Because of modern technology, there’s no reason for Delmarva residents to live with hard water. Water softening systems exist to remove minerals that are clogging up your household plumbing. Many of these systems use salt to purify your water supply.

However, you can’t use any old salt to improve your H2O. Since all salt isn’t equal, how do you determine what kind of salt your water softener needs? Luckily for you, Delmarva Water Solutions is here to answer your important questions.

The Different Types of Salt for Water Softeners

First, it’s helpful to understand what kinds of salt you can use in your water softener. Depending on your system and water condition, you have a couple of different options:

• Rock Salt: This is your cheapest option. Rock salt comes from underground mines. It’s easily accessible but doesn’t go through much processing.
• Solar Salt: This type of salt comes from evaporated seawater. Its use of solar power makes it an eco-friendly option. However, its solubility levels are relatively low.
• Evaporated Salt: Most experts would agree that evaporated salt is the best kind for water softeners. Evaporated salt is highly soluble and free of almost any impurities.

Sodium Chloride vs. Potassium Chloride

Another salt option for your water softener is potassium chloride. Some homeowners prefer this compound due to its salt-free nature. Potassium chloride is just as effective at softening hard water as other sodium-based methods.

However, it’s not always your best option. Potassium chloride pellets are significantly higher in price than sodium chloride products. You also have to use much more of it to get the desired effect, making it much more expensive.

Which One Is Best For You?

So what kind of salt does your water softener need? Before making your decision, consider the following factors: cost, accessibility, efficiency, and health.

Rock salt is your cheapest and most available option, but it may lead to long-term plumbing damages. The same is true of solar salt, which can build up in your system due to its inability to dissolve efficiently. Potassium chloride isn’t very accessible and has a higher price rate; however, it’s perfect for people with health conditions who can’t handle excess amounts of sodium.

What’s the Verdict?

Evaporated salt is usually the most efficient choice for your water softening system. While it may cost more than other options up front, it won’t harm your pipes and appliances, reducing overall repair costs.

Delmarva Water Solutions is committed to addressing all of your well water softener needs. Reach out today for expert advice on improving your household water supply.