Water Softener Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

1. Check softener for any salt bridging
2. Clean the brine (salt) tank with a softener cleanser
3. Clean the venturi valve

How to keep your water softener system healthy

1. Use higher purity salts, which will leave less storage tank residue, lowering the likelihood of salt bridges and salt mushing. It will result in less maintenance.
2. Don’t add salt until almost all the salt in the tank is used up. Then refill the tank no more than two-thirds full.
3. Use an iron-out solution once a year to clean the resin bed and the parts in the control valve.
4. Clean the brine tank once a year.

Learn more about how your water softener works here.

By periodically giving your water softener system a seasonal maintenance checkup, you’ll keep it running smoothly. Take a closer look at what hard water costs you if your home is left untreated.

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Assistance may lie with a water softener. It removes hard water minerals, allowing water to effectively clean your skin. Most homes in the United States have hard water.

Here’s how you know if your home – and your skin – can benefit from a water softener.

Razor Burn

As shorts and swimming suits make their summer debut, shaving increases. You may be experiencing increased incidences of razor burn and accompanying shaving bumps. This can be especially painful if your skin is already sensitive from sun exposure. This doesn’t mean you are over shaving, but rather, your water may be hard. A water softener may be the fix your gams need.

Squeaky Skin

Soft, clean skin is one thing, but that dry, squeaky feeling after bathing means hard minerals are stripping your skin of its natural oils. With sunburned skin, you need all the moisture you can get to help your skin heal. Soft water from a water softener naturally helps keep your skin softer.

Clogged Pores

Too much sun can lead to blisters and burns. Heat leads to perspiration, which can also mean oilier skin. If you are seeing more breakouts than normal on your face, don’t immediately blame the sun and heat. Hard water’s high mineral content leaves a film of soap scum on the skin, which can result in clogged pores. The sun and heat will do enough damage. Let your water be your last worry.

Skin-Saving Test

Not sure if you need a water softener? Check out this free and easy test. Test your home water for free. You’ll discover how soft water might be the answer to soothing your skin this summer with a Whirlpool Water Softener from EcoPureHome.

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We highlight the 3 different telltale signs you need a new water softener for your home.

It’s easy to forget about your water softener and get stuck in the bi-monthly regiment of filling it with more salt without wondering how old or how long the system will last.

Water softeners start to decline and become less effective after 10 years. Here are 3 signs that you need a new water softener.

Sign No. 1: Dirty Dishes and Itchy Skin

Your dishes are spotty after you clean them, your skin is itchy and soap scum is collecting quicker than usual in sinks. These are all signs that you have hard water. And if you have hard water, your water softener isn’t working as it should.

The problem is your system isn’t regenerating softer water like it used to because it’s old and worn down over years of reliable use.

Sign No. 2: Your Water Softener Is Old

You have a timer-based water softener. These systems regenerate on a schedule you set over a decade ago. Newer systems regenerate soft water based on when you need it — this is called “demand initiated” regeneration. This is ideal because it works on an “as needed” basis.

Sign No. 3: Your System Is Bulky

Your system is bulky and taking up too much space. If you have a twin tank system, your softener is taking up too much room. A single cabinet-system is Demand Initiated and takes up less space, making it an efficient option for your home.

Newer systems also include low salt indicators, enhanced iron removal and water use monitoring, making maintenance and management a breeze.

If these signs are apparent for your water softener and you want to test your water, use a simple test tool so you can find your hard water number. If you know your number and want a new system, you can browse a selection of water softeners by going to EcoPureHome.

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Water softeners and septic tanks—who knew that the two are linked? For homes that have a septic system and use a water softener, it’s been shown that efficiently operated water softeners pose no problems to septic tank performance.[1] Additionally, over half of homes with a septic system also have a water softener.

But wait. What, exactly, is an efficiently operated water softener and how could it improve septic performance? Let’s take a look at the nature of a septic tank and how a water softener fits in.

Septic systems at a glance

Using a septic system is common for households in rural areas without centralized sewer systems. This system treats wastewater from the bathrooms, kitchen drains and laundry. Septic systems have four basic functions:

• Receive wastewater
• Separate solid materials from the wastewater
• Provide partial treatment of wastes
• Release treated wastewater into drain fields

These functions work in tandem to provide an effective solution to wastewater management.

A water softener’s impact

Water softeners come in two types: demand-initiated regeneration (DIR) and timer-based systems. A demand-initiated water softener uses your water usage and average water hardness to determine when to regenerate (versus a predetermined timeframe that may or may not be accurate) and is considered a more efficient model that conserves water, energy and salt use. It’s also the best system for homes with septic tanks. Here’s why:

1. The amount of water discharged by a DIR system is equivalent to a load of laundry and is easily within the limits of what a septic system can handle. And because a DIR softener only regenerates when needed, the system is not overloaded with softener backwash.

