What maintenance is required for a water softener?

What maintenance is required for a water softener is a common question asked by people who are thinking about purchasing a water softener. A non electric water softener is generally low maintenance, but there are some tasks that we recommend carrying out to maintain your system. It is important to consider these maintenance tasks to ensure your water softener works well over time, maintains a good efficiency and has a long lifespan.

We recommend the following water softener maintenance tasks periodically

Check Salt Levels

Why? A water softener requires salt to remove hard minerals from the incoming water supply. Without salt – the ion exchange can’t take place. That is why it is important to check your salt is not running low.
Frequency: Monthly or as recommended depending on water usage.
Task: Ensure the brine tank has an adequate supply of salt. Refill it as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Cleaning the Brine Tank

Why? Over time salt can crystalise and the brine tank can become blocked and even dirty.
Frequency: Annually or every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water hardness.
Task: Empty the brine tank and clean it to remove any salt sludge or build-up. Rinse thoroughly before refilling with fresh salt.

Inspect the System for Salt Bridges

Why? Salt bridges are hardened salt layers, they can naturally form over time – it is nothing to worry about, but to ensure the best efficiency we recommend checking every now and then.
Frequency: Periodically, every few months, especially in humid environments.
Task: Check for salt bridges that can form in the brine tank and break them up if present. Use a broom handle or similar tool to gently break the bridge.

Regenerate the Resin Bed

Why? The resin beads need to be cleaned once saturated. This is usually automatic – especially with non-electric water softeners and therefore you need not worry. This is only required if your system does not have a automatic regeneration process.
Frequency: As needed, based on water usage and hardness levels.
Task: Manually initiate a regeneration cycle if the system does not automatically do so based on usage patterns. This process helps recharge the resin beads that soften the water.

Inspect and Clean the Injector

Why? To avoid blockages.
Frequency: Every 6 months.
Task: Check the injector for blockages and clean it if necessary. The injector helps draw brine into the resin tank during regeneration.

Monitor Water Hardness Levels

Why? Every now and then, checking the hardness gives you satisfaction that the system is working well.
Frequency: Periodically, every few months.
Task: Test the hardness of the water entering and leaving the softener to ensure the system is functioning correctly. Adjust settings and carry out maintenance if needed.

We recommend the following water softener maintenance annually

Check and Clean the Resin Tank

Why? To ensure your resin beads last a long time.
Frequency: Annually.
Task: Inspect the resin beads and clean the resin tank if necessary. Replace resin beads if they appear worn or less effective.

Inspect Valves and Bypass

Why? To ensure there are no unknown leaks or rusting.
Frequency: Annually.
Task: Check all valves, including the bypass valve, for proper operation and leaks. Ensure the bypass valve is functioning correctly to allow water to bypass the softener during maintenance.

Sanitize the System

Why? To ensure clean water and a clean system.
Frequency: Annually.
Task: Sanitise the water softener to prevent bacterial growth. Use a manufacturer-recommended sanitiser or a mixture of water and unscented household bleach, following the instructions carefully.

Additional Maintenance Tips

Keep the Area Clean: Ensure the area around the water softener is clean and free of clutter to make sure you have easy access for salt filling and maintenance.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always follow specific maintenance instructions provided by the water softener manufacturer.
Consult a Professional or plumber: If you're unsure about any maintenance task or notice a problem with the system, consult a professional plumber or water treatment specialist. You can usually pay for a specific maintenance service from a water softener engineer or plumber.

By regularly performing these maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your water softener operates efficiently, providing soft water that helps protect your combi boiler and other appliances from limescale build up and other issues associated with hard water.