Frequently Asked Questions

About Automatic Brine Delivery

You have questions. We have answers.

Considering an automatic brine system? There are a lot of questions that come to mind before making this investment. We established this page to help with some of those questions. If your question isn’t answered below, feel free to Contact Us!

How long does it take to install a system?

Typically, it takes 5-10 business days to install a system. It could take longer if there are multiple softeners to connect or a long-distance of piping required. Learn more about the installation here.

Does an AUTOBrine® change the operation of the water softeners?

No. A water softener has a day tank where salt is combined with water before it is drawn into the water softener. The AUTOBrine^® connects to the existing day-tank (not the water softener) to supply brine to the water softener.

What is brine?

Brine is water saturated with salt, usually sodium chloride. It can be used in the water softening process or pre-treating process to prevent ice and snow from adhering to a sidewalk or roadway. There are many other combinations and uses as well.

Has an AUTOBrine® tank ever leaked?

No. The tanks are made from durable materials.

How often does the AUTOBrine® tank need to be cleaned?

For those customers maintaining a Salt Service Agreement, The Cope Company SALT cleans the tank at no additional charge. The frequency is based on salt usage and size of the tank; typically at 400 tons of salt used in our 1,700 gallon systems.

Is brine considered a hazardous material?

No. Sodium chloride is found naturally in the earth and oceans and is not considered hazardous.

How long has the company been installing the AUTOBrine®?

The first systems were installed in 1989, these original systems are still in operation today. The Cope Company has extensive experience installing both aboveground and belowground systems.

How does the price for loose salt compare to the price of bagged salt?

The salt price will depend on volume and location. Some customers achieve cost savings in salt, but all customers achieve cost savings in labor, safety, and environmental impact.

Will brine freeze in an above-ground tank?

Brine in thin layers will start to freeze at 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to the volume of brine in the bulk tank and movement created from drawing brine into the day tank, much colder temperatures for long periods of time would be required to have substantial brine freeze. If this is a concern for aboveground systems, a heat trace can be installed. Belowground systems do not have freeze issues.

Is the scale on your truck registered with the state?

The scale is patented and registered with the Department of Transportation. As “Legal for Trade,” it is calibrated by a third party every six months.