[Main Hard Water In] ────┬─────────► [To Garden Tap / Drinking Tap] │ [Inlet Valve] │ ├───[Bypass Valve]───┐ │ │ (To Softener In) (From Softener Out) │ │ │ [Outlet Valve] │ │ ▼ ▼ [Harvey HV3 Inlet] [Harvey HV3 Outlet] ──► [To House Cold/Hot] Step 3: Position the Softener
Installing a water softener involves preparing the plumbing, connecting the unit to the mains, and setting up its digital monitoring system. While professional installation is recommended to maintain the warranty, the following instructions outline the standard process. 1. Pre-Installation Checks
The Harvey HV3 is one of the most compact and efficient twin-tank water softeners on the market. Known for its non-electric design and continuous softened water supply, it’s a favorite for UK households. While we always recommend professional installation by a Harvey-trained engineer, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the installation process for those looking to understand the manual requirements. 1. Pre-Installation Checklist
Safety and regulatory compliance form the ethical backbone of the text. The Harvey HV3 operates on mains pressure, meaning an improper fitting could lead to flooding or contamination. The manual dedicates significant real estate to the "air gap" requirement—a physical break between the drain hose and the waste pipe to prevent back-siphonage of dirty water into the clean supply. It is here that the manual transcends its utilitarian purpose. By citing the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, the document positions the installer as a guardian of public health. It instills a respect for the invisible boundaries that keep potable water safe. This is not merely about tightening a nut; it is about maintaining the integrity of the municipal water system.
Before starting the installation, verify that the incoming water pressure matches the device requirements and ensure all components are present. Technical Specifications Harvey HV3 (Twin Cylinder) Maximum Flow Rate: 56 liters per minute Minimum Water Pressure: 1 bar (dynamic) Maximum Water Pressure: 5 bar (static) Connection Size: 3/4” BSP male Regeneration Time: 11 minutes per cylinder Salt Type: Block salt Box Contents 1 x Harvey HV3 Water Softener 2 x Stainless steel braided hoses (Inlet/Outlet) 1 x Waste water drain hose (clear/red line) 1 x Overflow hose (clear) 1 x Installation bypass valve kit (if ordered as a bundle) 2. Required Tools and Materials harvey hv3 water softener installation manual
The HV3 operates best between 1.5 bar and 6 bar. If your daytime pressure exceeds 5 bar, you must install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) before the softener.
Connect the from your main water supply to the port marked "IN" on the back of the Harvey HV3.
: Run a separate overflow hose through an outside wall; this should be a downhill run with no kinks. Commissioning Slowly open the inlet valve, then the outlet valve.
⚠️ Important: The HV3 uses water pressure to regenerate. Minimum working pressure: 1.4 bar (20 psi). Maximum: 5.5 bar (80 psi). Pre-Installation Checks The Harvey HV3 is one of
: Use WRAS-approved flexible hoses for the inlet and outlet. Remove the red protective caps from the softener before connecting. Drain & Overflow :
Tighten connections with an adjustable wrench, taking care not to over-tighten and crush the rubber washers. Step 2: Install the Drain Line
Connect the incoming hard water to the "In" port on the back of the softener.
This is normal immediately after installation. Run your kitchen tap for a few minutes until the air purges completely from the system. Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
: Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the manual override button located under the cover. Press and slowly turn it clockwise by one full circle until it pops back up. Let the unit drain for Add Salt and Water : Put
If the unit has been stored below freezing, let it warm to room temperature for 24 hours before installation. Frozen internals can crack.
The Harvey HV3 uses flexible, high-quality hoses to connect the unit to your plumbing.
The system regenerates automatically based on water usage. Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues