Do we really need a water softener?

The effects of using hard water can be frustrating for some homeowners and barely noticeable for others, but they can be very expensive to manage. Hard water causes scale buildup that can clog pipes and cause water-using appliances to work less efficiently.

Also, hard water makes soap less effective, resulting in dull hair, dry skin, stiff clothes, and water stains on dishes. Fortunately, a water softener can solve the above problems and save homeowners money.

Putting it all together

Water softeners work by removing positively charged calcium and magnesium ions from the water to restore a natural chemical balance. Scale deposits will not form in the absence of calcium and magnesium. Special systems that aim to prevent scale build-up can transform calcium ions into crystals, and these cannot adhere to surfaces such as pipes.

Since these crystals are small, neutral and easy to rinse, they do not present any risk. In addition, they can recover the effectiveness of the soap. While hard water has a positive charge that reduces soapiness, soft water allows soap to dissolve naturally.

Benefits of softer water that are visible

Homeowners who have started using water softeners notice many improvements such as:

• Hair and skin become cleaner, smoother and shinier.

• Appliances that use water last longer.

• Clothes become whiter, softer and brighter.

• Washed items like cars, dishes, and tiles have fewer water spots.

• There is less soap scum on sinks, bathtubs, and appliances.

• Repair and maintenance costs become lower.

• Monthly expenses are reduced because the appliances work efficiently.

• Repair and maintenance costs for appliances and plumbing are also reduced.

Clearly, it’s critical for homeowners to decide on the right type of softener if they want to enjoy the benefits of softening water without the inconvenience.

Different types of water softeners

Homeowners planning to install a water softener have options for salt-based and salt-free water softening systems. The effects of salt-based water softeners are most obvious in terms of making a bubbly, foamy soap that gives softer skin and brighter clothes.

Salt-based softeners can prevent scale buildup more effectively. However, these softeners add sodium to the water, so they may not be suitable for people with health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. In fact, salt-based softeners have been banned in several cities due to the impact of overly salty wastewater on the environment.

Although salt-free water softeners provide the same benefits as salt-based softeners, they are healthier and more environmentally friendly. A salt-free system is maintenance-free, does not create waste products, and does not use chemicals and electricity. For this reason, its components can be replaced once every five years. On the other hand, salt-based systems need fresh salt added every month.

How to choose the right system

A salt-based water softener is suitable for water that is very high in calcium and magnesium; That’s because this type of softener is effective in treating water that has high levels of hardness. However, salt-based water systems have their drawbacks, making them unsuitable for homeowners who handle water with moderate hardness.

A salt-free system may be the best option for people with mild water hardness or high-risk family members such as children and the elderly; this will allow them to enjoy the benefits of softer water without the drawbacks.