If you have hard water within the home, a water softener system is a necessity. This is a specially-designed filtration system that eliminates exceptionally high concentration levels of both calcium and magnesium. When these concentrations are high, it results in what is referred to as “hard” water. These two minerals are capable of bonding to other types of metals. Over time, they harden. Eventually, this water will result in lasting and highly negative effects on every surface that it comes in contact with or goes through. In this guide, you will be introduced to the benefits associated with having a water softener installed in your home.

What Are the Dangers of Hard Water?

Hard water eventually leads to the development of limescale. This substance has a highly damaging effect on the internal-based heating systems and plumbing systems that are part of residential structures. Furthermore, hard water reduces the overall effectiveness of both soaps and various types of cleaning products. Numerous studies are being conducted regarding the health impacts of hard water on human health. It has been determined it may cause dry, itching skin. Additionally, there is small levels of evidence (to date), that the consumption of hard water could have an impact on the development of the following health conditions:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• Cancer
• Cerebrovascular Mortality
• Central Nervous System Malformations
• Dementia Development
• Diabetes
• Dermatitis
• Kidney Stones
• Reproductive Health
• Digestive Health
• Bone Mineral Density

What are the Signs of Having Hard Water in the Home?

There are several distinct signs that you have hard water flowing through your home. These include the following:

1. White Scaling Surrounding Faucets
2. Excessive Levels of Soap Scum
3. Discolored Clothing After Washing
4. Spots and/or Residue on Dishes and Glasses
5. Having to Use Large Amounts of Soap
6. Low Water Pressure
7. Gurgling Sounds in Hot Water Heater
8. Clothes Not Lasting Long
9. Odor in Water
10. Dry, Itchy Skin

How Does a Water Softener Work?

A water softener – which is often referred to as a “ion exchange unit” works by trapping minerals in resin-based beads within the trap that is part of the unit. Those minerals (the calcium and the magnesium) are exchanged with either sodium or maybe potassium. A specially-designed salt that is highly concentrated completely eliminates the minerals that makes the water hard. Then, a solution composed of chloride is created. This removes the waste created by the softener. Clean water is then filtered in and throughout the home.

What are the Benefits of a Water Softener?

A water softener system in the home results in numerous benefits. The following outlines the main benefits:

1. First, softened water is considered to be high-quality or superior water. This is especially true in terms of drinking and food preparation. It has been found that softened water aids in optimizing the aroma of food and drinks, as well as the taste!
2. Next, water softeners have been found to be highly productive in improving the overall efficiency of the water heater within the home. This is because hard water results in the accumulation of soap scum and scale-based deposits. These result in blockages that cause direct damage to the boiler in the hot water heater.
3. By having a water softener installed, your dishes and laundry comes out much cleaner than if you just used hard water. Not only does hard water leave stains and smells on your clothing and dishes, it also wears out items. Furthermore, it takes additional soap to get items clean. By using softened water, your clothes, dishes, and glasses look better, smell better, and last longer!
4. A water softener results in showers and baths that make you feel cleaner and more refreshed. First, the water is soft so it enhances the effectiveness of soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. Second, debris is eliminated from the water – which means it is not left behind on the skin. Additionally, soft water is better at hydrating the skin and getting your hair cleaner. This means that your scalp will not dry out, your hair will not tangle, it will be smooth, and will even develop a healthy shine!
5. If the water is hard in your home, it will leave streaks, stains, and debris behind. This not only means more cleaning for you, but that cleaning will result in needing more supplies and more time to get the job done. If you have a water softener, you will not have to worry about ANY of this!
6. Hard water is known for resulting in the exacerbation of various types of skin conditions. This includes eczema, acne, and psoriasis. First, it is because of the vast amount of minerals in the water. Second, it is because of all the additional soap you need to get the level of clean that you desire. If you have a water softener, you will find that you experience far fewer issues – if any – when it comes to your skin.
7. Hard water results in blockages in your plumbing, your washer, and your faucets. Repairs may prove to be exceptionally costly. If you have a water softener in place, you will find that these potential issues are completely eliminated. Best of all, all of the components of your plumbing system and your appliances will last much longer and require less maintenance throughout their lifetime!
8. If you have hard water, the iron in the heating element of the hot water tank actually attracts the calcium and magnesium in the water. This means that the element’s ability to quickly and effectively heat the water is delayed. If you have a water softener in place, the element will heat the water more quickly.
9. Water pressure in the home is negatively impacted when the water is hard. This means you will experience reduced pressure and it will take much longer for the pressure to reach ample levels. If you have a water softener, water pressure is instantaneously available.
10. Finally, a water softener will take out any odors that are present in the water. This means that you, your hair, your clothing, and your home will smell fresh and clean!

Is Soft Water Safe?

Yes, soft water is safe. Many become concerned because of the high concentration of sodium that passes through the system, but the truth of the matter is, by the time the water reaches the home that concentration is significantly less. If you are concerned about any potential health effects, you may experience, you should consult with a medical professional. However, in most instances, doctors feel that softened water is safer than hard water.

What Factors Impact the Cost of a Water Softener System?

If you want a water softener for your home, there are many factors that will have an impact on its overall cost. These include the size of the home, the severity of the hard water issue that you have, the installation fees, any features you require or want, the servicing that will be required, and your plumbing system – including the type of hot water heater you have. Generally speaking, though, these range from as little as $500 and up.

Contact Us Today

If you have an interest in obtaining a water softener for your home, contact us here at Reynolds Plumbing today. We will help you in selecting one that is perfect for your needs and handle the installation. To speak with one of our licensed, insured professionals, simply call us today.