The Water Softener Blog

"The Water Softener Blog" is your ultimate resource for everything related to home water treatment and quality water. We provide expert advice, product comparisons, reviews, and practical maintenance tips to help homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts make informed decisions about their water quality. Whether you're dealing with hard water, iron, sulfur, arsenic, lead, sediment, or city water. Our troubleshooting solutions help you choose the right water treatment system for your home and family.

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

What water softener salt should I use Part #2 - Potassium Chloride

Potassium Chloride Water Softener Salt:

A Healthier Alternative to Traditional Sodium-Based Salt

Water softeners play a vital role in improving water quality in households and industrial settings by removing hardness-causing minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Traditionally, these systems have used sodium chloride (common salt) as the regenerating agent. However, an alternative is gaining traction among health-conscious and environmentally minded consumers: potassium chloride. Though it serves the same primary function in softening water, potassium chloride differs significantly from regular sodium chloride in its composition, benefits, and considerations.

Can I Use Potassium Chloride Instead Of Salt In My Water Softener?

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What Is Potassium Chloride Water Softener Salt?

Potassium chloride (KCl) is a naturally occurring mineral compound that, like sodium chloride (NaCl), is used in water softeners to regenerate the resin beads that remove hardness minerals from water. In simple terms, both salts help flush out the calcium and magnesium ions that make water "hard," allowing the softener to function efficiently. However, potassium chloride replaces the sodium ions that are typically used in the ion exchange process with potassium ions.

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Key Differences Between Potassium Chloride and

Sodium Chloride

1. Health and Dietary Impact

One of the primary reasons consumers opt for potassium chloride over traditional salt is its health advantage, especially for those on low-sodium diets. Water softened with sodium chloride can add a small amount of sodium to the household water supply. While the amount is generally minimal, people with high blood pressure or sodium sensitivities may prefer to avoid even small increases in their sodium intake. Potassium chloride introduces potassium instead, which can be a healthier alternative for many — though individuals with kidney disease or those on potassium-restricted diets should consult a doctor before making the switch.

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2. Environmental Considerations

Potassium is a plant nutrient and is often considered more environmentally friendly than sodium. Excess sodium discharged into septic systems or the soil can lead to soil degradation and poor plant health. Potassium, on the other hand, is beneficial to plants and soil structure, making potassium chloride a greener choice for households concerned with ecological impact.

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3. Cost and Availability

One downside to potassium chloride is that it is typically much more expensive than sodium chloride — often by as much as 30% to 50%. It is also not as widely available, which can be a limiting factor for some users. However, the growing demand has led to increased availability in many hardware and home improvement stores.

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4. Softening Efficiency

Potassium chloride is about 30% less efficient than sodium chloride in regenerating the resin beads in water softeners. This means systems may need to use a quite a bit more potassium chloride to achieve the same level of softening, which can further contribute to the higher cost of use. Potassium chloride has a tendency to dissolve at different rates depending on air temperature and humidity which causes fluctuations in how much brine is developed to regenerate water softeners causing frequent ineficiency of water softener regeneration and quality of water. However, modern water softeners can often be adjusted to compensate for this difference.

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5. Corrosion and Equipment Wear

Both potassium chloride and sodium chloride are generally safe for water softening systems when used correctly. However, because potassium chloride tends to be less corrosive and produces less scale buildup, it may contribute to a longer lifespan for plumbing fixtures and appliances in the long term.

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6. Brine Tank Maintenace

Potassium Cloride tends to mush and pack at the bottom of water softener brine tanks. Quarterly brine tank cleaning is recommended to clean the mush out of the bottom of the brine to assure optimal water softener performance.

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Choosing the Right Salt for Your Needs

The decision between potassium chloride and sodium chloride should be based on individual priorities:

Choose potassium chloride if:
- You're concerned about sodium intake.
- You want a more environmentally friendly solution.
- You're willing to invest more for health and ecological benefits.
Choose sodium chloride if:

Cost and availability are your main concerns.
You don’t have health restrictions related to sodium.
You want higher softening efficiency at a lower cost and less maintenance.

Where to purchase Potassium Chloride water softener salt:
Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride

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Final Thoughts

Potassium chloride water softener salt offers a viable, health-conscious, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional sodium-based salt. While it comes with a higher price tag and slightly reduced efficiency, the benefits in terms of health and environmental impact can outweigh the drawbacks for many households. As with any home water treatment decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons in the context of your specific health needs, water usage, and budget.

I wish you Good Days, and Good Water!