2. The discharged solution of a DIR system has a greater ratio of calcium and magnesium ions to sodium. Larger amounts of calcium and magnesium can actually help improve the time it takes for treated wastewater to be absorbed in the drain fields.

3. Water softeners also help homeowners use up to 50% less soap and reduce overall water usage, which reduces the overall load on the septic system significantly.

Helping your home inside and out

Septic systems are one of those household systems that just magically seem to operate (hey, out of sight, out of mind). However, there are factors that can impact their ability to run efficiently and cleanly. An undersized septic tank or excessive use of cleaning products is more likely to disrupt the normal operation of your system than a water softener. If your home currently has a water softener, consider the regeneration style (DIR or timer-based) and age of the water softening system—it may be time for an upgrade. Timer-based water softeners and systems that are between 10 and 15 years old are generally considered outdated and past their prime.

With an easy step-by-step tool, you can determine the best water softening solution for your in-home water needs, with the added bonus of improving the efficiency of your septic system.

[1]Based on research conducted by scientists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the National Sanitation Foundation, and the Water Quality Research Foundation.

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Crusty White Buildup
White crust on faucets and showerheads and cloudy glass on shower doors are telltale signs of hard water. Hard water minerals (calcium and magnesium) are to blame for these bathroom nuisances, causing flaky buildup and inability to fully rinse away soap and cleaners. A water softener removes the excess calcium and magnesium from your water, keeping faucets sparkling and eliminating the problem before the water is even plumbed throughout the house.

Damaged Appliances
Appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, coffee makers and water heaters are cornerstones of the home and see a lot of use. They also rely heavily on the use of water for proper functioning. If hard water is being plumbed to these appliances, scale can build up in the pipes and within the systems themselves. Because of that, there will be reduced water flow to your refrigerator, and your dishwasher will no longer clean dishes as effectively. A thick layer of lime scale may even build up in your water heater, making it less efficient. And that morning cup of coffee that you love so much may taste worse or take longer to brew. In addition to costly damages, the lifespan of these appliances can be reduced by 30 to 50 percent with hard water. A water softener will minimize the need for costly repairs or premature replacement.

Stiff, Discolored Laundry
The minerals found in hard water deposit themselves onto fabrics, which cause discoloration and stiffness. Laundry detergent does not activate and perform well when used with hard water, which minimizes its effectiveness unless you add more soap to the wash cycle. This quickly becomes costly and wasteful. Soft water will allow you to use less laundry detergent while getting cleaner, brighter and softer results.

If using soft water sounds like a good New Year’s resolution for your household, there’s no better time to find the water softening system for your home. Everyone and everything will benefit—and it will be the easiest resolution you’ve ever made.

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Choose the best option for you

You’ve done the research and now you’re ready to purchase and install your water softener. Whether you’re using a dealer, a plumber or your own DIY skills, there are advantages and disadvantages to each installation method. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect from each installation option, so you can choose the best approach for you.

Doing it yourself

Installing the water softener yourself allows you to work on the project at your own pace and without spending extra money on a plumber. If you understand and are comfortable with the principles of plumbing, the project will take no more than half a day. And if you’re simply replacing an old water softener, this can be completed in about an hour.

You’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary supplies and tools before you begin, as you may need to cut some pipes to align your water softener and water supply lines. And to help installation go smoothly, creating a detailed checklist before you begin will ensure you don’t miss any key steps.

Working with a retailer

If you purchased your water softener through a retailer, you may have the option of using their installation service for an added charge. It may take several days to schedule the installation, as the retailer uses an installer in their network who’s equipped to install your particular system. And since the retailer sets the appointment for you, they’ll be able to negotiate rates, helping you get the best installation price.

Using a local plumber

Purchasing a water softener from your nearby home improvement store means you can either install it yourself, have the retailer manage the installation, or call a local plumber. If your plumbing skills are shaky, professional installation by your local plumber is still affordable and will give you peace of mind that it’s been done correctly. As for availability, you may not get an appointment right away, so plan in advance to ensure your water softener is installed as soon as possible after purchase. If you haven’t already purchased a water softener but are starting to research plumbers, they may try to lead you toward a particular product they carry—even though it may not be the right option for your home or your budget. When the plumber arrives, make sure you have your water softener and its intended location ready for the plumber to make sure the installation goes quickly.

Using a dealer or water treatment specialist

When working with a water softener dealer, they’ll help you select a custom solution for your home and install the appliance as well. In fact, many dealers offer the opportunity to rent a system on a monthly basis, which is another option to consider for your household needs. If you aren’t sure which features you need or the best capacity for your home, working with a dealer is the most user-friendly option; however, it’s also the priciest.

