What Do I Do With My Water Softener When I Go on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you are planning a vacation and you have a water softener system installed in your house, it is important to know what to do with it before you leave. A water softener is a valuable investment that helps to remove minerals and other impurities from your home’s water supply.

However, if left unattended for an extended period, it can cause problems. In this tutorial, we will discuss what to do with your water softener when you go on vacation.

Turn off the Water Softener System

The first step is to turn off the water softener system. This will prevent any unnecessary use of salt or regeneration during your absence. To turn off the system, locate the main control valve on the unit and turn it clockwise until it stops.

Drain the System

After turning off the system, drain any remaining water from the softener tank. This step is crucial as it prevents stagnant water from accumulating inside the tank and causing bacterial growth or corrosion.

To drain the system, locate the drain valve at the bottom of the unit and open it up. You can also run a regeneration cycle before draining to ensure that all excess water is removed from the system.

Add Salt Before Leaving

If you plan on being away for an extended period (more than two weeks), adding salt to your unit before leaving is recommended. This will ensure that there is enough salt in your brine tank when you return home.

Secure Your Water Softener Unit

Finally, secure your water softener unit by closing all valves and ensuring that everything is properly connected and tightened. You can also cover your unit with a plastic sheet or tarp to protect it from dust and other debris.

In conclusion, taking care of your water softener when going on vacation is essential to prevent any damage or unnecessary wear and tear on your system. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can ensure that your water softener is well-maintained and ready to use when you return home.