Do you have frequent problems with clogged pipes or unsightly limescale buildup or feel your dish and clothes detergent or bath and shower products aren’t really getting the job done? If so, your home may have a hard water problem. Hard water is characterized by high levels of magnesium and calcium. These minerals can be damaging to your home and may cause other issues.
Here are the benefits of a water softener system and what you need to know to choose the right one for your home.
Benefits of a Water Softener System
There are numerous benefits to water softener systems in the home. They include:
- Reduce or eliminate limescale buildup. The chalky buildup that can occur on faucets and shower walls is due to the calcium and magnesium in hard water and can be made worse by low water pressure that is the result of mineral clogs.
- Longer-lasting clothing. When clothes are washed in hard water, they can fade and begin to feel scratchy. You will also need to use more detergent to keep them clean.
- Reduce spotted and fragile glassware. Hard water can cause spots and buildup on glassware as well as weaken the surface of the glasses, making them easier to break.
- Reduce utility bills. Hard water can cause buildup in your pipes, leading to low water pressure and damage. This can increase your water bills as you’ll need to pull excessive water into your home just to achieve adequate water pressure.
- Improve your skin and hair. The minerals in hard water make it difficult to properly wash off soap, shampoos, and other products. This can lead to brittle or damaged hair and dry, irritated, or rough skin.
Types of Water Softener Systems
Generally speaking, there are three kinds of water softener systems to choose from: salt-free water softeners, ion exchange water softeners, and dual-tank water softeners. An ion exchange softener works by exchanging electrically charged particles, usually substituting sodium for magnesium and calcium. Dual-tank water softeners use the ion exchange model but contain two tanks so that one is always available for use while the other recharges. Salt-free softeners condition the water by using potassium chloride rather than salt. While this does not reduce hard minerals, it does prevent them from building up in appliances and pipes.
How to Determine the Best Softener for Your Home
To determine the type of water softener you need, you should evaluate the quality of water in your specific area. Buying a softener that tailors its products to the area’s specific water composition will increase its effectiveness.
You will also want to consider the size of softener you need. A quick way to figure this out is to add up the average number of gallons of water your household uses per day, then multiply this number by the hardness level of your water (you can have an expert do this for you or get an at-home test kit).
The Best Water Softener for Your Needs
To choose the best water softener for your home, reach out to a company that specializes in softeners in your geographic area. You can visit with a representative to tell them about your needs and how much water you use on a regular basis to ensure you make the right choice.