transformer to the electrical outlet.
Set the water hardness level on the controller and program the regeneration cycle according to the owner’s manual.
Maintain the water softener by periodically adding salt to the brine tank and cleaning the pre-filter through the regeneration process.

If you need help with installation, troubleshooting, or replacement information, contact A. O. Smith at 855.424.9892.

IF YOU NEED HELP OR HAVE A QUESTION, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. GIVE US A CALL AT 855.424.9892. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN TO THE STORE

Water Softening by A. O. Smith
Hard water is determined by how much calcium and magnesium your water contains.The white residue left behind from hard water can build up in pipes, shorten the lifespan of appliances, increase utility bills and repair costs, and more. Designed, engineered, and built to last while providing you with soft water. A. O. Smith water softeners are packed with fine mesh resin beads, that your hard water flows through, and—in a process called ion exchange—trades places with sodium ions, removing the hardness. When you have hard water, we’ve got you covered.

How It Works

Save time and money with the self-cleaning pre-filter. As your water softener runs, the pre-filter is cleaned through a process called regeneration. This process is necessary in order to clean the resin beads so that the water softener can provide your home with soft water. Regeneration consists of four cycles:

First Backwash
The valve reverses water flow into the tank in order to flush out the sediment pre-filter of excess dirt and debris.

The Brine Rinse
A slow process where a concentrated brine solution (a mixture of salt and water) is pumped into the mineral media tank, forcing the minerals off the media, cleaning it of hardness. Then it transitions to a rinse cycle to remove traces of sodium.

Second Backwash
The valve increases water flow again for an additional rinse to remove any leftover brine solution.

The Brine Refill
The valve reverses water flow again. The brine tank is refilled with treated, soft water ready for the next regeneration cycle to begin.

Keep this owner’s manual to reference installation, troubleshooting and replacement information. If you need help or have a question, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at 855.424.9892.

BOX CONTENTS

A-O-Smith-AO-WH-SOFT-350C-Water-Softener-FIG-1

WARNING
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or injury.

Please read entire manual to ensure all parts listed are present before installation. If any part is missing or damaged let us know by calling 855.424.9892. Do not attempt to install the softener

Tools recommended for most basic installation:

Crescent wrench
Fittings 3/4″ to 1″
Pliers
Hose clamp
Screwdriver

Note : We recommend using an approved or certified professional to connect into existing plumbing and/or if drilling is required.

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

A-O-Smith-AO-WH-SOFT-350C-Water-Softener-FIG-2

NOTICE : Failure to comply with these specifications may decrease the effectiveness of the backwash and cause control valve malfunction. The water softener, like any other appliance, requires correct installation and setting for optimum performance.

WARNING
Prior to installation on metallic plumbing, securely install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper wire per installation instructions. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or electric shock

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Test Your Water
The first step in setting up your appliance is determining what elements are contained in your water supply. Use one of the options below to determine characteristics of your water.

Call Your Water Provider – For municipal water, call your water department to determine the hardness and pH of your water supply.
Test Strips – Follow the instructions on the provided test strips. If the color on your test strip is between two readings, use the higher number. Compare the colors as soon as you remove them from your water.
Hardness Test – The resulting number gives the hardness in grains per gallon (gpg) and/or parts per million (ppm or mg/L).
pH Test – The pH number is used to rate the level of acidity or alkalinity of water soluble substances. Water should have a pH of 7.
Testing Laboratory – To ensure proper settings, have a sample of your untreated water tested for hardness, iron and pH. Contact the company of your choice, or the company below to conduct a test for you.

National Testing Laboratories, Ltd. 1- 800-458-3330 www.watercheck.com.

NOTICE : If the water supply contains sand, sulfur, bacteria, iron bacteria, tannins, algae, oil, acid, or other unusual substances, consider pretreating the water to remove these contaminants before the water supply enters the water softener, unless the water softener is certified to treat these contaminants.

Checklist Before Installation

Water Pressure – If water is municipally supplied, the water pressure must be greater than 20 psi (1.4 bar) and less than 80 psi (5.5 bar). If water is from a well, the water pressure must be greater than 40 psi (2.8 bar) and less than 80 psi (5.5 bar).
Water Temperature – Not less than 40°F (4°C) or greater than 120°F (49°C).
Water Supply Flow Rate – A minimum of 2.0 gallons (7.6 liters) per minute
is recommended. For the purposes of plumbing sizing, only the rated service flow rate and corresponding water pressure loss may be used. Prolonged operation of a water softener at flow rates exceeding the tested service flow rate may compromise performance.
Drain – Connect water softener to an appropriate drain, such as a floor drain or washer drain that will comply with all local and state plumbing codes. To prevent back-siphoning, provide an adequate air gap or a siphon break. (see Installation Steps)
Power Supply – The transformer supplied is for a standard 110 volt, 60-cycle AC outlet or 220 volt, 50-cycle AC outlet for locations outside North America.
Iron – A common problem found in many water supplies is iron. It is important to know what type of and how much iron is in the water supply.

