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Everything You Should Know About Water Softener Salt: Insights from a Pentair Water Softening Company in Schaumburg, Illinois
If you are a homeowner, you’ve probably heard a thing or two about water softeners — and maybe you even know someone who has one. But do you really know how these things work and why water softener salt is such a big deal? Below, this Pentair water softening company in Schaumburg, Illinois is going to explain everything you’ll need to know about water softener salt.
How does water softener salt work?
You might not realize it, but hard water is high in dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals are not unsafe to drink, but they can be behind many other problems — think clogged drains, stained dishes, stiff and dull laundry, less effective soap and shampoo, hair and skin irritation, etc.
When you use water softener salt, you can treat hard water through a process called “ion exchange.” This process replaces those hard minerals in your water with sodium ions from the salt. Your hard water then becomes soft water, which is much nicer for your home’s plumbing and water appliances.
Soft water also makes everything in your home run a lot smoother. For example, your washing machine and dishwasher will do an even more efficient job, your plumbing will stay clearer, and your daily household chores will become less of a hassle — your hair and skin will look a lot shinier, too.
So, how can you tell if you need a water softener in your home?
This may sound complicated, but it is a lot easier than you might think.
One of the most common signs of a hard water problem is your tap water looking cloudy or leaving spots on your dishes, no matter how much you clean them. Hard water stains (or lime scale buildup) on and around your shower or bathtub are other signs. Your water appliances (like your washing machine or dishwasher) becoming less efficient or breaking down more frequently could also be a result of hard water. These are all signs that you might need to invest in a brand-new water softener.
Another way to find out if you need a water softener is by simply getting your water tested. This is a quick and simple process that can give you a clear picture of what’s in your water. You can do it yourself with a home testing kit or have a professional do it for you. If the test shows high levels of calcium and magnesium, you should consider reaching out to a Pentair water softening company in Schaumburg, Illinois to have a system installed.
How much salt should you use in your water softener?
How much salt your water softener needs can depend on several factors. The type of softener you have is a big one. Advanced systems from a professional Pentair water softening company in Schaumburg, Illinois are designed to use salt more efficiently. They adapt to the water you and your family use per day at home, so they only use as much salt as necessary to keep your water soft.
A basic or older water softener might not be as efficient with salt. These systems usually run on pre-programmed cycles that don’t really consider your actual water usage, which can lead to overuse of salt and less effective softening. If you notice that your water softener is using too much or too little salt, it could be a sign that something is not working correctly. You should have it checked out to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Looking for a Pentair Water Softening Company in Schaumburg, Illinois?
Are you searching for a Pentair water softening company in Schaumburg, Illinois that can advise you on how much softener salt to add to your system, and how often? If so, our team at Johnson Water Conditioning is here to help. Contact us today to get in touch with our team.