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What are the Different Water Softener Salt Types?

If you have a water softener installed in your home, then you are probably familiar with softener salts. These salts are placed in your brine tank and help remove hard minerals from your water. When shopping around for a softener salt, you may notice that there are a few different kinds you can choose from. Many homeowners are overwhelmed by the choices and are unsure which type is right for them.

Types of Water Softener Salts

Keep reading to learn about the different types of softener salts and their functions.

Pellets

 

The most common type of softener salt is salt pellets. Compared to potassium pellets, these are normally less expensive. They come in either evaporate pellets or solar salt pellets. Evaporated pellets have the highest rate of purification and are higher priced. They also have the lowest rate of buildup within your tank. Solar pellets are made from seawater and are not as efficient as evaporated pellets in tackling hard water. Solar pellets average 99.6% pure salt, whereas evaporate average 99.9%.

Crystals

Some solar salt softeners come in crystal form, whereas others can be found as rock salt. The rock salt is often less expensive and a viable option for homeowners on a budget. One drawback is that the rock salt contains notable amounts of calcium sulfate, which does not dissolve in water. This can lead to buildup, require regular maintenance checks.

Block Salts

Unless your softener system specifically calls for water softener block salt, you do not want to use this in your system.

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Water Softener Salt VS Pellets: Which Type is Best for Me?

Like most products, spending more money on a higher quality salt will pay for itself. For example, if you choose to invest in evaporated salt pellets, you can expect less maintenance problems and cleanings. If you don’t mind this and are looking to save money, then you may want to choose rock salt. Be sure to check the recommended suggestions provided by your specific water softener system.

More Questions?

For all your water purification and softener questions, you can rely on your friends at ACE Home Services to provide you with effective and efficient answer. Available to you 24/7, call us today!

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