Technically, pool salt can work in a water softener. It’s mostly sodium chloride, just like softener salt. But here’s the kicker: pool salt is usually much coarser. Think of it as the difference between fine sand and tiny rocks. Your softener might choke on those big chunks.
Most home softeners need salt pellets or small crystals. Pool salt is designed to dissolve slowly in a big chlorine generator. It’s like trying to use boulders to fill a sugar dispenser. It won’t end well.
