Sizing a water softener involves calculating your daily softening needs based on household water usage and water hardness levels.
To determine the correct size for a water softener, you'll need to follow these steps, primarily focusing on two factors: how much water your household uses and how hard your water is.
Calculating Daily Water Usage
First, estimate the amount of water your household uses each day.
- Average Daily Consumption: The average person uses about 80 gallons of water per day.
- Household Calculation: Multiply the number of people in your home by 80 gallons to find your total daily water consumption.
- Example: A family of four would use approximately 4 * 80 = 320 gallons per day.
Determining Water Hardness
Next, determine the hardness of your water, which is measured in grains per gallon (GPG). This information is usually available from your local water utility company or through a water test.
Calculating Grains to Remove Per Day
Now, multiply your total daily water consumption by the grains of hardness in your water. This gives you the number of grains your water softener needs to remove daily.
- Formula: (Number of people Average gallons per person per day) Water hardness (GPG)
- Example: For a family of four, using 320 gallons per day, with 10 GPG hardness, the calculation is: 320 gallons * 10 GPG = 3200 grains to remove per day.
Matching Your Needs to Softener Capacity
Water softener capacity is measured in grains, typically ranging from 16,000 to 80,000 grains. You'll need to select a softener that can handle the daily grain removal and also operate efficiently between regeneration cycles. Here's how:
- Consider Regeneration Frequency: A softener sized to regenerate every two or three days offers a good balance between efficiency and salt usage.
- Salt Efficiency: A softener too small will regenerate more often, using more salt and water. A unit too large might not regenerate as frequently, which can lead to inefficient operation, and potentially, lower salt efficiency and allow for bacteria buildup.
Water Softener Sizing Table Example
| Household Size | Water Use (Gallons/day) | Water Hardness (GPG) | Grains to Remove/Day | Recommended Softener Size (Grains) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 160 | 10 | 1600 | 16,000 - 32,000 |
| 4 | 320 | 10 | 3200 | 32,000 - 48,000 |
| 6 | 480 | 10 | 4800 | 48,000 - 64,000 |
Note: These softener sizes are approximate and may vary depending on the specific model and features. For the best sizing recommendation, consult a professional.
By following these steps and calculating your specific needs, you can accurately size a water softener for your home. Remember that these calculations are based on average consumption. If your household has unusually high or low water usage, you'll need to adjust your calculations accordingly.
