Hard water is water that holds a large number of minerals like calcium. Overly hard water can be corrosive to your plumbing and, in some instances, can cause health problems. If you are experiencing problems associated with hard water, you probably need to install a water softener. Continue reading to learn more about water softeners and how to improve your water’s hardness.
Do You Need One?
First, you need to get a water testing kit and measure your water’s hardness level. Anything above 7 grains per gallon usually indicates the need for a water softener. To determine the size of your water softener, you need to calculate how much water is used every day in your household. Multiply the people in your home by the number of gallons used per day. A good number to start with is 75 gallons per day per individual. Next, multiply the water hardness level by the total number of gallons used per day. Your water softener needs to be capable of handling this amount daily.
How They Work
A water softener is a water conditioning system Maryland that filters hard water through plastic or resin beads. The beads are charged with a negative electrical charge which pulls minerals out of your water. The softener cleans itself by flushing a mixture of salt and water through the beads and out the drain. Therefore, water softeners need to be periodically filled with salt.
Additional Features
Some features a softener can have are timers that control when to recharge the beads and demand-initiated regeneration. Both features can improve your softener’s efficiency but are more effective if you use consistent water daily.
Water softeners can reduce the amount of limescale and scum that accumulates on your drains and in your plumbing. Consult with a professional if you think you need a water softener, and get your water tested for its hardness level.
