You often wonder why your detergents and soaps lose effectiveness or your plumbing system is reducing its flow to appliances and taps. To understand why these things happen, you have to know about hard water. Hard water contains magnesium and calcium. These minerals affect the ability of the water to function in terms of washing and plumbing.
When soaps and detergents (used in the dishwasher or washing machine) combine with hard water, the minerals will cause soap curd. The soap deposits will then leave spots on everything you washed. In the case of your plumbing system, the minerals will be deposited resulting to build up over time. This will reduce the flow of taps and appliances.
The solution to this is water softening. Here’s information about water softening:
How does it work?
A water softener is an appliance that is installed in your water supply system. There is a mineral tank that is filled with polystyrene beads called resin or zeolite. These beads carry a negative charge. Now, remember that calcium and magnesium carry positive charges. The minerals will stick to the beads as the water passes through the tank. A brine solution will be flushed through the tank with enough volume of sodium ions. The sodium ions will be enough to remove the calcium and magnesium from the beads. Basically, this process trades the minerals (calcium and magnesium) for something else (sodium).
How long does water softener last?
Water softeners will last many years. Just you need to properly maintain its condition.
What are softening salts?
Water softeners have this separate tank that houses salt to facilitate the creation of brine solution. There are three types of salt that can be used – rock, solar and evaporated salt. Most households use rock salt because it is not water-soluble and it is cheaper compared to other types of salt. However, if you consider this, you have to know that cleaning will take up much of your time and energy because you need to do it regularly.
Is it harmful to mix different salts?
It is not harmful but you have to know that there are softeners that are created to cater a specific salt. If you use other salts, the softener may not function well. It is better to follow the manual before you put anything. The best thing to do is to empty the salt tank before putting another to avoid clogging or other related problems.
How much does it cost?
The prices may differ according to the manufacturer, type, and energy used. There are two types of water softeners – time operated and water meter-controlled. Of these two, the latter produces the softest water.
Is it safe to drink?
Softened water is generally safe to drink. It still contains minerals that you need. Sodium is added, which is safe to consume. The softened water should only contain 300 mg per liter of sodium.
If you want to know more about water softeners, click this link. You will surely find the right one with the help of experts. Do not ignore these minerals because it can affect the washing process and other things.