GE Water System GNSF39A01 User Manual

GE Appliances  
Safety Information  
Proper installation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3  
Owner’s Manual &  
Installation Instructions  
Installation Instructions  
GNSF39A01  
GNSF48A01  
Drain connections  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7  
Important recommendations  . . . .4  
Installation instructions  . . . . . . . .4-6  
Planning and location  . . . . . . . . . . .5  
Programming the control . . . . . . . .9  
Sanitizing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10  
Specifications and dimensions  . .11  
Step-by-step instructions . . . . . .7–11  
Tools and materials required . . . . .5  
Unpacking and inspection . . . . . . .4  
Operating Instructions, Tips  
Breaking a salt bridge  . . . . . . . . . .13  
Cleaning nozzle and  
venturi assembly  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14  
Electronic diagnostics  . . . . . . . . . .18  
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-17  
Regenerating the system  . . . .19, 20  
Service  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12  
Water softener system  . . . . . . .12-21  
Care and Cleaning  
Salt storage level and refilling  . . . .22  
Cleaning out iron  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22  
Troubleshooting Tips  . . . . .23–25  
Customer Service  
Appliance registration  . . . . . .33, 34  
Important phone  
numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover  
Parts list/catalog  . . . . . . . . . . . .26-29  
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35  
215C1044P005-3  
49-50020-3  
04/00 JR  
7221039  
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.  
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.  
For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of  
electric shock, property damage or personal injury.  
WARNING!  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
Check and comply with your state and local  
The water softening system works on 24 volt-60 Hz  
electrical power only. Be sure to use only the  
included transformer.  
codes. You must follow these guidelines.  
Use care when handling the water softening  
system. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag,  
or set on sharp protrusions.  
Keep the salt hole cover in place on the softener  
unless servicing the unit or refilling with salt.  
Water softening systems using sodium chloride  
(salt) for regeneration add sodium to the water.  
Persons on sodium restricted diets should consider  
the added sodium as part of their overall intake.  
Potassium chloride can be used as an alternative to  
sodium chloride.  
WARNING: Do not use with water that is  
microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality  
without adequate disinfection before or after the  
system.  
PROPER INSTALLATION  
This water softening system must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation  
Instructions before it is used.  
Install or store where it will not be exposed to  
temperatures below freezing or exposed to any  
type of weather. Water freezing in the system will  
break it. Do not attempt to treat water over 100°F.  
Softener resins may degrade in the presence of  
chlorine above 1 ppm. If you have chlorine in  
excess of this amount, you may experience  
reduced resin life. In these conditions, you may  
wish to consider purchasing a GE point-of-entry  
household filtration system with a chlorine  
reducing filter. Contact the GE Answer Center at  
1-800-626-2000 for more information.  
Do not install in direct sunlight. Excessive sun heat  
may cause distortion or other damage to non-  
metallic parts.  
Properly ground to conform with all governing  
codes and ordinances.  
WARNING: Discard all unused parts and  
packaging material after installation. Small  
parts remaining after the installation could be  
a choke hazard.  
Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-  
solder connections, as required by state and  
federal codes.  
The water softening system requires a minimum  
water flow of three gallons per minute at the inlet.  
Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125 psi.  
If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime  
pressure may exceed the maximum. Use a  
pressure reducing valve to reduce the flow  
if necessary.  
Read and follow this Safety Information carefully.  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
3
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Installation instructions.  
CAUTION: Certain plumbing skills are needed for installation. If you are unsure about any part of the  
installation of this product, consult a professional plumber.  
Unpacking and Inspection  
Be sure to check the entire softener for any shipping damage or parts loss. Also note damage to the shipping  
cartons. Contact the transportation company for all damage and loss claims. The manufacturer is not  
responsible for damages in transit.  
Small parts, needed to install the softener, are on a skin-packed cardboard piece. To avoid loss of the small  
parts, keep them on the skin-pack until you are ready to use them.  
Important Installation Recommendations  
Read entire manual. Failure to follow all guidelines and rules could cause personal injury or property damage.  
Before you begin installation, read these Installation Instructions completely. Then, obtain all the materials  
and tools you will need to make the installation. Failure to properly install the softener voids the warranty.  
Check local codes. The installation must conform to them.  
In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Plumbing Code 248 CMR shall be adhered to.  
Consult with your licensed plumber.  
Use only lead-free solder and flux for all sweat-solder connections, as required by state and federal codes.  
Connect the softener to the main water supply pipe before or ahead of the water heater. DO NOT RUN HOT  
WATER THROUGH THE SOFTENER. Temperature of water passing through the softener must be less than 120° F.  
Use care when handling the softener. Do not turn upside down, drop, drag, or set on sharp protrusions.  
Maximum allowable inlet water pressure is 125 psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime pressure may  
exceed the maximum. Use a pressure reducing valve if necessary. (Adding a pressure reducing valve may  
reduce the flow.)  
The softener works on 24 volt-60 Hz electrical power only. Be sure to use the included transformer.  
Be sure the electric outlet and transformer are in an inside location to protect from wet weather.  
See Where to Install the Softener section for more details.  
WARNING: Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without  
adequate disinfection before or after the system. The water should be tested periodically to verify that  
the system is performing satisfactorily.  
Small parts remaining after the installation could be a choke hazard. Discard safely.  
4
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Plan How You Will Install the Softener  
You must first decide how to run in and out pipes to the softener. Look at the house main water pipe at the  
point where you will connect the softener. Is the pipe soldered copper, glued plastic, or threaded galvanized?  
What is the pipe size?  
WARNING: Use only lead-free solder and flux to prevent lead poisoning.  
See Typical Installation Illustration, Fig.1. Use this as a guide when planning your particular installation.  
Be sure to direct the incoming hard water supply to the softener valve inlet fitting. The valve is marked IN and OUT.  
See below to help you prepare.  
Where to Install the Softener  
Place the softener as close as possible to a sewer drain, or other acceptable drain point or standpipe.  
It is recommended to keep outside faucets on hard water to save soft water and salt.  
Do not install the softener in a place where it could freeze. Freeze damage is not covered by the warranty.  
Do not install the softener where it would block access to the water heater or access to the main water shutoff.  
Do not locate the brine tank more than 10 feet away from the resin tank.  
Put the softener in a place where water damage is least likely to occur if a leak develops. The manufacturer  
will not repair or pay for water damage.  
A 120 volt electric outlet is needed to plug in the included transformer. The softener has a 10 foot power  
cable. If the outlet is remote (up to 100 feet), use 18 gauge wire to connect. Be sure the electric outlet and  
transformer are in an inside location, to protect from wet weather. Be sure the outlet is unswitched to prevent  
accidental shutoff.  
If installing in an outside location, you must take the steps necessary to assure the softener, installation  
plumbing, wiring, etc., are as well protected from the elements (sunlight, rain, wind, heat, cold),  
contamination, vandalism, etc., as when installed indoors.  
Keep the softener out of direct sunlight. The sun’s heat may distort non-metallic parts and may damage  
the electronics.  
Tools and Materials Required for Installation  
In and out fittings included with the softener are 1(nominal) copper sweat tubes. To maintain full valve  
flow, 1pipes to and from the softener fittings are recommended. You should maintain the same, or larger,  
pipe size as the water supply pipe, up to the softener inlet and outlet.  
