Like most people, you may take water for granted, and casually turn on the tap and use said water to drink, cook, or bathe in. But what if this water you are using for daily use is not fresh or healthy? What if it leaves spots on your dishes and clothes? What if it causes your hair to be dry and brittle? Chances are, you’re utilizing hard water. And here comes the use of a water softener system.
Hard water is caused by minerals such as calcium and magnesium dissolved in the water. While these minerals are not harmful, they can cause many problems when used in conjunction with soap. That’s where a water softener comes in.
What Is A Water Softener?
A water softener is a device that uses salt (sodium) or potassium chloride to exchange with calcium and magnesium in the hard water. While this may seem counterintuitive – after all, doesn’t too much salt make you too salty? The salt used has absolutely no effect on the taste of your water. The softened water will still be pure enough to drink.
What Does A Water Softener Do OR How Does A Water Softener Work?
A water softener uses an ion exchange process to reduce calcium and magnesium in the water. Water passes through a tank that contains small polystyrene beads or resin (depending on the type of system).
The minerals attach to these beads, while sodium ions pass into your drinking water. Eventually, these hard-mineral-covered beads must be flushed out of the system and replaced with fresh ones.
Depending on how much water your household uses, this may have to occur several times a year or just once every few years.
Water Softener vs. Water Softening
This is where terminology becomes important: “water softener” refers specifically to the device itself; “water softening” refers to the conversion of hard water to soft water.
How To Install A Water Softener?
Installing a water softener is never a simple process. We advise you not to do it on your own. Instead, we suggest hiring professionals to install a water softener in your home.
Our Water Softener Installation Process
- The first step is to measure the water going through the softener. This is done by measuring the area’s length, width, and height. Next, the softener will be installed and multiplying those numbers together.
- The next step is to find the water pressure in your home. This can be done by looking for the water pressure gauge on your outside faucet or calling your local water company. You will need to know the water pressure to purchase a softener compatible with your home’s needs.
- Once you have gathered this information, you can begin to plan the location for your water softener.
- Finally, you will need to run a water line from your home’s water main to where the softener will be located.
How Much Does A Water Softener Cost?
The cost of a water softener system at Lone Star Water Services varies depending on the size of the unit and the features that are included. For more information regarding the prices, please call our experts at 512-805-1220.
