Investing in a water softener is a great step towards protecting your pipes and appliances from hard water damage. To ensure you get the best performance and longevity from your system, regular maintenance is essential. We’re here to share our top four maintenance tips to keep your water softener working efficiently for years to come.
4 Key Maintenance Tips for Your Home Water Softener
Regularly Check and Refill the Salt
The salt in your brine tank is crucial for the ion exchange process that softens your water. You should check the salt level at least once a month. For optimal performance, keep the tank at least half-full with high-quality salt pellets, ensuring the brine solution that cleans the resin beads remains effective.
Look For and Break Up Salt Bridges
A "salt bridge" is a hard crust that can form in the brine tank, preventing salt from dissolving into the water below. This stops the regeneration process, meaning your water won't be softened. You can carefully break up these bridges by tapping the outside of the tank or using a broom handle to push down on the crust.
Clean the Brine Tank Annually
Over time, impurities and sludge can build up at the bottom of your brine tank, reducing your system's efficiency. About once a year, you should perform a deep clean. This involves emptying the tank of all salt and water, scrubbing the inside thoroughly, and then refilling it with fresh salt and water.
Know When to Call a Professional for Service
While these DIY tips cover routine upkeep, some issues require an expert. If you notice a loss of water pressure, see resin beads in your water, or have control valve problems, it's time to call a pro. For expert diagnostics or a new water softener installation in Boise, trust a professional plumber.
Proper maintenance ensures you always have the best water softener system for your home. By following these tips and trusting experts when needed, you protect your investment. When you need service or installation, the best plumbers in Boise at Mountain View Plumbing are ready to help keep your water soft and your home protected.