Why Is My Water Softener Leaking From The Drain Line?

June 20, 2022
 | By 
Jason Ray

It's undoubtedly a frustrating condition when water softener leaking occurs, but you can't understand the reasons for its occurrence. Water softener leaking will not be a puzzle anymore if you know everything about them properly. Thus, it will save your cost and time.

Water softener leak is a widespread issue in many households, and yes, even after years of use, the water softener can leak. Depending on the size of the leak, it may become a more serious issue. There are a few fundamental reasons for water softener leaks, but make sure the water and power are turned off before fixing it.

You can easily spot a water softener leak by identifying water almost the softener, from the peak or the base of the water softener. Here, you will get to know everything about water softener leaking.

How Can I Understand A Water Softener Leak?

Anything involving plumbing has a great possibility of leaking. A water softener can leak in various ways, including a connecting point with insufficient Teflon tape, a pipe that has fractured for whatever cause, or a tank overflow.

Water creates a pit full of water on the base adjacent to the water softener, the easiest clue that it is leaking. Another possibility is that restoration will take longer due to the lack of water leaking. Here are several ways it can spread and how to figure out and fix it.

Preparation Of Diagnosis Of Water Softeners Leaking

Be careful about your safety. You will not damage yourself by starting to defeat things and pushing your hands' in critical spots.

First of all, unplug the process from the strength source. Start doing this at the circuit breaker for your safety, considering the speed of the leak. Next, turn the bypass valve in the other way to bypass the water stocks. If you're unclear about operating your water softener, see your user handbook for further information.

After completing this, you won't have to worry about any water interruptions dealing with your water softener. Water will still be available to your home's machinery, but it will not be smooth. If your water softener doesn't have a bypass valve, use the monitoring head to fit it into bypass mode or turn off the water-provided line valve. Now, it's time to start your diagnosis with confidence.

Why Is My Water Softener Leaking? Some Common Reasons!

Here are some common reasons for water softener leaking. Please stick with me to know more details. Let's start.

What Causes Water Softener Leaking From The Peak?

Bypass Valve O Rings Broken Down

Water softener valve broken down

Bypass valves o rings decaying is a common cause of water softener leaking. When necessary, oil your system's o-rings as part of regular water softener maintenance. However, after an extended period, the o-rings will get so exhausted that o rings altogether need to replace.

If you avoid proper lubrication of your o rings, this may cause more worn-out rings. You can replace your water softener bypass valve o rings by yourself. However, you must ensure that the o-rings are the correct size for the system replacement. You might call an expert with extensive water softener knowledge if you require assistance.

Water Softener Rotor Valve Split

Rotor valve

A damaged rotor valve is the most likely cause of a water softener leaking from the peak. The water softener gets its water through the rotor valve, and this valve can weaken and shatter after using a long time, resulting in a leak.

The water softener rotor valve has a seal inside that could be damaged; it will be a concern. In such an instance, you will have to replace the seal. If you're not sure which fragments of the rotor valves will suit your water softener, contact or hire a professional plumber to perform it for you.

Water Softener Leaking Overflow

Water softener leaking overflow issue

If you detect water running out of your brine tank, you may face overflow issues. The float valve confines water from excess filling by indicating the position it should fill. When your tank float valve becomes defective and asymmetrical, change the float valve as soon as possible.

Continue checking your valves and lines regularly to ensure they are clogged or not because this can also increase water quantity in your brine tank. Replace your brine tank altogether for better performance.

What Causes My Water Softener Leaking From The Bottom?

Water Softener Resin Tank Leaking

If you face resin tank leaks, you will notice a fracture elsewhere that allows water to flow out or a leak at any connection lines. Whether the problem is just with the faulty tank, see if it still has a warranty period or not. If so, contact the warranty company to get the exhausted tank replaced.

If the warranty of your water softener expires, you can switch off the tank. Then empty the salt tank and clean the empty salt tank properly. After that, you can quickly find out the exact location of the leaking water softener and identify if the leaking issue is repairable or not.

If it's possible to repair, you can apply a firm water resistance epoxy than can control the salt to the fracture for the proper sealing. If the problem is at a resin tank junction point, try tightening it. If not, examine the O-ring for good function and replace it if necessary.

You need the proper amount of money for resin tank replacement, approximately $500. It's not wise to think of a substitute for your system setups rather than purchasing a new one if your water softener system is more than ten years old.

Punctured Brine Tank

Punctured or fatigued brine tank

A fractured or pierced brine tank is the most common cause of a water softener leaking from the base. Unluckily, you can create this problem while cleaning a salt bridge. Not everyone is aware of the fragility of the brine tank.

There are some remedies for a leaky tank. But if you don't want any further damage to your system, you will need to change the tank altogether. If you buy a faulty plumbing product, it may cause leaking from the base.

Look into the manufacturer's guarantee to check if you're entitled to a new part. It's value calling the craftsman and describing the condition regardless; you might get a free replacement or rebated tank for being a faithful client.

What Causes My Water Softener Hose Leaking?

Water softener hose connection leaking

To identify the source of the leaking water softener's hose, you need to check the attachment within the hose and the system's top. It could be as simple as adjusting a loose hose connection to fix this issue. However, if your hose has deteriorated over time, you may not be able to fix it.

Make an appointment with an expert plumber to solve the problem. They may advise you to replace it entirely, or they will do this by themselves. Replacement of a water softener hose is not a challenging task, and you can perform it at your home. But keep in mind to unplug the unit from water and electrical sources.

What Causes My Water Softener Drain Line Leaking?

Drain pipes might be installed incorrectly or clogged, cracked, or ruptured. Check if the drain line has enough air gap and was placed appropriately. You should be able to exclude the air gap if it was imposed correctly.

If you find dripping water coming from the drain line, search for the source of cracking or trouble. You'll have to look for an obstruction that results in the breakage. If this occurs, it will be a significant issue that must be addressed immediately.

How To Troubleshoot A Leaking Water Softener: Solutions!

If your water softener is leaking, you'll need to fix it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the machine and your home. At the same time, fit your water softener to bypass mode and turn off the system's power supply. It Will be helpful to reduce harmful circumstances by stopping the water flow.

You can call a water softener repair expert for proper water supply. A plumber can fix the problem by replacing altogether- probably far faster than you could do it yourself.

If you've gone through this advice and still can't figure out what's causing your leak, it could be more complicated and require a plumber's attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the fixing cost of leaky water softeners?

Water softeners filtrate water by removing solid minerals, replacing calcium ions, sodium ions, or magnesium ions, and providing drinkable soft water. The fixation cost of leaking water softener is almost $150 to $892, but it can be more expensive sometimes.

Can a brine tank last for a long time?

Yes, your brine tank can last for almost 15 years. You can extend the lifespan of your brine line with proper maintenance, such as cleaning the brine tank per year.

Can I use vinegar for cleaning my water softener?

Yes, you can use vinegar for cleaning water softeners by following some guidelines. If you'd prefer to cleanse the brine tank rather than run a complete cycle, you can dilute it with water.

Water Softener Is Leaking- Call A Professional Plumber

You can call QUEEN CHARLOTTE PLUMBING company to repair any problems relating to the leaking water softener. We are a very reputed and experienced plumbing company that provides services at 8424 Old Stateville Rd Charlotte, NC 28269. Don't forget to call us at 704-707-3339 or visit our website [queencharlotteplumbing.com] to get any professional help.

Top