FERROUS IRON AND COMPENSATED HARDNESS

Ferrous Iron

NOTICE : If the water supply contains ferrous iron, a commercially available resin bed cleaner should be used every six months. Follow the instructions on the container. You should increase your water hardness setting by 5 grains per gallon (86 mg/L) for every 1 ppm (1mg/L) of ferrous iron.

IRON	DESCRIPTION

Ferrous Iron

(a/k/a clear water or dissolved iron)

| Only type of iron that can

be treated with a water softener.

Ferric Iron

| Insoluble and the particles can eventually foul a resin bed. It should be filtered out before the water reaches the softener.

Organic Iron or Bacterial Iron

| Attached to other organic compounds in the water. Additional treatment is needed to remove this type of iron.

Colloidal Iron

| Not dissolved, yet stays in suspension.

A softener cannot remove this type of iron.

Determine Your Compensated Hardness

Compensated Hardness is the amount of ferrous iron present in the water as well as hardness content. To determine compensated hardness in standard measurements you should increase your water hardness setting by 5 grains per gallon (86 mg/L) for every 1 ppm (1mg/L) of ferrous iron. Use the section below for guidance and fill in the blank chart below to determine your Compensated Hardness.

DESCRIPTION	RESULTS

Actual Hardness (use your test results for hardness)

|

Ferrous Iron (x5 for standard) or (x86 for metric)

|

Compensated Hardness (add first two results for final result)

|

=

Standard Example
This example uses 3 (ppm or mg/L) of ferrous iron present in the water.

DESCRIPTION	RESULTS
Actual Hardness	20 gpg

*** Ferrous Iron**

times five (x5)

|

15

Compensated Hardness

(20+15)

|

35

*Add five times (x5) the iron content in ppm or mg/L to the actual hardness

Metric Example
This example uses 3 (ppm or mg/L) of ferrous iron present in the water.

DESCRIPTION	RESULTS
Actual Hardness	342 mg/L

*** Ferrous Iron**

times eighty-six (x86)

|

258

Compensated Hardness

(342+258)

|

600

*Add eighty-six times (x86) the iron content in ppm or mg/L to the actual hardness

GETTING MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY FROM THE APPLIANCE

To achieve the maximum benefit and performance from your water softener, familiarize yourself with this manual. If this device is not maintained and operated as specified in the owner’s manual, there is a risk of exposure to contaminants.

The salt level should always be at least 1/3 full. Refill salt when the level drops below the water level in the brine cabinet. A resin cleaner can be used on a monthly basis. Clean white pellet, cube-style, or solar salt is recommended. Do not use rock salt.
NOTICE : Do not mix different types of salt.
You may use a salt substitute (such as potassium chloride) in place of water conditioner salt. If potassium chloride is used in place of salt, multiply compensated hardness by 1.12.

NOTICE : Do not use potassium chloride if there is iron and/or manganese in the water.

Should your electricity be off for any reason, check your controller for correct time and reset as necessary. (See Step 10 – Setting the Controller) Program the water softener to regenerate at a time when water is not being used. Regeneration runs salt and water through the tank so that it’s ready to soften your water. If there is more than one water appliance, allow two hours between each regeneration.
If dirt, sand, or large particles are present in water supply, the self-contained water softener filter will remove some dirt and sediment.
The water softener may be disinfected with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, which is the active ingredient in household chlorine bleach. To disinfect appliance, add 4.0 fluid ounces (120 mL) of chlorine bleach solution to brine well of the brine tank. Brine tank should have water in it. You may also add it directly into brine cabinet if there is no salt and only water in cabinet. Start a manual regeneration.
WARNING
TOXIC CHEMICAL REACTION Do not mix bleach with commercial resin cleaner or iron-reducing salt since a dangerous chemical reaction may occur. Inhalation of a toxic chemical reaction can cause loss of consciousness and severe burning with physical contact.
Protect the water softener, including the drain line, from freezing.
Bypass Valve (attached to the main control valve) enables you to bypass the water softener if any work is being performed on it, the well pump, or plumbing. Use Bypass Mode also for watering plants or lawns with untreated water. To bypass, turn black knob to the left until it hits the stop; turn it to the right to restore service. (see Bypass Valve Overview)
Before putting the water softener back in service after work has been performed, turn on nearest cold water tap until water runs clear.
Adhere to all operational, maintenance, and placement requirements.
Inspect and clean the brine cabinet and air check/draw tube assembly annually or when sediment is present in brine tank.

