Does the Home Need a Water Softener Installation?

What’s Hard Water?

Hard water has a high concentration of minerals in it, namely calcium and magnesium. While hard water isn’t technically dangerous to drink or bathe in, it does have negative effects that can be prevented by installing a water softener. So, read on to learn about hard water and how a water softener could help. 

What Does a Water Softener Do?

water softenerWater softeners are appliances that turn hard water into soft water, often through a process known as ion exchange. During this process, the water softener pulls minerals like magnesium and calcium out of the water. It does this by using negatively charged water-softener resin beads. 

Since these beads are negatively charged, they attract the positively charged minerals in the water, pulling them out of the liquid as the water passes through the tank with the beads. Once this process is done, the softened water flows into the home’s plumbing fixtures and water-using appliances.  

Indications of Hard Water

There are a number of negative effects of hard water, the first of which is what the minerals in it do to hair and skin. Hard water can dry out the skin and take the luster out of hair, making it appear dull and lifeless. It does this by preventing the water from thoroughly rinsing soap or shampoo out of hair and off the body, leaving a filmy residue in place. 

Since hard water has more difficulty rinsing away soap, the same can happen on dishes. This means homes with hard water often have spots on their dishes even after being washed in the dishwasher. Likewise, clothes washed in hard water can come away with residue, making the bright colors dull and making the clothes wear out prematurely. 

Hard water also leaves behind hard water stains. This is why it’s common to see whitish rings on sinks and bathtubs and a mineral scale on fixtures. Lastly, the minerals in hard water can affect appliances that use water, like the water heater, causing premature wear and tear, thereby shortening the appliance's life. 

Why Install a Whole House Water Softener?

save money Homes with hard water can benefit from a whole-home water softener installation in several ways. Soft water, soap, shampoo, and detergent can be rinsed away fully, allowing skin to flourish and hair to retain its luster. Soft water also helps ensure that dishes come out of the dishwasher looking clean and that clothes come out of the washer without soap scum or a dull sheen to them.

Soft water will also allow appliances like the water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine to last longer. Without hard water, these appliances operate more efficiently, helping homeowners save money on energy bills. Fewer minerals in the water can also help keep the plumbing system, fixtures, and appliances healthy for longer. These are some of the reasons whole-home water softeners are beneficial for homes with hard water.

About 2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling

2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling is a family-owned and operated business serving Sacramento and the surrounding areas. They offer same-day service, financing, and a lifetime workmanship guarantee. Call them today for water softener installation and repairs in Sacramento, CA.  

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