How To Troubleshoot The Whirlpool WHES30 Water Softener

Things Needed

  • Salt

  • Broom handle

The purpose of the Whirlpool WHES30 water softener is to treat water hardness, acidity, high iron level and excess sediment. It operates based on commands set into its digital programming and display screen. The softener comes with a full one-year warranty, as well as three- to 10-year limited warranties for various components. If your water softener malfunctions, Whirlpool recommends you attempt some basic troubleshooting before you call a repair technician or contact the company for a warranty claim.

Step 1

Check the amount of salt in the storage tank if you experience hard water. Refill the tank with salt if the level is low, or push the "Recharge" button until the salt level is regenerated.

Step 2

Poke a broom handle into the salt storage tank if your water is hard but the salt level appears to be sufficient. If you feel a hard blockage before the handle reaches floor level, push it gently to break the salt bridge. Move the broom to the side and push again, continuing this process until the salt bridge has broken up completely.

Step 3

Inspect all hoses if you have hard water and find water inside the salt storage tank. Straighten any kinks or obvious blockages.

Step 4

Change the water softener's settings if your water fluctuates between soft and hard. The time setting must be correct, as well as the water hardness number and model code. Additionally, do not use hot water while the water softener regenerates, or it will fill with hot water, which affects the water quality.

Step 5

Test the untreated water hardness and iron level, using one of the test strips provided with the softener, if the water appears to be high in iron or is particularly hard. Change the water softener's water hardness number so the unit is able to adjust the water softness and mineral content accordingly.

Step 6

Purchase or request new components and replace them if the error codes "E1," "E3" "E4" or "E5" appear. "E1," "E3" and "E4" indicate problems with the wiring harness, switch, rotor and seals, or motor. "E5" indicates the need for a new electronic control board. All of these components come with installation instructions.

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