Water softeners, as essential elements of water treatment systems, require proper installation to work effectively. One of the key aspects of the installation is the proper selection of the drain hose. But what should its size be?
The basic parameter to pay attention to is the diameter of the drain hose.The most common and recommended water softener drain hose size is 1/2″. This dimension is optimal for the effective drainage of softener washings. As with every aspect of a water treatment system, safety and efficiency are key. When selecting a drain hose for your water softener, make sure that its diameter and material are suitable for your system needs.
However, it should be noted that this is not the only thing to pay attention to. While the diameter of the drain hose is critical, it is equally important that the entire drainage system is properly designed and installed.
Connecting the drain hose to the sewage system
Connecting the drain hose to the water softener is a process that requires precision and accuracy. The drain hose should be connected to the sewer outlet. A location with a siphon is ideal to help prevent unwanted backflow of water into the softener.
For many people who install water softeners themselves, it is important to remember to maintain the correct angles and distances. Washings from the head can be routed above the level of the softener head (if the seller allows it), but the hose cannot be bent.
It is also important to remember to properly maintain the drain hose. Regularly checking and cleaning the drain hose is key to keeping your softener working efficiently.
Connecting the drain hose to the head and overflow
The drain hose plugs into the water softener head and overflow elbow. As for the head of the device - the method of connecting depends on the specific head model. Typically, the drain hose slides into the so-called Christmas tree connection and tightens with a screw clamp.
The second hose should be connected to the elbow used for the overflow of the water softener. For two-piece systems, this elbow is located in the salt reservoir. In compact water softeners, the elbow usually protrudes from the side of the device about 30 cm below the level of the water softener head.
It should be remembered that while the washings are ejected from the softener head under pressure and the device is able to push the washings above the level of the head, the water softener overflow works by gravity. If you intend to lead the softener rinsings upwards - do not connect the overflow valve, because it does not make sense.
