Salt and Potassium For Water Softeners

There’s no compatibility issue between the two. Both salt and potassium are effective for water softeners. However, there are cheap and effective alternatives to ion exchange water softeners. Stay informed so that you can make the best decision possible.

Sodium Salt Vs. Potassium Salt Softeners

There are two main types of salt used in water softeners: sodium and potassium. Sodium is the most common type of salt used, but potassium is becoming more popular because it is more effective at removing hardness from water. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each type of salt:

Sodium Salt:

  • Sodium salt is cheaper than potassium salt.

  • Sodium salt does not work as well as potassium salt.

  • Sodium salt is not recommended for hard water.

Potassium Salt:

  • Potassium salt is cheaper than sodium salt.

  • Potassium salt works better on hard water.

Benefits Of Potassium Or Salt In Your Water Softener?

There are two types of water softeners: salt-based and potassium-based. Both work by exchanging ions in the water to remove hardness minerals. Potassium is only about 80% as efficient as sodium, this means you will need to use around 25% more potassium than you would need when using sodium. However, some people prefer potassium because it is a natural element and not derived from chlorine like salt is. In addition, potassium does not leave behind any salty residue like salt can.

Most water softeners are equipped with a valve control panel that calculates when salts need to be replenished. How often you add potassium chloride to your water softener will depend on the following factors:

  • The size of your brine tank – The larger the tank, the less often you will need to add salt or potassium.

  • How hard the water in your locality is – Harder water requires more frequent regeneration and thus more salt or potassium.

  • The number of people at home and water usage – Larger consumption implies frequent water regeneration. Thus, more salt or potassium will be needed

Get The Facts About Potassium Chloride Water Softeners

Water softeners are used to remove hardness minerals from water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. These minerals can cause problems with plumbing, appliances, and clothing. Water softeners remove these minerals by exchanging them with other ions, such as sodium or potassium.

Potassium chloride water softeners work in the same way as sodium chloride water softeners. The only difference is the type of salt that is used. Potassium chloride is a more expensive option, but there are health and environmental benefits to using it.

What Our Clients Say

Some kind words from our respected clients

How To Choose the Right Type Of Water Softener Salt

Water softener salt is an important part of keeping your water softening system running smoothly. The type of salt you choose can impact your system’s performance and longevity. There are many different types of salt available on the market, so it is important to talk to your water softener installer to get their recommendations based on your unique needs. Some factors to consider include:

  • How hard your water is

  • The size and type of water softener system

  • Your overall water usage

  • Your maintenance preferences

Many systems can use any type of salt, but we do not recommend any salt that comes in pellet form. Pellet-style salt uses adhesives that allow the salt to bind together which can create problems with your water softening system. The adhesive can promote bridging or caking and also can gel to the bottom of the brine tank and clog floats. Clear Water Concepts recommends using coarse or crystal salt always.

Get Help Choosing The Right Water Softener Salt

If you’re not sure which water softener salt is right for you, contact McGowan Water Conditioning. We can help you choose the right salt for your needs.

We’re Waiting To Help You

Get in touch with us today for all your water quality needs!

Book A Consultation