Use the included bypass valve to install the softener. The bypass valve allows you to turn off water to the  
softener for servicing, but still have water in the house pipes. The in and out fittings referred to above  
connect to the bypass valve with the included nuts and washers.  
Use copper, brass or galvanized pipe and fittings. Some codes may also allow CPVC plastic pipes.  
If additional drain hose is needed for salt tank drains, it can be ordered from GE Parts at 800.626.2002.  
Garden hose with female fitting is needed for valve drain (sufficiently long to reach suitable drain).  
If a rigid valve drain is needed to comply with plumbing codes, you can buy the parts needed to connect a  
1/2copper tubing or plastic drain.  
Clean nugget or pellet water softener salt is needed to fill the brine tank, see Step 8 in the Step-by-Step  
Installation Instructions.  
5
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Installation instructions.  
Typical Installation Illustration  
Fig. 1  
Soft water  
Hard water  
Hard water to  
outside faucets  
CROSS-OVER  
Use if water supply flows from the left.  
Include single or 3-valve bypass.  
Union (2)  
(not supplied)  
120-volt outlet  
Hard water  
Retainer (2)  
Clips (2)  
Soft water  
24V transformer  
Copper tube, 1” (2)  
O-rings (2)  
From softener outlet  
Venturi  
nozzle  
To softener inlet  
INLET  
NOTE: See Drain Hose  
Connections section.  
Brine tank  
Optional 3-Valve Bypass Installation Illustration  
Fig. 2  
Bypass valve  
Soft water  
Hard water to outside faucets  
Hard water  
Inlet valve  
Outlet valve  
CROSS-OVER  
Use if water supply flows from the left. Include single  
or 3-valve bypass.  
3-valve bypass system  
For soft water service:  
• Open the inlet and outlet  
valves  
• Close the bypass valve  
For bypass hard water:  
Hard water  
120-volt outlet  
Union (2)  
(not supplied)  
Soft water  
24V transformer  
• Close the inlet and outlet  
valves  
• Open the bypass valve  
Venturi  
nozzle  
Copper tube, 1” (2)  
O-rings (2)  
Clips (2)  
To softener inlet  
From softener outlet  
INLET  
Brine tank  
6
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Step-by-step installation instructions.  
Turn off the gas or electric supply to the water heater, in  
the possibility that the water heater may be drained while  
draining pipes.  
Clips  
Fig. 3  
Turn off the water supply to pipes to be cut and drain the  
house water pipes.  
O-rings  
Open both hot and cold faucets.  
Install bypass valve:  
1
Remove plastic shipping plug and retainer from valve outlet.  
Turbine  
Fig. 4  
Valve outlet  
Valve drain  
hose (female  
garden hose  
fitting)  
STANDPIPE  
Turbine support and shaft  
Drain  
fitting  
on valve  
(Male  
garden  
hose  
NOTE: Be sure the turbine and support are firmly in place,  
in the valve outlet. Blow into the valve port and  
observe the turbine for free rotation.  
LAUNDRY TUB  
fitting)  
Push the bypass valve (lubricate o-ring seals with silicone  
grease) into both ports of the valve as shown in Fig. 3.  
IMPORTANT:  
Tie or wire hose  
in place  
SUMP  
Snap the 2 large plastic clips in place, as shown in Fig. 3.  
Be sure they snap into place. Pull on the bypass valve to  
make sure it is held securely in place.  
2 Move the softener assembly into installation position:  
FLOOR DRAIN  
112air gap  
CAUTION:  
Support inlet and outlet plumbing in some manner (use  
pipe hangers) to keep the weight off of the valve fittings.  
Secure the resin tank to a stable structure to prevent it  
from falling over.  
Locate the brine tank directly next to the resin tank.  
4 Connect and run the valve drain hose:  
to the valve drain fitting, as shown in Fig. 4.  
Be sure the installation surface is level and smooth. Sharp  
objects under the brine tank may puncture it. If needed,  
place the brine tank on a section of 3/4thick (minimum)  
plywood. Then, place shims under the plywood as needed  
to level the softener.  
Take a length of garden hose with female fitting and attach  
IMPORTANT: Make sure the garden hose fitting fits  
securely onto the threaded drain port.  
Locate the other end of the hose at a suitable drain point  
(floor drain, sump, laundry tub, etc.) that terminates at the  
sewer drain. Check and comply with local codes.  
Connect the black brine valve tube from the brinewell to  
the venturi assembly on the valve, using the plastic nut  
provided as shown in Fig. 5.  
IMPORTANT: Use a high quality, thick-walled hose that  
will not easily kink or collapse. The water softener will  
not work if water cannot exit this hose during  
regenerations.  
3 Plumb IN and OUT pipes to and from softener:  
CAUTION: Observe all of the following cautions as you  
connect inlet and outlet plumbing.  
Tie or wire the hose in place at the drain point. High water  
pressure will cause it to whip during the back-wash and fast  
rinse cycles of regeneration. Also provide an air gap of at least  
1–1/2 between the end of the hose and the drain point. An air  
gap prevents possible siphoning of sewer water into the  
softener, if the sewer should back-up.  
Be sure incoming hard water supply is directed to the  
softener valve inlet port. If house water flow is from the left,  
use a plumbing cross-over as shown in Fig. 1.  
Do all sweat soldering before connecting pipes to the bypass  
valve. Torch heat will damage plastic parts.  
When turning threaded pipe fittings onto plastic fittings,  
If raising the drain hose overhead is required to get to the  
drain point, do not raise higher than 8´ above the floor.  
Elevating the hose may cause a back-pressure that could  
reduce brine draw during regenerations.  
use care not to cross-thread.  
Use pipe joint compound on all external pipe threads.  
7
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Step-by-step installation instructions.  
5 Install the brine tank overflow fittings and hose:  
in the brine tank sidewall as shown in Fig. 5.  
Fig. 5  
Insert the rubber grommet into the 3/4diameter hole  
Push the end of the hose adapter elbow into the grommet  
as shown in Fig. 5.  
Hose adapter  
Hose clamp  
Attach a length of hose to the hose adapter elbow.  
Use a hose clamp to hold it in place.  
Venturi nozzle  
Brine tank  
Locate the other end of the hose at the drain point.  
DO NOT ELEVATE this hose higher than the elbow on the  
brine tank.  
Grommet  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT TEE OVERFLOW HOSE TO VALVE  
DRAIN HOSE.  
Overflow  
drain hose  
NOTE: This drain is for safety only. If the cabinet (brine tank)  
should over-fill with water, the excess is carried to  
the drain.  
Brine  
well  
6 Install grounding clamps and wire:  
To sewer drain  
DANGER: Failure to properly attach ground wire could  
result in electrical shock.  
Fig. 6  
To valve inlet  
Clamp (2)  
If plumbing is metal, to maintain electrical ground continuity  
in the house cold water piping, install the included ground  
clamps as shown in Fig. 6. Be sure the pipes are clean under  
the clamps to assure good contact.  
Ground  
wire  
Flush pipes, expel air from softener, and test your  
installation for water leaks:  
7
CAUTION: To avoid water or air pressure damage to softener  
inner parts, be sure to do the following steps in exact order.  
From valve outlet  
A. Fully open 2 cold soft water faucets nearby the softener.  
B. Place bypass valve in “bypass” position by pushing the  
stem inward.  
