What concentration range of salt is generally recommended for regenerating a cation exchange softener?

The recommended concentration range of salt for regenerating a cation exchange softener is typically around 24% to 26%. This concentration is optimal for ensuring that the resin beads within the softener are adequately regenerated. During the regeneration process, the high concentration of sodium ions from the salt solution effectively displaces the hardness ions (such as calcium and magnesium) that are held by the resin.

Using a salt concentration in this range allows for a more efficient exchange process, which maximizes the softening capacity and effectiveness of the system. Lower concentrations may not provide sufficient sodium ions for complete regeneration, which would decrease the softener's performance and may lead to issues with water quality. This makes the 24% to 26% concentration range ideal for maintaining the operational efficiency of cation exchange softeners.