The short answer
Keep the salt above the water in the brine tank, refill before it runs out, and use the type your maker recommends.
Steps
- Check the level: salt should stay above the water.
- Break any crust before adding salt.
- Pour bags in gently; don't overfill in humid spaces.
- Note the date so you can learn your usage.
How often
It depends on your hardness and household; the salt calculator estimates pounds a week.
Which salt
Pellets: Morton 1499 25 lb Softener Salt Pellets, Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft Softener Salt Pellets. Solar crystals: Snow Shield 50 lb Solar Salt Crystals.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
How full should a water softener salt tank be?
Above the water line and typically half to two-thirds full; overfilling in humid spaces encourages bridges.
How often do I add salt?
Typically every few weeks; it depends on your hardness and household.