Softener brine tank develops a hard crust of salt (salt bridge) and stops softening

Safety: Be careful when breaking salt bridges to avoid damaging the tank.

• Identify bridge: If the tank appears full but the water level is low and not in contact with salt, a bridge is likely present.
• Break the bridge: Use a broom handle or plastic rod to gently push down through the salt. When the bridge breaks, you will feel the salt collapse into the water below.
• Remove excess salt: Scoop out any large, solid chunks that will not dissolve easily.
• Prevent recurrence: Use high-quality pellet salt, avoid overfilling the tank, and occasionally stir the salt bed with a stick.