How Does a Water Softener Work?
Hard water is a problem affecting around 85% of the homes in the U.S. Hard water is the result of the natural water cycle in which water absorbs the mineral profile of the geological structures it interacts with. While treating water for biological threats is the purpose of water grids, amending the hardness of water is too costly on a large scale. However, when it comes to removing minerals from water entering a home, the process is much simpler, cheaper, and provides many benefits.
Water softeners are installed where water first enters the home, usually near the water heater but certainly near the main water valve. In homes with water softeners, all the water that flows through the house passes through a resin tank where minerals like calcium and magnesium are captured. Softened water then flows to all of the fixtures for use. Periodically, the resin needs to be refreshed by flushing it with brine. This process happens automatically and doesn’t result in a loss of water service in the home. This article will discuss some benefits of installing a water softener at home.
More Effective Cleaning
Cleaning tasks can be more challenging or ineffective due to hard water. This type of water is characterized by a high mineral content, primarily calcium and magnesium carbonates. Due to these elements, hard water can lead to numerous issues that impact the cleanliness and durability of different items in daily life.
Some cleaning issues from hard water include spotted glasses and dishes after washing, stained bathroom fixtures, and faded clothes from washing them in hard water. However, installing water softeners can mitigate such problems, resulting in more effective cleaning and less time spent cleaning the scale off of fixtures, longer-lasting clothes, and cleaner dishes.
Prevent Problems With the Plumbing
A severe complication of hard water that can have expensive consequences is the damage and issues that hard water can cause the plumbing. Hard water can cause mineral scale and buildup inside the piping and water heaters, where these minerals can have several adverse effects.
Over time, the minerals and scale build-up in pipes can cause low water pressure, clogs, and even speed up corrosion, leading to leaks and early replacement. Additionally, the mineral scale can significantly interfere with the energy efficiency of water heaters, raise water heating costs, and speed up the tank's corrosion, which can shorten its lifespan and lead to leaks.
However, by installing a water softener, homeowners can help prevent these issues and protect their plumbing from the effects of hard water. The piping and plumbing fixtures will last longer and experience less damage, water heaters will continue working efficiently, and spikes in energy bills can be avoided.
Prevent Dry Hair and Skin
The minerals in hard water can also cause problems for hair and skin. When these minerals combine with the soap or shampoo used daily, they form a residue that is challenging to rinse away. This residue accumulates on hair and scalps, leading to dryness, itchiness, and dullness and interfering with overall hair health. Hard water can also strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it brittle and prone to breakage.
Similarly, hard water affects the skin too. The residue left behind clogs pores and can reduce the effectiveness of moisturizers, leading to dry and irritated skin. This residue can also lead to inflammation, exacerbating skin conditions like eczema and acne. However, water softeners provide a solution for these issues. Soft water lathers better with soap and shampoo, allowing for easy rinsing and more efficient removal of dirt and residue from hair and skin, allowing for better hydration, less irritation, and more moisturized hair and skin.
About Zing Plumbing
Zing Plumbing is a local, pet-friendly plumbing company serving Tucson and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate pricing, 24-hour emergency plumbing service, and prompt arrival. Call them today for whole-home water softener installation and services in Tucson, AZ.