PRECAUTIONS

Softener Do’s

DO Comply with all state, local, building, plumbing, and electrical codes.
DO Test your water quality with strips provided. Optionally, obtain a report on your water’s quality.
DO Install water softener before water heater.
DO Install water softener after the pressure tank on well water installations.
DO Install a pressure-reducing valve if inlet pressure exceeds 70 psi (4.8 bar).
DO Examine inlet line to ensure water will flow through it freely and confirm inlet pipe is sized correctly. For well water with iron, the recommended minimum inlet pipe size is 3/4″ (1.9 cm) I.D.
and for municipal water the recommended minimum inlet pipe size is 1/2″ (1.27 cm) I.D.
DO Install a gravity drain on cabinet.
DO Secure drain line on water softener and at drain outlet. Due to high pressure, clamps are recommended on drain line.
DO Allow a minimum of 8 to 10′ (2.4 to 3.0 m) of 3/4″ (1.9 cm) pipe from the outlet of water softener to the inlet of water heater.

Softener Don’ts

DON’T Install if checklist items are not compliant. (see Checklist Before Installation)
DON’T Install if incoming or outlet piping water temperature exceeds 120°F (49°C). (see Specifications)
DON’T Allow soldering torch heat to be transferred to valve components or plastic parts when using optional copper adapters.
DON’T Over-tighten plastic fittings. Fittings can be obtained at Lowe’s.
DON’T Position water softener against a wall that would prohibit access to plumbing.
DON’T Install water softener backwards. Refer to the arrows on inlet and outlet for correct installation.
DON’T Plug transformer into an outlet that is activated by an On/Off switch.
DON’T Connect drain and the overflow (gravity drain) lines together.
DON’T Use to treat water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the water softener.
DON’T Allow your water softener or drain line to freeze.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NEW SOFTENER

Back View

A-O-Smith-AO-WH-SOFT-350C-Water-Softener-FIG-3

	PART
1	****

Bypass Valve

2| Gravity Flow Connection
3| ****

Brine Cabinet

4| ****

Cabinet Cover

5| ****

Drain Line Fitting

6| Controller Housing

Top View

	Part
1	__

Brine Cabinet

2| __

Media Tank

3| __

Drain Line

4| __

Bypass Valve

5| __

Service Position

6| __

Bypass Knob

7| __

Bypass Position

8| __

Safety Shutoff

9| __

Controller

10| __

Brine Line

BYPASS VALVE OVERVIEW

Bypass Valve
The Bypass Valve can isolate the appliance should appliance malfunction or leak. It can also permit the use of untreated water for watering plants, shrubs, or lawns. The Bypass Valve is attached to the main control valve. To engage Bypass Valve, remove the cabinet cover and locate the knob. Turn knob to the left until it hits the stop. The appliance will be bypassed and all water to the home is raw, untreated water. To prevent untreated water from entering the home, water should not be used inside the home when the appliance is in Bypass Mode. Ensure that the appliance is returned to Service Mode when the appliance is repaired or the use of untreated water is complete by turning the black knob to the right until it hits the stop.v

Bypass Position

Service Position

INSTALLATION

Prepare the Appliance
Remove all packaging or installation materials from brine cabinet.

Prepare the Placement Area

Ensure the placement area is clean.
Turn off electricity and water supply to the water heater. For gas water heaters, turn the gas cock to “Pilot”.
Examine inlet plumbing to ensure that the pipe is not plugged with lime, iron, or any other substance. Clean or replace plugged plumbing.

NOTICE (FOR WELL WATER ONLY): A minimum 3/4″ pipe is required between the pressure tank and the water softener for it to function properly. This note does not apply to city water, only to well water.

Ensure inlet/outlet and drain connections meet the applicable state and local codes. Check arrows on bypass valve to ensure the water flows in the proper direction. (see Bypass Valve Overview)

NOTICE : Do not install water softener backwards.

Turn Off Water Supply

Turn off the water supply.
Open the hot and cold water taps to depressurize the lines.

Place water softener in desired location using the system configuration diagram as a guide. The diagram applies to a basement, slab, and crawl space installations.
For most installations, install appliance after the pressure tank and any water filter appliance or water meter; and before the water heater unless otherwise recommended. When installing additional filters, such as a carbon filter for well water, place the filter after any water conditioning appliance unless otherwise recommended.

Water Heaters : If less than 10′ (3 m) of pipe connects the water treatment appliance(s) to the water heater, install a check valve between water treatment appliance and water heater as close to the water heater as possible. An expansion tank may also be used. Ensure the water heater has an adequately rated temperature and pressure safety relief valve.

