How to Clean a Water Softener in 5 Simple Steps
Avoid salty surprises
- Clean cloth or rag
- Vacuum cleaner
- Bristle brush
- 2 buckets
- Dishwashing soap
- Iron-removing cleaner
A clean water softener will help your system run efficiently and last for years. Over time, salt buildup, mineral deposits, and residue can clog the system. The good news? Even if you're an inexperienced DIYer, you can learn how to clean your water softener on your own and have it sparkling in about an hour.
Clean the Resin Tank
Cleaning the resin tank is best completed when the salt in the water softener is low. Pour an iron-removing cleaner, which you can find at your local home improvement store, into the resin tank. Let the solution sit for at least an hour, or as long as indicated on the cleaner. Then, run a regeneration cycle to remove wastewater.
Turn Off and Drain
Disconnect the water softener from its power source. Then, open the bypass valve and drain the water in the brine tank.
Clean the Venturi Valve
Buildup on the venturi valve can block the valve's flow. Wipe down the valve with a clean cloth to remove sediment and prevent a clogged water softener.
Clean the Salt Bridges and Salt Mushing
It's common for salt bridges and salt mushing to form inside the brine tank. Remove the salt accumulation using a clean cloth or rag. For stubborn salt residue, use some hot water to loosen the salt and continue cleaning. Once it's broken up, you can use a vacuum to rid the tank of any salt.
Clean the Brine Tank
Mix together a cleaning solution of two tablespoons of dishwashing liquid and one to two gallons of water. Dip a bristle brush into the solution and scrub the inside of the tank. Rinse out the tank with clean water and ensure no suds are left behind.
Let the tank air dry and use a clean rag to remove any leftover wet spots. Reassemble the tank and refill it with clean water and salt. Connect to power and turn the water softener on.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Water Softener
Keep your water softener working efficiently by avoiding these mistakes while cleaning:
Using harsh chemicals: Use manufacturer-recommended cleaners or gentle at-home solutions to avoid damaging internal components.
Forgetting to unplug the unit: Always disconnect the power to prevent electrical hazards.
Not thoroughly cleaning the brine tank: Leaving sludge, salt bridges, or salt mushing can block water flow and prohibit performance.
Overfilling the salt tank: Too much salt can cause clumping and block the system.
Ignoring resin care: Failing to clean the resin tank can cause hard water issues.
Skipping valve checks: Dirty or clogged valves can affect regeneration cycles.
Rushing the rinse cycle: Let the system fully rinse to prevent leftover residue.
When to Clean a Water Softener
Cleaning the unit once a year is a good water softener maintenance schedule. However, the exact timing depends on your water quality and system usage. Hard water signs like soap scum buildup, stiff laundry, or a drop in water pressure might indicate it's time for a cleaning. Check the brine tank every few months for salt bridges or sludge buildup, as these can interfere with the softening process.
If your water has high iron or mineral content, you will need to clean the system more often to prevent clogging and resin damage. If your water starts tasting salty or feels slippery, that’s a sign the system may not be rinsing properly and that it’s time for a thorough clean.
DIY vs. Hiring a Water Heater Pro
Learning how to clean a water softener is a great DIY task if you’re comfortable handling basic maintenance. Cleaning the brine tank, removing salt bridges, and running a manual regeneration cycle are straightforward tasks with a little guidance from the user manual. If you’re noticing minor issues, like reduced water softness or slower cycles, giving the system a thorough clean and checking for buildup can solve the problem without needing professional help.
However, if you run into persistent problems, such as rusty water, constant error codes, or resin damage, it's time to call a local water softener repair pro. A technician can deep-clean the resin tank, replace worn parts, and troubleshoot complex mechanical or electrical issues. If your system is older or hasn’t been serviced in years, a professional inspection can catch small issues before they become costly repairs. The average water softener repair cost ranges between $165 and $975.
You can use vinegar instead of dishwashing liquid as part of your cleaning solution. However, once you finish cleaning, make sure you clean away any remaining vinegar to avoid running it through your system. Vinegar can damage the system if it's not cleaned from the brine tank well, so your safest bet is to use dishwashing liquid.
While you can use your water, including flushing the toilet or taking a shower, during regeneration, it's not recommended. Regeneration can temporarily introduce hard water into the system. For example, if you're showering during that time, you'll notice hard water. Try to regenerate the system when you and your household can go without using water.
On average, water softeners can last between 10 and 15 years, depending on usage and water quality. Regular maintenance can help the system last to the end of its lifespan. If you experience problems with your water softener, like struggling to produce soft water or needing frequent repairs, it may be time for a replacement.
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