How To - Disinfect your water systems

The materials of construction of the modern water conditioner will not support bacterial growth, nor will these materials contaminate a water supply. In addition, during normal use, a conditioner may become fouled with organic matter, or in some cases with bacteria from the water supply. This may result in an off-taste or odor in the water. Thus, your conditioner may need to be disinfected after installation. Some conditioners will require periodic disinfection during their normal life. Consult your installing dealer for more information on disinfecting your conditioner. Depending upon the conditions of use, the style of conditioner, the type of ion exchanger, and the disinfectant available, a choice can be made among the following methods.

Sodium or Calcium Hypochlorite Application

These materials are satisfactory for use with polystyrene resins, synthetic gel zeolite, greensand and bentonites.

5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite

These solutions are available under trade names such as Clorox1*. If stronger solutions are used, such as those sold for commercial laundries, adjust the dosage accordingly.

1. Dosage

a. Polystyrene resin; 1.2 fluid ounce per cubic foot.

b. Non-resinous exchangers; 0.8 fluid ounce per cubic foot.

2. Brine tank conditioners

a. Backwash the conditioner and add the required amount of hypochlorite solution to the brine well of the brine tank. The brine tank should have water in it to permit the solution to be carried into the conditioner.

b. Proceed with the normal regeneration. Calcium Hypochlorite

Calcium hypochlorite, 70% available chlorine, is available in several forms including tablets and granules. These solid materials may be used directly without dissolving before use.

1. Dosage

a. Two grains (approximately 0.1 ounce) per cubic foot.

2. Brine tank conditioners

a. Backwash the conditioner and add the required amount of hypochlorite to the brine well of the brine tank. The brine tank should have water in it to permit the chlorine solution to be carried into the conditioner.

b. Proceed with the normal regeneration.