Page 16
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is the proper order to arrange multiple systems?
If you are installing more than one tank system the typical order for installation is:
sediment filter > pH filter > iron filter > carbon filter > water softener > arsenic filter
If using a softener for iron removal, then the carbon filter will typically follow after the soft-
ener. Whole house cartridge systems are typically installed after any tank systems, the Scale
Sentry system after the cartridge system(s), and any UV systems will be last.
Do I need a prefilter?
In most cases a prefilter is not necessary. Since the system cleans itself most particulate in
the water will be trapped and rinsed off by the regeneration cycle, eliminating the need for
a sediment prefilter. If you have a lot of sand in the water a spin down filter (part #SDF-100)
is recommended to protect the control head - http://store.afwfilters.com/parts-components/
spin-down-sand-separator-filter-1-inch/. For water supplies with high levels of chlorine a car-
bon prefilter is recommended to extend resin life. http://store.afwfilters.com/carbon-systems/
Why is my water salty now?
How do I get rid of the salt in the water?
If the water seem very salty only occasionally and it clears up in a short amount of time the
most common cause is water use during the regeneration cycle. Make sure the system is set
to regenerate at a time when no one will use water, and make sure you do not have anything
that may automatically use water while the system is regenerating.
If the water is saltier all the time that may be expected. Water softeners work by exchanging
sodium ions with the calcium and magnesium ions that make up hard water. In most cases the
amount of sodium added to the water is not noticeable, but in homes with very high hardness
or high sodium levels to begin with it may cause a salty taste to the water. The best way to
alleviate this issue is to use a reverse osmosis (RO) system for your drinking water, as this
will remove the sodium and provide bottled quality water.
If the hardness is high enough that you get salt buildup you can use potassium chloride
pellets instead to help alleviate the issue. In general though the potassium chloride is not
recommended (see Brine Tank section).
Verify System Inventory
My tank box indicates “This Side UP” but it was received laying down or upside down. Is
my system damaged?
The top indication on the shipping boxes are so the top can be opened for easier orientation
during installation. The tank itself has a cap designed to keep the media in the tank, so once
it is place in the correct position the contents will return to the bottom. Any mixing of tank
contents will correct itself after being placed in service.
I ordered a SXT control head, but my head says it is SE, did I get the wrong head?
Some SXT systems may have labels referring to the older SE model number. This is an internal
designation only and does NOT mean you received the SE. The SE controller has been discon-
tinued for long enough it would be impossible to send one out anymore.
