Is Rock Salt The Same As Water Softener Salt?
Don't grab just any bag of salt for your softener. Learn the difference between rock salt and proper water softener salt.
Not All Salt is Created Equal
When you're at the hardware store, you might see bags of rock salt (often used for melting ice) sitting near the water softener salt. Can you use them interchangeably? Absolutely not.
The Problem with Rock Salt
Rock salt is mined directly from the earth and contains a high level of water-insoluble matter and impurities. If you put rock salt in your water softener, this dirt and debris will accumulate in the brine tank, creating a muddy sludge that will eventually clog the system and damage the control valve.
What to Use Instead
Always use high-purity salt specifically designed for water softeners, such as evaporated salt pellets or solar salt crystals. These are highly refined and will keep your system running cleanly.
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