NOTICE : The unit must be covered if installed outdoors.

Connect Water Lines|
Connect water lines in compliance with all state, local, building, plumbing, and electrical codes. Valve connection fittings on the back of the unit are 1″ MNPT. They can be connected to your home’s plumbing supply with a variety of connectors or fittings (sold separately). You can plumb your softener to CPVC, PEX, or copper. If using copper fittings do not allow solder torch to melt the plastic threads on valve.

Connect Gravity Overflow Connection

The overflow line drains away excess water should the cabinet overfill or the water softener malfunction. The overflow opening in the brine cabinet is not threaded. Push and turn the overflow elbow to tighten into the brine cabinet. Ensure the overflow elbow is in the down position. Connect 1/2″ (1.27 cm) I.D. tubing (size cannot be reduced) between the overflow fitting and a floor drain, laundry tub, or other suitable waste receptacle.

NOTICE : This tubing is not supplied with the water softener. Ensure the overflow line ends at a drain that is at least 3″ (8 cm) lower than the bottom of the overflow fitting. Maintain a minimum 2″ (5 cm) air gap between the overflow line and the flood level rim of the waste receptor to prevent back- siphoning. The gravity line cannot be run overhead.

Gravity Overflow Elbow
NOTICE : Keep the drain line from being kinked, crimped, or restricted in any way.

A-O-Smith-AO-WH-SOFT-350C-Water-Softener-FIG-8

Connect Drain Line
The drain line carries away backwash water as part of the regeneration cycle.

Using PTFE tape or plumber’s putty, screw threaded drain fitting into drain end cap.
Connect drain line to drain end cap with a minimum 1/2″ (1.27 cm) I.D. tubing (supplied). This size cannot be reduced.
Route drain line to a floor drain, laundry tub, or other suitable waste receptacle. Maintain a minimum 2″ (5 cm) air gap between drain line and flood level rim of waste receptacle to prevent back siphoning. This drain line should be the shortest distance to the suitable drain.
Drain line may be elevated up to 8′ (2.4 m) from the discharge on the water softener if water pressure in your system is 40 psi (2.8 bar) or more.
If drain line is 25′ (7.6 m) or longer, increase drain line to 3/4″ I.D. The end of drain line must be equal to or lower in height than the control valve.

NOTICE : Drain line may require a hose clamp to hold drain line in place.

Flush Lines

Place water softener in Bypass position. Turn on main water supply.
Turn on nearest cold water faucet to flush plumbing of any excess soldering flux, air, or any other foreign material. Return water softener to Service position.

NOTICE : To prevent untreated water from entering your home, avoid using water inside your home when water softener is in Bypass position. Remember to return to Service position when you have finished flushing the system or using untreated water.

Check for Leaks
Turn off all faucets. Check all lines and connections for leaks.

If leaks are found:

Turn off the main water supply.
Turn on cold water faucet to depressurize the lines.
Turn off the faucet to eliminate any siphoning action.
Repair all leaks.
Turn on the water supply.
Place bypass in Service position to slowly fill media tank. (see image)
Turn on cold water faucet to purge air out of media tank.
Turn off the faucet and recheck for leaks.

Plug in the Transformer

Ensure the sensor wire and motor wire are connected, then plug the transformer power cord to the back of the controller.(see Connecting Power)
Plug the transformer into an appropriate outlet. Ensure the outlet selected is not operated by an On/Off switch.
Program the water softener controller in the next step.

Setting the Controller

On the home screen, press the “MENU” button.
On the Main Menu screen, press the button for “Hardness”.
On the Water Hardness screen, press the “+” button to increase hardness or “-“ button to decrease hardness. Input the compensated hardness determined by your water test.
Press the “SAVE” button to save the value and return to the Main Menu screen.
Press the “BACK” button to return to the home screen.

The Main Menu screen has other options if you choose to change the factory default settings. Depending on the model, not all options will apply. The controller should only display options available to the model for which it is programmed.

DISPLAY SETTINGS

UNITS : Select English or Metric
TIME : Set the current time of day
REGEN TIME: Set the regeneration time, if using the Delayed Mode.

REGENERATION SETTINGS
Choose the settings best for your household. TYPE:

High Capacity – Softener will regenerate less often, but will use more salt.
High Efficiency – Softener will regenerate more often using more water, but less salt. This is the default. This setting meets or exceeds the requirement some states have for efficiency. Automatic – Uses the average daily water usage to determine salt usage and regeneration cycles. Recommended for large households or those with high levels of water hardness.