"The Water Softener Blog"

Monday, June 9, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Residential Reverse Osmosis Systems: How They Work, What They Remove, and Why Your Home Needs One

Clean, safe drinking water is essential to our health, but well water and city tap water often contain contaminants that can affect taste, safety, and overall well-being. Residential reverse osmosis (RO) systems are the perfect solution for homeowners looking to provide their families with high-quality, purified drinking water. In this article, we’ll explore how reverse osmosis systems work, the filtration stages involved, the contaminants they remove, how they can improve your health, the typical cost of a residential under-sink system, and the filter maintenance required.

What is a Residential Reverse Osmosis System?

A residential reverse osmosis system is a water filtration system typically installed under the kitchen sink or in the basement. It uses advanced membrane technology to remove harmful impurities and contaminants from tap water, providing clean, great-tasting drinking water directly from a dedicated faucet.

How Does a Reverse Osmosis System Work?

Reverse osmosis works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane that traps contaminants while allowing pure water molecules to pass through. This process is powered by water pressure and is highly effective at reducing a wide range of pollutants.

Reverse Osmosis Semi-permeable Membrane

Filtration Stages of a Residential Reverse Osmosis System

Most under-sink RO systems use a multi-stage filtration process to thoroughly clean the water. A typical residential RO system includes the following stages:

1. Sediment Pre-Filter

Removes larger particles like sediment, sand, and rust that can clog the system. Typically a 5 micron sediment filter. Polyspun, Pleated, or Spiral Wound filter or one piece filter cartidge.

2. Carbon Pre-Filter

Removes chlorine, chloramines, and other chemicals that can damage the RO membrane and affect water taste and odor. Typically uses a GAC (Granular Activated Carbon), a 5 micron carbon CTO filter or a one piece filter cartidge.

3. Reverse Osmosis Membrane

The heart of the system—removes dissolved solids, heavy metals, nitrates, fluoride, arsenic, lead, and other contaminants at a microscopic level.

4. Post-Carbon Filter

Provides final polishing to improve taste and remove any residual odors. GAC in-line filter (Granular Activated carbon)

5. Optional Remineralization Stage

Some systems add essential minerals like calcium and magnesium back into the water to enhance taste and provide additional health benefits.

What Contaminants Do Reverse Osmosis Systems Remove?

Residential reverse osmosis systems can remove up to 99% of common water contaminants, including:

Lead
Arsenic
Nitrates and nitrites
Fluoride
Chromium-6
Bacteria and viruses (when paired with UV systems)
Chlorine and chloramines
Pesticides and herbicides
Pharmaceuticals
Heavy metals
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Sulfates and Sulfides
PFAS-PFOA/PFOS (forever chemicals)

VOCs (Volatile Organic Chemicals)

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Health Benefits of Drinking Reverse Osmosis Water

Switching to RO water can have several positive health impacts:

Reduces harmful contaminants: Low levels of heavy metals, chemicals, and pathogens.
Better taste and odor: Encourages increased water consumption, improving hydration.
Improved digestion and nutrient absorption: Clean water can support metabolic processes.
Safer for vulnerable groups: Beneficial for everyone including, infants, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.

What is the Typical Cost of a Residential Reverse Osmosis System?

The cost of a residential RO system generally ranges from $150 to $1200, depending on:

Brand and quality
Number of filtration stages
Extra features (like remineralization, UV sterilization, or smart monitoring)
RO systems with housings and disposeable filters (Higher maintenance. Less expensive)
RO system with replaceable cartidge filters (Easiest to change. Higher in cost)

Professional installation may add $150 to $300, although many homeowners can install systems themselves with basic plumbing skills.

Annual Maintenance: Filters That Need Replacement

To keep your RO system working efficiently, you’ll need to replace filters regularly:

Sediment Pre-Filter: Every 6 to 12 months
Carbon Pre-Filter: Every 6 to 12 months
Post-Carbon Filter: Every 6 to 12 months
RO Membrane: Every 2 to 3 years
Optional Remineralization Filter: Every 6 to 12 months
Optional UV Filtration: Every 12 months

Regular maintenance ensures high water quality and extends the life of the reverse osmosis system.

