Water Softeners contain an ion
exchange resin that exchanges sodium ions (Na+) for calcium (Ca++) and
Magnesium (Mg++) ions. When the sodium is depleted, the resin needs
to regenerated. This is done by backflushing the resin with a concentrated
salt (sodium chloride) solution. Sodium ions displace the calcium
and magnesium ions, which are washed down the drain, and the resin is ready
for another softening cycle.
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