What is indicated if the water hardness exceeds the recommended level after the softener?

When the water hardness exceeds the recommended level after passing through the softener, this typically indicates a need for maintenance. Water softeners operate by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, effectively reducing water hardness. If the hardness level is still high after treatment, it suggests that the softener may not be functioning properly. This could be due to issues such as exhausted resin beads that need to be regenerated, mechanical failures, or problems with the regeneration process itself.

Regular maintenance ensures that the softener continues to operate effectively, so an increase in water hardness signals that intervention is required to restore the system's functionality. This could involve checking the resin, replenishing the brine solution, or repairing any mechanical components that are not performing as intended. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining water quality and operational efficiency.