Choosing What Salt to Use For Water Softeners?

It can be tricky choosing the right type of salt to use in a water softener. You will need to choose a salt that is compatible with your system, as well as the purity and hardness levels of your water. You should also take into consideration the amount of salt you need and your budget. If you have pets or kids in the house, make sure to keep your salt away from them. Luckily, there are several different types of salt you can choose from. 

Rock salt is the least processed form of salt, and is a good option for a driveway or other areas that will be exposed to the dirt and dust that come with it. However, you may have to spend more time cleaning your water softener with rock salt. Rock salt is also more prone to impurities, and can leave salt bridges in your brine tank, which will prevent your softener from functioning properly. 

Evaporated salt pellets are a more effective type of salt. These salt pellets are made from 100% pure sodium chloride, and dissolve more easily than rock salt. The pellets can be used as a replacement for rock salt, though they are more expensive. They are less likely to create mineral deposits in the brine tank, which reduces the likelihood of salt bridges. 

Potassium chloride pellets are a good alternative to rock salt for people who are allergic to sodium. They are also more cost-effective than the other two options. 

If you are using a single-tank water softener, you may prefer to use pellet salt. This type of salt has a larger diameter than the other types of salt, which helps to prevent bridging. Infrequent regeneration can lead to the salt losing structure, so you should be aware of this when you purchase pellets. 

Solar salt is another common choice. This type of salt is often less expensive than rock salt, but it is also more difficult to find in some areas. It can be more expensive than other types of salt, so it is best to choose one based on your area. 

Block salt is the most popular type of salt, and is usually a great choice for water softeners. It is created by solution mining, a process that forces out the highly saturated brine from underground salt mines. This type of salt contains a high level of magnesium, which helps to keep your water softener running smoothly. It is also better for homes that have a high water usage. 

The amount of salt you need for your water softener will depend on the hardness and number of people in your household. If you have a large family or you have an outdoor pool, you might need more salt than an average household. 

You should always check with your local water softener experts before buying any type of salt for your water softener. Some brands may not be compatible with your system, and some aren’t safe to consume. You can ask for a free in-home water test if you have any questions.