Hard Water and Water Softeners
Most homes in the U.S. have hard water, which contains high traces of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water can create many issues in households, which is why water softeners are so important. This post will discuss water softeners, their benefits, and how homeowners can tell they have hard water.
What Is a Water Softener?
A water softener is a filtration system designed to remove excess minerals in hard water. The ion exchange process attracts calcium and magnesium through resin beads charged with sodium ions. When hard water flows through the filtration system, these beads are able to attach the mineral ions so they can be removed from the tap water.
There are a few different water softeners available. The ion exchange water softeners are some of the most popular. These are highly effective but do require periodic maintenance. Water softener salt must be refilled to work correctly throughout the year. Dual-tank water softeners are often used for larger households so that the homeowners do not need to refill the system as often. One tank serves as the water softener resin tank, and the other is filled with brine. This helps rinse and recharge resin beads for continuous softened water.
What Happens When a Household Has Hard Water?
Water hardness can cause an array of issues for the household and its residents. Hard water is known to cause dry and itchy skin and issues when cleaning by leaving behind spots and hard water stains on glasses after being washed in the dishwasher and causing clothes to fade and wear out faster from being washed in hard water.
Hard water also affects the piping, fixtures, and appliances that use water. Scale buildup can appear on fixtures and build up inside the plumbing and appliances like water heaters. When this happens, energy efficiency can suffer, causing homeowners to pay more on energy bills and can cause the plumbing and appliances to wear out faster.
Water Softener Benefits
A water softener installation can prevent uncomfortable skin conditions from forming and dry skin, as well as prevent the other issues that occur due to hard water, like spots on clean dishes and glasses, faded clothes, and scale buildup on plumbing fixtures.
Water softening also prevents unnecessary wear and tear on the plumbing and water appliances, helping them last longer without scale buildup. Additionally, water-using appliances will work more efficiently with a whole-house water softener installation, which leads to lower operating costs.
About Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling
Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling is an award-winning company that has been serving Cedar Rapids and the surrounding areas since 1986. They offer upfront pricing, tailored options, and same-day service. Call them today for water softener services in Cedar Rapids, IA.
