Frequently Asked Questions - Water Softeners
- What is Water Softening?
Water softening is the process of removing excess minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, that cause water hardness.
- Advantages of home water softening?
• Helps prevent mineral (scale) buildup inside pipes, fixtures, and water heaters.
• Can extend the lifespan of certain household appliances.
• Reduces or eliminates mineral spotting on dishes and glassware.
• Helps prevent soap scum and residue in sinks, bathtubs, and washing machines.
- Do I need to treat my city water?
City water may be treated, but some municipal water supplies still require in-home water treatment.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, approximately 85% of water in the United States is considered hard. Whether your water comes from a private well or a municipal system, there’s a high likelihood that you have hard water.
- What is hard water?
Hard water occurs naturally. As water travels through the ground, it comes in contact with and picks up minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These two minerals dissolved in water make it hard. Water hardness levels are measured in grains per gallon or parts per million (PPM). If your water measures as little as one grain per gallon of hardness, you have hard water. The more grains per gallon of hardness, the harder the water.
Learn more about how hard water can affect you and your home.
- What is soft water?
Many water supplies naturally contain minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which contribute to hard water. Soft water, on the other hand, is water that has had these minerals removed, leaving it free from the scale-causing elements that can affect plumbing, appliances, and daily household use.
- Will a water softener make my water safe to drink?
No. A water softener does not make water safe to drink. Water should already be safe for consumption before it is treated with a softening system.
Learn how to get safer, cleaner drinking water for your family.
- How much does a water softening system cost?
The cost of a water softening system varies based on factors such as system size, features, accessories, and installation considerations. While there is an upfront investment, it may help reduce long-term costs associated with hard water issues. A free in-home water test with Kinetico can help determine the best system for your home.
- How does a water softener work?
As hard water comes into your home, it usually will go directly to your faucet or to your hot water tank then to your faucets, with the dissolved minerals. A water softener removes these dissolved minerals through a process called “ion exchange”.