Salt and Time: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Living in Austin, Texas, you’re no stranger to extreme weather and difficult plumbing issues. From hot summers to hard water mineral buildup, these problems can quickly become overwhelming—especially when it comes to salt and time. Every homeowner needs to know how salt and time can affect your plumbing system and water supply.

Most homeowners are accustomed to adding salt to their water heaters or dishwashers on occasion, using it to break down stubborn clog and mineral cake. But salt isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, there are a few things that every Austin resident should consider when dealing with salt and time. Here are the top five considerations:

1. Source of Salt

When it comes to salt, not all types are created equal. Traditional table salt (sometimes referred to as sodium chloride) can be effective in small doses, but it shouldn’t be used as a remedy for large-scale plumbing issues. Salt alternatives, like potassium chloride, are available and may be better suited to tackle mineral buildup and corrosion. Be sure to read the label and choose salt carefully.

2. Metering System

Salt is best added in small doses, and that’s where metering systems can come in handy. Metering systems allow you to control the amount of salt you add to your plumbing systems, ensuring that you utilize the correct amount without overcompensating.

3. Amount of Salt

Along with source and metering, the amount of salt is another critical factor. Too much salt can cause expensive damage to your plumbing system or fixtures. Too little salt may not be effective at all. Neither of these is desirable, so be sure to choose the correct dose size for your plumbing needs.

4. Salt Renewal

Salt can become saturated over time, so if you want to keep your plumbing system in top condition, it’s important to replace the salt as needed. Depending on the severity of your mineral buildup, you may need to replace your salt every few months or only after a few years.

5. Timing

Timing is key when it comes to working with salt. Adding the salt too soon can damage your plumbing system, while waiting too long can cause mineral build-up to become an even bigger issue. Again, metering systems are a great way to ensure that you are timing your salt treatments correctly.

Salt and time can be intimidating topics. When used correctly, salt can be an effective tool when it comes to restoring your plumbing system. But make sure to understand source, metering, amount, renewal, and timing, so you can make the most of your salt treatments.

Salt,

Time,

Plumbing