Slash the Salt!
A Win-Win for You and Our Treatment Plant
The Problem
Rosendale has hard water—something most of us already know. To prevent lime buildup and keep laundry clean, many households use water softeners. The issue? Most softeners rely on salt to regenerate their resin during backwash. That salt (sodium + chloride) ends up in the sanitary sewer and flows to our Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Treatment plants are designed to remove solids and break down organic waste, but chloride cannot be removed through standard processes. What comes in the “front door” leaves through the “back door.” High chloride levels in rivers can harm aquatic life and seep into groundwater. While advanced technologies like reverse osmosis can remove chloride, they are extremely costly.
Our plant has a chloride limit under its DNR permit. If levels keep rising, we risk violations and could be forced to install expensive treatment systems—leading to significant sewer rate increases.
The Solution
The most effective way to reduce chloride is to stop it at the source. A major contributor is residential water softener backwash. We’re also working with businesses and reducing road salt infiltration, but homeowners play a critical role. By simply reducing the amount of salt your softener uses, you can help prevent costly upgrades and keep sewer rates stable.
Here’s how you can help:
- Invest in Efficiency
When buying a new or replacement softener, compare models for salt efficiency. Work with your dealer to choose the most efficient option. It may cost a little more upfront, but long-term salt savings will more than pay for it.
- Calibrate Your Softener
Set your softener to the correct hardness level. Many units come from the factory set too high. Your dealer can test your water and help you adjust settings—saving money and protecting the environment.
- Check the Timer
Older softeners regenerate on a timer. If yours hasn’t been adjusted in years, you may be wasting salt. Try increasing the interval between cycles by one day and monitor water quality. If hardness returns, adjust back.
- Watch for Warning Signs
Is your softener using more salt than before? Check the brine level—it should be about one-third full. A dirty injector valve can cause excess brine and waste salt. Schedule an efficiency check with your dealer.
- Maintain Your System
Like a car, your softener needs regular maintenance to perform its best. Schedule an efficiency exam every 2–3 years to keep it running smoothly
The Bottom Line
This is a win-win for you and our treatment plant. By making small adjustments, you’ll save money on salt and help keep sewer rates from skyrocketing. Some steps you can do yourself; others may require a quick visit from your dealer.
Thank you for helping us Slash the Salt!