Choosing the Best Water Softener Salt

November 14, 2023

If you’re experiencing issues with hard water in your home, you’ve likely considered investing in a water softener. Water softeners are essential appliances that help remove the minerals responsible for water hardness, such as calcium and magnesium. However, to keep your water softener running efficiently, you’ll need to choose the best water softener salt. Keep reading as we explore the various options available and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision on choosing the best water softener salt for your home.

Understanding Water Softener Salt

Water softener salt is a crucial component of the ion exchange process that softens hard water. During this process, the salt replaces the calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions, leaving your water soft and free from the scaling that’s associated with hard water.

There are four primary types of water softener salt, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

1. Rock Salt

Mined from underground salt deposits, rock salt is the least expensive option. It contains impurities and can leave behind sediment in your water softener’s brine tank. These sediments can take the form of salt mushing or salt bridges, which cause blockages and prevent your water softener from functioning properly. So, while rock salt may be cheap, it requires more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

2. Solar Salt

The process for obtaining solar salt begins by pumping water into underground salt deposits to dissolve the salt. The resulting brine is then pumped into shallow collection ponds, where sunlight evaporates the water and leaves the salt behind. Seawater and water from salt lakes can also be evaporated using this method. Solar salt comes in two forms: salt crystals and salt pellets. The crystals are usually more affordable but may contain impurities, while salt pellets are purer and dissolve more evenly.

3. Evaporated Salt

While all salt is formed through evaporation, salt labeled as evaporated is processed at an evaporation plant, using heated steam to create highly concentrated salt crystals. This is generally the purest salt, with up to 99.9% sodium chloride, making it the most efficient option for your water softener. Its purity also helps prevent issues like salt mushing and salt bridges. Although evaporated salt pellets are usually the most expensive option, they may be worth it for homeowners struggling with very hard water or for those who wish to avoid regular maintenance on their water softener.

4. Potassium Chloride

If you’re concerned about sodium intake, potassium chloride is a suitable alternative. It softens water in a similar way to sodium-based salts and is beneficial for people who need to limit the sodium in their diet. It is also less harmful to plants and animals when flushed out into the environment, making it more eco-friendly. However, it is more expensive than other options. Keep in mind that potassium chloride may not be suitable for individuals with specific health conditions.

Additional Factors to Consider

Specialty Salts and Additives

Certain brands may sell salt with additives designed to bring additional benefits. For instance, some salts can help prevent iron and rust buildup in your softener and pipes, which is particularly useful for homes with well water. You can also find cleaning salts designed to keep your system clean and free of residue.

Water Hardness

The level of water hardness in your area should influence your choice of salt. If you have extremely hard water, you may want to choose a higher-purity option like evaporated salt to prevent sediment buildup in your water softener.

Budget

Consider your budget when choosing water softener salt. While rock salt is the most economical choice, it may require more maintenance in the long run. Solar salt pellets offer a good balance between affordability and purity.

Water Softener Type

Check your water softener’s user manual for any specific recommendations regarding the type of salt it can use. Some water softeners are designed to work best with particular types of salt.

Storage and Handling

Consider the ease of storing and handling the salt you choose. Some people find salt pellets or potassium chloride easier to handle and less messy than rock salt.

Contact Hanson’s Plumbing & Heating

Choosing the best water softener salt is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of your water softener and ensuring your water remains soft and free from scale buildup. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed choice and enjoy the benefits of soft water in your home for years to come.

At Hanson’s Plumbing & Heating, we install and service state-of-the-art water softener systems for homeowners in Central Minnesota. If you have questions about the best water softener salt or system for your home, contact us today!