NOTE: If the softener is installed in a humid basement or  
other damp area, it is better to fill the tank with less salt,  
more frequently. Eighty to 100 lbs. of salt will last for several  
months, depending on water hardness and family size.  
C. Fully open the house main water pipe shutoff valve.  
Observe a steady flow from both faucets opened in  
Step A above.  
Connect to electrical power:  
D. Place bypass valve in the “service” position EXACTLY as  
follows. KEEP SOFT WATER FAUCETS OPEN.  
9
Using the instruction sheet provided with the electronic  
control, connect the wires from the valve to the electronic  
control.  
SLOWLY pull or slide the valve stem (OUT) toward  
“service, pausing several times to allow the softener to  
pressurize slowly.  
If transformer wiring is not visible at the back of the  
control head, remove control cover. DO NOT PULL ON OR  
DISCONNECT WIRING. Locate the long wire with U shaped  
connectors on one end. Route this wire through the rear  
of the control housing. Replace the control cover.  
E. After about 3 minutes, open a HOT water faucet for  
1 minute, or until all air is expelled, then close.  
NOTE: If water appears cloudy or has salty taste,  
allow to run for several more minutes or until clear.  
F. Close all water faucets.  
Fasten the 2 power cable lugs (“U” shaped connectors)  
to the 2 screws on the transformer, and tighten the screws.  
Then, plug the transformer into the electrical outlet.  
G. Check your plumbing work for leaks and fix right away if  
any are found. BE SURE TO OBSERVE PREVIOUS CAUTIONS.  
The softener works on 24 volt-60 Hz electric power. The  
included transformer changes standard 120 volt AC house  
power to 24 volts. Plug the transformer into a 120 volt outlet  
only. Be sure the outlet is always live so it can not be switched  
off by mistake.  
Add water and salt to the brine tank:  
8
Lift the cabinet (brine tank) cover. Add about 3 gallons of  
water into the tank. Do not add into the brinewell.  
Fill tank 13 to 12 full with NUGGET, PELLET or coarse SOLAR  
water softener salt with a purity of 99.5% or higher. Do not  
use rock, block, granulated, or ice cream-making salts or  
salt with iron removing additives (except for Diamond  
Crystal® Red•Out® brand salt.)  
Program the control:  
10  
See Programming the Control section.  
8
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Touch or Hold button  
Up (+) button  
RECHARGE TONIGHT  
RECHARGE NOW  
TOUCH  
or  
HOLD  
TIME  
HARDNESS  
SET  
Set button  
Down (–) button  
Display  
REMAINING CAPACITY  
FLOW RATE GPM  
DATA  
GALLONS TODAY  
AVG. DAILY GALLONS  
Data button  
Excel  
Programming the Control  
Set water hardness number  
Timer settings required—upon installation and after an  
extended power outage.  
NOTE: If 15 (factory default) and HARDNESS do not show in  
the display, press the SET button until they do.  
NOTE:  
When the transformer is plugged into the electrical outlet,  
12:00 AM is flashing and the words PRESENT TIME show in  
the upper display area. Program the timer as instructed  
below. If, A--- is flashing, see the Setting Model Code section.  
HARDNESS  
Press the UP (+) or DOWN (-)  
b
utton to set your water  
utton  
utton moves the  
1
hardness number in the display. The DOWN  
b
A beep sounds while pressing buttons for timer  
programming. One beep signals a change in the timer  
display. Repeated beeps means the timer will not accept  
a change from the button or arrow you have pressed and  
you should use another.  
moves the display down to 1. The UP  
b
display up to 110.  
NOTE: Each press of an UP (+) or DOWN (-) button changes the  
display by 1 between 1 and 25. Above 25, the display  
changes 5 at a time (25, 30, 35, etc.). Holding a button  
in changes the numbers twice each second.  
To program the timer, you will use the SET, UP (+) and  
DOWN (-) buttons.  
When your water hardness number shows, press SET  
2 to apply.  
Set present time of day  
NOTE: If there is clear water iron in your water supply, you will  
need to increase the hardness setting by 5 for each 1 ppm  
of clear water iron in your water supply.  
NOTE: If the words PRESENT TIME do not show in the display,  
press the SET button until they do.  
Press the UP (+) or DOWN (-)  
b
utton to set. The UP  
b
utton  
1
You can get the grains per gallon (gpg) hardness of your water  
supply from a water analysis laboratory, or call and ask your  
local water department, if you are on a municipal supply, or call  
GE Answer Center® to request a water hardness test kit. If your  
report shows hardness in parts per million (ppm) simply divide  
by 17.1 to get the equivalent number of grains per gallon.  
moves the display ahead; the DOWN  
button moves the  
time backward.  
NOTE: Each press of an UP or DOWN button changes the time  
by 1 minute. Holding the buttons in changes the time  
32 minutes each second.  
AM  
PRESENT TIME  
If the present time is between noon and midnight, be sure  
PM shows.  
If the present time is between midnight and noon,be sure  
AM shows.  
2 When the present time shows, press SET to apply.  
9
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Step-by-step installation instructions.  
Sanitizing Procedures  
To complete the installation, do the following sanitizing procedures.  
Care is taken at the factory to keep your water softener clean and sanitary. Materials used to make the softener  
will not infect or contaminate your water supply and will not cause bacteria to form or grow. However, during  
shipping, storage, installing and operating, bacteria could get into the softener. For this reason, sanitizing as  
follows is suggested when installing.  
NOTE: Sanitizing is recommended by the Water Quality Association for disinfecting.  
Be sure to complete all installation steps, including timer programming.  
1
Pour about 3/4 oz. of common 5.25% household bleach (Clorox, Linco, Bo Peep, White Sail, Eagle, etc.)  
into the brinewell. Refer to illustration on page 8.  
2
IMPORTANT: Press and hold for 3 seconds the faceplate TOUCH/HOLD button to start an immediate  
3
regeneration. Recharge Now begins to flash in the display. The bleach is drawn into and through  
the water softener.  
If after sanitization water from house faucet tastes salty or has a slight color, this is a preservative from the  
resin tank. Turn on  the cold soft water faucets and drain for a few minutes or until clear.  
4
NOTE: When the above sanitizing regeneration is over, your house COLD water supply is fully soft immediately.  
However, your water heater is filled with hard water and as hot water is used, it will refill with soft water.  
When all the hard water is replaced in the water heater, hot only and mixed hot and cold water will be fully  
soft. If you want totally soft water immediately, after the above regeneration, drain the water heater until the  
water runs cold.  
WARNING: If you do drain the water heater, use extreme care as the hot water could cause burns.  
Turn the water heater off prior to draining.  
10  
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Specifications/Dimensions—See rating decal, located on the Water Softening System.  
Rated Capacity*  
GNSF39A GNSF48A  
54.6/1.05  
67.6/1.30  
Amount of high capacity resin (lbs/cu. ft)  
Resin tank nominal size (in., dia. x height)  
Service flow rate (gpm) (see rating label on softener)  
Water supply maximum hardness (gpg)  
Water supply maximum clear water iron (ppm)**  
Water pressure limits (min.-max. psi)  
Pressure drop at rated service flow (psig)  
Water temperature maximum (°F)  
10x 35″  
10x 47″  
12  
110  
8
12  
110  
8
20-125  
15  
20-125  
15  
120  
3
120  
3
Water supply minimum flow rate (gpm)  
Regeneration cycle flow rates (gpm)  
Fill (flow to brine tank)  
.3  
.3  
{
.16  
.12  
2.0  
2.0  
.16  
.12  
2.0  
2.0  
Brining  
Brine Rinse    
(flow to drain)  
Backwash  
Fast Rinse  
This system conforms to WQA S-100-98 for specific capacity claims as verified and substantiated by test data.  
