A water softener is a device that removes calcium and magnesium salts from hard water. It may be installed as an under-sink system or in a separate building near the point of use. It also uses ion exchange to soften the water by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions.
One of the most common signs of hard water is when your dishes are not as clean as they should be. This is because the minerals in hard water leave a film on your dishes, which makes them less effective at cleaning.
Your clothes will also be affected by hard water. They will come out of the wash looking dingy and may not smell fresh. You should also have your water pipes checked by a professional plumber to last for many years.
Another sign that you have hard water is if there are white deposits around your faucet or showerhead. You may also notice a white film on your sink, bathtub, or toilet bowl. This can happen because of mineral buildup in the pipes, leading to clogs and other problems for homeowners.
This is where the water softener comes in. It has its pros and cons, and this post will serve as a basic guide to a water softener’s benefits and drawbacks and decide whether you need one or not.
Water Softener: Pros and Cons
Both hard and soft water occurs naturally. A water softener may not be needed for those living in areas with hard water unless it exceeds 300 PPM.
Water softeners can last up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. Using a water softener has its advantages, including:
Less scalp and skin irritation
Calcium in hard water can cause skin and scalp irritation and other skin conditions. A water softener can make water gentler on your skin and scalp.
Prolongs appliances and plumbing lifespan
Hard water contains mineral deposits that can cause buildup and block your pipes and showerheads. It can result in bursts and leaks and affect the overall performance of your appliances. A water softener can extend the life of your appliances and pipes.
Save on detergent and soap
The efficacy of detergent and soap is lessened due to the minerals present in hard water. These minerals react with the sodium salts in soap which leads to the formation of soap scum and cause blocked drains. With a water softener, you can make the most out of the benefits of soap and detergent without using too much.
Cleaner cars, clothes, and glassware
Hard water tends to cause unsightly marks on surfaces. A water softener will get rid of the minerals that are causing the watermarks.
On the downside, water softeners can also be the following:
Expensive in terms of upfront and maintenance costs
Water softeners can cost as much as thousands of dollars. It will also require regular inspections and repairs, which means another added expense.
Risky for health
Some water softeners exchange minerals for sodium ions, which could harm health. Softened water can also leach away lead and copper from plumbing, which can impact the kidneys and liver when consumed.
It May not taste good, unlike hard water
Not everyone may like the taste of soft water. Hard water can also lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease. In healthy doses, calcium and magnesium can benefit your health. Unfortunately, water softeners will remove these minerals.
Planning to buy a water softener? Consider the abovementioned pros and cons to help you decide better. Make sure to get a high-quality one and hire a professional plumbing expert in Spring Hill, TN, for your plumbing issues.
