Why do Water Softeners Regenerate?
The reasoning behind the regeneration override in water softeners with larger beds of softening resin is for two main reasons: to prevent channeling within the resin bed and to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. These critical maintenance steps ensure your water softener functions efficiently and consistently provides soft water.
To Prevent Channeling
The water softener regeneration allows for the resin to settle into a newly layered, tight bed in the tank, ensuring better cohesion. “Channeling” occurs when water flows through the resin bed in a specific path, much like ants tunneling in a colony. Water takes the path of least resistance, only the resin along this path is treating the bulk of the water, wearing it out faster than the rest of the bed. When the system resettles after each regen it ensures the bed is spread evenly to allow for better wear through the system.
Bacteria Prevention
In a system that combines softening with filtration or an all-in one water softener, carbon media comes into play by preventing biological growth. Stagnant water on a media bed can lead to dormant bacteria in the water supply taking hold. Chlorine is used to prevent these biologicals from taking hold. A fresh backwash directly onto the media bed ensures a cleaning effect, helping to protect the water supply and prevent biological buildup. For this reason, regeneration is essential not just for functionality but for maintaining water quality and safety.
Quick Tips for Optimal Water Softener Regeneration
Monitor salt levels: make sure your brine tank always has sufficient salt... we do salt delivery!
Service regularly: get your system checked every year to ensure they keep running smoothly.
Adjust for seasonal changes: due to higher water usage in the summer, your system will require more frequent regenerations.