Do you have hard water in your home? If so, you may be looking for ways to soften it. One of the most popular solutions is a water softener system. This system uses resin beads and salt to remove minerals from the water, making it softer and better for drinking, cleaning, and other tasks. A key part of this process is something called water softener regeneration, which helps keep the resin beads clean so they can continue working effectively.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what water softener regeneration is and how it works.
Call 317-784-1870 For Water Softener Service and Repair in Indianapolis
The Process of Water Softener Regeneration
Water softener regeneration is a process that helps keep water softening systems running efficiently. During the water softening process, resin beads inside the tank become filled with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are what make water hard and must be removed to achieve softer water. The resin beads absorb these particles, so they don’t enter your home’s water supply. However, over time the beads can become saturated and stop working effectively. This is where regeneration comes in.
During regeneration, salt brine is added to the tank which helps clean the resin beads and remove any trapped particles that are making water hard. The salt brine attracts the mineral ions which stick to it and then flush out of the system. This flushing helps restore the resin beads so they can start softening water again. The water softener regeneration process usually takes several hours and is usually performed at night when water usage is low.
Water softener regeneration is an important part of keeping your water softening system running properly. If you have hard water, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality water softening system that includes regular regeneration cycles to keep your water supply clean and free from mineral buildup. With proper maintenance, these systems can last for years and help you enjoy softer, better-tasting water every day.
The Importance of Routine Water Softener Service
Quality water softener service and maintenance is essential for any home with hard water. Not only does regular water softener service improve the water quality, providing water that is better tasting and healthier to drink, but it also plays a role in preserving plumbing fixtures and appliances, reducing limescale buildup and extending their lifespan.
Professional water softener maintenance ensures that the water softener functions properly, protects against hard water problems, and keeps your home running smoothly. Investing in water softener services will lead to improved water quality and long-term savings on utilities and repair costs.
Investing in the services of a qualified water softener repair technician guarantees that your soft water system provides clean, safe, and crystal-clear water for years to come. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for trusted water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.
Are you looking for a reliable guide to water softener replacement? If so, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look into replacing a water softener and what it entails. We will cover everything from how to select the right size of water softener unit, how much it costs, and what type of service is needed.
By the end of this blog, you’ll be well-equipped with all the knowledge and resources necessary for replacing your current water softener system. Let’s get started!
Call 317-784-1870 For Water Softener Replacement in Indianapolis.
Signs You Need a New Water Softener
Water softeners provide an important role in making water with high mineral content safe for use and preventing unpleasant water issues. If you’re noticing water spots on dishes, dry itchy skin, and a water scale buildup around plumbing fixtures in your home, it might be time to think about water softener replacement. Water softener problems, like long regeneration times, high water bills, or funny tasting water, are additional signs that suggest you need to replace your water softener.
While some homeowners can troubleshoot or clean these systems themselves, most find it easier and more efficient to bring in a professional water softening company with the experience and know-how to get the job done right. They can provide inspections, repairs, parts replacements, full unit installation, and even water softeners for sale. So, is it time to replace your water softener?
Key Factors to Consider Before You Replace a Water Softener:
Water Softener Size
When it comes to replacing a water softener, there are several things you should consider. First and foremost, you need to select the right size of water softener unit that meets your specific needs. Different sizes of water softeners will typically offer varying levels of capacity and features. Generally speaking, the larger the unit is, the more expensive it will be. You’ll also want to ensure that the unit you buy is compatible with your existing plumbing and water supply.
Water Softener Prices
Once you’ve decided on the size and type of water softener replacement system, you’ll need to consider the cost. Depending on the brand, model, and features of the water softener unit, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. In addition, you may also need to factor in additional costs for installation, maintenance, and other services.
Water Softener Installation
In order to ensure that your water softener replacement is done properly and safely, it’s important to hire a professional water softening service in Indianapolis. Licensed water softener technicians will not only be able to assess the condition of your current system, but they will also be able to troubleshoot any issues and replace the unit if necessary. Before hiring a water softener company, make sure to ask for proof of insurance and any other certifications.
We hope this guide has been helpful in providing you with all the information needed when it comes to replacing a water softener. With this knowledge in hand, you can now confidently shop for the right water softener replacement system that meets all of your needs and budget.Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers, and service all make and model saltfree water softeners.
Do you have hard water in your home? Water hardness is a common issue, and if left untreated it can cause major damage to your appliances, plumbing system, and even contribute to health problems. The good news is that there are many solutions available for removing hard water from your home. Water softening systems are one of the most popular options for reducing water hardness and protecting against its negative effects. But with so many different types of softeners on the market today, how do you choose the right one for your needs?
In this blog, we’ll discuss what to look for when choosing a water softening system so that you can make an informed decision about which type of softener best meets the needs of your household.
