Water softeners filter minerals out of the water supply. Most often, their focus is calcium and magnesium, although some also work to remove iron. Not only do many people prefer the taste of the treated water but this process also protects pipes from soap build-up and clogs. To help these devices continue to do their jobs, here are five tips for proper maintenance.

How to Care for Water Softeners

1. Salt Level

Check the brine tank’s salt levels monthly and make sure it is about 2/3 full. Too little and your water softener cannot regenerate the resin beads that extract the calcium and magnesium. Too much salt can result in clogs and salt layers over the water, also known as salt bridges, which, in turn, can lead to even harder water.

2. Brine Tank Cleaning

Brine tanks must be cleaned frequently to ensure that you are not inadvertently contaminating your water as it is being filtered. Turn off the water softener and make sure the tank is at a low level. Remove any excess salt, salt bridges, and brine, and vacuum with a shop vac. To easily dissolve salt, pour a couple of gallons of hot tap water into it and let the tank sit for four hours. Once clean, you can replace your salt levels.

3. Resin Tank Cleaning

While this component doesn’t need cleaning as frequently as the brine tank, the process starts by turning off the device and removing the distributor tube and remaining resin. Install a new tube an inch above the tank’s lip and tape the top down so resin and gravel, if applicable, don’t get inside. Finally, replace the gravel and resin.

4. Valve Attention

Every month, turn off the intake and outtake valves and then turn them back on to test their movement. This will allow you to detect any leaks, including areas where washers and seals are compromised.

5. Professional Help

Schedule a professional cleaning annually to ensure each area is purged and that components are in top working condition. Some newer models are in need of less maintenance and may only have to be seen every five years. However, talk to your water softener team to determine what care your particular set-up requires.

Since 1999, H2O Specialists has been Kerrville, TX’s choice for residential and commercial water treatment projects. These plumbing contractors specialize in water softeners and water filtration systems and can assist with plumbing repairs around your property. To schedule maintenance work, call (830) 895-7575 or visit their website for a full list of their offerings.