A water softener is an appliance designed to remove minerals from water by means of an ion-exchange process. As water flows through a bed of sodium-impregnated resin beads, mineral ions are drawn from the water to the beads. The sodium ions are added to the water. The water softener unit recharges the beads with brine or a potassium chloride solution. Some water softeners have separate tanks for the sodium resin and the brine while others have the resin tank inside the brine tank.

Full-home water softeners typically are installed right where the main water line enters the house. For economy, some systems bypass faucets and fixtures that don't need soft water, such as toilets and exterior water systems. Depending on what system you have and who owns it (you or a leasing company), your water softening system may be maintained by a service company. All you need to do to get soft water is turn on the tap—and pay the bill.

Clean the injector:
1.  Turn the water softener control to the bypass mode (so the main water line does not run through the softener). On some units, you also may need to disconnect the unit from the electrical source.

2.  Unscrew the softener injector cap and remove the screen and injector nozzle. You may need the owner's manual to determine where these components are located on your model.

3.  Remove and clean the screen with warm soapy water, then rinse in clear water. If it is damaged, replace the screen.

4.  Clean the nozzle with canned air, a small wire, or a paper clip.

5.  Reassemble and test the unit.

Flush the brine line:
1.  Turn the water softener control to the bypass mode. On some units, you also may need to disconnect the unit from the electrical source.

2.  Loosen the brine line fittings at the injector housing and salt tank with a wrench, then remove the brine line.

3.  To clear a clog, use a large syringe or a turkey baster to inject warm water into the line.