Open a cold faucet, like the kitchen sink, and let it run for about 20 minutes. This purges air and flushes out any loose particles from the new filter media. The water might look milky at first—that’s just tiny bubbles, not a ghost.
After 20 minutes, close the faucet. The softener will automatically start its first regeneration cycle within a few hours. Don’t panic if it makes a whirring sound—it’s just having a little spa day.
Test your water with a soap test: lather up your hands. If you get tons of bubbles, you’re officially a water-softening wizard.
A Few Warnings (Because Life Is Icky)
Never use a torch near the plastic bypass valve—it melts faster than a popsicle in July. Also, if your water pressure is above 80 PSI, install a pressure-reducing valve first. High pressure is like a jet engine for your pipes.
And please, don’t drink the brine. I know it’s salty, but it’s not a margarita. It’s basically salty poison for your kidneys.
