Water Hygiene, Legionella, and the Costly Mistake of Using Cheap Softener Salt

Why Cheap Salt Could Be a Deadly Mistake in Commercial Water Softeners

"It's just salt, right?"
That’s a question many facilities managers, procurement officers, and building operators ask when comparing suppliers. But when it comes to commercial water softeners - especially in hospitals, hotels, care homes, and large office buildings - the quality of salt used can be a matter of life and death.

The Hidden Dangers of Low-Quality Salt

Water softeners are designed to prevent scale buildup, improve system efficiency, and protect infrastructure. But they also play a quiet role in water hygiene. When poor-quality salt is used - especially salt that contains clay, dust, or insoluble impurities - it can compromise your softener in ways you may not see… until it’s too late.

These impurities accumulate in the brine tank, clog resin beds, and create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Over time, this contamination can spread through your water system, particularly if routine maintenance is delayed or water turnover is low.

And this is where it gets serious.

Legionella: A Real Risk, Not a Remote One

Legionella bacteria, which cause Legionnaires’ disease, thrive in stagnant or warm water systems — especially in buildings where temperatures fluctuate or plumbing is complex. According to HSG274 Part 3, published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), poorly maintained or contaminated water softeners pose a recognised risk when it comes to Legionella proliferation.

“The presence of debris, scale, or biofilm can support microbial growth in softeners… poor quality salt can increase the likelihood of fouling.”
(Source: HSG274 Part 3 – The control of Legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems)

Legionnaires’ disease is potentially fatal, especially in the elderly, immunocompromised, or those with underlying respiratory conditions. In commercial settings - hotels, hospitals, gyms, care homes - the duty of care is not optional. Neither is choosing the right salt.

Why High-Purity Salt Matters

High-purity salt (like our Hydrosoft® range) is designed specifically for water softeners. It dissolves cleanly, leaves no residue, and doesn't introduce foreign particles into your system.

Benefits of using premium-grade softener salt:

• ✅ Minimises bacterial growth risk

• ✅ Extends the life of softening equipment

• ✅ Reduces maintenance downtime

• ✅ Complies with HSE guidelines and duty of care responsibilities

• ✅ Avoids potential legal liabilities due to Legionella outbreaks

It’s not about fear-mongering. It’s about due diligence. Using the wrong salt could save a few pounds in the short term - but it could cost lives, lawsuits, and reputation damage in the long run.

The False Economy of "Cheap" Salt

If you're responsible for a public or commercial building, ask yourself:

• Do you know the source and purity level of your salt?

• Is your softener tank clean and free of sediment?

• Are your water safety protocols in line with HSG274?

As a supplier committed to safety, sustainability, and service, Salt Silo provides only trusted, high-purity salts from certified manufacturers. We’re not just here to sell salt - we’re here to help you protect people.

Spread the Word, Spread the Salt!

Need help choosing the right salt for your facility? Talk to us today by email or phone - because in water hygiene, cutting corners is never worth the risk.