Display shows E02 and unit does not draw brine during regeneration
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the softener and place the system in bypass before disassembling any water-carrying parts. Relieve pressure by opening a nearby soft water faucet.
- Check brine level: Ensure there is adequate water in the brine tank (typically 6–12 inches above the grid plate). If the tank is dry, refill to the recommended level and restart a regeneration.
- Inspect brine line: Follow the brine tube from the brine tank to the Watersoft control valve. Look for kinks, cracks, or blockages. Remove the brine line at the valve and blow through it; it should be free-flowing.
- Clean venturi/injector: Remove the venturi/injector housing from the Watersoft valve head (usually held by screws or a cap). Disassemble carefully and soak the injector, nozzle, and screens in white vinegar to dissolve iron or scale. Rinse thoroughly and reassemble in the correct order.
- Check brine valve: Inspect the brine valve assembly in the control head for salt buildup or debris preventing movement. Clean or replace the brine valve and seals if worn or swollen.
- Test drive motor: With the cover off and power restored, initiate a manual regeneration and observe whether the cam/rotor moves into brine draw position. If the motor does not run or stalls, the Watersoft drive motor may need replacement.
If E02 persists after cleaning and verifying flow, a technician should test the control board outputs to the motor and brine valve.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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