MODE:
Demand – Triggers a regeneration as soon as softening capacity is exhausted. This is the default. Delayed – Allows regeneration at a specific time (ex. 2 A.M. when less water is typically being used).

ALARM SETTINGS

LOW SALT : Select On or Off.
MODEL 400T/450T : Every time salt is added to brine cabinet, press Salt Level button on home screen. Make sure arrow on the level indicator matches salt level present in brine cabinet. Once controller calculates that more salt is needed, it will begin beeping and will display Low Salt Alert screen. Press “OK” button to silence beeping and return to home screen. Salt Level button will be flashing “ADD”. After salt is added to brine cabinet, remember to press Salt Level button to reset salt level.”

MANUAL REGENERATION
User can press “REGEN” button to force an immediate regeneration. The “NEXT” button that appears on the screen allows the user to advance the cycle to the next position.

FACTORY RESET
On Main Menu screen there is a button labeled “RESET”. Pressing this button brings up Restore Defaults screen. Pressing “Yes” will return controller to factory default settings.

OVERRIDE
Press [<] to turn on. If “96 Hour” is selected, unit will work no more than 4 days without a regeneration. Default is “96 Hour” to be off. Leave this on if you have iron in your water.

WI-FI SETTINGS (ONLY for model 450T)

Privacy Policy Consent – User must say Yes to access the following screens.
Status – Connected or Not Connected. Network – Select the network name from a list or manually select the Network SSID. Password – Enter the password.
Low Salt – When the controller determines salt level is low, an alert screen will appear and the controller will beep. User will press the “OK” button to silence the beeping. Additionally, if using Wi-Fi controllers, an email will be sent. The Salt Level icon on the Main Menu home screen will flash “ADD”. When user presses the Salt Level icon, the Salt Level screen will appear. When salt is added, user will input how much salt is in the cabinet and press “ACCEPT” button. Controller will then reset to show Salt Level = OK.
Low Temperature – When the controller detects temperatures close to freezing (below 40°F/4°C), an alert screen will appear and the controller will beep. The user will hit the “OK” button to silence the beeping. Additionally, if using Wi-Fi controllers an email will be sent. When the temperature rises above the low temperature threshold, the controller will automatically reset alarm and stop beeping.
Water Usage – If controller detects water flowing for 60 minutes without stopping, an alert screen will be shown and controller will beep.

Add Water to the Brine Cabinet

For AO-WH-SOFT-350C Add 2 gallons (8 L) of water to brine cabinet For AO-WH-SOFT-400T & AO-WH-SOFT-450T Add 5 gallons (19 L) of water to brine cabinet After first regeneration, appliance will automatically refill the correct amount of water into brine cabinet.
Ensure appliance is in Service position and your water supply is turned on.
Press and hold regenerate button until controller advances to the next step. Continue this process until you see Brine Refill.

Allow the tank to fill with the proper amount of water. The controller will then advance the valve to Home position

NOTICE : This initial startup is the only time you will add water to the brine cabinet. Do not add water at any other time

Fill Brine Cabinet With Salt
Fill brine cabinet with salt. Use clean white pellet, cube-style, or solar salt .Do not mix pellet with solar salt.

NOTICE : Always keep the salt level above the water level. For convenience, fill the cabinet 3/4 when refilling with salt.

If salt level was below water level before salt was added, wait two (2) hours for saturated brine before starting any regeneration

NOTICE : Use of potassium chloride when iron and/or manganese are present in the raw water supply is not recommended

Complete the Installation

Ensure bypass valve is left in the Service position. (see Service Position above)
Ensure water supply is on.
Open inlet valve and turn on electricity to water heater. For gas water heaters, return the gas cock to “On.”
Turn on a cold water tap and allow water softener to flush for 20 minutes or until approx. 72 gallons (270 L) have passed through. It is normal to see dark colored water from faucets when first flushing the softener. This procedure is required to meet NSF compliance. Verify the controller indicates water flow. (See Step 10 – Setting the Controller)
Place the cover on the cabinet.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM	POSSIBLE CAUSE	SOLUTION

No Soft Water after Regeneration

| No salt in brine cabinet.| Add salt.

Sediment in brine cabinet has plugged the brine line and air check/draw tube.

| Remove the brine line and flush clean. Remove the air check/draw tube and flush with clean water. Clean injector assembly. Clean any sediment from brine cabinet.
Flow control is plugged.| Remove brine piston housing and clear debris from the flow control.
Drain line is pinched, frozen, or restricted.| Straighten, thaw, or unclog the drain line.

Clogged injector assembly.

| Remove injector cap and clean nozzle and throat with a wooden toothpick. Replace entire assembly if throat removed.

