How Does A Water Softener Work?

With more than 89 percent of households in the United States supplied with hard water, there is a strong probability that your home either already uses a water softener or would see noticeable improvements by installing one. If you are considering a water softening system and have questions, our experts are available to provide clear and helpful answers.

What does a water softener do?

A water softener functions by reducing the high concentrations of calcium and magnesium present in a household's water supply. When left untreated, these hard water minerals can lead to accumulation within plumbing systems, on water-using appliances, and on surfaces such as dishes and laundry. The installation of a softening system helps prolong appliance lifespan, eliminates soap residue and limescale, maintains fixtures free of stains, keeps dishes spotless, and results in noticeably softer fabrics.

What is the process of softening hard water?

A standard water softening system comprises two primary components: a resin tank and a brine tank. The resin tank contains small beads coated with sodium ions. As hard water passes through this tank, the calcium and magnesium ions responsible for water hardness are attracted to the resin beads, displacing the sodium ions. This ion exchange process allows softened water to flow onward to the household's plumbing fixtures and appliances.

The brine tank serves as a reservoir for salt. Over time, the resin beads become saturated with calcium and magnesium ions and lose their softening capacity. To restore them, the system initiates a regeneration cycle, during which a concentrated salt solution from the brine tank flushes the resin, washing away the accumulated hardness minerals. Following this cycle, the water softener is again ready to effectively treat the incoming hard water.

What should I know about water softener salt?

Salt serves a function in a water softener analogous to fuel in a vehicle. It is not only essential for operation, but using the correct type of salt is critical to enable the system to regenerate effectively. Consult your dealer to identify the appropriate salt specification for your specific model, and always opt for the highest purity salt compatible with your system. It is important to avoid using block salt, as its slow dissolution rate can hinder the regeneration process. Maintain a consistent inventory of softener salt and inspect the brine tank every few weeks to monitor consumption levels. Households with higher water usage will naturally require a greater supply of salt.