How to clean a water softener nozzle and venturi

The nozzle and venturi in a water softener draw the brine into the resin bed during the regeneration cycle. If they become clogged with silt or dirt, the water softener stops working. You can remove and clean the nozzle. Before you do, make sure the water softener is in service mode—not regeneration mode. Check your owner’s manual for more directions specific to your water softener model.

1. Remove the softener top cover.

2. Unscrew the cap from the nozzle and venturi housing, being careful with the large O-ring seal.

3. Lift out the screen support and screen, then the nozzle and venturi.

4. Wash the parts in clean warm water, using a small brush or toothpick to remove debris.

5. Clean the gasket, small screen, and flow plugs as well.

When reassembling the nozzle and venturi, it is important to reinstall the flow plugs with the numbers printed on them facing up. Carefully replace the parts in exact order in which you removed them.

Before reinstalling the large O-ring seal, lightly lubricate it with silicone grease or petroleum jelly. Hand-tighten the cap only; don’t over-tighten it.