GROUNDING THE PLUMBING
It is important that the plumbing system be electrically grounded. When a water softener is installed, a non-metallic bypass valve
may interrupt the grounding. To maintain continuity, a grounding strap can be purchased at a hardware store (Figure 3). When
installed, the strap connects the plumbing going into the softener to the plumbing going out of the softener. If you have other
water treating equipment such as a chlorinator, sediment filter, neutralizer, iron filter, or taste and odor filter they should be
installed upstream of the water softener.
Figure 3
Notice
Standard commercial practices are expressed here. Local codes may require changes to the following suggestions. Check with
local authorities before installing a system.
1. The unit should be above and not more than 20 feet (6.1 m) from the drain. Use an appropriate adapter fitting to connect plastic
tubing to the drain line connection of the control valve.
2. The drain line may be elevated up to 6 feet (1.8 m) providing the run does not exceed 15 feet (4.6 m) and water pressure
at the softener is not less than 40 psi (2.76 bar). Elevation can increase by 2 feet (61 cm) for each additional 10 psi (.69 bar) of
water pressure at the drain connector.
3. Where the drain line is elevated but empties into a drain below the level of the control valve, form a 7-inch (18-cm) loop at the
far end of the line so that the bottom of the loop is level with the drain line connection. This will provide an adequate siphon
trap. Where the drain empties into an overhead sewer line, a sink-type trap must be used. Secure the end of the drain line to
prevent it from moving.
Figure 4
Notice
Waste connections or drain outlet shall be designed and constructed to provide for connection to the sanitary waste system
through an air gap of 2 pipe diameters or 1 inch (22 mm), whichever is larger.
Caution
Never insert drain line directly into a drain, sewer line, or trap (Figure 4). Always allow an air gap between the drain line and the
wastewater to prevent the possibility of sewage being back-siphoned into the softener.
1" AIR GAP
INCORRECT
Construct air gap as shown or purchase air
gap device as used with clothes washers.
CORRECT
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DRAIN LINE CONNECTION
8 •
PENTAIR INTELLIWATER CONNECTED WATER SOFTENER
