All salt, regardless of its source, may contain insoluble matter, which accumulates at the bottom of the brine tank and requires periodic cleaning. If pellet or rock salt is used, you should clean out your brine tank at least once a year. If solar salt is used, the brine tank will require less frequent cleaning. However, you should periodically check for salt bridging*.
For CareSoft Series Softeners:
We recommend the use of solar salt for best results. Water softeners and conditioners manufactured by WaterCare can support the use of potassium chloride (KCI) as a regenerant in lieu of sodium chloride.
For TotalCare Series Conditioners:
WARNING: Do not use salt containing mineral bed cleaners. Salts that claim any iron cleaners, rust savers, or additional cleaning agents should not be used as they can harm the Crystal-Right media. Only “plain” solar salt, rock salt or block salts should be used. Contact your dealer for more information.
At no time do we recommend the use of resin or media cleaners in the brine tank without first contacting your authorized WaterCare dealer. Some cleaners require not only proper handling but can be detrimental to the tank’s media bed.
*Salt bridging occurs when a gap is formed between the salt and the water preventing the salt from dissolving in the water and making brine. The effects of high humidity as well as the use of some brands of purified salt products may cause bridging.
A quick way to check and eliminate this problem is to press your knee against the side of the brine tank and listen for the salt to readjust inside the tank. You can also take a broom handle and make a mark about 30 inches from the end and carefully begin to probe down through the salt with the handle. If an obstruction is found before the mark on the broom handle reaches the rim of the brine tank, a bridge has probably developed. Continue probing to break up the bridge.