Salt bridge has formed due to high humidity or the wrong kind of salt.

| Test with a blunt object like a broom handle. Push the handle into the salt to dislodge the salt bridge, or use hot water around the inside perimeter to loosen salt.

No Soft Water

| The Bypass Valve is in the Bypass Position.| Place the Bypass Valve in the Service position.

Appliance is plumbed backwards.

| Check that appliance is plumbed correctly.
Extended power outage.| Reset the time of day and regenerate the unit.
Water hardness has increased.| Re-test the water and re-enter a new setting number.
Not metering water.| Flow should be indicated with water usage. If no flow, see below.

No Flow Is Indicated When Water Is Flowing

| The Bypass Valve is in the Bypass position.| Place the Bypass Valve in the Service position.
Appliance is plumbed backwards.| Check that appliance is plumbed correctly.

Sensor not receiving signal from magnet on turbine.

| Remove sensor from bypass housing. Test with magnet on either flat side of sensor. If flow is indicated, check turbine. If no flow, replace sensor.
Turbine is jammed.| Remove Bypass Valve and clear debris from turbine.

Flow Indicated When Water is Not Being Used

|

The household plumbing system has a leak.

|

Repair the leak.

No Read-Out in Display

| Electric cord is unplugged.| Plug in the transformer.

No electric power at outlet.

| Check power source. Make sure outlet is not controlled by a switch.

Defective transformer.

| Test with voltmeter for 12 VAC at control. If less than 10 VAC replace the transformer.
Defective circuit board.| With 12 VAC present at controller, replace the controller.
PROBLEM| POSSIBLE CAUSE| SOLUTION
---|---|---

Appliance Stays in Regeneration

| Controller not attached properly.| Make sure the controller is pushed all the way onto the cover plate.
Defective magnet disk.| Replace magnet disk.
Foreign object in main control valve.| Remove foreign object(s) from the main control valve.
Broken valve assembly. Motor running.| Repair the valve assembly.

Excess Water in Brine Tank

| Restricted, frozen, or pinched drain line.| Remove restriction, thaw, or straighten drain line.
Plugged brine line, brine line flow control, or air check/draw tube.| Clean flow control, air check/draw tube, and brine line. Clean any sediment from the brine cabinet.
Plugged injector assembly.| Clean or replace injector. Replace entire assembly if throat removed.

Salty Water

| Plugged injector.| Replace injector screen, nozzle, and throat.
Low water pressure.| Maintain minimum pressure of 30 psi (2.1 bar).
Drain line or flow control is restricted.| Remove restriction.
Brine line restricted or crimped.| Remove restriction, replace if crimped.

Excessive amount of water in brine cabinet.

| Verify correct water level relative to salt setting. Estimated amount of water should be 2-12″. Check brine line and fittings for loose connections.
Intermittent pressure drop from feed source.| Install check valve on the inlet water line to the appliance (check local plumbing codes first).
Brine valve drips water back to brine tank.| Clean brine valve housing, replace piston assembly.

Controller Error Messages

|

Home not found.

| Cycle power by unplugging the transformer and plugging it back in.

It will look for Home again. Ensure the controller is pushed all the way onto

the drive end cap.

Motor error.

| All wires should be unplugged and replugged, sequence is motor, sensor, and power cord. Plug motor in and cycle power. If it is already plugged in, then motor wiring or the motor plug is defective. This could also be a problem with the computer.

Home offset.

| Disk did not start in proper home location. Cycle power controller will automatically try to reset itself by finding Home and continuing the regeneration. Ensure the controller is pushed all the way onto the drive end cap.

Home latched.

| Gear teeth are not engaged, gear is stripped, or something is jammed in the valve. Cycle the power to reset.
Memory error.| Replace controller.

This product is efficiency rated according to NSF/ANSI 44. The stated efficiencies are valid only at the specified salt dosage and maximum service flow rate:

MODEL| RATED EFFICIENCY| SALT DOSAGE| CAPACITY

AT THAT DOSAGE

| MAX. FLOW RATE
---|---|---|---|---

AO-WH-SOFT-350C

| 5,210 grains / lb (742 grams / kg)|

1 lb (0.45 kg)

| 5,210 grains

(338 grams)

| 7.5 gpm (28.4 L/min)

AO-WH-SOFT-400T

| 5,210 grains / lb (742 grams / kg)|

1.25 lbs (0.57 kg)

| 6,510 grains

(422 grams)

| 8 gpm

(30.3 L/min)

AO-WH-SOFT-450T

| 5,210 grains / lb (742 grams / kg)|

1.25 lbs (0.57 kg)

| 6,510 grains

(422 grams)

| 7.5 gpm (28.4 L/min)

