How to Set the Hardness for a Water Softener

A water softener can add bubbles to your bathwater.

A water softener is a beneficial home appliance in areas where the water supply has a high level of minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron. Hard water causes an ineffectiveness in the cleansers that are used for daily living, such as laundry soap, shampoo and body soaps. If your home is plagued by soap scum or if your dishwasher leaves spots on your dishes, you might need a water softener. A water test kit can help determine whether your home is in need of a softener. Some simple math helps determine the size and level at which to set the softener.

Things You'll Need

• Salt pellets
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Test the water to determine its hardness level. This can be accomplished by purchasing a water testing kit or by having a service professional test it for you.

2. Select the correct size of softener, based on the number of people in the home and approximate number of gallons of water used daily by each person. Add 20 percent to that total as a reserve water supply.

3. Multiply the daily water usage by the hardness level of the water. The hardness level is measured in grains per gallon (gpg).

4. Adjust the softener setting to match the hardness level, following the water softener's recommended guidelines.

5. Set the softener capacity from one to 99 kilograins, following the operator's manual. You might need a screwdriver to adjust the setting.

6. Add the recommended amount of salt on a weekly basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Softened water should not be used to water plants.

• Use potassium chloride as a substitute for salt if you are on a low-sodium diet.

References

• Home Cents: Water Softeners; 2007
• CAI Technologies: Selecting the Correct Size Water Softener; 2009
• Inspectapedia: Guide to Water Softener Controls & Adjustments; 2010