Owning a water softener is great for your home’s appliances, your clothes, and your hair and skin.  As with any appliance, there is usually minimal maintenance, which for a water softener is filling the salt tank.  Not filling your salt tank is like trying to drive your car without gas.  Unfortunately, an empty salt tank happens too often.  We’ll give you tips on how not to harm your water softener.

For clean, soft water, you'll need to properly maintain your water softener

#1 – Purchasing the Wrong Salt
Not every water softener is the same, nor does every water softener need the same salt.  It’s best to check with your local water professional or the owner’s manual.  Does your system take block or bagged salt?  Do you need an iron remover additive?  Are you looking for a natural salt?  These are all excellent questions to consider since there are different types of salt.  It’s best not to choose the cheapest salt because salt has different levels of impurities and can cause sediment at the bottom of the salt tank.

#2 – Ignore the Salt Tank
The most critical homeowner maintenance mistake is ignoring the salt tank.  We are often asked if the water softener was damaged by letting the salt run out.  Unfortunately, the answer is yes and no.  It’s best to check your salt tank at the same time every month.  To remind yourself, set a continuous reminder in your phone.  You’ll also want to let the salt get to the bottom of the salt tank before you refill again.  Continually topping off the salt tank can create a salt bridge causing hard water and an unnecessary service call.

#3 – Overlook the Bottom of the Salt Tank
Depending on the salt used, the bottom of the salt tank can build up with impurities leaving a noticeable film or dirty water.  Often a noticeable film or dirty water leads to sediment on the bottom of the salt tank.  If this is the case, it’s time to clean the salt tank, depending on the type of salt you use.

It’s not ideal for the water softener and your home to operate without salt in the salt tank.  Failing to keep a proper salt level or any salt in your salt tank can lead to hard water in your home.  With these common mistakes removed, your home will enjoy clean, soft water throughout.  If you have questions regarding your current system or want to install new equipment, contact us or call 815-385-3093.