I have a Culligan water softener and noticed recently that there is a running water sound coming from the drain tube. There is no leaking, and the sound is almost like a constant trickle. It stops if we bypass the softener. any ideas? Culligan charges a fortune for a service call not to mention any parts. There are no error codes on the display and the owner's manual is not very helpful for troubleshooting.

How to Troubleshoot a Culligan Water Softener

1. Check the power supply cord if the unit is not operating. ...
2. Check the circuit breakers or fuse box if the unit is not receiving power. ...
3. Reset the timer if the house experienced a power failure. ...
4. Check the bypass valves to make sure they are in the correct positions.

https://www.hunker.com/12333201/how-to-troubleshoot-a-culligan-water-softener

The noise is normal during regeneration and draining.
You can manually set the regen clock to a different time.

There are Noises in My Culligan Water Softener Regeneration System Hunker

At the top of the conditioner, there is a tube running across the back of the head near the water line connections. the tube has push knobs on each end. With the blue knob pushed fully inward (knob up against the barrel of the valve / tube), water is routed through the water conditioner where it is softened. Water may be bypassed around the conditioner by pushing the red knob fully inward. Avoid "slapping" the valve when shifting from one position to another. see manual here: https://www.culliganmidmissouri.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Estate2-Softener-Operating.pdf

It depends on which hose you are referring to. If you are referring to the DRAIN it may have come off by the softener valve it goes back on the drain connection on the side of the valve (use a hose clamp). If it came off by where the softener drains it goes back into wherever the softener was draining (laundry tub, standpipe trap, floor drain)? If the hose came off by the connection for the salt tank it should be replaced. If you don't know, unplug the softener for now or it may flood again and call your local dealer.
RJ
RJ

I would suggest by-passing the system if the leak is substantial. Also make sure the leak is not coming from the main piston. Frequently leaks occur here, water runs down and collects around the top of tank before running down the side. Take the cover off, run the system through a manual regeneration and observe for any leaks. If the tank was hit it is most likely the leak is coming from connections between control and softener by-pass valve. If leak is coming from the tank and valve connection you will need to take the valve off to see if there is a crack at the tank threads. If so tank needs to be replaced. Here is a link for Culligan site that will have the manual for your machine.
http://www.culligan.com/en/service-and-maintenance/customer-support/owners-guide/

RJ

Look down the tube (where the float assembly is) there should only be about 10-12" of water in there. For water to reach the brine tank over flow the tank would have to be 3/4 of water. Brine tanks can develop leaks over time if they were set on uneven ground or if any rocks or debris are under it. If there is no evidence of water running down the side of the brine tank this is the most likely cause. Also if it has been leaking for some time there will salt buildup around the brine tank. Check the water softener for any leaks also. At times a small leak from the softener will find it's way over to the brine tank and collect around the bottom of it.
RJ

clean the drainage filter then it will work correctly again

It is most likely running to drain. This is an indication that the seal pack is seized up, generally from a bent piston. You need to by-pass the softener and call Culligan for service. If you are handy there is a retro-fit kit available from Culligan to remedy this problem. It takes about 1/2 hr to install.
RJ

Its a most common problem with culligan seal pacs. If your softener is under 5 years old you have the worst softener on the market. Culligan was bought out about 5 years ago by a canada group. they changed every thing and nothing is made in the usa any more. You will have to buy a new one from culligan and pay over 90.00 for it. The old seal pacs lasted 15 years or more now your lucky if you get 2 years.