Keeping Your Water Softener Safe in Winter

When you’ve lived in Minnesota and Wisconsin as long as our team has, you’re no stranger to harsh winters and freezing cold temperatures. You also know exactly how to prepare for them. While that typically means stocking up on extra-warm jackets and plenty of ice melt, if you have a water softener in your home, you need to take a few extra precautions to keep it safe in winter.

Insulate Your Pipes & Tank

If your pipes get too cold during the winter, they can freeze, get blocked, and eventually burst, causing a lot of damage and a big mess. Wrapping your pipes in foam insulation can prevent heat from escaping the pipes and keep them from freezing.

You can also place an insulation box around your water softener tank, using either insulation sheets, blankets, or jackets specifically designed for your tank.

Let the Faucet Drip

Normally we’re against plumbing leaks, but letting your faucet drip slightly and creating a steady flow of water can prevent your pipes from freezing and protect your water softener from damage during the winter.

Get a Space Heater

If your tank is located in your garage or basement, areas that are typically not insulated and are easily affected by cold temperatures, you may want to consider placing a space heater near your water softener to prevent its contents from freezing.

But be sure to practice proper space heater safety! Keep it away from flammable items and unplug it when you’re asleep or not home .

Unplug It, Unless It’s Kinetico

If your pipes happen to freeze when you’re away, your softener could experience backflow which can result in electrical damage or flooding. If you’re going away on vacation, unplug your softener until you get back.

At Aquarius Water Conditioning, we can perform a free water analysis and install a water filtration system best suited for your home’s needs. For the best water in Minnesota and Wisconsin, give us a call at 888-741-9025.