An efficiency-rated water softener is a demand-initiated regeneration softener that also complies with specific performance specifications intended to minimize the amount of regenerant brine and water used in its operation. Efficiency-rated water softeners shall have a rated salt efficiency of not less than 3,350 grains of total hardness exchange per pound of salt (based on NaCI equivalency) (477 grams of total hardness exchange per kilogram of salt), and shall not deliver more salt than its listed rating. Efficiency is measured by a laboratory test described in NSF/ANSI 44. The test represents the maximum possible efficiency that the system can achieve. Operational efficiency is the actual efficiency achieved after the system has been installed. It is typically less than the efficiency due to individual application factors including water hardness, water usage, and other contaminates that reduce the softener’s capacity.

Reduction Capabilities for Specific Contaminants
Salt and Capacity Range System conforms to NSFI/ANSI 44 for the specific performance claims below as verified and substantiated by test data

NAME OF SUBSTANCE| USEPA MAX. CONTAMINANT LEVEL|

INFLUENT CHALLENGE LEVEL

---|---|---
Barium| 2.0 mg / L| 10 +/- 10% mg / L
Radium 226/228| 5 pCi / L| 226 / 228: 25 pCi / L

Salt and Capacity Range

MODEL

| MINIMUM CAPACITY/SALT| MIDDLE CAPACITY/SALT| MAXIMUM CAPACITY/SALT
---|---|---|---

AO-WH-SOFT-350C

| ****

5,210 grains / 1 lb

| ****

28,775 grains / 8 lbs

| ****

35,000 grains / 15 lbs

SPECIFICATIONS

PRODUCT SPECS

| MODEL
---|---
AO-WH-SOFT- 350C| AO-WH-SOFT- 400T| AO-WH-SOFT- 450T

Maximum Capacity

| ****

35,000 grains

| ****

40,000 grains

| ****

45,000 grains

Maximum Compensated Hardness

(Grains per gallon/L)

| ****

90 gpg

(1,540 mg/L)

| ****

100 gpg

(1,710 mg/L)

| ****

100 gpg

(1,710 mg/L)

Maximum Ferrous Iron **Reduction – ppm***

| ****

10 ppm

| ****

10 ppm

| ****

10 ppm

Minimum pH – standard units

| ****

7

| ****

7

| ****

7

Maximum Chlorine – ppm

| ****

0

| ****

0

| ****

0

Water & Ambient Temperature Min – Max

| ****

40 – 120ºF

(4 – 49ºC)

| ****

40 – 120ºF

(4 – 49ºC)

| ****

40 – 120ºF

(4 – 49ºC)

Water Pressure Min – Max

| ****

20 – 80 psi

(1.4 – 5.5 bar)

| ****

20 – 80 psi

(1.4 – 5.5 bar)

| ****

20 – 80 psi

(1.4 – 5.5 bar)

Maximum Flow Rate to Drain During Regeneration

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

Minimum Water Flow for Backwash

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

| ****

2 gpm (7.6 L / min)

Service Flow Rate

(@15 psi (1.0 bar)) drop – gpm (L/ min)

| ****

7.5 gpm (30 mg/L)

| ****

8 gpm

(30 mg/L)

| ****

7.5 gpm (28.4 mg/L)

High Efficiency Salt Setting lb/grains (kg/g) removed

| ****

3 lbs / 13,500 grains

(1.4 kg / 875 g)

| ****

5 lbs / 21,600 grains

(2.3 kg / 1,400 g)

| ****

5 lbs / 21,600 grains

(2.3 kg / 1,400 g)

High Efficiency Salt Setting Total Length of Regeneration min/gal (min/L)| ****

27.5 min / 21 gal (27.5 min / 80 L)

| ****

35 min / 26 gal

(35 min / 98 L)

| ****

35 min / 26 gal

(35 min / 98 L)

High Capacity Salt Setting lb/grains (kg/g) removed

| ****

7 lbs / 26,300 grains

(3.2 kg / 1,700 g)

| ****

9 lbs / 33,600 grains

(4.1 kg / 2,170 g)

| ****

9 lbs / 33,600 grains

(4.1 kg / 2,170 g)

__

PRODUCT SPECS

| MODEL
---|---
AO-WH-SOFT- 350C| AO-WH-SOFT- 400T| AO-WH-SOFT- 450T
High Capacity Salt Setting Total Length of Regeneration min/gal (min/L)| __

33 min / 25 gal

(33 min / 95 L)

| __

40 min / 30 gal

(4 min / 114 L)

| __

40 min / 30 gal

(4 min / 114 L)