Depending on your experience, comfort level and budget, there’s an installation option for everyone, so you can find the right balance and best solution for your home. For a comprehensive look at all your installation options, you can use this breakdown, which includes a detailed review of cost, time and difficulty.

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When it comes to water softeners, the selection and installation process can be a bit overwhelming. But with a few easy tips, savvy DIYers can solve their hard water problems easily and affordably. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

It all starts with research

• Learn your hard water number and assess your household’s water use to help determine the best solution for your home.
• Find out which tools you’ll need to successfully prepare for and install your water softener as well as any additional tubing or fittings.
• Purchase flex connectors to help the installation. They eliminate issues of mating pipes to the height of the softener inlet/outlet, reduce stress on pipes, and take less time than traditional soldering. Flex connectors are found at any home improvement store.
• Choose the appropriate salt pellets for your water softener. High-quality salts, like evaporated salt, which is the purest form of salt, will result in fewer maintenance problems over time. Additionally, for homes that are concerned with clear water iron in their water supply, salt pellets are available that include a rust remover component.

Preparing for the installation

• Select the right location for the water softener. The best spots are level and dry, have at least 10 feet of piping between the softener and the water heater and are near the main water line, a drain and an electrical outlet.
• If installing outside, ensure your softener will be protected from the elements (rain, freezing temperatures, direct sunlight)
• Create and follow a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t miss key steps during installation.

Installation checklist

• Turn off the water supply at the main.
• Drain the water lines by turning on a faucet at the highest and lowest points in the house.
• Make sure that the incoming water connects to the inlet on the valve and that the outlet on the valve connects to the water supply going into the house. (Note: Many homes have a cold water supply line that branches off the main to supply outdoor hose connections. This water should not be softened.)
• Optionally, install a remote bypass that lets you shut off the water going to the softener.
• Make the proper connections by making hard connections to the water supply lines or by using flexible connectors and connect any drain lines.
• Fill the brine tank half-full with salt.
• Slowly turn the water back on at the main and ensure the bypass valve is shut.

Start-up and maintenance

• Enter your home’s preferred regeneration settings (based on the number of people in your home and the average water use).
• Complete an initial manual regeneration to get the process started.
• Monitor salt levels and conduct routine maintenance.
• Upgraded to a new model? Call your local garbage company for guaranteed pickup of the old softener.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your water softener search or simply in maintenance mode, these are easy tips for every stage of the DIY process. However, if you would like to make sure that you have everything installed properly, contact one of our dealers for a free in-home assessment.

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Sodium is a naturally occurring mineral and is found in almost everything you consume—from apples and almonds to water and milk. And while sodium is used to soften water, one of the biggest misconceptions is that it makes your softened water taste salty. Luckily, that’s not the case. This article dispels that common myth and provides a practical solution to help reduce the amount of sodium that does exist and ensure you are drinking the healthiest water possible.

How much sodium do you need?

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the recommended limit for sodium is less than 2,300 mg a day. The average American consumes about 3,400 mg a day, but the vast majority of sodium comes from table salt and processed and prepared foods, like cold cuts, canned soups, fast food, and frozen dinners. Here are the sodium levels of some common food items:

• An 8-ounce glass of low-fat milk contains about 120 mg of sodium
• One egg contains 59 mg of sodium
• An 8-ounce glass of orange juice contains about 25 mg
• A can of soda contains 40-45 mg
• Depending on the brand, a standard 1-ounce slice of bread has between 80 and 230 mg of sodium
• A teaspoon of regular table salt contains 2,300 mg of sodium

Sodium in softened water

The amount of sodium present in drinking water—even after softening—does not represent a significant percentage in a person’s daily intake. During the regeneration process, the resin beads that remove the calcium and magnesium (the hardness ions) in your water are flushed with a brine solution (made from the salt you add to your tank). This releases the calcium and magnesium ions from the beads and replaces them with sodium ions. The excess brine and hardness ion solution is then flushed from the system. This process adds just a little sodium to the overall water supply—and you definitely won’t taste it.

The exact amount of sodium present in soft water will vary based on how much hardness is being removed by the softener. The harder your water is, the more sodium ions that are being exchanged to make soft water. For example, someone with 11 grains per gallon (gpg) hardness would see an additional 20.6 mg of sodium per 8-ounce glass.

Once you have your hard water number, this is how you can calculate the additional amount of sodium that will be added to your water:

How to reduce sodium consumption

You may choose not to drink soft water because of the sodium in it for health reasons or otherwise and seek out the most simple solution available. For example, will a Brita water filter remove sodium from soft water? Standalone Brita filters, like pitcher or faucet filters, are an excellent way to reduce the most common water contaminants and impurities, but unfortunately, sodium is not on that list. There is an additional measure you can take to ensure your drinking water is sodium-free while still enjoying the benefits of soft water, such as reduced stains and limescale, more efficient soap usage and longer appliance life.

