Salt bridge forms frequently in the brine tank, causing intermittent hard water

Safety: Wear gloves when breaking salt bridges to avoid injury from sharp salt chunks.

Steps:

• Break existing bridge: Insert a broom handle or similar tool into the salt and gently push down to break any crust. Do not use excessive force that could damage the tank.
• Adjust salt level: Keep the salt level between 1/3 and 2/3 full. Avoid filling to the top, which promotes bridging.
• Use proper salt: Switch to high-quality water softener salt pellets designed for Whirlpool or similar systems. Avoid rock salt or very fine salt.
• Improve environment: If the softener is in a damp area, consider a dehumidifier or better ventilation to reduce moisture that contributes to bridging.

Resolution: Persistent bridging despite these measures may indicate a brine tank design or placement issue. In severe cases, replacing the brine tank assembly with an updated Whirlpool Pro Series design can help.