“What is the difference between sodium chloride and potassium chloride as a regenerant?” “Is one better than the other?” “How do I know which is right for me and my family?” To determine the answers to these questions, it would be best to first understand the role that the regenerant plays in softening your water.
Depending on the type of regenerant used, the softener’s resin bed is covered with either potassium chloride or sodium chloride. When hard water enters the softener, the hardness minerals such as calcium and magnesium undergo a process known as ion exchange. During this process, the minerals will get attracted to the resin bed while the potassium or sodium chloride ion is released into the water hence entering your household. When the resin bed is full, the minerals proceed to be flushed out.
When deciding on a regenerant, it is important to consider these five factors.
- Cost
- Softening Capabilities
- Health Concerns
- Environmental Concerns
- Bridging