There are three types of water softener salt: block, tablet and granular. These are all made from the same salt, sodium chloride, which is actually the same type of salt you may use to season your food! The main difference between the types of salt however is how it is compacted into the different grades. We are often asked by customers "what type of salt should I use in my water softener?", especially at the moment when tablet salt supply is not reliable. Read on to find out the answer!
The latest development in water softening salt, block salt is designed to be very dense to get the maximum length of time between refills. Block salt is used in compact, twin cylinder, non electric block salt water softeners such as the Kinetico Premier Compact and the Minimax M3. Salt blocks come in packs of two, each weighing 4kg which makes lifting and handling a very easy option and particularly suitable for softener owners who may be older or with mobility or lifting difficulties. Although on a weight for weight basis block salt is more expensive, it is used in water softeners that are usually very efficient so in many cases the total cost is similar overall. The latest Mini Curve design block salt is even smaller, lighter and more efficient but can only be used in the Minimax Innova water softener.
Tablet water softener salt is so called as it comes in a round tablet shape, roughly the size of a bottle cap. It is used in many domestic water softeners, such as the Ecowater range, as well as most commercial style softeners. Tablet salt is typically packed in 25kg bags, although 10kg bags are available at a price premium.
Granular water softener salt is generally used for older water softeners, dishwashers and also used in commercial and industrial grade softeners. Like tablet salt, granular Salt is typically packed in 25kg bags, although 10kg bags are available (again at a price premium). With the issues we have seen in the supply of 25kg tablet salt recently, we are often asked if it is ok to use granular salt instead of tablet salt in your water softener. The short answer is no as you will see problems caused by an excess of sludge in your machine. However, to get you out of a hole, although not recommended, you could get away with it as an absolute one off as essentially all salt will produce the brine solution needed.
You can purchase all types of water softener salt through our online shop as well as the specially formulated Minimax Washing Powder.
