In this guide
A water softener is low-maintenance, not no-maintenance. A few simple habits keep it softening efficiently for years.
1. Keep the brine tank topped up with salt
The softener regenerates its resin with brine from the salt tank. Without enough salt, regeneration fails and hard water slips through. Check the tank monthly and keep it at least a third full. Use pellets or crystals made for softeners, not rock salt.
2. Clean the brine tank
Over time salt can form a hard crust (a "salt bridge") or leave sludge at the bottom. If the salt level never seems to drop, break up any bridge gently with a broom handle. Every year or so, empty and rinse the tank.
3. Watch your water
Your water tells you when something's off. More soap scum, spots on dishes or scale on taps usually mean the softener needs salt, a setting change or service.
4. Book professional maintenance
A technician can inspect valves and seals, check the settings against your hardness, and catch small problems early. EHS customers can book service any time.
5. Don't ignore problems
Leaks, unusual noises or a softener that regenerates constantly can get worse and cost more if left. Call us early.
6. Keep a log
Note when you add salt and when service happens. Patterns make troubleshooting much faster.
7. Use soft water where it counts
You don't need softened water for an outside hose or irrigation. A bypass on those lines saves salt and extends the life of your softener.
8. Protect it from freezing
If your softener is in a garage or unheated space, insulate it and the pipes around it. A frozen valve or tank is an expensive repair.