__

Total Length of Regeneration

(Factory Setting) – min/gal (min/L)

| __

27.5 min / 21 gal (27.5 min / 80 L)

| __

35 min / 26 gal

(35 min / 98 L)

| __

35 min / 26 gal

(35 min / 98 L)

__

Controller Type

| __

2.7″

monochrome touch screen

| __

2.7″

monochrome touch screen

| __

2.8″

color touch screen

__

Electrical Rating

| __

115V, 60 Hz

| __

115V, 60 Hz

| __

115V, 60 Hz

__

Plumbing Connections (NPT)

| __

1″ male NPT

| __

1″ male NPT

| __

1″ male NPT

__

Salt Storage

| __

105 lbs (47.6 kg)

| __

120 lbs (54.4 kg)

| __

120 lbs (54.4 kg)

__

Height

| __

32″ (83.6 cm)

| __

39.5″ (100 cm)

| __

39.5″ (100 cm)

__

Footprint

| __

15 X 19″

(38.1 x 48.3 cm)

| __

22.8 X 18.1″

(57.8 x 46 cm)

| __

22.8 X 18.1″

(57.8 x 46 cm)

__

Shipping Weight – approx.

| __

95 lbs (43.1 kg)

| __

120 lbs (54.4 kg)

| __

120 lbs (54.4 kg)

__

Ultra- Fil

| __

1.5 lbs (0.7 kg)

| __

1.5 lbs (0.7 kg)

| __

1.5 lbs (0.7 kg)

__

Carbon

| __

0

| __

0

| __

0

__

Fine Mesh Resin

| __

1 cu. ft. (28.3 L)

| __

1.25 cu. ft. (35.4 L)

| __

1.25 cu. ft. (35.4 L)

LIMITED WARRANTY

Who is covered:
A. O. Smith and its suppliers, (herein collectively referred to as “Manufacturer”) warrants to the original owner who purchased and installed the system (hereinafter “Owner”).

What is covered:
This Limited Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship in manufacturing of your A. O. Smith system, excluding media, and except as provided below. The water softener is warranted only when it is installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the instructions accompanying the water softener found on aosmithatlowes.com.

For how long:
This Limited Warranty runs for three (3) years from the date of purchase by a consumer for mechanical and electronic parts and ten (10) years from the date of purchase by a consumer for the media tank and brine cabinet (“Warranty Period”). No Warranty coverage will be provided if the claimant is unable to provide proof of purchase from an authorized A. O. Smith reseller.

What is not covered:
THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATED HEREIN IS IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED (WHETHER WRITTEN OR ORAL), INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. This Warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, maintenance, or operation. System must be installed, maintained and operated consistent with instructions provided in the manual and all applicable plumbing and electrical codes and regulations. It also does not cover the following:

Incidental or consequential damages.
Clogging.
Damage from use of non-potable water supplies.
Labor costs to install or replace the system or filters or shipping and handling charges of any replacement part.
Damage caused by fire, flood, freezing or acts of God.
Damage caused to the product by not using genuine A. O. Smith parts.
Media is not warranted and A. O. Smith does not warrant any water treatment capabilities beyond those specifically represented. Water containing sand, bacterial iron, algae, sulfur, tannins, organic matter, or other unusual substances should be treated to remove the substances before they enter this product.

What A. O. Smith will do:
We will replace the defective part of the covered product, or if necessary, the product with installation instructions for use by a licensed plumber. MANUFACTURER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR CONTINGENT DAMAGES OR EXPENSES, ARISING, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE WATER SOFTENER OR THE USE OF THE WATER SOFTENER.

How to get service:
To receive service under this Warranty, you must contact A. O. Smith at 1-877-333-7108 within the Warranty Period to describe the problem to a customer service representative who will verify that the product is under Warranty and determine whether a part or the system will be replaced and whether you must send back the unit. You will be required to provide proof of purchase from an authorized A. O. Smith reseller and proof of proper installation.

Warranty registration:
Warranty registration is not required for coverage under the A. O. Smith Limited Warranty. If you purchased from a retailer or an authorized reseller, please complete the online Warranty registration form at www.aosmithatlowes.com/register. Proof of purchase from an A. O. Smith authorized dealer is required. Once registered online, we will have a record of your purchase.

How state law applies:
This Warranty gives you specific rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

Need help?
Save a trip and give us a call instead at 855.424.9892 Tell us what’s going on. We’ll do our best to help solve the problem and improve the product. System Tested and Certified by NSF International according to CSA B483.1 and NSF/ANSI Standard 44 for the reduction of Barium, Radium 226/228, and the Hardness Reduction.

A. O. Smith Corporation 11270 West Park Place P.O. Box 245008 | Milwaukee, WI 53224 | 855.424.9892