Here’s a time-related trick: if you just cycled your softener, the water level is temporarily high. The brine tank fills with water to dissolve salt, then drains. If you check it mid-cycle, it’ll look like a swimming pool.
Wait 24 hours. If the water level drops back to normal, you’re golden. If it stays high, then you’ve got one of the issues above. Patience is a virtue, especially when dealing with salty water machines.
Pro move: write down the water level and check it after the next regeneration. Compare. You’re basically a water detective now. Wear a trench coat if it makes you feel cooler.
Water Softener System Diagram