05 Jun. 25

Is Your Water Softener Summer-Ready? A Quick Maintenance Checklist

Summer in San Antonio means high heat, increased water usage, and greater stress on your home’s plumbing and appliances. If you rely on a water softener to protect your pipes and keep your water comfortable, now is the perfect time to give it a quick check-up.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step maintenance checklist to ensure your water softener is running smoothly throughout the hottest months of the year.

 

✅ 1. Check Your Salt Levels

Salt is the key to your softener’s regeneration process.

  • What to do: Open the brine tank and make sure the salt is at least half full. If it’s low, top it off with the recommended salt type for your system—typically solar salt crystals or pellets. 
  • Tip: Break up any salt bridges that may have formed due to humidity or compacted salt, which can prevent the system from regenerating properly. 

 

✅ 2. Clean the Brine Tank (If Needed)

Over time, sludge and build-up can reduce your softener’s efficiency.

  • What to do: If you notice brown residue or your softener isn’t performing well, it might be time to clean the tank. 
  • How: Disconnect the system, empty the old salt, rinse the tank with soapy water, and flush thoroughly before refilling it with fresh salt. 

 

✅ 3. Inspect for Leaks or Salt Buildup

San Antonio’s hot, dry weather can worsen minor issues over time.

  • What to do: Look for visible signs of wear on hoses, fittings, and valves. Check around the base of the unit for any water pooling or crusty white salt deposits. 

 

✅ 4. Test the Water Hardness

Ensure your system is actually softening water effectively.

  • What to do: Use a water hardness test kit (available online or in local stores) to measure your home’s water. If the results show hard water, your softener may need a service check or adjustment. 

 

✅ 5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up (Optional but Recommended)

Annual professional maintenance can extend the life of your system.

  • Why: A pro can flush the resin bed, adjust settings, and inspect internal components you might miss. 
  • When: June is a great time—right before peak summer usage. 

 

Bonus Tip: Set a Calendar Reminder

Mark your calendar for monthly salt checks throughout the summer. Increased water use (lawn watering, showers, etc.) means your softener works harder and uses more salt.

 

Final Thoughts

Don’t let hard water issues creep up during the peak of summer. A quick 15-minute maintenance check can help you avoid costly repairs, protect your appliances, and ensure your family enjoys clean, soft water all season long.

Need help with your system or ready to schedule a summer check-up? Contact Simple Water Softeners today at (210) 960-2555 or visit simplewatersofteners.com to book your service.