Why does my softner start to run when I start the washing machine? When I turn on the washing machine or any other spigot for that matter, dishwasher, shower.... the softner starts to run and continues until the washing machine fill cycle ends. It cause low pressure taking an extra long time to complete the fill cycle. Also, no salt seems be consumed, thewater feels very hard and the normal 2:00 am rregeneration is not happening.