Water Softener Head Unit - Control Valves & Control Heads
Control System
The brain of your water softener that manages regeneration cycles and system operation
Programmable Settings
Advanced timing and metered controls for efficient water usage and salt consumption
Regeneration Management
Automatically initiates cleaning cycles based on water usage or time intervals
Water Softener Control Heads and Valves
Understanding Water Softener Head Units
The water softener head unit, also known as the control valve or control head, serves as the central nervous system of your water softening equipment. This critical component manages all operational aspects including regeneration timing, brine draw cycles, backwashing, and system monitoring. Understanding how your control head functions is essential for proper maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring optimal water softening performance throughout your home.
Types of Water Softener Control Heads:
- Timer-Based Controls: Regenerate on fixed time schedules regardless of water usage
- Metered Controls: Regenerate based on actual water consumption measured by a flow meter
- Demand-Initiated Regeneration (DIR): Advanced metered systems that optimize salt and water usage
- Non-Electric Controls: Mechanical systems using water pressure for operation
- Digital Control Heads: Feature LCD displays and advanced programming options
- Manual Control Valves: Basic systems requiring manual initiation of regeneration cycles
How Control Head Units Work:
Water softener head units manage the complete ion exchange process through precisely timed cycles. Metered control heads track water usage and initiate regeneration when the resin bed's capacity is nearly exhausted. During regeneration, the control valve directs water flow through specific stages: backwash (cleaning the resin bed), brine draw (introducing salt solution), slow rinse (recharging the resin), and fast rinse (flushing the system). Advanced units feature diagnostic capabilities, error code displays, and customizable programming for hardness levels, regeneration times, and reserve capacity settings.
Key Components of Water Softener Head Units
Modern water softener control heads consist of several critical components that work together to ensure efficient system operation:
- Control Board: Electronic circuitry that processes inputs and controls valve operation
- Motor and Drive Assembly: Mechanical components that rotate the valve to different positions
- Flow Meter: Measures water consumption in metered control systems
- Bypass Valve: Allows water to bypass the softener during maintenance or service
- Timer Mechanism: Controls regeneration scheduling in time-initiated systems
- User Interface: Buttons, dials, or touchscreens for programming and monitoring
- Valve Body: Contains internal passages that direct water flow during different cycles
Common Control Head Brands and Compatibility:
Several manufacturers produce reliable water softener head units, with Fleck, Autotrol, and Clack being among the most popular. Fleck control valves are renowned for their durability and are available in both time-clock and metered models. Autotrol systems feature unique logix control technology, while Clack valves are known for their advanced electronic controls. When replacing a control head, compatibility with your existing mineral tank, brine tank, and plumbing configuration is essential for proper operation.
Troubleshooting Common Control Head Issues:
Common problems with water softener head units include failure to regenerate, continuous running, error codes, and mechanical jams. Many issues can be resolved through simple troubleshooting like checking power connections, verifying timer settings, cleaning flow meters, or resetting the control board. Regular maintenance including keeping the control head dry, protecting from extreme temperatures, and periodic inspection can prevent many common problems and extend the life of your water softening system.
Related Water Softener Control Resources
Explore these additional resources to better understand water softener operation and control systems:
Water Softener Hardness Setting Chart
Comprehensive guide to proper hardness settings for different water conditions and geographic locations.
Water Softener Hardness Setting Las Vegas
Specific hardness setting recommendations and water treatment solutions for the Las Vegas area.
Water Softener Hardness Setting Number
Understanding hardness number calibration and proper configuration for optimal softening performance.
Water Softener Hardness Test
Methods and procedures for accurately testing water hardness to ensure proper softener operation.
Water Softener Hardness Test Strips
Easy-to-use test strips for measuring water hardness levels and verifying softener effectiveness.
Water Softener Head Parts
Replacement components and repair parts for water softener control valves and head assemblies.