Water Softener

[Brynk]

My well water is extremely high in calcium (I haven't tested it in a few years, so I'm not sure of the amount, other than "a lot"). It's clear, odor free and tastes great. I am using a small particulate filter now that has little effect.

I'm tired of fighting the calcium battles w/ gallon after gallon of vinegar and I have been researching alternatives on Google. I need to dissolve the stuff out of my coffee maker every 3-4 days.

It seems a softener is the reasonable route for a "whole in house system", but I can't seem to find clarity on some issues.

-Many advocate leaving the drinking water free of the salt process, but I also see many state that it is a minor amount that should only be a concern to salt sensitive medical conditions.

-Potassium is an expensive alternative to salt, but other than vague references that it's also harmful, I haven't seen any specifics.

-I do realize it can be corrosive to the septic system, but over how long and will more frequent cleanings help?

[Gary Slusser]

You need to know how much hardness and iron is in the water and you should know the pH. Then start researching softeners and learn how to correctly size a softener including the SFR and capacity you need.

Softener discharge isn't corrosive to a septic system.

[David_T (MO)]

But the salt load can kill any salt sensitive trees or bushes that may be in the septic system's drainage field.

(Hi Gary!)