Install a reverse osmosis filtration system

Does reverse osmosis remove sodium from softened water?

Yes.

In fact, the most thorough way to remove sodium from soft water—along with a host of other contaminants such as chlorine and lead—is to install a reverse osmosis drinking water system to work alongside your water softener. These systems, like the Brita Total360 Reverse Osmosis (RO) System, use a thorough, 3-stage reverse osmosis filtration process that includes a pre-filter, a post-filter and a semipermeable membrane. This membrane is where the magic happens, as it is specifically designed to remove concentrated substances—like salt—and leaves only clean, healthy drinking water for you to enjoy. In short, reverse osmosis systems remove 95%+ of all common contaminants in water, including sodium.

A win-win solution

When you do the math, water softeners add a very small amount of sodium to your diet. And if you add a reverse osmosis system to remove salt, you will have the most thorough, healthy water treatment solution for your home. You’ll get to enjoy the many benefits of soft water such as preventing damaging scale buildup in your pipes and appliances, using less energy, lotions and soaps, which will save money throughout your home. And perhaps more importantly, you will enjoy the safety and security of having clean, healthy, sodium-free drinking water for you and your family.

Ready to learn more? Explore the Brita Total360 Reverse Osmosis (RO) System on EcoPureHome.

Unsure of your home’s water quality? Contact a local EcoWater expert to get a free water analysis.

The post Myth: Water softeners make your water salty appeared first on HomeWater 101.

• Location, location, location. When scouting for your water softener’s location, one of the key requirements is that it be close to the main water line. This will ensure all water for daily household use gets directed to the softener for treatment before it flows through your taps, showerheads and pipes.Keep in mind that softened water is not ideal for outside use (like watering plants) so it’s important that the softener be connected at a place that won’t be plumbed externally.

• Drain nearby. Another necessity is locating your water softener near a drain. This will facilitate easy disposal of the brine solution after regeneration. (Regeneration is the process that washes the resin beads with a highly concentrated brine solution. Since the beads act as a sponge and absorb the hardness minerals from your water, they eventually get “full” and need to be cleaned. After regeneration, the resin is able to soften water again.)
• Important extras. The location should be level and dry and near an outlet so it can be plugged in. Additionally, there should be at least 10 feet of piping between your water heater and water softener. This distance will prevent the possibility of hot water migrating backward into the softener during its regeneration cycle. If hot water gets into your softener, it could damage some of the tubing inside.

Depending on the style of your house and where you live, finding the perfect place for your water softener may be a breeze or it may require a little extra investigation. With these key elements in mind, you’ll be able to select the best spot and get your softener installed in no time.

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Getting to know hard water

A discussion around hard water can get a bit technical. From mathematical conversions to multiple zeroes, there can be a lot going on. Here’s a look at the numbers you’ll most likely see and what they mean:

• One grain per gallon (gpg) is equivalent to 17.14 parts per million (ppm). Water hardness can be measured in gpg or ppm, but gpg is the most commonly used measurement.
• 20,000–80,000: This range signifies the grain capacity of most water softeners available on the market. Depending on your water hardness number, daily water use and the number of people in the home, you may need a smaller—or larger—grain capacity softener. Find out which capacity you need here.

Testing your water

After successfully testing your water to find out your hardness number, your result will fall somewhere on the hardness scale. Once you test your water and get your number, see where your water falls using the guide below:

• 0–3: If your hard water test strip indicates that your water is between 0–3 gpg, your water doesn’t require softening.
• 3–7: Water between 3–7 gpg is moderately hard, causing spotty dishes and dry skin.
• 7–11: Hard water is packed with minerals at 7–11 gpg, and you likely deal with crusty faucets and pipes and possibly reddish rings on your porcelain from excess iron.
• 11–15: Considered very hard, water at 11–15 gpg exhibits all the signs of hard water all the time.
• 15+: Extremely hard water is anything over 15 gpg. Glasses are extra spotty, skin feels super squeaky, and soap scum is at its most stubborn. And if you’re on well water, you may also be seeing other problem water signs such as iron stains.

Water softener–specific numbers

Here are some important numbers to know now that you’ve installed a water softener in your home:

• 5–10 Days: On average, you can expect your water softener to regenerate every 5–10 days. This depends on whether you have a time- or demand-initiated water softener, your home’s water use and the grain capacity of the softener.
• 6–8 Bags: Demand-initiated water softeners, which only regenerate when needed, are extremely efficient, so you’ll probably only need to add one 40-pound bag of salt to your softener every 6–8 weeks.
• $4 per Year: The approximate cost to power a high-efficiency water softener over the course of one year.

From the big-picture numbers to the figures associated with a softener once it’s in the home, it seems like there’s a lot learn. With this easy reference, you’ll be a hard water numbers pro in no time.

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