How to Choose the Right Type of Water Softener Salt

When we talk about “hard water,” we’re not referring to ice. Instead, we mean water that contains high amounts of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While hard water isn’t harmful, it can cause various issues, including:

• Affecting the taste of water
• Drying out skin
• Leaving residue in hair
• Clogging pipes
• Reducing the effectiveness of soap in the shower, sink, washing machine, and other appliances
• Limescale

A water softener is essential for removing these minerals and preventing these problems. After prolonged use, the filter in a water softener needs to be recharged with more salt to continue working effectively.

When it’s time to regenerate your water softener, you’ll need water softener salt, or sodium chloride. It’s important to only use salt designed for water softeners; using table salt or de-icing salt won’t work. Water softener salt is specially formulated to make your water softener efficient.

Water softener salt comes in various forms like crystals, blocks, or pellets, which enable more effective regeneration. You might already know you need salt for your system, but did you know not all salt is created equal? The right type of salt can enhance your water softener’s performance and prevent damage to your appliances and water softening system. Here’s a look at the various types of water softener salt and what to consider with each one.

Evaporated Salt

Evaporated salt is produced through an evaporation process using water and steam, which crystallises the salt. The crystals are then dried and screened before being formed into pellets.

Pros of Evaporated Salt

• Generally has the highest purity rate, meaning less water-insoluble matter and less buildup in the bottom of the tank.

Cons of Evaporated Salt

• Often the most expensive type. However, the up-front cost might be offset by reduced future costs for cleaning and maintenance issues caused by using low-quality salt.

When to Use Evaporated Salt

• Best for very hard water. Hard water, with 61 to 120 mg/L of calcium carbonate or higher, is found in many areas, including Wales and London. Homeowners in these regions might consider investing in evaporated salt. It can improve your water softener’s performance and help avoid problems like salt bridges and insoluble buildup.

Solar Salt

Solar salt is made by evaporating seawater using sunlight. It is most commonly found in pellet or crystal form and has high solubility.

Pros of Solar Salt

• Created using renewable energy sources like solar power, making it more Eco-friendly.

Cons of Solar Salt

• Has a lower solubility level than evaporated salt and might cause problems like insoluble buildup and salt bridges, which will need to be cleaned.

When to Use Solar Salt

• Suitable for moderately hard water, where solubility is less of a concern.

Rock Salt

Rock salt is mined from underground salt mines and typically comes in pebble or small rock form with minimal processing.

Pros of Rock Salt

• Generally cheaper than other types of water softener salt.

Cons of Rock Salt

• Contains high amounts of calcium sulphate and is less pure. It’s not as soluble, which can cause buildup and require more frequent water softener maintenance.

When to Use Rock Salt

• Acceptable if recommended by the water softener manufacturer.

Block Salt

Block salt comes in the form of blocks and is a highly pure form of water softener salt, around 99.8% pure and virtually 100% water-soluble.

Pros of Block Salt

• Very pure and designed to resist bridging and mushing in the brine tank.

Cons of Block Salt

• Requires raising the water level in the brine tank to ensure the blocks are fully submerged.

When to Use Block Salt

• Should only be used when recommended by your water softening company.

Potassium Chloride (Salt Alternative)

Potassium chloride is a sodium alternative that is 99.9% sodium-free, generally found in pellet form, and can be used to regenerate the softening resin.

Pros of Potassium Chloride

• Safe salt alternative for those who do not want to or cannot use sodium chloride. Potassium is also beneficial for plants, so it’s preferable in wastewater.

Cons of Potassium Chloride

• More expensive than sodium chloride. May require increasing the salt dosage settings during regeneration. Consult a water softener expert before using potassium chloride.

When to Use Potassium Chloride

• Ideal for those with dietary restrictions or health concerns related to sodium intake.

Speciality Water Softener Salts

In addition to these basic types, there are speciality water softener salts designed for specific purposes, such as rust and iron removal or reducing system buildup.

The type of water softener salt that will work best for you depends on various factors. Consider discussing your needs with a water softener expert. Some factors to consider include:

• Water Hardness: Water in central and greater London is considered very hard, so salt purity might be a significant factor.
• Water Softener System: Certain systems are more compatible with specific types of salt. Consult your manual or a water softener expert.
• Water Usage: Lower levels of water usage might not require stronger types of salt.
• Maintenance Preferences: If you prefer less maintenance, opt for higher-quality salt that reduces cleaning time.

Selecting the right salt is crucial for your water softener’s performance and longevity. Generally, avoid pellet salt due to potential problems with adhesives used in pellets.

Get Help Choosing the Right Water Softener Salt

For the best results, we highly recommend our Klenz Water Softener Salts. Engineered for optimal performance, they ensure your water softener runs smoothly and efficiently. Our salts are affordably priced and come with flexible delivery options to suit your needs. Visit our product page to learn more and make your purchase today. For more details on delivery, refer to our shipping policy. Trust Klenz for superior water quality and reliability.

Our Mainland UK orders ship free via Yodel with an estimated delivery time of 3-5 working days, while non-mainland and international deliveries incur additional costs, all detailed at checkout.

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