* Testing was performed using pellet grade sodium chloride as the regenerant salt.  
** Extent of iron removal may vary with conditions. Use of Diamond Crystal® Red•Out® or Super Iron Out®  
will improve iron removal. Refer to Cleaning iron out of the Water Softening System section.  
14″  
3 78″  
IN-OUT  
18″  
47or 59″  
38 12or 50 12″  
38″  
11″  
11  
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About the water softener system.  
Service  
When the water softening system is providing soft water, it is called “Service.” During service, hard water flows  
from the house main water pipe into the water softening system. Inside the water softening system resin tank is a  
bed made up of thousands of tiny, plastic resin beads. As hard water passes through the bed, each bead attracts  
and holds the hard minerals. This is called ion-exchanging. It is much like a magnet attracting and holding  
metals. Water without hard minerals (soft water) flows from the water softening system and to the house pipes.  
After a period of time, the resin beads become coated with hard minerals and they have to be cleaned. This  
cleaning is called regeneration, or recharge. Regeneration is started at 2:00 AM (factory setting) by the water  
softening system control, and consists of five stages or cycles. These are FILL, BRINING, BRINE RINSE, BACKWASH  
and FAST RINSE.  
Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration  
For emergency needs, hard water is available to the  
home during the regeneration cycles.  
However, you should avoid using HOT water because  
the water heater will fill with the hard water.  
Fill  
Salt dissolved in water is called brine. Brine is needed to clean the hard minerals from resin beads.  
To make the brine, water flows into the salt storage area during the fill stage.  
Brining  
During brining, brine travels from the salt storage area into the resin tank. Brine is the cleaning agent needed  
to remove hard minerals from the resin beads. The hard minerals and brine are discharged to the drain.  
The nozzle and venturi create a suction to move the brine, maintaining a very slow rate to get the best resin  
cleaning with the least salt.  
Brine Rinse  
After a pre-measured amount of brine is used, the brine valve closes. Water continues to flow in the same  
path as during brining, except for the discontinued brine flow. Hard minerals and brine flush from the resin  
tank to the drain.  
Backwash  
During backwash, water travels up through the resin tank at a fast flow rate, flushing accumulated iron, dirt,  
and sediments from the resin bed and to drain.  
Fast Rinse  
Backwash is followed by a fast flow of water down through the resin tank. The fast flow flushes brine from the  
bottom of tank, and packs the resin bed.  
After fast rinse, the water softening system returns to soft water service.  
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Breaking a Salt Bridge  
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt bridge forms in the salt storage area. It is usually caused by high humidity or  
the wrong kind of salt. When the salt bridges, an empty space forms between the water and salt. Then salt will  
not dissolve in the water to make brine.  
If the brine tank is full of salt, it is hard to tell if you have a salt bridge. Salt is loose on top, but the bridge is  
under it. The following is the best way to check for a salt bridge.  
Salt should be loose all the way to the bottom of the tank. Take a broom handle or like tool, and carefully  
push it down into the salt, working it up and down. If the tool strikes a hard object (be sure it’s not the bottom  
or sides of the tank), it’s most likely a salt bridge. Carefully break the bridge with the tool. Do not pound on  
the walls of the tank.  
If the wrong kind of salt made the bridge, take it out. Then fill the tank with nugget or pellet salt only.  
In humid areas, it is best to fill with less salt, more often.  
Push tool into salt  
bridge to break  
1– 2″  
Pencil mark  
Broom handle  
Salt  
Salt bridge  
Water level  
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About the water softener system.  
Cleaning the Nozzle and Venturi Assembly  
A clean nozzle and venturi is needed for the water softening system to work properly. This small unit makes the  
suction to move brine from the salt storage area to the resin tank during regeneration. If it becomes plugged  
with sand, dirt, etc., the water softening system will not work and you will get hard water.  
To get to the nozzle and venturi, remove the water softening system top cover. Be sure the water softening  
system is in service cycle (no water pressure at nozzle and venturi). Then, while holding the nozzle and venturi  
housing with one hand, remove the cap. Lift out the screen support and screen, then the nozzle and venturi.  
Wash and rinse the parts in warm water until clean. If needed, use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Also  
check and clean the gasket.  
NOTE: Some models have a small flow plug located in the nozzle and venturi, and/or a small cone shaped  
screen in the housing. Be sure to check and clean these parts, if your model is so equipped.  
Carefully replace all parts in the correct order. Lightly lubricate the o-ring seal with clean silicone grease or  
petroleum jelly and place in position. Install and tighten the cap, by hand only. Do not over-tighten the cap.  
Cap  
O-ring seal  
Screen support  
Screen  
*Flow plug  
Nozzle & Venturi  
Screen  
Gasket  
*Flow plug  
Nozzle & Venturi housing  
IMPORTANT: Be sure small holes in the gasket are centered  
directly over the small holes in the nozzle and venturi housing.  
*Install with numbered side up, concave side down.  
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Normal Operation, Timer Display  
During normal operation, the present time of day and AM or PM show in the control display  
area. When the demand computer determines a regeneration is needed, RECHARGE TONIGHT  
begins to flash in the display along with the present time. RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes until  
the next regeneration start time, then changes to RECHARGE NOW, which flashes until the  
regeneration is over. The display also shows the current cycle in the regeneration process.  
When the valve is in transition between cycles, both indicators flash.  
Feature: Optional Recharge Controls  
Sometimes, a manually started regeneration (recharge) may be desired or needed.  
Two examples:  
You have used more water than usual (house guests, extra washing, etc.) and you may run out  
of soft water before the next regeneration.  
You did not refill the storage tank with salt before it was all gone.  
Use one of the following features to start a regeneration immediately, or at the next preset  
regeneration start time.  
RECHARGE NOW  
Press and hold the TOUCH or HOLD button until RECHARGE NOW starts to flash in the control  
display area. The water softening system begins an immediate regeneration and, when over in  
about two hours, you will have a new supply of soft water. Once started, you cannot cancel this  
regeneration.  
RECHARGE TONIGHT  
RECHARGE NOW  
TOUCH  
or  
HOLD  
RECHARGE TONIGHT  
Touch (do not hold) the TOUCH or HOLD button. RECHARGE TONIGHT flashes in the control  
display area. A regeneration will occur at the next preset regeneration start time. If you decide  
to cancel this regeneration, touch the same button once more.  
Feature: Program Memory  
If electrical power to the water softening system is interrupted, the control display is blank, but  
the control keeps correct time for about 72 hours. When power is restored, you have to reset the  
present time only if the display is flashing. All other settings are maintained and never require  
resetting unless a change is desired.  
If the time is flashing after a long power outage, the water softening system continues to work as  
it should to provide you with soft water. However, regenerations may occur at the wrong time of  
day until you reset the control to the correct time of day.  
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About the water softener system.  
Feature/Service: Automatic Electronic Diagnostics  
The timer computer has a self-diagnostic function for the electrical system (except input power  
and water meter). The computer monitors the electronic components and circuits for correct  
operation. If a malfunction occurs, an error code appears in the timer display.  