📋 Downloadable Buyer’s Checklist: Residential Reverse Osmosis System

✅ Key Factors to Consider Before Buying:

System Type:
☐ Under-Sink installation
☐ Basement installation
☐ Whole House
Number of Filtration Stages:
☐ 4-Stage (Basic)
☐ 5-Stage (Standard)
☐ 5-6 Stage (With Remineralization or UV Filter)
Contaminants Removed:
☐ Lead
☐ Arsenic
☐ Nitrates/Nitrites
☐ Fluoride/Flourine
☐ Sulfates/Sulfides
☐ Chlorine/Chloramines
☐ Pharmaceuticals
☐ Pesticides/Herbicides
Water Output Capacity:
☐ 50 GPD (Gallons per Day)
☐ 75 GPD
☐ 100+ GPD
50-75 gpd RO system water production is typical for a home reverse osmosis system
Storage Tank Size:
☐ Standard (3-4 gallons)
☐ Larger 10 plus gallon tank for high demand and to feed refrigerators, ice maker and pot fillers.
Included Features:
☐ Remineralization Filter
☐ UV Sterilization
☐ Faucet Included
☐ Leak Protection
☐ Quick-Change Filters
Ease of Installation:
☐ DIY-Friendly
☐ Requires Professional Installation
Cost Considerations:
☐ System Cost
☐ Installation Cost
☐ Replacement Filter Costs
Warranty & Support:
☐ Minimum 1-Year Warranty
☐ Good Customer Support Reviews
📥 Download Buyer’s Checklist PDF

🛠️ Downloadable Maintenance Schedule: Residential Reverse Osmosis System

Maintenance Task	Frequency	Notes
Replace Sediment Pre-Filter	Every 6 - 12 months	More frequent if water is turbid
Replace Carbon Pre-Filter	Every 6 - 12 months	Critical for membrane protection
Replace Post-Carbon Filter	Every 6 - 12 months	Maintains water taste
Replace RO Membrane	Every 2 - 3 years	Replace sooner if TDS rises
Replace Remineralization Filter	Every 6 - 12 months	Optional, if installed
Sanitize System	Annually	Prevents bacterial growth
Check for Leaks	Every 6 months	Inspect tubing and fittings
Test Water Quality (TDS)	Every 6 months	Ensures membrane efficiency

📥 Download Maintenance Schedule PDF

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🗒️ The Water Softener Blog Pro Tips:

Set calendar reminders for filter replacement and RO maintenance task.
Keep extra filters on hand for timely replacements.
Track filter changes using a log sheet for easy record-keeping.

Final Thoughts:

Investing in a residential reverse osmosis system is a smart, long-term solution for homeowners who want to ensure their drinking water is clean, safe, and great-tasting. With its ability to remove a wide spectrum of contaminants, an RO system not only improves the flavor of your water but also supports better health and peace of mind.

I wish you Good Days, and Good Water!

"The Water Softener Blog"

Monday, June 2, 2025

KDF Filtration Media - The Miracle Media for Well Water Treatment

Safe, Clean Water from Your Well—Without Chemicals

If you rely on well water, you're probably familiar with the challenges: unpleasant odors, staining from iron, and concerns about bacteria or heavy metals. KDF filtration media offers a powerful, chemical-free way to solve these problems at the source.

What Is KDF Filtration?

KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) is a high-purity copper-zinc filtration media that removes contaminants from water through a natural process called redox (oxidation-reduction). As water flows through the media, electrons are transferred between elements, changing harmful substances into harmless ones—or filtering them out entirely.

KDF is most commonly used as a pre-filter in well water systems, where it does some heavy lifting before the water reaches carbon filters, softeners, or reverse osmosis membranes.

How KDF Filtration Media Improves Well Water?

✅ Kills Bacteria

KDF media creates an environment that’s hostile to microbial growth. It disrupts bacteria, algae, and fungi without needing chemicals or UV light. This helps keep your filtration system clean and reduces the risk of contaminated water.

✅ Neutralizes Hydrogen Sulfide (Rotten Egg Smell)

If your water smells like sulfur, KDF-85 can help. It oxidizes hydrogen sulfide gas into solid sulfur, which is easily removed by filtration—leaving your water odor-free and fresh-tasting.

✅ Removes Iron

KDF oxidizes dissolved iron (Fe²⁺) into a solid form (Fe³⁺) that can be filtered out. No more rust-colored stains on sinks, tubs, or laundry.

✅ Reduces Heavy Metals

KDF targets dangerous metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. Through redox reactions and electrochemical bonding, these metals are neutralized or captured before they reach your tap.

Why Choose KDF for Your Well Water?

Chemical-Free: No chlorine, ozone, or peroxide required
Long-Lasting Media: With proper maintenance, KDF can last for years
Stops Bacteria at the Filter: Prevents biofilm and slime buildup
Boosts Performance: Protects and extends the life of carbon filters and softeners
Environmentally Friendly: Non-toxic and recyclable media

Where Is KDF Used?

