What is Hard Water?

Hard water is a term that describes water that has a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium in it.  Hard water limescale is formed from chalky deposits of calcium carbonate. This is then left behind when the water evaporates. Here in the Northwest often you will see hard water in wells. This is why these mineral deposits build up on surfaces and appliances that are exposed to hot water. Because of the problems associated with limescale, many are eager to find a way to improve the quality of their tap water, not only for improved taste but for reduced hard water spots. The good news is that there are a number of water treatment systems on the market which can accomplish this.

How to Get Rid of Limescale and Hard Water in Your Home.

When it comes to cleaning, limescale can be difficult to deal with. It is stubborn and can be difficult to remove.  It can really dull the shine on your sinks and faucets. If you live in a hard water area, you will have seen the effects of hard water around your kitchens and bathrooms. The shower head may not seem as powerful or you may notice limescale ‘scum’ in your coffee machine. Often, a descaler is required to clean the coffee maker and shower head to reduce limescale within it. Limescale impacts our ability to visually inspect some plumbing components easily, such as the heating element in our washing machines or dishwasher. Over time this limescale will damage your appliances and you’ll need to either replace them, or get them repaired by a plumber. Both situations can be very expensive.

For many, this is incentive enough to find a long-term solution to hard water. There are ways to improve the quality of the water.  These methods include water conditioning systems, water filters or water softening devices . These all can help with water purification and water treatment and have different pros and cons to each.

What is the Difference Between Water Conditioners and Water Softeners?

The difference between a water softener and a water conditioner is in their basic design. Each filter the water differnetly. However, their end goal is essentially the same, to improve water quality. They do this by reducing limescale and other impurities in the water.

Water Softener Systems

A water softener is a device that removes minerals such as calcium and magnesium ions. It uses an ion exchange process. It does this by using salt. The harder minerals are then exchanged for sodium ions. Water is then flushed through resin beads. This traps the minerals within it, good or bad. Over time, these minerals build up and the resin bed needs to be flushed out and the salt replaced. Due to the fact a water softener works by adding salt and using a filter system, there is some maintenance and running costs associated with using this form of system. This can be quite costly, especially for those areas with very hard water. Another disadvantage to using a water softener is that the added sodium (salt) is not healthy. Many of the minerals that are removed from the drinking water are good for you.

Water Conditioning Systems

A water conditioner, is a device that is similar to a salt-free water softener.  It changes the way the minerals interact with your plumbing, central heating and household appliances without removing the good minerals. These good minerals are beneficial for your health. It is important they remain. In addition, a water conditioner does not require on-going maintenance or need expense such as salt added to it. Simply add it to your central heating system and forget about it.With water conditioners, you will be reducing limescale build-up in your home which will be saving you time on cleaning and money on appliance maintenance. You also get the health benefits from the good minerals that are contained within the water. This is why many people look for a salt-free water conditioner instead of a water softener.

When you are looking for reliable, cost-effective solutions for a water conditioning sytem or a water softener system for your home, give us a call today at (360) 953-0154 to schedule an appointment. Be sure to keep our number nearby so you can call on us when you need a professional to take care of a plumbing emergency repair day or night. We are here to help keep you and your loved ones safe, and we stand behind our work.