The brine tank is a very important component that receives little attention. How a brine tank functions has a large influence on the performance of the water softener. By examining the brine tank, one can determine the type and cost of salt that can be utilized; frequency of brine tank maintenance; potential service calls required; and the general quality of the softener.

The brine tank shell is made of plastic and is very rugged. All brine tanks have a brine draw tube (used for water refill and drawing brine out).

When air is warm/humid and relatively cool, water passes through the resin tank and condensation forms on the tank. When droplets of condensation run down the tank they eventually come in contact with the salt. The salt hardens into a crust or bridge. This hard salt sticks to the resin tank and brine tank walls. Salt below the bridge is eventually consumed during repeated regeneration. Since salt does not go down, the consumer sees no need to add any more salt. The result: hard water and a service call to diagnose the problem and break up the encrusted salt. So, it is important to keep an eye on the brine tank.

Up to 15 feet is acceptable.