What Is a Water Softener?
The water from your tap contains more than just H2O. Depending on where you live and the condition of the soil in the area, you’ll find a variety of other things in your water supply, the most common of which are minerals. While minerals are a natural part of water, the higher the level of minerals, the “harder” your water. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, appliances, and more. A water softener system will work to decrease the level of minerals in your water, making it “softer” and better for your home. The system can be added to nearly any home and will run without you even knowing it, supplying your home with better water.
How Does a Water Softener Work?
Calcium and magnesium ions naturally have a positive charge. This charge is used to remove the minerals during the water softening process. A water softener has negatively charged polystyrene beads at its center, which draw in the positively charged ions and then pull them from the water as it passes through. This process effectively removes both calcium and magnesium from your water supply before it reaches your faucets and appliances, resulting in softer water that’s better for your plumbing system.
Signs You Need a Water Softener at Your Home
If you’re concerned about the quality of your water, it may be time to consider adding a water softener system to your home. Not only will softer water help to protect your plumbing system and appliances, but it also helps to protect you, as hard water can have negative effects on your skin and hair health. There are a number of signs that you need a water softening system, and it’s important to take notice of them. Identifying whether you need a softening system is the first step to bringing higher-quality water into your home. All of the following are signs that you need to get a water softener:
- You notice stains/build-up in your sinks, showers, or tubs: Because hard water contains dissolved minerals, it can leave behind stains and white residue when the water evaporates.
- There is scale buildup on your appliances: Have you noticed scaly mineral deposits on common household items, like your coffee maker, teapot, or refrigerator’s water dispenser? Hard water can leave behind a buildup in all appliances that use water.
- Your skin and hair are dry: The high level of minerals in hard water can dry out your skin and hair and even leave behind a residue, causing itching and irritation.
- Your utility bills are gradually getting higher: Because calcium and magnesium deposits in your pipes can interrupt water flow, your plumbing system may struggle to get water through. Your water heater will also have to work harder. This can cause your utility bills to rise.
- Your laundry is fading: Hard water can cause your clothes/towels to fade faster and may even cause them to feel rough and scratchy due to the extra minerals.
- You notice buildup on your glassware/spotting on your silverware: If you’ve noticed that your dishes and glassware always end up with a residue, even after washing, hard water is likely the culprit. The minerals stay on the dishes as the water evaporates.
- Your plumbing system needs frequent repairs: The buildup of mineral deposits can damage or clog your plumbing system, resulting in the need for constant repair. If you are always calling a plumber, it may be time to invest in a water softener.
Why You Need a Water Softener in Arizona
It’s no secret that Arizona has hard water. It’s a problem that cities all over the state have to deal with. Calcium and magnesium are the primary culprits that cause the hardness of the state’s water. The level of minerals in Arizona water is higher than those of other states due to the lack of rainfall. Because Arizona receives an average of fewer than 10 inches of rain every year, the surface water is not enough to meet the water supply needs of the state.
This means water for public use must come from the Colorado River or other groundwater sources, which are naturally harder than surface water sources. For reference, a water source is considered “hard” if there are more than 3.5 grains of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates per gallon. Phoenix water has an average level of 14.5, while Mesa averages 17 and Peoria 10.5. This means the water in Arizona is significantly above the standard for hard water, making a softening system a necessity to protect your family, appliances, and plumbing system.
Contact Us for More Information on Water Softeners
Are you interested in installing a water softener at your Arizona-area home? AquaZona is the team you need. We know first-hand the damage hard water can cause to your home and your life. Not only is hard water rough on your plumbing systems, but it also forces you to use more soap and other cleaning solutions to achieve the same results. Let our team help you improve your water quality and quality of life by installing a brand-new water softening system. Your plumbing system and appliances will thank you for it. Please reach out to us today for additional information.
