FAQ's
SNOW & ICE MELT
Are any Ultraviolet Ice Melt products harmful to vegetation?
In proper quantities and if properly applied, NO.
More does not mean better. Proper application is important for safety and performance. Excessive application with any ice melter may harm vegetation. To reduce risk, apply product according to package instruction and promptly remove snow, ice and slush from walkways after achieving melting results. If the recommended application of ice melt does achieve desired melting result apply a product containing the ingredients better suited for your particular climate
Are any Ultraviolet Ice Melt products harmful to people and animals?
In proper quantities and if properly applied, NO.
Small quantities can be ingested without harm. However, if large quantities are ingested seek medical attention.
How much Ice Melt is neccessary for proper application?
Rate of application may vary due to temperature, snow depth and ice content.
Suggested application rate is 50 pounds per 900 square feet. Give product time to work!
It is also recommended to remove excess slush after product has activated.
How quickly can I expect the Ice Melt to work?
This depends on the product and the conditions but generally allow 15-30 minutes for product to achieve desired results.
Is any of the Ice Melt safe for concrete?
When applied properly, de-icing products alone will not harm air-entrained, properly cured concrete. If unsure of the quality of the concrete surface, consult a concrete professional. It is the freeze-thaw cycle that degrades concrete over time. Liquid is absorbed into the pores of the concrete and expands upon freezing. This cycle occurs any time ice is melted and a refreeze takes place. Utilizing a brine from a chloride-based ice melt product, lowers the freezing temperature, lengthening the time before refreeze occurs. Only 100% CMA (Viper 2.0) should be used on concrete less than 1 year old.
What Ice Melt should I be using?
For asphalt surfaces you may utilize an economical solar salt.
For concrete surfaces it is recommended to use a blended ice melt product containing either magnesium or calcium chloride. These blends lower the freezing temperature reducing damage to the surface by reducing the freeze-thaw cycle.
Do not use any chloride-based snow and ice melt on concrete less than one year old or concrete that was not properly finished, cured or air-entrained; spalling or flaking may occur. For new concrete use Viper 2.0
Ice melting is chemistry. It is a science. Utilize an ice melt product containing enough hygroscopic ingredient (magnesium or calcium chloride) to achieve the desired effect for the particular climate.
If metal corrosion is of great concern i.e., helipads, parking structures, runways, or bridges utilize product containing at least 20% CMA (Viper Melt).
Can I use ice melt on my roof for ice dams?
Chloride ice melt products may be corrosive to metal downspouts and other roofing components. For ice dam prevention and removal utilize Viper Roof Rolls and Viper Ice Guard Kit.
WATER SOFTENERS
Should I use salt crystals or pellets?
This again, depends on your needs and usage, as well as the type of water softener you have. Salt pellets can prevent bridging or mushing in your water softener because they are highly dissolvable in water. Pellets are recommended for all-in-one-softening units. Pellets are also recommended for heavy water.
What is the difference between soft and hard water?
Untreated water or “hard water” contains calcium and magnesium, which are referred to as “hardness minerals”. While the extra minerals in hard water can be great for your drinking water, they can do some long-term damage to your household appliances and gunk up your pipes. A water softening system replaces these hard minerals with softer ions like sodium or potassium. After this exchange takes place the product is referred to as “soft water”.
What is the difference between rock salt and solar salt?
Rock salt is mined from underground and contains more insoluble matter. Over time this material can build up in your water softener tank and cause problems. Solar Salt is harvested from salt water. Being in liquid form, unwanted solids can be filtered out as the sun and wind provide natural evaporation. This solar evaporation process produces purified salt containing far less insoluble impurities.
I added the Solar Salt to my reservoir but still have hard water?
This could be caused by several reasons. Check water softener settings and recharging times. Check for a salt bridge where salt hardens and creates an air pocket between the salt and the water in tank. Check for salt mushing where salt creates a thick sludge at the bottom of your tank. Check water level in tank. Make sure your reservoir and resin bed are free from buildup.
What are the benefits of softening my water?
Utilizing soft water in your home extends the life and efficiency of major appliances. It lessens the strain on your pipes, decreases clogs, and unsightly mineral buildup on fixtures, glassware, porcelain and shower doors. Hair, skin and fabrics washed with soft water feel softer. Whites will come out of the laundry whiter and colors brighter. Soaps and detergents are much more effective in soft water so you can use less.
How much Solar Salt do I use?
This depends on your household’s water consumption, the hardness of the water and the make and model of the equipment. The average water softener tank (10” X 44”) uses about 6-8 pounds of salt per regeneration. This totals about 45-60 pounds per month. As a guideline, the average small household uses 1 bag per month. Plan on 2-3 bags for larger households.
Is soft water safe to drink?
Short answer yes, water coming from your water softener is safe to drink and meets health and safety regulations. It still contains all of the natural minerals we need, just void of its calcium and magnesium ions. An 8 oz glass of softened water generally contains less than 12.5 milligrams of sodium. This falls under the FDA’s definition of very low sodium. However, it is always best to consult your physician if you require a low sodium diet or are using soft water to prepare infant formulas.