The chart on Error Codes shows the error codes that could appear and possible defects for each  
code. While an error code is displayed, the TOUCH or HOLD and DATA buttons remain operable  
so you can perform the Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics.  
ERROR CODE DISPLAYED ERR 01  
ERR 02  
ERR 03  
ERR 04  
ERR 05  
POSSIBLE DEFECT  
motor inoperative wiring harness, or connection to switch timer (PWA)  
position switch valve defect causing high torque  
To remove an error code: (1) Unplug transformer.  
(2) Correct defect.  
(3) Plug transformer in.  
(4) Wait for at least 6 minutes. The error code will return if the reason  
for the error code was not corrected.  
Feature: Other Data Displays  
By continuing to press the DATA button, you can scan through four displays of operational  
information. This data appears in the bottom portion of the display area.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
%
REMAINING CAPACITY  
FLOW RATE GPM  
CAPACITY  
REMAINING CAPACITY —  
This is the percentage of water softening capacity remaining.  
DATA  
GALLONS TODAY  
AVG. DAILY GALLONS  
Immediately after a regeneration, 100% shows. As water is used, the percentage decreases until  
the next regeneration. During regenerations, the percentage increases.  
NOTE: Zero (%) shows until after the first regeneration begins, after connecting to  
electrical power.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
GPM  
FLOW RATE  
FLOW RATE, GPM—  
When using soft water, this display shows the flow rate passing  
through the softener (in gallons per minute). Zero shows if water is not passing through the  
softener.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
GALLONS TODAY  
GALLONS TODAY—  
Each day, beginning at midnight, the timer keeps a running count  
of the total gallons of water that have passed through the softener.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
AVG. DAILY GALLONS—  
The figure displayed is the average gallons of water used by  
AVG. DAILY GALLONS  
the household each day over the past seven day period.  
NOTE: If preferred, you can set the timer to show the reading in liters instead of gallons.  
If GALLONS TODAY or AVG. DAILY GALLONS exceeds 1999, a (x10) indicator appears, this means  
you must multiply the number shown by ten.  
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Timer/Softener, Service Checkout Procedure  
If you are not getting soft water, and an error code is not displayed, use the procedures below to  
find the problem. First make the following visual checks.  
VISUAL CHECKS:  
Is there electrical power to the outlet the water softening system transformer  
is plugged into?  
1
2 Is there sufficient salt in the storage tank?  
3 Is the plumbing bypass valve directing water for soft water service?  
Is the valve drain hose open to the drain, not elevated too high,  
4
and unobstructed?  
If you do not find a problem with the visual checks, continue below.  
TIMER SHOWS WRONG  
TIME AND DAY, AND/OR  
IS FLASHING.  
NO SOFT  
WATER  
Electrical power was off.  
Reset the correct time  
of day.  
Investigate reason for  
power loss.  
REPAIR AS  
Do manual  
diagnostics to  
verify proper  
function.  
Check electrical  
power to control  
(outlet, transformer,  
power cable, all  
connections).  
NO POWER  
POWER OK  
NEEDED  
TIMER  
DISPLAY  
BLANK.  
TIMER  
DEFECTIVE  
TIMER DISPLAY SHOWS  
CORRECT TIME AND DAY  
AND IS STEADY.  
Do manual  
diagnostics.  
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About the water softener system.  
Service: Manually Initiated Electronic Diagnostics  
To enter diagnostics, press and hold the DATA button until the display appears as shown.  
1
On  
NOTE: If the softener is in the middle of a regeneration, top part of the display shows the  
cycle of regeneration and minutes of the cycle remaining. If two cycle names are flashing,  
the valve is in transition between the cycles.  
LAST RECHARGE  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
Turbine  
A The three digits under WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM indicate water meter operation  
as follows:  
000 (steady) = soft water not in use…no flow through the meter.  
Switch  
Turbine  
count  
—OPEN A NEARBY SOFT WATER FAUCET—  
000 to 140 (continual) = repeats display for each gallon of water passing through  
Valve  
position  
Minutes of cycle  
remaining  
the meter.  
Fill  
Motor  
TIME  
Position  
switch  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
Turbine  
Sensor  
housing  
Turbine  
Turbine  
support  
& shaft  
Valve  
outlet  
If you don’t get a reading in the display, with faucet open, pull the sensor from the valve  
outlet port. Pass a small magnet back and forth in front of the sensor. You should get a  
reading in the display. If you get a reading, shut off water supply, unhook the in and out  
plumbing and check the turbine for binding.  
B This display segment (  
), in the following chart, indicates an open POSITION  
switch. Use the TOUCH or HOLD button to manually advance the valve into each cycle and  
check correct switch operation.  
CORRECT SWITCH  
DISPLAYS  
VALVE CYCLE STATUS  
Valve in service, fill, brining, backwash  
or fast rinse position.  
Valve rotating from one position to another.  
Press the DATA button again. This diagnostic display shows the total number of recharges  
2 (top) since the timer was connected to electrical power.  
RECHARGE  
The number of days since the timer was connected to electrical power is shown in the  
bottom part of the display. If over 1999 days, a (x10) indicator shows, meaning you must  
multiply the number shown by 10.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
Press DATA once again to return the present time to the display.  
x 10  
DAY  
3
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Service: Manually Advance Regeneration Check  
This check verifies proper operation of the valve motor, brine tank fill, brine draw, regeneration  
flow rates and other controller functions. First, make the initial checks and the manually  
initiated electronic diagnostics.  
NOTE: The face plate display must show a steady time (not flashing).  
Press the TOUCH or HOLD button and hold for three seconds. RECHARGE NOW begins to flash  
1
as the water softening system enters the fill cycle of regeneration. Remove the brinewell  
cover and, using a flashlight, observe fill water entering the brine tank.  
If water does not enter the tank, look for an obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug, brine  
tubing, or brine valve riser pipe.  
After observing fill, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the water softening system into  
2 brining. A slow flow of water to the drain will begin. Verify brine draw from the brine tank by  
shining a flashlight into the brinewell and observing a noticeable drop in the liquid level.  
NOTE: Be sure a salt bridge is not preventing salt contact with water.  
If the water softening system does not draw brine, check:  
nozzle and/or venturi dirty or defective.  
nozzle and venturi not seated properly on gasket.  
restricted drain (check drain fitting and hose).  
defective nozzle and venturi seal.  
other inner valve defect (rotor seal, rotor & disc, wave washer, etc.).  
NOTE: If water system pressure is low, an elevated drain hose may cause back pressure, stopping  
brine draw.  
Again, press the TOUCH or HOLD button to move the softener into backwash. Look for a fast  
3 flow of water from the drain hose.  
A slow flow indicates a plugged top distributor, backwash flow plug, or drain hose.  
Press TOUCH or HOLD to move the water softening system into fast rinse. Again look for a fast  
4 drain flow. Allow the water softening system to rinse for a few minutes to flush out any brine  
that may remain in the resin tank from the brining cycle test.  
To return the water softening system to service, press TOUCH or HOLD.  
5
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About the water softener system.  
Service: Regeneration and Heavy Duty Backwash  
NOTE: Each of the following functions has a factory set default value. The defaults are:  
Regeneration start time –2:00AM; Maximum days between regenerations –0 (display shows dY–);  
Heavy duty backwash –OFF. The defaults are suitable for most installations. However, depending  
on water supply quality, household peak water use hours, etc., adjustment is available to meet  
specific needs. To make a change, read and do the following.  
