Water softening systems were originally used by those who received water from a well. Now the popularity of the home water softener has increased and many households on city water have installed them to combat hard water.
What are Water Softening Systems
Water softeners are large tanks that store water before it enters a home’s plumbing system. The tank contains either salt, for salt based water softeners, or resin pellets for salt-less softeners. These compounds neutralize the hard minerals in water, mainly calcium and magnesium, which leaves water spots on dishes and causes mineral stains in sinks and tubs.
Traditional Home Water Softening Systems- ( Water Conditioners )
Traditional water softeners use salt that is poured inside the water softener tank. As the water passes over the salt crystals, sodium is transferred into the water which neutralizes the minerals. The salt in the water softener tank must be replaced on a monthly basis.
After a period of use, the salt must be flushed to remove the buildup in process called recharging. In higher end water softeners, the recharging of the water softener tank is an automatic process, while lower end water softeners must be manually flushed. These water softeners are also sometimes called ion transfer water softeners or water conditioners.
No Salt Water Softener
The no salt water softener was developed to offer an alternative to traditional water softeners. Many believe that replacing the calcium and magnesium with sodium dries out the skin. Therefore, no salt water softener systems use plastic resin pellets that are simply covered in a layer of sodium. As the water passes over the resin pellets located in the water softener tank, it is softened.
The advantage that a no salt water softener has over traditional water softeners is that the resin pellets last much longer. Thus, the homeowner does not need to constantly replace the salt crystals in a no salt water softener.
Water Softener Cost
Although high end water softening systems can cost upwards of $10,000, the average water softener cost is between $1,000 and $2,500. These numbers do not include the installation cost. Salt based systems require the monthly addition of salt to the water softener tank, which increases the water softener cost. On average, the monthly cost of salt for these salt based systems is between $2 and $15 dollars per month, according to CostHelper.com.
No matter which type of home water softener system is used, there will be a noticeable improvement in the feel of the water. Water softening systems are often used in conjunction with water filters which remove the iron taste that some water softeners give to the water.
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Kimberly Johnson - Christina Jones is an experienced freelance writer who contributes articles to many different websites and publications.
