Many homes do not currently have the right size water softener, which can result in the overuse of softener salt. A correctly sized, efficient model could reduce the amount of salt used to 300 pounds per year. By performing a few calculations, you can determine whether your home has a softener with the right capacity.
Water Usage
To determine the correct size needed, you must first know the amount of water you use on a monthly basis. The easiest way to find this information is to check your water bill. It will show you exactly how much water you use per month. If you do not have a water bill handy, you can estimate your usage with a general rule of thumb. Most households use about 75 gallons of water per person per day.
For example, a household of four uses about 300 gallons of water per day. Multiply that by 30 to determine your approximate monthly usage.
4 people in the house x 75 gallons per day x 30 days in the month =
9,000 gallons of water per month.
Water Hardness
The second thing you’ll need to know is your water hardness. Water hardness is a measure of how much calcium and magnesium is dissolved in your water. Water hardness measures as grains per U.S. gallon.
If you live in the city, you can usually find water hardness levels from your local water utility website. If you do not have city water, then you will have to test your water yourself. You may have to adjust the hardness level if there is iron present in your water.
Calculating Water Hardness with Usage
Now with your water usage and water hardness, you will have to perform some calculations. Multiply your daily water usage (in gallons) by the grains of hardness in your water to determine the amount of grains of hardness that need to be removed daily. This will determine the correct water softener capacity for your home. Use the chart below to find your water softener capacity.
Hardness Needed to be Removed: Water Softener Capacity Needed:
0-3,500 grains per day 24,000 grain capacity
3,501-4,500 grains per day 32,000 grain capacity
4,501-5,750 grains per day 40,000 grain capacity
5,751-6,850 grains per day 48,000 grain capacity
Your water softener will operate more efficiently when you use the correct size for your home. By performing these few calculations, you will be able to save money. And, if math is not your strong suit, contact the experts at Peacock Water. We can perform a free, no-obligation consultation for you.