KDF media is versatile and commonly used in:

Whole-house well water filtration systems
Water Softening Systems
Point-of-entry (POE) filters
Pre-treatment for reverse osmosis
Inline and shower filters

Let’s Fix Your Water—Naturally

If you're tired of bad smells, stained fixtures, or concerns about what's in your water, KDF filtration might be the perfect solution. Whether you're upgrading your current system or installing new equipment, we can help you design a filtration setup that fits your needs—and your water.

I wish you Good Days, and Good Water!

"The Water Softener Blog"

Thursday, May 29, 2025

What Water Softener Salt Should I Use Part #1

Water softeners are essential for households dealing with hard water and iron, which can damage plumbing, reduce the efficiency and lifespan of appliances, and leave residue on dishes, clothing, and plumbing fixtures. A key component in this system is water softener salt, which helps regenerate the softener's resin beads and keep the system running smoothly to provide worry free soft water.

Types of Water Softener Salt

Water softener salt comes in various forms, including pellets, crystals, blocks, and compacted flakes. Among these, Dura Cube and Hardi Cube salt—formed into small, compacted flakes—is popular due to its high efficiency in regeneration cycles and clean operation.

When shopping for water softener salt, consumers often encounter options like Morton, and Diamond Crystal Pellet Salt, Diamond Crystal Solar Salt, Dura-Cube, and Hardi-Cube. While they may appear similar, there are notable differences in quality, purity, and performance of your water treatment equipment.

Morton and Diamond Crystal Pellet Salt

What it is: Pellet salt is often less expensive and available in bulk from various manufacturers. It serves the basic purpose of softening water by regenerating the softener's ion-exchange resin.

Pros:

Lower cost
Available in big-box stores, grocery stores, and hardware stores
Available with iron removing additives

Cons:

Contains more insoluble impurities (dirt, silt, minerals)
Can lead to salt bridging (hard crusts) or mushing (sludge)
Requires more frequent maintenance and semi-annual brine tank cleaning

Morton and Diamond Crystal Pellet water softener salt is available at box stores, grocery stores, and hardware stores.

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Diamond Crystal® Solar Salt

What is solar salt: Solar salt is produced by evaporating seawater or brine from saltwater lakes using solar energy, leaving behind crystalline sodium chloride.

Pros:

Lower cost
Available in big-box stores, grocery stores, and hardware stores
Compatible with most water softeners

Cons:

Contains more insoluble residues that accumulate in the brine tank, forming sludge that may clog screens, injectors, or float valves.
Less soluble than sodium chloride, potentially leading to crusty deposits in the brine tank.
Requires more frequent maintenance and semi-annual brine tank cleaning to remove buildup.

Diamond Crystal Solar salt salt is available at box stores, grocery stores, and hardware stores.

Dura-Cube® Water Softener Salt

Manufacturer: Cargill

What sets it apart: Dura-Cube is a premium brand of water softener cube salt known for its high purity and durability. Dura Cube Water Softener Salt is only sold by Water Treatment Dealers.

Features:

Typically 99.8% pure salt
Compressed under high pressure to reduce mushing and bridging
Available in regular, red-out (with rust remover), and potassium chloride options
Less insoluble material, which means cleaner operation

Best for:

Households looking for low-maintenance softener operation
Areas with high iron content (when using Red-Out Dura-Cube)
Protecting and extending the life of appliances

Dura-Cube water softener salt is only available at Water Treatment Dealers

Hardi-Cube® Water Softener Salt

Manufacturer: Cargill (Diamond Crystal branding)

What sets it apart: Hardi-Cube salt is the same as Dura-Cube. It is branded under Diamond Crystal. Hardi-Cube name is sold by retailers and water treatment dealers. In terms of quality and target market but may offer slightly different compressions and additives depending on the brand.

Features:

High-purity salt, 99.8% pure salt
Formulated to reduce bridging and mushing
Also available with additives like rust remover

Best for:

Consumers wanting high performance and reliability
Systems that benefit from rust-removing additives
Consistent, long-term water softener operation

Hardi-Cube Water Softener salt is available from Water Treatment Dealers and Select Hardware Stores such as ACE Hardware

Summary: Key Differences

Feature Pellet Salt Solar Salt Dura-Cube Hardi-Cube

Purity	Lower (varies)	~99.6% ~99.8% ~99.8%
Additives Available	(rust remover)	No (Red-Out) (Red-Out)
Bridging/Mushing	Most likely	Less likely Less likely Less likely
Price	Cheapest	Lower Higher Higher
Maintenance Needs	High	High Low Low

Final Thoughts

While generic pellet and solar salt may be sufficient for some, investing in premium options like Dura-Cube or Hardi-Cube can offer long-term benefits. These include better water softener performance, reduced maintenance, and protection of household appliances. For those in areas with high iron or mineral content, these higher-purity options can make a noticeable difference in system efficiency, less sysem maintence, consistency of water quality and longevity of the water softening system.

