Hard water is generally not suitable for any domestic use due to its adverse effects on our health and several appliances. Although most of us think hard water does not affect us when taken, it surely does after some time. Apart from health disasters, hard water causes a buildup in the pipes and clogging on various water-using appliances as well as faucets. Hard water also causes the formation of scum on glassware and other utensils in your kitchen. When hard water is used to wash clothes and beddings, it leaves traces behind and also consumes a lot of soap or washing detergent. To avoid all these problems, you need to soften the water.
There is an array of methods used to soften hard water. Some of these methods are effective while some are just effective for a short period. One of the most reliable and efficient methods of softening hard water is by the use of a water softener. There are many options on the market, and this makes it hard for new buyers to make a good decision. To solve your water problems, we have compiled everything you need to understand about hard water and softeners. The information below will surely help you to make the right choice whenever you want to solve this problem in your home.
When Do You Need a Softener?
The first question you need to ask yourself is when do you need to buy a water softener? The underlying rock causes the problem of hard water. When the underground water flows through underground rocks that are made up of calcium, magnesium and manganese compounds, these mineral dissolves in water. These minerals give water its hardness property. Therefore, if you live or planning to relocate to a place that is covered by such rocks, it essential to buy the softener immediately.
Understanding Hard Water
As earlier mentioned, hard water form as a result of leaching from rocks that contain minerals responsible. Therefore, hard water is water that contains a high percentage of dissolved magnesium and calcium ions. Hard water is also thought to contain iron elements. Rainwater does not bring hard water problems since it not surrounded by rocks up there in the sky. This type of water is called soft water.
How Softeners Work
A water softener gets rid of calcium and magnesium ions by the process of regeneration. The softener can condition itself by doing the regeneration when it is needed. During the process, the softener utilizes salt mixed in clear water. Regeneration is simply an ion exchange process where the Ca+ and Mg+ ions charges of polystyrene beads of the water softener.