Overview of the Fleck 56/BW Backwashing Mechanical Timer Control Valve:
The Fleck 56 BW backwashing control valve manages water flow through a backwashing filtration or softening system. It directs water through the media bed during normal service, then automatically shifts flow during regeneration or backwash to rinse the media and restore performance. If your system needs an automatic backwash cycle, this valve is the “brain” that controls when and how it occurs.
What This Valve Controls
This valve controls three key functions:
- Service flow: Sends incoming water through the tank and out to the home.
- Backwash or regeneration flow: Reverses or redirects flow to flush trapped sediment and contaminants from the media bed.
- Rinse and return to service: Resets the bed and returns the system to normal operation after the cycle.
Common use cases
- Backwashing carbon filters for taste and odor improvement
- Media filters that need periodic backwash to prevent channeling or clogging
- Certain softening or specialty media systems that use programmed cycles
Compatibility and pairing
Use this valve when you need an automatic backwashing control valve for a tank-based system.
Compatibility checklist
- System type: Backwashing filtration or regeneration-style tank system
- Connection size: Confirm your plumbing connection size and match the valve inlet and outlet
- Tank fitment: Confirm the valve matches your tank opening and distributor setup
- Programming: Confirm whether you need a timer-based backwash schedule or a metered schedule based on water usage
Common pairings
- Backwashing carbon media tanks
- Sediment and specialty media tanks that require periodic backwash
- Whole house filtration builds that need an automatic backwash cycle
Troubleshooting Mini-Guide for the Fleck 56/BW Backwashing Mechanical Timer Control Valve
Symptoms this valve can help solve
- The filter media bed is not backwashing, leading to reduced flow over time
- The system is stuck in a cycle or fails to complete a cycle
- Water quality declines because the media is not being rinsed properly
- Short cycling or erratic cycling that causes inconsistent performance
Basic checks before replacing the valve
- Confirm power supply and timer settings are correct
- Check the drain line routing and confirm it is not kinked or blocked
- Verify the system is programmed for the correct cycle times
- Inspect for leaks around fittings and the valve body
- If the system is not backwashing, confirm the backwash flow rate is sufficient for the media type
When it is time to replace the valve
- The valve repeatedly fails to advance through cycles
- Internal wear causes frequent leakage or bypass behavior
- The system cannot maintain settings or cycle timing
- Replacement parts are no longer cost-effective compared to a full valve replacement
Specifications for the Fleck 56/BW Backwashing Mechanical Timer Control Valve
Add or adjust values to match what is on your product listing so the table is accurate and consistent.
| Spec | Value |
| Brand | Fleck |
| Model | 56 BW (5600 mechanical timer, backwash only configuration on this listing) |
| Inlet and outlet connection | 3/4 inch or 1 inch NPT, BSP, or sweat (depending on configuration) |
| Drain line connection | 1/2-inch NPTF |
| Bypass included | Not included by default. An optional bypass valve is available (fiber-reinforced polymer or stainless steel). |
| Power requirements | Electrical rating: 24V, 110V, or 220V, 50/60 Hz (depending on motor and configuration) |
| Max operating pressure | Working pressure: 20 to 125 psi. Hydrostatic: 300 psi. |
| Operating temperature range | Cold water valve: 34 to 110°F (1 to 43°C) |
| Included components | Mechanical timer control valve assembly (valve body and powerhead). The injector system 1600 and the drain module are part of the valve platform. Connection yokes and bypasses are typically selected separately based on your plumbing setup. |
Product Features
- A simple mechanical design is easy to understand
- Two valve body designs: one for downflow regeneration and one for upflow (covers every valve in the 5600 family – quick access to all internal components)
- Injector/drain modules containing the brine valve, flow controls and injector are removable from the valve’s exterior
- Ruggedly built timer is designed with heavy-duty 3/8″ wide plastic gears
- 5600 controls are user-friendly, and easy to program
- Non-corrosive, UV-resistant Noryl valve body
- The 56-BW is a 12-day timer valve
- Economical – small annual power consumption; keeps the time and activates the piston/valve mechanics with a single motor
Options
- Bypass valve (Noryl or Stainless Steel)
- Backwash filter
- Upflow regeneration
- 35 day timer
- Low water use piston (uses as little as 29 gal./regeneration)
- Meter initiated regeneration
- Auxiliary switches
Applications
- Carbon Filter – 6″-10″ Tank Diameter
- Iron Filter – 6″-10″ Tank Diameter
- Neutralizing Filter – 6″-10″ Tank Diameter
- Depth Filter – 6″-10″ Tank Diameter
FAQs on the Fleck 56/BW Backwashing Mechanical Timer Control Valve
Q: Is this the same as a Fleck 5600?
A: It is a different model family. Confirm the exact model number and connection requirements on your current valve before ordering.
Q: What is the difference between metered and timer backwashing?
A: Timer backwashing runs on a set schedule. Metered backwashing runs based on water usage, which can be more efficient when water use varies.
Q: What systems does this valve work with?
A: It is used on tank-based systems that require an automatic backwash or regeneration cycle, such as backwashing carbon filters and certain media filtration systems.
Q: How do I know if my valve is failing?
A: Common signs include missed cycles, getting stuck in a cycle, inconsistent water quality, or declining flow because the system is not backwashing correctly.
Q: Will this valve fix low water pressure?
A: It can help if low flow is caused by a media bed that is not being backwashed. If plumbing restrictions or undersized piping are the cause, a valve replacement may not solve it.
Q: Can I install this myself?
A: Many experienced DIYers and pros can, but it requires shutting off water, depressurizing the tank, and confirming compatibility. If you are unsure, use a licensed installer.
Replace a failing backwashing valve with a Fleck 56 BW control valve and restore reliable cycles, consistent flow, and dependable system performance.
