Most modern softeners have a little light or a beep. If yours is old-school, just look inside the brine tank. If the salt level is below the water line, or if you see a thick sludge at the bottom, you’re probably due for a refill.
Another giveaway? Your water tastes a bit mineral-y again, or your dishes start feeling filmy. That’s the water screaming, “Feed me, Seymour!”
Don’t panic if you let it run dry for a day or two. It’s not like forgetting to feed the cat. You just need to add salt and run a manual regeneration cycle.
The “summer vs. winter” factor
Here’s a fun twist: salt can last longer in winter if you live where it’s cold. Why? Because water usage often drops when kids are in school and you’re not watering the lawn.
Summer, though? Bring on the sprinklers, the extra showers, and the constant laundry from muddy camp clothes. Your salt will vanish faster than ice cream on a hot day.
It’s worth keeping an extra bag in the garage during July. Trust me on this one.
