Water Softener Grain Capacity Guide

Plumber upgrading a water filtration system, highlighting the role of proper water softener grain capacity in optimizing home water quality.

Choosing the right water softener grain capacity is the most cost-effective way to soften your water. This guide explains what GPG (grains per gallon) means, how to calculate your required grain capacity, and what a resin bed is.

6 Signs You Need To Replace Your Water Softener

dirty water pouring from a faucet tap in a glass,

You should consider upgrading your water softener if:
1. Your system is over 10-15 years old and losing efficiency.
2. You notice hard water symptoms like chalky residue or dry skin, even after maintenance.
3. Your softener requires frequent, costly repairs.
4. You want to save money with a more energy-efficient model.
5. You need advanced features like better regeneration cycles or programmable controls.

What is Reverse Osmosis and Do You Need It at Home?

Big Beautiful House

Reverse osmosis is a highly effective water filtration process that removes up to 99% of contaminants. This guide explains how reverse osmosis (RO) works, the benefits of installing an RO system at home, and what impurities it can eliminate. Learn everything you need to know to decide if an RO system is right for you.

Top 5 Water Softeners For Well Water

Top view of deep well without water

The best water softener for well water is a salt-based system like the Patriot 2, as it effectively removes minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause hard water. This guide reviews the top 5 water softeners to keep your well water clean and safe.

The 5 Stages of Water Softener Regeneration

A container filled with granular material, possibly salt, features a white cylindrical object partially buried within the granules, hinting at the process involved in one of The 5 Stages of Water Softener Regeneration.

The water softener regeneration process consists of five crucial stages: fill, brine, slow brine rinse, backwash, and fast rinse. Understanding these stages can help you maintain your water softener’s performance and extend its lifespan.

All 12 Pros & Cons of Salt vs. Salt Free Water Softeners 

Diagram explaining the water softening process where resin beads swap magnesium and calcium ions in untreated water with sodium ions, resulting in softened water. This method illustrates one of the key pros of salt-based water softeners in comparison to salt-free alternatives.

The main differences between salt and non-salt water softeners include their effectiveness at softening water, maintenance requirements, environmental impact, operational costs, and health considerations. This guide will help you understand these differences and decide which type of water softener is best for your needs.

Why Water in the Bottom of Your Water Softener Isn’t Always a Bad Thing

Illustration of a water softener system with a water softener brine tank and two resin tanks. One tank is labeled "Regeneration process," and the other is "Water softener tank in service," showing flow directions.

Water in the bottom of your water softener’s brine tank can be normal, especially in wet brine systems where water is necessary for dissolving salt. Understanding the role of the brine tank and how it works can help you determine when water accumulation is typical and when it might indicate a problem.

Annual Water Softener Maintenance Checklist

cup of water from a how that has performed water softener maintenance

Performing annual maintenance on your water softener prevents mineral buildup, ensures efficient operation, and extends its lifespan. Our checklist includes: a) checking salt levels, b) cleaning the brine tank, c) breaking up salt bridges, d) cleaning the resin tank, e) inspecting valves, and f) flushing the system. Regular maintenance keeps your water softener running smoothly and protects your investment.

6 Tips on How to Choose A Water Softener

a Texas families house who knew how to choose a water softener

To choose the right water softener, consider your household size, water usage, water hardness, regeneration method, salt-based vs. salt-free systems, installation, and maintenance needs.

7 Biggest Benefits Of Having A Water Softener

A home water softener unit installed indoors with pipes connected, positioned near a window, offers the myriad benefits of water softeners for your entire household.

A whole house water softener improves water quality by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium. This system extends the lifespan of appliances, enhances skin and hair health, and makes cleaning easier. Softened water prevents scale buildup, reduces maintenance costs, and provides long-term cost savings. Installing a whole house water softener is essential for better home efficiency and comfort.