Water hardness is a measure of the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in water. Hard water can cause issues such as scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reduced soap lathering, and the formation of soap scum. It can also reduce the efficiency and lifespan of water-using appliances. A water softening installation helps address these problems by reducing water hardness.

A water softener uses a process called ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium ions from the water. It contains resin beads coated with sodium ions. When water passes through the resin, the calcium and magnesium ions are exchanged for sodium ions, effectively softening the water. Periodically, the resin beads are regenerated by flushing them with a brine solution to remove the accumulated hardness minerals.

There are plenty of benefits to installing a water softener, with some of the key ones being:

• Extended lifespan of water-using appliances, such as water heaters and dishwashers.
• Improved soap and detergent effectiveness, leading to cleaner dishes, softer laundry, and less soap scum.
• Reduced scale buildup in plumbing and fixtures, which can improve water flow and water pressure.
• Potential energy savings, as appliances work more efficiently in soft water.
• Less risk of limescale flakes in your drinking water.

Water softeners don’t require a lot of maintenance, but there’s a few things you should do to keep them working their best. The most common task is refilling the brine tank with salt as needed. The frequency of this task depends on water hardness levels and the size of the unit. Additionally, some water softeners may need occasional cleaning or resin bed replacement.

Water from a properly functioning water softener is generally safe to drink. However, some people may prefer not to consume water with elevated sodium levels, as the ion exchange process adds a small amount of sodium to the water. If you have concerns about sodium intake, you can install a bypass valve to provide untreated water for drinking and cooking. It’s essential to monitor the salt level in the brine tank to make sure it remains within recommended limits to avoid excessive sodium in the softened water.

In most cases, yes! Softened water is less likely to leave mineral deposits on the skin and in pipes, which could contribute to dryness and irritation. It also allows soap and detergents to lather more easily, which can be beneficial for cleansing the skin without excessive scrubbing.

Yes. When hard water evaporates, it leaves behind mineral deposits that can create unsightly stains on surfaces like taps and shower screens. Water softeners work by reducing the concentration of these minerals in the water, eliminating the risk of them being left behind on your fixtures.