What does Finish dishwasher salt consist of?

Dishwasher salt is essential for the proper functioning of the appliance. It replenishes sodium in the ion exchanger, thereby regenerating the resins in the dishwasher's softener. Finish brand salt is very popular among users.

Let's explore the composition of Finish salt. We'll explain why you should use this special product instead of regular table salt. We'll also explain why salt crystals are so important for your dishwasher.

How is special salt different from table salt?

Many users, unknowingly, refuse to use dishwasher salt and simply use the appliance. For a while—a month, maybe two—nothing will happen to their "home helper." The ion exchanger will continue to do its job and soften hard tap water. But what will happen to the dishwasher after that?

The resin contained in the ion exchanger will not be replenished. As a result, the substance will be completely removed, leading to damage to the softener unit. The machine will then begin to wash dishes less effectively, or will stop working altogether and display an error code.

Salt ensures the regeneration of resins in the ion exchanger, due to which the softener unit properly performs its function.

Some housewives use regular table salt instead of special salt in their dishwasher. After reading on the Finish packaging that the product is 99.99% pure salt, they simply don't want to pay extra. However, this substitution isn't equivalent.

The finish is truly 99.99% pure salt crystals, with virtually no impurities. However, table salt isn't as pure; it contains carbonates and iron. While these components are beneficial for humans, they're harmful to the dishwasher.

Another argument against table salt is that it melts very quickly. Finish, on the other hand, consists of large, poorly soluble crystals. This is designed to gradually shrink the crystals, maintaining the ion exchanger's performance. On average, 500-700 grams of special salt granules lasts for 6-7 months of dishwasher use.

Table salt, even coarsely ground, dissolves very quickly. You'll need to constantly monitor it and add more frequently. If you miss the right moment, the machine will run without any granules at all, which can lead to damage to the ion exchanger.

Therefore, it is better not to save. A special regenerating salt is much more beneficial for dishwashers; it does not contain harmful impurities and dissolves gradually, ensuring the normal operation of the ion exchanger. Table salt does not have such advantages.

How to save on dishwasher salt?

Regular table salt isn't an option for dishwashers. However, you can still save money. You don't have to buy the much-hyped Finish (although it's also considered inexpensive). You can opt for other specialized, but cheaper, products. Which brands should you consider?

• Synergetic Eco-Salt for Dishwashers. Highly purified granules improve dishwasher performance, protect internal parts from scale, and prevent limescale buildup. This 100% natural product easily removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water. Contains no dyes, fragrances, or preservatives. Safe for septic systems. A 1.5 kg package costs approximately $2.20–$2.50.
• Celesta. Dishwasher salt enhances the effectiveness of dishwashing tablets by softening water and preventing scale and limescale buildup. This product is very economical thanks to its structure and large crystals. It does not contain harmful impurities such as iron or carbonate, which can damage the ion exchanger. A two-kilogram package costs only $1.77. Choosing this brand means significant savings.
• Salty. Granulated salt protects your dishwasher from limescale deposits, improves the effectiveness of detergents, and promotes proper ion exchanger operation. A 3 kg package costs approximately $2.80–$2.90. This package will last at least a year and a half, assuming daily dishwasher use.
• Somat special dishwasher salt softens water, protects internal dishwasher components from scale, prevents streaks on dishes, extends the life of the appliance, and improves its efficiency. A 1.5 kg package costs approximately $2.60–$2.70.
• Reva Care is another brand that produces dishwasher salt. It contains no artificial colors or fragrances and is completely natural. Its formula ensures greater effectiveness and economical use. A 1.8 kg pack costs about $2.40.

The cost of special regenerating salt for dishwashers is low, so there is no need to try to replace it with other products.

Finish salt isn't exactly expensive either. A 1.5 kg pack costs $2.90–$3, while a 3 kg pack costs around $4.30. Considering that, on average, a properly configured dishwasher uses 500 grams of crystals every six months, this isn't a huge expense.

You can save money by buying the product on sale in the store or by purchasing a larger pack. It is also necessary to correctly configure the softening unit in the dishwasher – the salt consumption will depend on this. Typically, the technician, during installation, takes precautions and sets the maximum level of hardness - so the crystals "disappear" much faster.

You can determine the hardness of your tap water using special test strips. These indicators are inexpensive. If the water in your area is soft, you can reduce salt consumption by 3-4 times by adjusting your machine correctly.

How to set up a dishwasher's softener is described in the equipment's instructions. The procedure will vary for different dishwasher models. Therefore, be sure to read the user manual.

   

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