The answer to 'water softener maintenance' is that regular maintenance is essential to keep your water softener working efficiently and extend its lifespan. This includes checking the salt level, cleaning the brine tank, and periodically regenerating the resin bed.
You should check the salt level in the brine tank monthly and add more salt when it gets low. The brine tank should also be cleaned every 6-12 months to remove any buildup or debris. You'll also need to regenerate the resin bed every 1-2 weeks, depending on your water usage. This process flushes out the minerals that have been collected and recharges the softener.