Hard water causes more than just skin dryness. Hard water’s high calcium and magnesium levels can clog pipes and water heaters and leave a thick layer of scum on tubs, walls, and fixtures. In addition, hard water reduces the amount of lather soap can produce.
In water softener technology, calcium and magnesium are typically reduced or replaced by sodium ions. Water softener companies typically install water softener equipment in residential and commercial buildings. Such businesses may also be involved in maintaining an installed water conditioning system. When deciding which water softener company is best for you, you should consider your options.
Have the Latest Advances in Water Treatment
You should first inquire with water softener companies about the most recent advances in water treatment. If a company representative can’t tell you what makes a magnetic water conditioner different from a salt water softener, they might not be the best company to do business with. Most of the time, the best companies are the ones that know about the latest advances in softening and conditioning water technology. Water softener companies should tell you what your options are, how different pieces of equipment work, and the pros and cons of each item.
Will Be able to Perform Water Softener Maintenance
Customers should typically speak with water softener companies about any problems they have had with water softener equipment. Then, the company’s representative should be able to explain how to fix these problems and why they occurred in the first place. Professionals in this field will not only be able to explain why equipment works or does not work, but they will also be able to break down the information so that anyone can understand it.
Can Provide Yearly Operating Costs of Using Equipment
When looking for the best water softener companies, it is important to inquire about the annual operating costs of such equipment as a salt-free water softener. Investing in a high-quality water filter is usually necessary, but it is also necessary to understand the long-term costs associated with this investment. Water softener companies that are trustworthy should be able to calculate this by examining water flow and heat-load numbers.
Can Provide Written Bid
When you’ve decided on a company, request a written bid. The best groups will typically list the equipment that will be used, the length of the installation or minor construction, the labor cost, and the job’s total cost. It is usually necessary to consider both the cost of installation and operation.
Guide to Choosing the Best Water Softener for Your Home
Types of Water Softeners
You must first decide what type of water softener you require. Your household needs and personal preferences will determine the softener you choose.
Salt-Based Ion Exchange
Most people think of salt-based water softeners when they think of water softeners. To do an ion exchange, you need salt from a water softener. The minerals that make your water hard, magnesium and calcium, are exchanged for sodium ions, which eliminate the hardness.
Salt-based water softeners must undergo “regeneration” every so often to eliminate the hard minerals. Sodium will be replenished in the resin bed during this cycle. This is referred to as reverse ion exchange.
Salt-Free
Salt-free water conditioners do not soften the water. Instead, they fight limescale. Hard water minerals crystallize to prevent them from sticking to surfaces. There will still be calcium and magnesium in your water, but it will remove limescale.
Dual Tank System
Dual tank systems use two resin tanks to ensure that soft water is available at all times. While one tank regenerates, the other produces soft water. Dual tank systems are typically more expensive than single tank units.
Cost
The price of a water softener is determined by the type you select, size, brand, and features you require. A softener can cost anywhere from $350 to $3,500 or more. Installation fees can range from $300 to $1,000, and there are recurring costs for salt, water, servicing, etc. While those figures may appear high right now, a properly functioning water softener that can provide your family with soft water pays for itself in the long run.
Capacity and Flow Rate
A water softener’s capacity, or size, specifies how many grains of hardness it can remove before regenerating. Capacity ranges from 8,000 to 80,000 grains. The size determines the flow rate or how many outlets you can use simultaneously.
To determine the required capacity, you must first determine the hardness of your water and the average amount of water you use daily.
Regeneration Method
You can select a tank with either metered or time-based regeneration. Metered regeneration measures your water consumption with an electronic sensor, allowing the system to regenerate only when necessary. Time-based softeners begin the regeneration process based on a preset clock regardless of how much water you’ve used.
Warranty
A warranty is one of the most important things to look for. Check the warranty to ensure that it includes labor and parts, particularly electronics.
Local Regulations
When water softeners regenerate and discharge excess sodium, they generate a significant amount of wastewater. As a result, some municipalities have prohibited using salt-based water softeners. Before purchasing a water softener, ensure it meets state regulations and plumbing codes. If you have any questions, speak with a local plumber.
FAQs
Is it Necessary to Test the Water before Purchasing a Softener?
Yes. Before purchasing a water softener, it is critical to determine the hardness level in the water. You can request the results of a water test if the municipal water company or an independent water provider supplies your water. If the water is provided privately, however, you should test the hardness level and the presence of other impurities using home test kits or a water testing company. Check your well for mineral content, nitrates, lead, and bacteria.
A water hardness test will reveal not only the level of hardness but also the presence of chemicals and other impurities in the water. This makes sure that you select the best softener for your needs. Based on the level of impurities detected also indicates whether your water system requires water filtration.
How Long Do Water Softeners Last?
Water softeners are an excellent investment. But, just like any other appliance or device, they only last so long. At some point, they may have electrical problems, break down parts, or even cause the whole system to stop working. If you take care of your water softener, it can last for many years. Most water softeners will last between 10 and 15 years. After this period, frequent breakdowns may indicate that a replacement is needed.
The lifespan of a water softener is determined by its use and the quality of water in the home. Extremely hard water may shorten the life of your water softener. This is not to say that regular care and maintenance should be ignored.
You should look for warning signs that your water softener isn’t working properly. For example, if you notice a decrease in the amount of lather, skin irritations, or a different taste in the water, you should have it checked or replaced.
Fortunately, you can extend the life of your water softener by changing the filter, adding Regenerant when it runs out, and removing hardened salt bridges when adding salt. However, no matter how frequently you undertake maintenance, you should never overwork your water softener. This begins with choosing the best water softener for your needs.
Contact Us Today
You can schedule a home water test today to take the first step toward determining the best water softener for your needs. This will help you determine your water’s hardness and plumbing’s size. With this information, the professionals at our Copperfield Place, Texas, water softener company will determine the best softening system for your home. We will help you explore factors such as affordability, efficiency, and advanced features, allowing you to select the best model for your water and your family.
Please contact us or call us today at (832) 225-6286 for more information or to schedule a free estimate.
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