Salt forms a hard crust (bridge) in the brine tank and the softener stops softening.

Safety first: No electrical hazard, but avoid lifting heavy salt if you have physical limitations.

Break the bridge:

• Open the brine tank lid and gently push a broom handle down into the salt in several places.
• If you feel a hollow space under a hard crust, carefully break up the crust so salt falls into the water below.
• Remove large chunks if necessary.

Prevent recurrence:

• Do not overfill the brine tank; keep it no more than about 2/3 full.
• Use high-purity pellet salt recommended by AO Smith.