Call 317-784-1870 For Professional Water Softening Service in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Top Considerations for Establishing a Soft Water Program
Size and Occupancy of Residence
First, consider the size of your home. Water softeners come in a variety of sizes and capacities, and it’s important to choose one that’s appropriately sized for your household. An undersized unit won’t be able to adequately soften all the water coming into your home, while an oversized system will waste energy and money. Consider the number of people in your household, as well as their water usage habits, to choose a unit with the right capacity.
Water Softening Type
Next, consider the type of hard water removal system you need. Water softeners can be either salt-based or salt-free systems. Both types are effective at removing hard minerals from your water, but salt-based softeners require regular maintenance and can be a bit more expensive. On the other hand, salt-free systems are much easier to maintain and are often more affordable. Therefore, it’s important to consider your budget and level of commitment when deciding which type of system is right for you.
Brand Differentiation
It’s also important to consider the pros and cons of different water softener brands. Different brands offer different features and levels of quality, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Read customer reviews, compare prices, and look at independent ratings to find a model that meets both your needs and budget.
Installation and Maintenance
Finally, make sure you have the proper installation and maintenance tools for your water softener. Water softeners require regular maintenance to keep them running optimally, so it’s important to invest in the right tools for cleaning and upkeep. This includes a filter wrench, Teflon tape, an adjustable wrench, a handheld vacuum cleaner, and a water softener maintenance kit. By investing in the right tools, you can ensure that your system will last for years to come. However, you can simply outsource these services from a professional water softener repair company.
Conclusion on Selecting a Water Softener System for Your Home
Choosing the right water softening system for your needs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of research and the right information, you can find the perfect solution for your home. Consider the size of your household, the type of system you need, and the features offered by different brands before making a final decision. And don’t forget to invest in the proper tools for installation and maintenance so that your water softening system can provide years of reliable service.
Do you suspect that your home’s water is hard? If so, it’s important to know for sure. Hard water can be a nuisance and even damage pipes and appliances if not addressed. Fortunately, testing your home’s hard water levels is an easy process that anyone can do with the right supplies. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why it’s important to test your home’s hard water levels and how you can do it yourself in just a few simple steps. We’ll also cover what to do after the results come back so you can make sure your family has safe, clean drinking water at all times. So, let’s get started!
For Hard Water Testing in Indianapolis, Call 317-784-1870 Today!
The Hard Water Facts You Need to Know
The first step is understanding what hard water is and why it’s important to test for it. Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can cause scale buildup in pipes, dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances. As these minerals accumulate over time, they make it more difficult for your home’s plumbing and appliances to do their job efficiently. That’s why it’s important to test your home’s hard water levels regularly.
3 Step Hard Water Testing Process
Now that you know why it’s important to test for hard water, let’s discuss the process of testing. There are a few different ways to do this. You can purchase a hard water testing kit from a home improvement store, or you can hire a professional to come out and test the water for you. However, if you decide to do it yourself, here are the basic steps:
❶ Collect a sample of water in a clean container. This should be taken from your faucet at full pressure and held in the container for at least 15 seconds.
❷ Use a hard water testing kit to measure the amount of calcium and magnesium in the water. These kits are available from home improvement stores or online retailers, and they come with instructions on how to use them.
❸ Compare the results of your test against the standards set by your local water authority. If the levels are higher than those set by your local water authority, then your water is considered hard, and you’ll need to take steps to address it.
Top Hard Water Solutions
Once you know the level of hardness in your home’s water, there are a few different options for addressing it. The most common one is installing a water softener, which reduces the amount of calcium and magnesium in the water by replacing them with sodium. You can also reduce hard water buildup on your appliances and pipes by using vinegar or other mild cleaning solutions.
By testing your home’s hard water levels regularly, you can ensure that your family has clean and safe drinking water that won’t cause any damage to your pipes and appliances. If you have any questions or need help testing or treating the hard water in your home, contact a professional soft water plumber in Indianapolis. They can help you make sure your water isn’t causing any damage and advise you on the best steps to take to make sure your family is safe.
Have you ever wondered why hard water can cause so many issues with your appliances? From dishwashers to washing machines, hard water can wreak havoc on the inner workings of these expensive items. Fortunately, there are several strategies available for reducing the impact of hard water on your home appliances.
In this blog post, we will discuss nine simple strategies for softening hard water and protecting your appliances from its damaging effects. We’ll discuss topics such as installing a water softener, using detergents designed specifically for hard-water areas, and more. By following some or all of these tips, you should be able to reduce the amount of damage that hard water causes in your home!
Call 317-784-1870 For Indianapolis Water Softener Service Today!
Avoid Appliance Inefficiency With These 9 Hard Water Removal Tips
1. Install a water softener: One of the best and most effective ways to reduce hard water damage on your appliances is to install a water softener system in your home. Water softeners work by removing the minerals that cause hard water from the supply, leaving you with clean, soft water for all of your needs. If you live in an area where hard water is a problem, installing a water softener can be one of the best investments you make for your home and appliances.
