Which is not a cycle of operation for a zeolite softener?

In a zeolite softener, the primary cycles of operation include service, backwash, and rinse. The service cycle is when the water passes through the zeolite media, allowing the exchange of hardness ions (like calcium and magnesium) with sodium ions, effectively softening the water. During the backwash cycle, water flows through the media in reverse to dislodge accumulated impurities and particles that may have built up during service, thereby cleaning the softening medium. The rinse cycle occurs after backwashing to flush out the loosened impurities and ensure that the softening media is ready for the next service phase.

The term 'clear,' on the other hand, does not refer to an established cycle of operation in standard zeolite softener processes. Instead, it could relate to the outcome of the backwash or rinse cycles but does not represent a distinct phase of operation. Therefore, 'clear' is not recognized as a cycle among the essential operational phases involved in the functioning of a zeolite softener.