Water softening systems can make a real difference in areas where water is naturally “hard” and contains excess calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. Treatment with a filtration system makes water easier on everything from plumbing infrastructure to laundered clothes to human skin.

A professionally installed water softening system can last up to 20 years, and routinely performing maintenance on that system (whether by a pro during a routine inspection or a DIY-minded homeowner) increases the likelihood of any home system reaching that longevity benchmark.

In between annual or biannual maintenance inspections, try these simple tips for keeping your water softener system working more efficiently, and for longer.

• Make sure your water softening system is located in a protected area that is usually vacant. The object is to keep system components from being disrupted or jostled.
• Use the right amount and type of salt. Rock salt can be hard on equipment so look for pure salt specially treated for use in water softening. Many experts suggest keeping a minimum of 1/4 and no more than 2/3 of the salt tank full at all times.
• There may be other additives to consider, such as rust stain removers or chelating agents that work in conjunction with salt. Or ask your water softening professional about alternative filtration methods such as greensand or charcoal.
• Clean the brine tank at least once a year. You can do this yourself with a stiff brush, some mild detergent, and bleach, but it can also be handled during an annual inspection visit from a professional. Don’t dump the water and salt on the ground as there may be negative consequences to vegetation.
• Maintain some distance between the end of the drain line and the floor drain. This will prevent possible cross-contamination from sewage. Check the line regularly to make sure it hasn’t slipped out of position, or secure it with clips.

If you’re looking for professional advice on the installation, repair or maintenance of a residential or commercial water softening system in the Okeechobee area, consider Domer’s. We are experts when it comes to working with all types of water treatment systems.