Why Do Some Water Softeners Wear Out Early? Insights from a Pentair Water Softening Company in Westmont, Illinois

Most homeowners install a water softener and then forget it’s even there. That is usually a good sign, because it means that the water softener is doing its job correctly. But just like any other appliance in your home, it still needs some attention now and then — and you might not get as much use out of the system if it doesn’t get that.

So, what causes a water softener to break down early? Below, this Pentair water softening company in Westmont, Illinois is going to explain some of the main issues that can wear out your system faster than expected.

Installation location can affect how long your system lasts.

In most homes, water softeners are installed in the garage, basement, or crawlspace. These areas don’t always have great airflow. Over time, too much moisture can cause metal parts inside the softener to corrode. In some cases, the salt in the tank can start clumping together, which makes the system work harder or not at all.

It’s important to think carefully about where your system is installed. An experienced Pentair water softening company in Westmont, Illinois can help you find the best place to install it to ensure it runs well for as long as possible.

Low-quality salt can clog the system.

Not all water softener salt is the same. Some cheaper options are mixed with fillers or impurities that don’t dissolve well. These extra materials can pile up at the bottom of the brine tank and eventually clog parts of the system.

When that happens, your softener might stop cleaning itself properly. You might not notice immediately, but the system will not soften water as effectively over time. A Pentair water softening company can help you choose a cleaner, higher-quality salt that will not cause buildup. 

Neglected maintenance can slowly undermine performance.

Water softeners are low-maintenance, but they are not maintenance-free. Even if everything looks fine from the outside, the system might not be working well inside. Over time, things like iron or other organic materials in your water can build up in the resin bed. If salt levels get too low, the softener can’t keep up.

A quick check now and then can be an easy fix. Cleaning out the tank, checking the resin, and making sure the salt is topped up takes only a few minutes, but it can add years to your system’s life. If you are not sure what to look for, a Pentair water softening company can help you.

The size of the system should match the job.

If the water softener is too small for your home, it will have to run more often just to keep up. If it is too big, it might not cycle often enough, which can lead to other problems, like stagnant water or resin that is not being cleaned properly.

The softener should match your home’s size and water usage to get the best performance. A professional Pentair water softening company in Westmont, Illinois can analyze your home’s water usage and figure out what size system fits best. They will also consider your plumbing setup and any specific water issues in your area.

Looking for a Pentair Water Softening Company in Westmont, Illinois?

A good water softener should give you clean, soft water for at least 10 to 15 years. But that depends on how it is installed and how well it is maintained. As a trusted Pentair water softening company in Westmont, Illinois, Johnson Water Conditioning can help homeowners get the most out of their systems right from the start.

If you want a softener that lasts and keeps working the way it should, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more or request your free quote.