Why Does My Water Softener Need Salt?

Have you ever noticed a bag of salt near your water softener? Have you ever wondered why it needs salt? If so, you’re not alone. Many people wonder why their water softeners need salt and how it works. In this article, we’ll uncover the mystery of why your water softener needs salt and how it works.

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a device that is used to reduce the hardness of water. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can cause a variety of problems, such as clogged pipes, buildup on fixtures, and dry skin and hair after a shower. A water softener works by removing these minerals from the water, making it softer and easier to use.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

A water softener works by using a process called ion exchange. This process involves passing the water through a tank filled with negatively charged resin beads. The resin beads have a positive charge, while the calcium and magnesium in the water have a negative charge. When the water passes through the tank, the positively charged resin beads attract the negatively charged minerals. This causes the minerals to be released from the water and trapped by the resin beads.

What is the Purpose of Salt in a Water Softener?

Once the calcium and magnesium have been trapped by the resin beads, the water softener needs to be regenerated. This process is done by adding salt to the water softener. The salt is used to remove the calcium and magnesium from the resin beads and flush them out of the system. The salt also helps to keep the resin beads clean and free from buildup.

What are the Different Types of Salt Used in Water Softeners?

There are two different types of salt that can be used in water softeners. The most common type is sodium chloride, which is the same kind of salt that you find in your kitchen. Other type of salt include potassium chloride. Each type of salt has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before deciding which type to use. Some homeowner's associations or townships have requirements for which type of salt you must use, so be sure to check into that as well.

When and How Often Should Salt Be Added to a Water Softener?

The frequency at which you need to add salt to your water softener depends on a few factors, including the hardness of your water, the amount of water you use, and the size of your water softener. Generally speaking, you should add salt to your water softener every two to three months. When it’s time to add salt, simply pour the salt into the brine tank and fill the tank with water.

Conclusion

Now that you know why your water softener needs salt and how it works, you can keep your water softener running smoothly. AWT does offer salt pick up and delivery. Leave the heavy lifting to us! Call 1-888-292-5901 to schedule your deliveries!