Debunking Misconceptions About Water Softeners
If you are having trouble with a high amount of dissolved minerals in your tap water, you may be thinking about having a softener installed. However, you may be hesitating because you've heard some negative aspects regarding this equipment. You'll be glad to know that there are several misconceptions about this type of water treatment that can be dispelled with correct information. Softeners are very effective and easy to maintain.
Flavor
You may worry that softened water will taste like salt because salt tablets are used in the softening process. Dissolved minerals are trapped in resin beads whenever tap water runs. During recharging of the resin bead tank, saltwater from another tank flushes hard minerals away. Those minerals are replaced with sodium.
When tap water flows through the bead tank after recharging, a tiny bit of salt is added to the water because sodium ions are released when hard mineral ions are caught. However, the amount is so minuscule that it cannot be tasted.
Many people do notice a slightly different, silkier texture of the liquid when they drink it. That texture is evident during bathing, as well. It leaves hair softer and skin feeling smoother.
Ongoing Expense
As with any appliance, there is an initial cost for the machine and the installation. Afterward, however, the cost of using the equipment is relatively low. A small amount of electricity is required for recharging. Bags of salt pellets are very cheap and do not need to be added often.
About half a bathtub's worth of water runs through the system during a resin bead flush. This regeneration process usually takes place once or twice a week, depending on how much water the household uses.
Also, you will save money on other routine expenses. Soft water requires less detergent, soap, and shampoo for cleaning. The greater suds level will be noticed immediately. That saves money on bathing, washing laundry, and washing dishes in the sink.
Maintenance
Normally, the only maintenance the equipment needs is the addition of salt pellets. Someone in the home can peek into the salt tank every now and then to gauge how high the pellet level is. Bags of pellets are available at many types of stores, including big box, home improvement, hardware, and grocery stores.
What to Do Next
This information may have eased your mind about this purchase. You can have your water tested for free and get estimates from companies that sell and install softeners and other treatment systems. Representatives are ready to answer any questions you have.
To learn more, contact a company that offers water treatment services.
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