When it comes to maintaining a whole home water softening system, using the proper type of salt is crucial for ensuring optimal performance. Kinetico water softeners, in particular, require very pure salt for proper operation. There are a few different types of salt available, but not all of them are suitable for use in a water softener.

The most common type is solar salt, created by taking salt water, allowing it to evaporate, and letting it re-crystallize. This process reduces the amount of dirt present, although some particles will still remain. While solar salt is relatively pure, if it is not of high quality it may contain impurities that can damage your water-softening system over time.

An alternative is pellet salt, which is free of debris and offers a higher level of purity. However, pellet salt contains a binder that allows the salt to hold its shape. This binder settles in the bottom of the brine tank as the salt dissolves, building up over time into a slab that interferes with the water softener’s ability to get the correct dose of brine.

To avoid these issues, choose your water softener salt carefully. The optimal salt for your Kinetico system can be purchased from Water Doctor of Washington — a high-quality, pure salt specifically designed for Kinetico water softeners. It’s also important to keep the salt tank full, as it is needed to regenerate the resin bed; failing to do so can reduce performance and even damage the resin bed.

If you live in Mason, Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Cowlitz, or Clark counties, you can sign up for our maintenance program and have high-quality, pure salt delivered right to your doorstep, so you never have to worry about running out or purchasing the wrong type. With proper maintenance and the right type of salt, your Kinetico water softening system will provide you with soft and clean water for years to come.