The short answer
Many softeners keep a few inches of water in the brine tank between regenerations; that's normal. A tank that fills well above the salt, or overflows, means the valve isn't drawing brine out or isn't stopping the refill. The usual causes are a blocked injector (venturi), a clogged drain line or flow control, a stuck brine valve or a failed safety float.
Work through it in order
- Check the drain line isn't kinked, frozen or raised too high.
- Clean the injector screen and nozzle in the valve.
- Check the brine line and its fittings for air leaks.
- Lift the safety float and make sure it moves freely; replace it if it sticks.
Parts that fix it
Safety floats such as the Fleck 2310 float (60014), replacement brine tanks like the DuraWater 18x33, and rebuild kits such as the Fleck 60102-10. Find parts by valve in the valve parts lookup.
Before you open the valve
SafetyPut the softener in bypass and relieve pressure before opening the valve. Follow the maker's service manual.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
How much water should be in a brine tank?
It depends on the design: some keep several inches between regenerations, others refill only shortly before. Check your manual's dry or wet brine tank setting.
Can I empty the brine tank myself?
Yes: bypass the softener, scoop out salt and water, clean the tank, then refill with salt and let it regenerate.