Water Softeners
A properly sized softener eliminates the scale, spotting, and soap-lathering problems that come with New Jersey's naturally hard water.
Short answer: Softeners use ion exchange (typically with salt) to swap calcium and magnesium for sodium or potassium. Size the system to your household's water use and hardness level, and maintain the salt supply and resin bed on schedule.
How they work
Hard water passes through a resin bed that exchanges calcium and magnesium ions for sodium or potassium ions. The resin periodically regenerates using a brine solution, which is why softeners need a regular salt supply.
What to consider
- Household size and water usage, which determine capacity needs
- Your water's hardness level (see Hard Water)
- Sodium-sensitive household members may prefer a potassium-chloride alternative
- Regeneration frequency and water use during regeneration cycles
Maintenance
- Check and refill salt regularly — don't let the brine tank run empty
- Clean the brine tank periodically per manufacturer guidance
- Watch for "bridging" (salt crust) that prevents proper brine formation
Common mistakes
- Undersizing a softener for household size and hardness level
- Letting the salt supply run out, which stops softening entirely
- Not considering sodium intake for household members on sodium-restricted diets
Official sources
- U.S. EPA secondary drinking-water standards
- Water Quality Association softener sizing guidance
Related
Does softened water add a lot of sodium?
Some sodium is added during ion exchange, generally more noticeable at higher hardness levels. Household members on sodium-restricted diets should discuss this with a healthcare provider or consider a potassium-chloride alternative.
This page provides general educational information and does not endorse a specific manufacturer or product claim.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11. Report a correction.