Regeneration (Start) Time: At the 2:00 AM regeneration start time, the water softening system  
begins regeneration at that time, ending at about 4:00 AM. This is a good time in most  
households because water is not in use (see Automatic Hard Water Bypass During Regeneration  
section). If a different time would be better for your needs, do steps 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 below  
to change the starting hour.  
Maximum Days Between Regeneration: The default setting (dY–) allows the timer to control  
regeneration frequency based on water usage readings from the water meter. It provides the  
most economical operation. You can set a maximum time (in days) between regenerations.  
For example, no more than three days will pass without a regeneration occurring if you set  
dY 3 in the display. A 1 to 7 day setting is available. To make a change from the default setting,  
do steps 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 below.  
Heavy Duty Backwash: When set to ON, the backwash cycle of regeneration will be 10 minutes  
long instead of the normal seven minute length. This is beneficial on some water supplies  
high in iron or sediment content. To conserve water, on clean supplies, be sure the default  
setting OFF shows. To change this setting, do steps 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 below.  
Auto Regeneration When Capacity is Low: The softener will regenerate at the regeneration time  
only. Although the control has a look-forward feature which anticipates normal demand, an  
unusually high usage may result in a loss of softening capacity. Turning the feature ON will cause  
the softener to go into a regeneration cycle when 97% of the softening capacity has been used.  
To change settings do steps 1, 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9.  
AM  
Beginning from the present time display, press and hold in the SET button until  
begins to flash.  
RECHARGE  
TIME  
1
Press the UP or DOWN button to display the desired start time. The UP button moves the  
2 time ahead; the DOWN button moves the time backward.  
SET  
Press the SET button again, and  
flashes.  
RECHARGE  
3
4
5
6
7
To set a maximum time (in days) between regenerations, press the UP or DOWN button.  
Heavy  
Bkwash  
Press the SET button to display    
.
Use the UP button to change the display to ON to increase the backwash time, if desired.  
WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  
%
Heavy  
Bkwash  
CAPACITY  
Press the SET button                     and                     alternately flashes.  
Use the UP button to turn Auto Regeneration cycle to ON.  
Press the SET button a final time to return to present time of day.  
8
9
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Setting: Model Code, 12 or 24 Hour Clock and Gallons or Liters Measured  
Model Code: The timer must have the right model code set to operate the water softening system  
correctly. The correct code setting for the GNSF39A is A-31. The correct code setting for the  
GNSF48A is A-39.  
If  
is flashing in the display, do steps 3, 4, 6 and 8 below.  
To check for the correct code setting for your model, and to reset it if needed, do steps 1, 2, 3, 4, 6  
and 8 below.  
NOTE: The hour clock and water measure have factory set default values. The defaults are:  
12 or 24 hour clock –12; Gallons or liters measure — gallons.  
12 or 24 Hour Clock: With 12 hr set, all time displays are in standard clock time …12:00 AM to  
11:59 PM. If 24 hr is set, time displays are in military time …0100 (1:00 AM) to 0000 (midnight).  
To change from the 12 hr setting, do steps 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8.  
Gallons or Liters Measure: All water flow rate and usage displays are in gallons with the default  
setting. If reset to  
and 8 to change.  
, the same displays are shown in liters. Use steps 1, 2, 4, 6, 7  
AM  
Beginning from the present time display, press and hold in the SET button until  
(or as otherwise set) begins to flash.  
RECHARGE  
TIME  
1
Press and hold in the SET button again.  
2
If setting is other than A-31 (for the GNSF39A ) or A-39 (for the GNSF48A) use the UP or DOWN  
3 button to set the correct number.  
Press the SET button again and  
flashes.  
TIME  
4
To change the display to  
use the UP button. Use the DOWN button to reset to 12 hr.  
flashes.  
TIME  
5
Press the SET button and  
6
Use the UP button to change to the  
gallon setting.  
setting. Use the DOWN button to return to the  
7
Press the SET button a final time to return to the present time display.  
8
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Care and cleaning of the water softening system.  
Checking the Salt Storage Level and Refilling  
Brine (salt dissolved in water) is needed for each and every regeneration. The water for making brine is  
metered into the salt storage area by the water softening system valve and control. However, you must keep  
the tank supplied with salt.  
When to refill with salt: Check the salt level a few weeks after you install the water softening system and every  
week after that. Refill when the brine tank is from 1/3 to 1/2 full. Never allow the water softening system to  
use all the salt before you refill it. Without salt, you will soon have hard water.  
Use clean water softening salts only, at least 99.5% pure. NUGGET, PELLET or coarse SOLAR salts are  
recommended. Do not use rock, block, granulated or ice cream making salts. They contain dirt and sediments,  
or mush and cake, and will create maintenance problems.  
CAUTION: Water softening salt with iron removing additives: Some salts may have an additive to help the  
water softening system handle iron in the water supply. Although this additive may help to keep the water  
softening system resin clean, it may also release corrosive fumes that weaken and shorten the life of some  
water softening system parts. GE recommends using only Diamond Crystal® Red•Out ® brand salt.  
Cleaning Iron Out of the Water Softening System  
Your water softening system takes hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) out of the water. Also, it can  
control some (see Specification Guidelines section) “clear water” iron. With clear water iron, water from a faucet  
is clear when first put into a glass. After 15 to 30 minutes, the water begins to cloud or turn rust colored.  
A water softening system will not remove any iron that makes the water cloudy or rusty as it comes from the  
faucet (called red water iron). To take red water iron out of water, or over the maximum of clear water iron,  
an iron filter or other equipment is needed.  
GE recommends using only Diamond Crystal® Red•Out® brand salts with Iron Fighter® additive to help keep  
the resin bed clean of clear iron. If your water supply has clear water iron, periodic resin bed cleaning is  
needed. GE recommends using Super Iron Out® brand resin bed cleaner to thoroughly clean your resin bed  
if your iron content is high. Clean the bed at least every six months, or more often if iron appears in the soft  
water between cleanings.  
IMPORTANT: It is important to mix the resin bed cleaner with water (following the manufacturer’s instructions),  
pour it into the brine well (see page 6) and regenerate the softener immediately. Do not pour the resin bed  
cleaner in with the salt, as it will not be as effective in cleaning the resin, and can cause damage to the softener  
if it is left in the brine tank for an extended period due to the corrosive gases that are formed.  
22  
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Before you call for service…  
Troubleshooting Tips  
Save time and money! Review the chart on this  
page first and you may not need to call for service.  
NO SOFT WATER – Most Common Problems:  
Check the following before calling for service  
Salt in softener...at least 1/3 full.  
By pass valve in “Service” position. Knob should be in the OUT position.  
Check hardness setting in control. Verify hardness of supply water. Water  
hardness can vary throughout the year (see Programming the Control section).  
Salt Bridge, water not in contact with salt (see Breaking a Salt Bridge section).  
Problem  
No soft water  
Possible Causes  
What To Do  
Faucet or fixture where sample was  
taken not plumbed to soft water.  
NOTE: Be sure sample is from a faucet  
that does not mix soft and hard water.  
For example, a single lever kitchen faucet,  
if the cold side is plumbed to hard water  
To conserve salt, the installer may have isolated some fixtures  
(outside faucets, toilets, etc.) from soft water.  From the outlet  
of the water softening system, trace the water flow path,  
in house plumbing. If soft water is not directed to a faucet or  
fixture where wanted, consult a plumber.  
