GE Smart Water Softener

Phillbo · Jun 9, 2009

Hello all-

I need to replace the o-rings that make the seal between the Bypass Valve and the softener on my GE Smart Water system. The problem I am having is that I can figure out how to remove the clips that secure the bypass valve. Is there a special tool needed or can they be removed with a screw driver or pliers?

I bought new clips in case I break one but I can't get them to budge

Attached is a pic of the clip. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!!

Phillbo · Jun 9, 2009

Thanks for the advice.. I'll take a look. I assumed it would be the o-rings, I guess I was wrong.

Sponsor · 2022-01-29T12:20:58-0800

hj · Jun 9, 2009

valve

The key is to relieve the pressure and you cannot easily do that if you have already put the softener into bypass mode. Turn off the water to the house and open a faucet, then remove the clips and put it into bypass before turning the water back on.

Phillbo · Jun 9, 2009

Thanks for that 'key' hj. I'm going to pick up a new bypass valve before I take it apart.

Phillbo · Jun 12, 2009

I ordered a new valve but it's going to take a few days to get it. The leak is bad enough to need to keep the unit in bypass until I can do the swap. Do I need to unplug it or is it OK for the cycle to run each night while in bypass?

thanks guys!

Phillbo · Jun 12, 2009

Thanks... I don't know it regens nightly. I just assumed it was a set time. Thats why I'm asking the pros... I don't know jack about plumbing

Phillbo · Jun 28, 2009

Hey guys, one more dumb question. Do I need to lube the o-rings when I do the bypass valve swap ? I've got some good quality o-ring lube I use on my pool equipment.

Yes or No on the lube? I figure a little lube would never hurt anything but just checking.

I expect the part to show up in the next couple days.

Gary Slusser · Jun 28, 2009

Silicone for potable water use or water is the only lube that won't harm the o-rings.

Phillbo · Jun 29, 2009

The lube I have says it's formulated with DuPont chemical resistant Flouropolymers.. I guess I need to hit ACE for a small tube of silicone lube.

Thanks

jdeweese · Jun 30, 2009

Did the new bypass fix it???

I have the same problem with my GE water softener. I have tried new o rings and silcon based grease. Nothing seems to stop the leap. The softner is only 5 years old. The bypass has no visible damage. The brown inside the intake is from the mineral build up, but I can wipe it away.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Phillbo · Jul 2, 2009

I plan to replace my bypass this weekend.. Do you recommend that I use Thread Seal Tape on the threads or not ?

jdeweese said:
The bypass has no visible damage. The brown inside the intake is from the mineral build up, but I can wipe it away.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Just FYI.. My bypass showed no sign of damage either but it only had the brown build up on the side that was leaking. Take that for what it's worth but I'd say these guys are spot on when they say you need to replace the valve. My unit is about 5 years old as well.

Phillbo · Jul 2, 2009

The valve showed up on my door step. took 10 minutes to swap out and the leak is gone..

Thanks guys for your guidance..

The trick about turning off the water and bleeding the pressure made all the difference.

Gary Slusser · Jul 2, 2009

No tape or dope on the threads of the plumbing connectors to the bypass valve because they are straight threads and use o-ring seals.

GE Smart Water Softener

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