It could just be a turd.
I installed a WashIt brand detergentless system for our washing machine.
http://www.washit.com It appeared idiot proof to install but I couldn't seem to figure it out. It was only a cold in warm in cold out line. I couldn't get it to work. Plug it in run cold water and it should go.
Short answer is I convinced the local shop that sold it that I didn't do it wrong after they came out. We replaced it with a new unit and it worked fine. That unit was just a dud.
We really like the detergenless system btw. Uses no soap and cloths smell good. Takes the sour smell out of wash cloths and towels too.