Choosing the Best Salt for Water Softeners
Homeowners with a water softener need to know that it requires suitable salt for operation.
Homeowners with a water softener need to know that it requires suitable salt for operation. Some salt types are ineffective, while others can cause damage to the unit. A water softener will only perform if it’s filled with the correct type of salt to the proper level. Unfortunately, with so many choices, it can become challenging to pick the right one.
What is the role of salt in a water softener?
The water supplied to most homes has a high mineral content and is hard water. The addition of a water softener removes these minerals that can damage plumbing and appliances and also affect hair and skin when showering. In addition, hard water can leave stains on shower walls, tubs, and dishes.
Salt is added to the home’s water supply to remove the minerals effectively. This is done by a process called regeneration. Over time, the salt depletes, and eventually, it will need replacement. However, not just any salt will do. For example, one should never add common table salt to a water softener unit.
Solar salt and evaporated salt
Solar salt comes in two forms, either pellet or crystal. This salt type occurs with the evaporation of seawater. Also, these pellets and crystals are safe to use in a home water softener. However, the pellets work better, especially in a home that doesn’t use large amounts of water.
Evaporated salt is the purest form of salt as it is 99.9% sodium chloride. Evaporated salt also comes in pellets or nuggets. Both types are appropriate for use in a water-softening unit. These result in less storage tank residue, which will lower tank maintenance.
Rock salt is the lowest-priced option; however, experts agree that it is unsuitable for use in water softeners. Rock salt contains more insoluble minerals and isn’t as effective as solar or evaporated salt. However, sodium chloride and potassium chloride are equally effective in softening hard water.
How often should one add salt to a water softener?
One must add salt to the water softener’s tank over time. Knowing when it’s required will keep a home’s supply of water mineral-free.
Newer units generally come equipped with a low-salt indicator, but this isn’t true for all models. Always fill the salt tank to at least the halfway point for the unit to function well. Some tanks come with a mark inside the tank indicating their maximum capacity. It’s common for installers to draw a mark or line inside the tank to inform the user when it’s time to add more. Another indicator is the water level inside the tank is above the salt.
Choose the best salt for the water softener
A water softening unit is essential to ensure the home’s water supply is free from unnecessary minerals. But, it should only contain solar or evaporated salt for optimal performance. If unsure about which type or brand of salt to use in a water softener system, it’s best to ask a water softener expert.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
