Tag: softener

Why Get a Whole Home Water Softener?

Understanding Hard Water and How It Affects Your Home

Water hardness refers to the amount of minerals present in the water supply. High levels of calcium and magnesium minerals would result in extremely hard water, which, while considered safe, can cause domestic inconveniences that can result in additional expenses for homeowners. For this reason, water softener installation is beneficial. This post will discuss water softeners and the effects of hard water in a home. 

Function of a Water Softener

water softenerWater softeners exist to counteract the effects of hard water. They do this by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium that give water its hardness. There are many different ways to do this, which is why there are different types of water softeners. The most common is the salt-based water softener, also called an ion-exchange water softener. This kind of system works by swapping calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions that come from water-softener resin that is loaded with salt, allowing water softening to occur. 

For homeowners who don’t want to add salt ions to their water, salt-free systems that soften water by using a template-assisted crystallization method in place of the ion exchange method are also available to install. Other popular systems are the reverse osmosis system, which uses several semi-permeable membranes or filters to remove not just minerals but also other contaminants present in the water, and the shower-head water softener, which is specific to removing only minerals from the water that comes out of the showerhead. 

Does Your Home Have Hard Water?

These different water softening systems are game-changing for homeowners who suffer from the effects of having hard water at home, and it’s relatively easy to understand why they choose to invest in water softener installation. This is because hard water can have the following effects not just on materials and devices at home but also on the homeowners themselves. Hard water causes:

  • Spotted dishes and glasses after washing
  • Hard water stains on bathroom fixtures
  • Dull and faded clothing
  • Scale buildup in pipes, which can cause clogs and reduce water pressure
  • Scale buildup in appliances that use water, shortening their lifespan
  • Dry hair and skin 
  • Higher energy bills from inefficiency in water-using appliances

Whole House Water Softeners and Their Many Benefits

save money Thankfully, whole-home water softeners are excellent at negating the effects of hard water. Not only do homeowners come out of their showers with their skin and hair feeling hydrated instead of dry and itchy, but their clothes last longer, their dishes come out cleaner and free from spotting, their fixtures, pipes, and appliances last longer, and they save a ton of time that would have otherwise been spent cleaning scale buildup.

As a bonus, many of these benefits help homeowners save money that could have been allocated to buying new clothes or new appliances when they wear out faster. Homeowners also save money on energy bills that are reduced because appliances using water run more efficiently when there are little to no mineral deposits getting in the way.

About West Plumbing LLC

West Plumbing LLC has been serving Chandler and the surrounding areas since 2014. They offer upfront, flat-rate pricing, financing, and on-time service. Call them today for water softener services in Chandler, AZ. 

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Three Reasons to Install a Water Softener

How Does a Water Softener Help Around the Home?

A water softener is a filtration system specifically designed to remove minerals from hard water, thus transforming it into soft water. Hard water contains a high concentration of dissolved calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, which can cause a variety of issues around the home and for the people living in it. However, installing a water softener can help people avoid the issues stemming from hard water and provide many benefits. This blog post will go over some of the benefits of water softeners. 

Better Cleaning 

cleaningWater softeners play a vital role in enhancing the effectiveness of cleaning because hard water can lead to several issues that hamper the cleaning process. One common problem with hard water is spotted glasses after washing dishes. This occurs due to the reaction between the mineral content in hard water and soap, leading to the formation of soap scum. When this residue dries on glassware or cutlery, it leaves unsightly spots and streaks.

Similarly, stains and deposits on bathroom fixtures are another prime concern resulting from hard water. The excessive minerals in the water build up over time, forming stubborn, crusty deposits known as limescale. Additionally, continued use of hard water for laundry causes clothes to fade and become worn out more quickly. This is because the minerals in hard water can weaken the fabric fibers, making them less resilient and prone to damage.

Installing water softeners can alleviate these issues by eliminating or reducing the mineral content, making the water more conducive to cleaning. Softened water reacts better with soap and detergent, forming a rich lather that's much more effective at breaking down dirt, grime, and stains.

Keep the Plumbing Safe 

The minerals in hard water can also cause issues for the plumbing, fixtures, and appliances besides just deposits on the fixtures. The mineral scale can also build up within the pipes and water heaters and cause issues such as: 

  • Reduced water pressure
  • Clogs 
  • Shorter lifespan for pipes, fixtures, and appliances such as water heaters
  • Reduces energy efficiency of water heaters, leading to higher water heating costs

Water softeners help protect the plumbing and extend its lifespan by preventing these complications due to the minerals in hard water. With water softeners, homeowners can expect fewer plumbing problems and lower energy bills. 

Protect the Health of Skin and Hair 

healthWater softeners play an essential role in enhancing skin and hair health by addressing the problems caused by hard water. Hard water contains high amounts of minerals, which can have detrimental effects on skin and hair when used for bathing and showering. Water softeners can reduce the concentration of these minerals and make a significant improvement in the health and appearance of skin and hair.

One of the prevalent issues caused by hard water is dry skin and hair. The minerals in hard water create a layer on the skin and hair, preventing moisture from being absorbed. This layer of soap and minerals is difficult to rinse out, making it challenging for moisture to reach the skin and hair. As a result, skin and hair are left feeling dry, itchy, and irritated. With a water softener, everyone in the home can enjoy radiant, moisturized skin and shiny, hydrated hair while also protecting the plumbing and keeping the home clean.

About West Plumbing LLC

West Plumbing LLC was on the Best of HomeAdvisor list 3 years in a row serving Chandler, AZ, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate pricing, always on-time service, and financing. Call them today for water softener installation and services in Chandler, AZ.

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