No salt in the brine tank or  
salt bridged  
Check for a salt bridge or, if the tank is empty, refill with  
recommended salt. Press (for 3 seconds) the TOUCH or HOLD  
button to start an immediate regeneration and restore  
soft water supply.  
Transformer unplugged at wall outlet  
or power cable to softener not  
connected. Fuse blown or circuit    
breaker popped on circuit to electrical  
Check for a loss of electrical power to the water softening  
system, due to any of these conditions and correct as needed.  
With the power supply restored, observe the faceplate time  
display and read Program Memory section.  
outlet. Electrical outlet on a circuit that   NOTE: The electrical outlet for the softener should be continuously  
can be switched off. live so it cannot be accidentally switched off.  
Manual bypass valve in bypass position Be sure the bypass valve stem is positioned properly, with the  
knob in the OUT position. Observe instructions on the decal  
at the end of the stem.  
Valve drain hose pinched, plugged,  
elevated too high or otherwise  
restricted  
Any restriction in this drain hose may prevent proper operation  
of the nozzle and venturi and reduce or prevent brine draw  
during regenerations.  
Nozzle and venturi dirty, incorrectly  
assembled or damaged  
Refer to Cleaning the Nozzle and Venturi Assembly instructions.  
With water pressure to the water softening system off, take the  
nozzle assembly apart. Inspect, clean and replace as needed.  
Any foreign particle(s), scratches, nicks, etc., in the passages  
can prevent operation. Be sure holes in the gasket are centered  
over holes in the housing.  
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Before you call for service…  
Troubleshooting Tips  
Problem  
Possible Causes  
What To Do  
Water hard sometimes  
Using hot water while the water  
softening system is regenerating  
Avoid using hot water during water softening system  
regenerations because the water heater will refill with  
hard water. See Automatic Hard Water Bypass During  
Regeneration section.  
Control hardness number setting  
too low  
Press and release the SET button until HARDNESS shows in the  
display. Be sure the number shown is the same as the actual  
grains per gallon hardness of your water supply. See the  
Control section if a change in the setting is needed.  
Grains of hardness in your water  
supply have increased  
Water hardness can change over time, especially in well water.  
To check, have the water tested by a water analysis laboratory  
or call your local water department.  Adjust the hardness  
number setting as needed.  
Water feels slippery  
after installation of  
water softening system  
Absence of hardness minerals  
This is normal.  
Water softening system  
not using any salt  
Water softening system is a  
“demand” unit  
Does not use much salt to regenerate—very efficient.  
Possible salt bridge  
See the Operating Instructions, Tips section.  
See the Operating Instructions, Tips section.  
Have the water tested at once.  
Possible plugged nozzle and venturi  
Acidic water in copper plumbing  
Water is blue color  
after water softening  
system was installed  
WARNING: Do not drink the water until problem has  
been corrected.  
Water softening system  
not regenerating  
Meter turbine stuck  
Call for service.  
Sensor wire corroded  
No power to unit  
Call for service.  
Check the circuit breaker or fuses.  
Call for service.  
Mechanical defect  
Cloudiness on glassware Combination of soft water and  
(automatic dishwashers) too much detergent  
This is called etching and is permanent. To prevent this    
from happening, use less detergent if you have soft water.  
Wash glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean.  
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Problem  
Possible Causes  
What To Do  
Salty tasting water  
after installation  
Insufficient backwash and  
rinse time  
Increase backwash time. See the Service: Regeneration and  
Heavy Duty Backwash section.  
Low water pressure  
Restricted drain hose  
Cracked distributor  
Check pressure; should be minimum 20 psi.  
Clean and reconnect hose.  
Call for service.  
Resin beads showing  
up in drinking water  
and sink  
Sounds you might hear  
Running water from the unit into  
a drain  
This is normal.  
Water has air bubbles  
and is cloudy  
Air in system after installation  
Will go away after it runs for a while.  
Error Code on control  
Wiring may have worked loose  
in control  
Unplug transformer.  
Remove control cover, release clips on side.  
Check for loose/incorrect wiring connections to electronic  
board or switch. Reconnect as required.  
Reassemble control cover.  
Plug in Transformer.  
Wait six minutes for Error Code to reappear.  
If Error Code reappears call for service.  
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Parts list.  
141  
140  
101  
103  
138  
139  
flow plug  
assembly  
137  
136  
135  
105  
assembled  
view  
106  
107  
132  
134 133  
109  
wear-strip  
seal  
108  
151  
110  
111  
130  
144  
cross-section  
view  
112  
113  
114  
146  
116  
115  
145  
119  
150  
123  
122  
117  
118  
143  
144  
120  
147  
148  
121  
26  
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16  
15  
12  
17  
4
14  
37  
13  
11  
6
19  
20  
21  
18  
56  
55  
22  
LITERA  
TURE  
3
999  
{
29  
23  
7
8
10  
36  
24  
30  
26  
27  
28  
9
35  
34  
31  
25  
33  
32  
5
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Parts catalog.  
REF. #.  
CAT. #.  
PART DESCRIPTION  
GNSF39  
GNSF48  
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
WS35X10001  
WS34X10006  
WS07X10004  
WS07X10012  
WS14X10002  
WS14X10001  
WS01X10003  
WS01X10002  
WS32X10004  
WS32X10014  
WS31X10015  
WS31X10014  
WS21X10009  
WS06X10003  
WS06X10004  
WS26X10001  
WS31X10016  
WS33X10004  
WS33X10005  
WS31X10017  
WS02X10021  
WS32X10002  
WS02X10022  
WS32X10013  
WS18X10003  
WS22X10016  
WS22X10017  
WS01X10005  
WS01X10006  
WS15X10005  
WS35X10003  
WS03X10006  
WS15X10006  
WS03X10007  
WS03X10008  
WS07X10002  
WS07X10003  
WS34X10007  
WS28X10003  
WS28X10007  
WS02X10023  
WS21X10008  
WS02X10024  
WS31X10013  
WS03X10034  
WS26X10010  
WS19X10010  
WS03X10011  
WS19X10005  
WS03X10013  
WS22X10020  
WS08X10006  
WS03X10015  
O-RING SEAL KIT  
DECAL  
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
8
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
8
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
OVERFLOW DRAIN HOSE - 20 FT  
VALVE DRAIN HOSE - 15 FT  
DISTRIBUTOR TOP  
DISTRIBUTOR BOTTOM  
RESIN -  1/2 CU. FT.  
RESIN -  1 CU. FT.  
TANK RESIN - 10x 35″  
TANK RESIN - 10x 47″  
COVER BOTTOM  
COVER FACEPLATE  
TIMER  
HARNESS WIRE  
POWER CORD  
TRANSFORMER  
SHROUD AND BASE  
BASE  
COVER, BRINE TANK  
COVER, BRINEWELL  
NUT, #6–32  
BRINEWELL  
SCREW #6–32  
TANK BRINE  
CLAMP HOSE  
ADAPTOR HOSE  
GROMMET  
HOSE CLAMP  
GROUND WIRE  
BRINE VALVE ASM.  
FLOAT, STEM AND GUIDE ASM.  
CLIP  
VALVE BODY, BRINE  
CLIP  
SCREEN  
TUBING ASM.  
