subject: What Is Water Softener Salt? [print this page] There are actually different types of water softener salt that you might buy. The three most commonly used types are evaporated, rock and solar salts. The way your system performs is dependent on the type that you use. There is no longer one that's typically recommended over another for general usage. The variables in your situation will come in to play, such as the kind of unit you have, the hardness of your water and the availability inside your area.
Evaporated salts (also called refined salts) are a few of the purest grades available. They're ordinarily crystallized and purified from brine. This is done in a production plant similar to the type that processes table salts. Rock salts (also known as halite) are taken from underground by a mining process. There are actually different mining methods used, but essentially, the term is to blast away and then remove the mineral deposits embedded within the layers of the earth. Solar salts (or sea salts) are taken from condensers. They are large ponds of particularly concentrated seawater, that is allowed to evaporate, leaving behind the salts which are then washed and thoroughly dried. After processing, any of these could be used as water softener salt.
A consideration in choosing the right kind for your system is the solubility. Solubility is the rate in which something dissolves. In the case of a softening system, the dissolution rate will have a sizable impact on not only how well your water is treated, but also how long your system will last. Evaporated water softener salt is going to be a bit more expensive than the other choices because of the solubility. This can be the best choice for the hardest levels. Solar salts have a decent solubility and are mid-range on the pricing scale. Rock salt is going to be the least expensive of the 3 options, but take into account that it also has the least solubility, which means it could be harder on your system.
If you are unsure of the type of water softener salt you need, you might run a test at home with a total hardness testing kit. The minerals present determine the hardness. The more mineral content, such as magnesium, calcium and a number of other, the harder your water will likely be. This may be hard on your plumbing as it can cause build up and corrosion of piping. It can also be hard on surface areas since the minerals are likely to cause a film or build-up that will only be removed with harsh cleansers and a good quantity of scrubbing.
It is best to always read the manufacturer's directions for your particular unit to see what kind of water softener salt they recommend. If in doubt, you may also contact the company you originally invested in your unit from. They could be aware of the conditions pertaining to your area or environment and they can from time to time make recommendations which are not present in the unit's manual.
