How Do Water Softeners Work?

People with hard water issues love using water-softening systems, but often they wonder exactly how these helpful devices work. It isn’t too complicated, believe it or not.

Here are the basics of how water softeners do their job, presented by your Florida water experts at Tri-Florida Water Treatment of Auburndale.

First, the reason for water softeners

Water that contains large amounts of calcium and magnesium is considered “hard” water. Of course, you can’t tell by looking at the water in your faucets or tubs whether it’s hard or not. So, watch for these common signs of hard water:

• Crusty buildup around faucets and shower heads
• Spots all over dishes and cookware
• Buildup of deposits in hot water heaters and boilers, which decreases their efficiency
• Clothes that feel stiff upon leaving the dryer
• Showers and sinks with a lot of soap scum
• Skin irritations (in some people)

If hard water is an issue – or if you suspect it may be – you can have your water tested for hardness. Most water treatment companies throughout the United States and many other countries offer this service. Then you’ll know what you’re dealing with and be able to work toward a satisfying solution.

What water softeners actually do

Without getting overly scientific, water softeners use negatively charged resin beads to pull out the positively charged calcium and magnesium in the water that flows through the beads.

Think of it like a magnet with a “positive” end and a “negative” end. If you take two magnets and try to connect both positive ends, they’ll repel one another. The same when trying to connect the negative ends.

But when you connect positive and negative, the attraction is instantaneous and powerful. That’s how water softeners work. The result is softer water that lets you avoid all the problems listed above.

Who uses water softeners?

The levels of calcium and magnesium in local water vary greatly from region to region. In areas where very hard water comes through municipal sources and into homes and businesses, the use of water softeners is widespread.

A lot of folks go many years dealing with buildups on their faucets and ugly spots all over their dishes, not realizing there’s a simple cause for these irritants and also a simple solution to resolve the problem.

Quality water softening systems are available in a wide range of sizes with different features that make it easy to get a product that perfectly matches the needs of your home or business facility.

Get the right water softener for your home or business

The first step in solving your hard water issues is consulting with a reputable water treatment company in your area. Your water technician will talk with you about the issues you’re having with hard water, look at the water and piping system within your home or workplace, and then recommend some different water softener options.

If you live in the Auburndale, FL, area, Tri-Florida Water Treatment brings 30+ years experience in water softening and filtering solutions. Let us help you make your water perfect for drinking and every other use.

Reach a water treatment expert today at (863) 965-1439. You can also get in touch using our simple contact form.