What action should an operator take if a softener has been idle for a period of time?

When a softener has been idle for some time, performing a pre-start rinse is the appropriate action to take. This is necessary because during the idle period, impurities or contaminants may have accumulated in the resin or the system. A pre-start rinse helps to flush out any stagnant water and residual substances that could affect the performance and quality of the softened water once the system is back in operation.

This initial rinse prepares the softener to function effectively by ensuring that any potential build-up is eliminated before the unit is used for treating water again. It is a crucial step in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the softening process.