Here’s the secret weapon: the Venturi valve (also called the injector). It’s a small, plastic piece on top of the control head that looks like a little spaceship nozzle. When this gets clogged with tiny grit, your softener can’t suck salt water properly.
Unplug the system, snap the valve off, and soak it in white vinegar for 20 minutes. You’ll see little black specks float off—that’s mineral junk. Rinse it, pop it back in, and suddenly your softener breathes again. Magic.
DIY Water Softener Maintenance Culligan - YouTube
If you haven’t done this in two years, I promise you’ll notice the difference. Your water pressure might even improve. It’s like unclogging a straw that was half-blocked with honey.
