How to Add Calcite to a Water Softener

Calcite reduces acidity in drinking water

A pH scale measures a substance's basic and acidic levels. Pure water tests neutral, which is a seven on the pH scale. When water mixes with chemicals, as it does in water softeners, the pH level might change, making the water acidic or basic. Acidic water has a pH below seven, while basic water has a pH above seven. Calcite is a calcium salt that neutralizes acid. When added to a water softener's filter tank, it will raise the pH level of the water.

Things You'll Need

• pH test strips
• Calcite
• Product manual

Instructions

1. Test the pH level of the water in the water softener holding tank with pH testing strips to determine how much calcite to add. Read the instructions on the calcite package, which will state the correct amount to add based on calcium concentration of the product and pH level of the water.

2. Locate the water softener owner's manual. Check to see if there are specific instructions on replacing media, which are substances added to water softeners. Other media types besides calcite include greensand and carbon.

3. Follow your owner's manual instructions if available. If not available, shut off the water supply, unplug the water softener and relieve water pressure in pipes by turning on and off faucets throughout the house. Completely empty the water softener tank and clean if needed.

4. Add a combination of water-softening agent, such as salt and calcite, to the fill line on the inside of the tank. The softening agent depends on the type of water softener. The amount of calcite depends on product concentration and water pH level.

5. Plug in the water softener, and turn on the water supply. Put the control valve on backwash and let the water softener run for five to 10 minutes.

6. Put the control valve back in the normal service position. Run the water through faucets throughout the house for several minutes to clear the lines and relieve air pressure.

7. Check the pH levels of the water periodically, and repeat the process as needed.

References

• Encyclopedia.com: Calcium Carbonate
• American Water Works Asociation: Water Library
• Elmhurst College: Virtual Chembook
• Kenmore Elite Water Softener Owner's Manual

Resources

• Softener Parts: How to Replace Media