Choosing the right water softener salt isn't just about price—it's about optimizing your home's water system for reliability, water quality, and performance.

Where to find Water Softener Salt Near You:

Dura-Cube Water Softener Salt

Hardi-Cube Water Softener Salt

Morton Pellets Water Softener Salt

Diamond Crystal Solar Salt

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What Water Softener Salt Should I Use Part #2

I wish you Good days, and Good water!

"The Water Softener Blog"

Saturday, June 14, 2025

1. Clack Water Softener Valves

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

2. Fleck Water Softener Valves

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

3. Autotrol Water Softener Valves

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

4. EcoWater Water Softener Valves

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

5. Culligan Water Softener Valves

Brand Identity: Dealer only

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

6. Kinetico Water Softener Valves

System Type: Non-electric, twin-tank system

Key Features:

Non-electric operation: Kinetico systems are powered by water pressure, making them unique in the industry.Twin-tank design: Provides 24/7 soft water with no downtime during regeneration.Dealer-exclusive: Only available through authorized Kinetico dealers.

Pros:

Extremely reliable, no electrical componentsContinuous soft water supplyHighly efficient with salt and water useLong lifespan (15-20+ years)

Cons:

Very high initial investmentProprietary parts and dealer-only service

Summary of Kinetico’s Place in the Market:

Best For: Homeowners seeking a completely non-electric, low-maintenance system with continuous soft water.Key Limitation: Kinetico systems are not DIY-friendly and all service must be handled through their dealer network._______________________________________________________________

7. Whirlpool/GE Water Softener Valves

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

8. Water Boss Water Softener Valves

System Type: Proprietary, budget water softening systems

Key Features:

All-in-one design: Water Boss systems combine the resin tank and brine tank into a single compact unit.Highly efficient: Uses very little salt and water compared to traditional systems.

Pros:

Space-saving designsDesigned for DIYLow initial costAvailable at big box stores and many retail hardware chains

Cons:

I wish you, Good Days and Good Water!

✅

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Can I Use Potassium Chloride Instead Of Salt In My Water Softener?

What Is Potassium Chloride Water Softener Salt?

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Key Differences Between Potassium Chloride and

Sodium Chloride

1. Health and Dietary Impact

2. Environmental Considerations

3. Cost and Availability

4. Softening Efficiency

5. Corrosion and Equipment Wear

Choosing the Right Salt for Your Needs

Final Thoughts

Monday, June 9, 2025

What is a Residential Reverse Osmosis System?

How Does a Reverse Osmosis System Work?

Filtration Stages of a Residential Reverse Osmosis System

1. Sediment Pre-Filter

2. Carbon Pre-Filter

3. Reverse Osmosis Membrane

4. Post-Carbon Filter

5. Optional Remineralization Stage

What Contaminants Do Reverse Osmosis Systems Remove?

Health Benefits of Drinking Reverse Osmosis Water

What is the Typical Cost of a Residential Reverse Osmosis System?

Annual Maintenance: Filters That Need Replacement

📋 Downloadable Buyer’s Checklist: Residential Reverse Osmosis System

✅ Key Factors to Consider Before Buying:

🛠️ Downloadable Maintenance Schedule: Residential Reverse Osmosis System

🗒️ The Water Softener Blog Pro Tips:

Final Thoughts:

Monday, June 2, 2025

Safe, Clean Water from Your Well—Without Chemicals

What Is KDF Filtration?

How KDF Filtration Media Improves Well Water?

Non-electric operation: Kinetico systems are powered by water pressure, making them unique in the industry.
Twin-tank design: Provides 24/7 soft water with no downtime during regeneration.
Dealer-exclusive: Only available through authorized Kinetico dealers.

Extremely reliable, no electrical components
Continuous soft water supply
Highly efficient with salt and water use
Long lifespan (15-20+ years)

Very high initial investment
Proprietary parts and dealer-only service

Best For: Homeowners seeking a completely non-electric, low-maintenance system with continuous soft water.
Key Limitation: Kinetico systems are not DIY-friendly and all service must be handled through their dealer network.
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All-in-one design: Water Boss systems combine the resin tank and brine tank into a single compact unit.
Highly efficient: Uses very little salt and water compared to traditional systems.

Space-saving designs
Designed for DIY
Low initial cost
Available at big box stores and many retail hardware chains