To set your water softener hardness, ensure the "hardness" setting matches the hardness level of your water supply. This means if your water hardness test indicates a level of, say, 12 GPG (grains per gallon), the hardness setting on your water softener should also be set to "12".
Here's a step-by-step breakdown to guide you:
Understanding Water Hardness
- Water hardness refers to the amount of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, present in your water.
- Hard water can cause scale buildup in pipes, appliances, and fixtures.
- A water softener removes these minerals to provide softer water.
Steps to Set Water Softener Hardness
- Test Your Water Hardness:
- Use a water hardness test kit available at most hardware stores or online.
- Alternatively, contact your local water provider for hardness information.
- Locate the Hardness Setting on your Water Softener:
- The location varies based on the model and manufacturer. Refer to your softener's user manual.
- Settings are often displayed in GPG (grains per gallon) or PPM (parts per million), where 1 GPG = ~17.1 PPM.
- Adjust the Setting:
- Use the control panel or adjustment dial to input the hardness value you measured or received.
- For instance, if your test shows 15 GPG, then set your water softener’s hardness level to 15.
- The reference states: "Make sure the “hardness” setting on your water softener is the same number as the hardness measured in your supply of water. For example, if your water hardness reading were 12 GPG, the “hardness” setting would be “12”."
Importance of Proper Setting
- An inaccurate hardness setting can affect the efficiency and effectiveness of your water softener.
- Setting the hardness level too low will cause the softener to regenerate (flush with salt) more frequently than necessary, resulting in water wastage and increased salt consumption.
- Setting the hardness level too high may not soften the water sufficiently, resulting in scale buildup and other hard water issues.
Example
| Water Hardness Test Result | Water Softener Setting |
|---|---|
| 8 GPG | 8 |
| 15 GPG | 15 |
| 22 GPG | 22 |
Key Takeaways
- Always use an accurate water hardness test.
- Set your water softener’s hardness setting to match your test results.
- Regularly retest your water to ensure the setting remains accurate.
- Consult your water softener’s manual for specific instructions, as controls may vary between models.