TUBE BRINE  
DECAL  
RETAINER CLAMP  
CLAMP  
SCREW, #4-24 x 3/4  
SWITCH  
SCREW, #10 x 2 5/8  
COVER VALVE  
WASHER WAVE  
ROTOR AND DISC  
CAP  
SEAL O-RING 1-1/8x 1-3/8″  
SUPPORT SCREEN  
SCREEN  
10  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
37  
55  
56  
101  
103  
105  
106  
107  
108  
109  
110  
111  
112  
113  
114  
115  
FLOW PLUG, .1 GPM  
GASKET, NOZZLE/VENT  
SCREEN CONE  
28  
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REF. #.  
CAT. #.  
PART DESCRIPTION  
GNSF39  
GNSF48  
116  
117  
118  
119  
120  
121  
122  
123  
130  
132  
133  
134  
135  
136  
137  
138  
139  
140  
141  
143  
144  
145  
146  
147  
148  
150  
151  
998  
999    
WS22X10021  
WS03X10017  
WS15X10027  
WS03X10018  
WS03X10019  
WS15X10025  
WS03X10020  
WS22X10029  
WS35X10020  
WS22X10030  
WS03X10025  
WS03X10035  
WS03X10033  
WS26X10008  
WS26X10009  
WS26X10007  
WS02X10015  
WS26X10006  
WS02X10016  
WS60X10007  
WS03X10037  
WS60X10008  
WS28X10009  
WS19X10008  
WS19X10009  
WS03X10024  
WS15X10026  
WS35X10021  
49–50020-3  
PLUG, FILL FLOW, .3 GPM  
NUT FERRULE  
NOZZLE/VENTURI ASM.  
RETAINER  
SEAL, O-RING 1/4x 3/8″  
BODY VALVE  
SPRING  
PLUG, DRAIN SEAL  
SEAL KIT  
ADAPTOR, DRAIN HOSE  
SEAL, O-RING 15/16x 1–3/16″  
PLUG FLOW  
CLIP, DRAIN  
CAM AND GEAR  
BEARING  
PLATE MOTOR  
SCREW, #6–20 x 3/8″  
MOTOR ASM.  
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
2
2
4
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
2
2
4
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
SCREW, #6–20 x - 7/8″  
TUBE INSTALLATION  
O-RING 1–1/8x 1–3/8″  
CLIP  
HOUSING SENSOR  
TURBINE SUPPORT  
TURBINE  
SEAL, O-RING  
VALVE BY-PASS ASM.  
INSTALL KIT - GNSF39Z/GNSF48Z  
PM MANUAL USE & CARE/  
INSTALLATION  
*NOTE: Codes in the State of Massachusetts require installation by a licensed plumber and do not permit the use  
of the saddle valve. For installation, use plumbing code 248-CMR of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  
29  
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Notes.  
30  
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Notes.  
31  
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Notes.  
32  
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GE Service Protection Plus  
GE, a name recognized worldwide for quality and dependability, offers you  
Service Protection Plus —comprehensive protection on all your appliances—  
No Matter What Brand!  
Benefits Include:  
Backed by GE  
All brands covered  
Unlimited service calls  
All parts and labor costs included  
No out-of-pocket expenses  
No hidden deductibles  
One 800 number to call  
We’ll Cover Any Appliance.  
Anywhere. Anytime.*  
You will be completely satisfied with our service protection or you may request your money back  
on the remaining value of your contract. No questions asked. It’s that simple.  
Protect your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, range, TV, VCR and much more—any brand!  
Plus there’s no extra charge for emergency service and low monthly financing is available. Even icemaker  
coverage and food spoilage protection is offered. You can rest easy, knowing that all your valuable  
household products are protected against expensive repairs.  
Place your confidence in GE and call us in the U.S. toll-free at 800-626-2224  
for more information.  
*All brands covered, up to 20 years old, in the continental U.S.  
Cut here  
Please place in envelope and mail to:  
General Electric Company  
Warranty Registration Department  
P.O. Box 32150  
Louisville, KY 40232-2150  
33  
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Consumer Product Ownership Registration  
Dear Customer:  
Thank you for purchasing our product and thank you for placing your confidence in us.  
We are proud to have you as a customer!  
Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:  
Complete and mail  
your Consumer  
After mailing the  
registration below,  
store this document  
in a safe place. It  
contains information  
you will need should  
you require service.  
Our service number is  
800 GE CARES  
Read your Owner’s  
Manual carefully.  
It will help you  
operate your new  
appliance properly.  
If you have questions,  
or need more  
Product Ownership  
Registration today.  
Have the peace of  
mind of knowing we  
can contact you in the  
unlikely event of  
a
information, call the  
safety modification.  
GE Answer Center  
800.626.2000.  
®
1
2 3  
(800-432-2737).  
Model Number  
Serial Number  
Important: If you did not get a registration card with your  
product, detach and return the form below to  
ensure that your product is registered, or register  
Cut here  
Consumer Product Ownership Registration  
Model Number  
Serial Number  
Mr. Ms. Mrs. Miss ■  
First  
Name  
Last  
Name  
Street  
Address  
Apt. #  
City  
E-mail Address  
Zip  
Code  
State  
Date Placed  
In Use  
Month  
Phone  
Number  
_
_
Day  
Year  
Occasionally, we may allow selected companies to send you information.  
Check here if you do not want this information.  
34  
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GE Water Softening System Warranty  
All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician.  
For service, call 800-GE-CARES.  
For The Period Of: GE Will Replace:  
One Year  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
Any part of the Water Softening System which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship.  
During this full one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home  
service to replace the defective part.  
Three Years  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
The electronic monitor, if it fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this  
three-year limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in-home service costs.  
Ten Years  
From the date of the  
original purchase  
A replacement brine tank or cabinet, if either fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship.  
During this ten-year limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in-home service costs.  
What GE Will Not Cover:  
Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the  
Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers.  
product.  
Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or  
acts of God.  
Improper installation.  
Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for  
other than the intended purpose or used commercially.  
Incidental or consequential damage to personal property  
caused by possible defects with this appliance.  
Filters, membranes or batteries.  
This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use  
within the USA. In Alaska, the warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you  
specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal rights  
are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General.  
Warrantor: General Electric Company. Louisville, KY 40225  
35  
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Service Telephone Numbers.  
GE Answer Center® 800.626.2000  
The GE Answer Center® is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
OR  
Visit our website at: www.geappliances.com.  
In-Home Repair Service 800-GE-CARES (800-432-2737)  
Expert GE repair service is only a phone call away.  
Special Needs Service 800.626.2000  
800-TDD-GEAC (800-833-4322)  
GE offers, free of charge, a brochure to assist in planning a barrier-free kitchen for persons  
with limited mobility.  
Service Contracts 800-626-2224  
Purchase a GE service contract while your warranty is still in effect and you’ll receive a  
substantial discount. GE Consumer Service will still be there after your warranty expires.  
Parts and Accessories 800-626-2002  
Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly  
to their homes (VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted).  
Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing generally  
should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since improper servicing may  
cause unsafe operation.  
Service Satisfaction  
If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE:  
First, contact the people who serviced your appliance.  
Next, if you are still not pleased, write all the details—including your phone number—to:  
Manager, Customer Relations  
GE Appliances  
Appliance Park  
Louisville, KY 40225  
Printed in the United States  
36  
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