How Do Water Softeners Work?
A water softener is a device that is engineered specifically to treat hard water. How can water be hard? Water becomes hard when it dissolves certain minerals in its journey through the water cycle. These minerals become part of the water and are hard to remove on a municipal scale. They can, however, be removed on a smaller scale, like in a home, for a low cost. This is good news for the 85% of Americans with hard water in their homes.
Why is having soft water a good thing? Water is the basis for so much of modern society. While hard water is fine to drink, with the possible exception of having a bad taste, it can interfere with every other use for water. Water carrying a high mineral load can interfere with cleaning, ruin plumbing, and cause negative health effects. Here are three ways that installing a water softener can help every home.
Makes Cleaning Practices More Effective
Remember the adage, “Oil and water don’t mix.” This is a true statement that is easily illustrated in a grade-school classroom. The secret to getting oil and water to mix is chemicals known as soaps and detergents. These chemicals are special because they can interact with water, oils, and even dirt.
When minerals are present in water in the form of hardness, the ions interfere with water’s ability to interact with soaps and detergents. This leads to several problems:
- Faded clothing
- Deposited stains and soil on clothing
- Spotted dishes with no luster
- The dull sheen on cleaned surfaces
- Soap scum buildup on bathtubs and sinks
Using soft water in the home can be more effective in sweeping away dirt. Consider installing a water softener for brighter clothing, cleaner dishes, and a cleaner home in general.
Keeps the Plumbing Safe
A second problem associated with hard water is higher plumbing bills. When water carries extra minerals around, the minerals tend to deposit themselves into piping and plumbing fixtures. This leads to unsightly scale as well as problems with water pressure. This scale can be particularly harmful in water heaters, lowering efficacy and volume. Installing a water heater can protect plumbing and restore the water heater to proper operation.
Improves the Health of Hair and Skin
One of the more annoying consequences of hard water’s diminished capacity to remove soils is its effect on health. When water can’t effectively wash away soaps and soil, the grime stays on the hair and skin, leaving a dull film that adversely affects its health and appearance. This is most evident in dry hair and skin.
Instead of letting hard water take a toll on the health and appearance of the family, why not look into water softener installation? Installing a water softener can allow the water in the home to completely wash away soap residues and grime, leaving the home healthier and cleaner.
About B&L Plumbing
B&L Plumbing has the plumbing solutions every home needs. With residential and commercial water softener services, they can help every home or business get the most from their water. Call today for a plumbing service in Colorado Springs, CO.
