What is a water softener, isn’t all water soft? Well, not entirely. Here’s everything you need to know about water softeners and why you need one.
The idea of “hard” water doesn’t mean you’re dealing with ice or water “rocks.” When you have hard water, it contains higher levels of dissolved magnesium and calcium than in “soft” water.
To the touch, you might not realize you have hard water. It still flows and behaves as water should behave. However, hard water leaves behind stains and a residue despite repeated rinsing.
Hard water isn’t bad, but it can be frustrating to deal with if you don’t have a softener. What is a water softener? Keep reading to learn more!
What Are the Signs of Hard Water?
The area where you live might have a reputation for hard water. When water serves an area from the same source, it affects every home or office in the neighborhood.
You’re not alone! If you have hard water, chances are your neighbors have it, too. However, if you’re not sure if your water is hard or soft, look for a few signs:
- Water stains on fixtures or in tubs and sinks
- Spots on glassware and silverware after running the dishwasher
- Low water pressure
- Needing to rinse longer to remove soap and shampoo
Hard water can leave you feeling like you have a film on your skin without thorough rinsing. It can also be tough on your plumbing system as mineral deposits build up in the pipes.
How Does a Water Softener Help?
Installing a water softener helps remove the excess calcium and magnesium from your water. It’s a filtration system that uses a process called ion exchange to remove these minerals. The result is softer water that’s easier on your skin, your plumbing system, and your laundry and dishes!
How does it work?
Install the softener on the cold water line that is the main water supply into your house. When water flows into the house’s interior pipes, the softener filters the water.
Hard water enters the filter, then calcium and magnesium particles remain in the filter. Softer water flows out of the softener for you to use throughout your home.
You’ll feel a noticeable difference after your hard water becomes soft! You can also enjoy reduced water bills and crystal-clean dishes, and avoid repair costs to remove mineral build-up from your home’s pipes and faucets.
What Type of Softener Do I Need?
Depending on your needs, choose between salt-free versus a salt water softener. Remember that there are pros and cons to each method of removing minerals from your household water system.
A water softener that uses salt to remove magnesium and calcium can replace those contaminants with other harmful particles. A salt-free softener works to recondition the hard water as it transforms into softer water.
What Is a Water Softener? The Cure for Hard Water
If you’ve wondered “what is a water softener?” It could be the cure for your hard water issue! Invest in a softener to eliminate problems associated with hard water.
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