Rain water is naturally soft water. But once it enters the ground and permeates through all the layers of soil and rock, it accumulates mineral content. Hard water is tap water that contain hard mineral ions, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals change the composition of water, thus reducing its quality. When heated, these minerals precipitate out of the water in the form of limescale. Limescale is very damaging to everything in your home, from plumbing and appliances, to dishes, hair, nails, and more. Fortunately, a water softening system can combat the negative effects of hard water.

Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions about water softeners and hard water for help determining the best water quality solutions for your property.

How Can I Tell if I Have Hard Water?

The signs of hard water are very easy to see. In fact, if you are displeased with your water, it is probably because it is hard. If you do not think much about your tap water, nor have problems with the things that hard water damages, you might have softer water in your municipality. But that does not mean it is as soft as it can be. To test if you have hard water, simply do an inspection of your house, clothes, dishes, and hair. If you see limescale buildup around faucets and plumbing fixtures, or you always have cloudy spots on your dishes, you have some degree of hard water. Furthermore, if your clothes do not seem to clean well, your soap doesn’t lather well, or your hair seems dingy and dull, you could have hard water.

What Does a Water Softener Do?

Water softeners use ion-exchange technology, which basically trades soft minerals for hard ones. Inside a tank-style water softener, which are the most common among residential properties, there are resin beads. These beads are positively charged, and as water passes through them, they attract and absorb the negatively-charged hard minerals, and swapping them for softener ones; usually potassium chloride (salt pellets). The resin beads then flush the hard minerals out, recharge, and get ready for another cycle.

Do I Need a Water Softener?

Everyone can use a water softener, especially when property has any water-using appliances or plumbing. There are various reasons to purchase and install a water softening system at home or in the office, but it call comes down to hard water abatement. Hard water can be harmful to skin, hair, nails, clothes, plumbing, appliances, dishware, and much more.

How Much Does a Water Softener Cost?

Water softeners are incredibly important and highly effective appliances that actually save properties money, overtime. For this reason, you can expect them to cost more than the average appliance in your home, upfront. Furthermore, you have to also pay for installation, and down the line, routine maintenance and service. On average, you can expect a standard tank-style water softener to cost between $1000 and $3000, depending on the make, model, and size.

How Much is Water Softener Installation?

You will require the services of a licensed plumber who specializes in water softeners for installation. Costs vary among businesses, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $600 or more for water softener installation. Request free estimates from various plumbers to gain an idea of what a fair cost looks like.

Where Can I Get Trusted Advice About Water Softening in Indianapolis?

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for free estimates, advice, and information regarding water softeners, anytime. Not only are we state-licensed master plumbers who specialize in water softener service and repair, we gladly provide recommendations and advice, including hard water testing. Whether residential or commercial, we can provide all the water heater services you need. Call 317-784-1870 to get started.