Water Softener Buying Guide – What You Should Know

In each country, there are several cities and villages where people suffer from hard water problems. Due to hard water availability in the area, people face hair, skin, and digestion-related issues.

In lower-class division, they don’t know what exactly hard water means and what the harms of using hard water are. First of all, it is important to understand the properties of hard water that make us suffer from several inconveniences and issues.

There are several water softener providers available, who manufacture the different types of water softeners for different requirements. Visiting on the website securewaters.org can help in buying a new water softener for your purpose. Calcium carbonate is known as the main cause of the leading hard water issue. Including calcium carbonate, some other culprits are involved in making water hard such as copper, aluminum, magnesium, iron, manganese, zinc and many more.

These contents affect the softness after they get heated by the water temperature. The minerals mixed with water also adhere to the surface and form as crystal. People who are using hard water for a long duration may face trouble health problems.

Generally, fewer people complain about the health issue due to hard water as they don’t want to blame their favorite taste of water. Once you become habitual of a particular water taste it becomes quite difficult to change. But they may raise the issue for the inconvenience they face in their daily life.

Hard water may damage our utensils, washing machine, water heater, plumbing fixtures, and more. The water softeners available on the market are not only to improve the quality of your drinking water. You may choose the water softener here for your further requirements also. If you prefer less footwork than check online for The 10 Best Water Softeners.

 Many times due to lack of knowledge on the water quality of the area and the different water softeners makes it hard to find the best suitable water softener.  In such condition buyers do mistakes and they repent later.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

A water softener is a device that is used to remove minerals that cause hard water, such as calcium and magnesium, from water. Hard water can cause problems like scale buildup, reduced water flow, and damage to plumbing fixtures and appliances. Here’s how a water softener works:

:: The water softener is connected to the main water supply line of a house, so that all water that enters the house is treated.

:: The water softener contains a tank filled with resin beads. These beads are made of a material called ion exchange resin, which attracts and holds onto minerals in the water.

:: When hard water flows through the resin tank, the minerals in the water, such as calcium and magnesium, are attracted to the resin beads and stick to them.

:: Once the resin beads have trapped the minerals, the water that flows out of the tank is considered “soft” water.

:: Over time, the resin beads become saturated with minerals and need to be regenerated. To do this, a brine solution (usually saltwater) is added to the tank, which causes the minerals to detach from the resin beads and wash away.

:: The brine solution and the minerals it collects are then flushed out of the tank and down the drain.

:: The resin beads are then ready to start the process again, and the water softener continues to remove minerals from the water.

Water softeners can come in different sizes and configurations, depending on the needs of the household. They can be installed at the point of entry for the whole house or at the point of use for specific appliances.

Research on the water softeners

Once you are done with the testing on the water quality and consumption, you need to start research on different water softeners. Here you will find ten most preferable water softeners. Their performance, features, benefits, positive and negative effects on water quality, suitability, cost, installation idea and more will make you friendlier about the water softeners.

A variety of water softener will make you confuse and unable to make the right buying decision. Salt-based, non-salt based, focussed or generalized, many other categories are available. If you prefer a particular brand then also you need to enquire about the size, capacity, color and more. 

It would be so easier for you not only to buy the right water softener but also to buy it on the correct value. Some very basic to very strong points associated with each water softener will guide you in your buying.

Installation and maintenance

Many males confidently think that they can install the water softener without the help of any professional person. It is possible but still, professional supervision is advised by the manufacturer side.  If you are planning for self-installation than make sure that you have a proper set of kits. In case of inappropriate tools, you may create trouble for yourself and find it very hard to install.

 A salt-based water softener needs salt to perform well. You need to know when you should to put the salt and in which quantity. This information will be provided to you by the seller at the time of purchase.

If you have done the installation by a professional then he or she will also train you on salt management in your water softener. Manage it well with the required salt quantity as it is the only source that will actually make your water softener perform.

How do I know if I have hard water?

Hard water is typically characterized by soap scum buildup, white spots on dishes and fixtures, and a noticeable decrease in the lather of soaps and shampoos. You can also have your water tested by a professional to determine its hardness level.

What size water softener do I need?

The size of your water softener will depend on the size of your household and your daily water usage. Generally, a small family of 1-2 people will need a water softener with a capacity of 20,000-30,000 grains, while a larger family of 3-5 people will need a capacity of 40,000-50,000 grains.

Can I install a water softener myself?

While it is possible to install a water softener yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure proper installation and avoid any potential damage to your plumbing or water supply.

What is the maintenance required for a water softener?

Regular maintenance of your water softener includes replenishing the salt or potassium in the brine tank, cleaning the resin tank, and checking for any leaks or malfunctions. It is recommended to schedule professional maintenance once a year.

How long do water softeners last?

Water softeners can last anywhere from 10-20 years with proper maintenance and regular cleaning.

Are there any drawbacks to using a water softener?

One potential drawback of using a water softener is that it can increase the level of sodium in your drinking water. However, there are alternative water softening systems that use potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride.

How much does a water softener cost?

The cost of a water softener can vary depending on the size and type of system you choose, as well as installation fees. Generally, a basic water softener can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500.

Make sure that you follow all the instructions and tips carefully. Apart from using water softener also try to use the water in the required quantity. The misuse of water is a big risk for our upcoming generation. There are still some places with low water levels and the surviving conditions there are so critical. So be mature and save water for happy and healthy upcoming generations.