2. Use detergents designed specifically for hard-water areas: There are several brands of detergent on the market that are specially formulated to work with hard water. These detergents contain special ingredients that help to reduce hard water’s damaging effects on your appliances.
3. Check the appliance’s water softening setting: Many appliances now come with built-in settings for hard water; if you have hard water, make sure to check the relevant settings in order to get the best performance out of your appliance.
4. Use a filter: If hard water is an issue in your area, you may want to consider using a filter on the incoming water supply. A good filter will help remove sediment, minerals and other contaminants that can damage appliances and reduce their effectiveness over time.
5. Clean regularly: Regularly cleaning your appliances can help reduce hard water damage and keep your appliances running smoothly. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any buildup of hard water deposits from the surfaces of your appliance.
6. Check for leaks: Make sure to regularly check for leaks in any faucets, hoses or other plumbing fixtures connected to your home’s water supply. Leaks can often be hard to spot, so if you think you might have a hidden leak it’s worth calling a professional Indianapolis plumber to investigate.
7. Flush the system: If hard water is an issue in your area, it may be worthwhile flushing out the plumbing system every few months or so. This process helps to remove hard water deposits that can block the flow of water and damage your appliances.
8. Use a descaling product: If hard water is leaving visible signs of its presence on your appliances, there are special descaling products available that you can use to restore them to their former glory.
9. Regularly check your water softener: Finally, if you have a water softener installed in your home, make sure to regularly check it for signs of wear or damage. A malfunctioning water softener won’t be able to perform its job properly, leaving hard water deposits to build up and damage your appliances.
Remove Hard Water in Indianapolis Today
By taking these simple steps and following these nine strategies for reducing hard water’s impact on your home appliances, you can keep them running smoothly and efficiently. Remember that hard water is a common problem in many areas, and it can be hard to completely eliminate, but with the right precautions and maintenance, you should be able to reduce its negative effects on your appliances significantly.
If you’ve ever had hard water, you know how annoying it can be. Water softeners are designed to remove the minerals that cause hard water, making it much easier to use. Continue below to learn more about water softeners, including what they do, how they eliminate hard water, installation information, and post-installation maintenance tips.
Call 317-784-1870 For Professional Hard Water Treatment in Indianapolis Indiana.
Hard Water Facts You Need to Know
Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals, typically calcium and magnesium. These minerals can make water feel sticky and can be deposited on pipes and fixtures. Over time, these deposits can build up and cause serious problems. Soft water, on the other hand, is water that has been treated to remove these minerals. As a result, it’s much gentler on piping and fixtures and doesn’t leave behind those annoying deposits.
Water softeners work by exchanging the minerals in hard water for other ions, typically sodium or potassium. This process is known as ion exchange. Inside the water softener is a tank filled with small resin beads. These beads are coated with sodium or potassium ions. As hard water passes through the tank, the mineral ions are attracted to the beads and bind to them. This leaves behind water that is softer and free of harmful minerals.
If you’re considering a water softener for your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
First, water softeners require a regular supply of salt to replenish the sodium or potassium ions that are exchanged during the ion exchange process.
Second, water softeners can take up a fair amount of space, so make sure you have enough room to accommodate one.
And finally, water softeners can be pricey, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase. But if you’re tired of dealing with hard water, a water softener could be just what you need.
Water Softener Installation
Installing a water softener is a great way to improve the quality of your home’s water. Hard water can cause a variety of problems, including making it difficult to clean dishes and clothing, and causing mineral buildup in plumbing fixtures. A water softener will remove these minerals from your water, making it softer and easier to use.
There are a few things to keep in mind when installing a water softener:
First, you’ll need to choose the right unit for your home. There are a variety of water softeners on the market, so it’s important to do your research to find one that will work well for your needs. Second, you’ll need to install the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is typically not a difficult task, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the unit is installed correctly.
Finally, you’ll need to maintain your water softener according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This includes periodically adding salt to the unit and occasionally descaling the unit to remove mineral buildup. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your water softener will provide years of trouble-free operation.
More Advice for Maintaining a Water Softener
As any homeowner knows, there are a lot of things that need to be done to maintain a home in good condition. One of the most important, but often overlooked, systems in a home is the water softener. A water softener is used to remove minerals from water, making it softer and easier on everything from dishes to clothing. While water softeners are fairly low maintenance, there are still some things that need to be done to keep them running smoothly.
Here are a Few Tips for Water Softener Maintenance:
☑ Have the unit serviced regularly by a qualified technician. ☑ Keep the brine tank full of salt ☑ Clean the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your water softener will provide years of trouble-free service.
When it comes to water softeners, there are a lot of different options to choose from. So how do you know which one is right for your home? In this post, we’ll give you some tips on how to choose the right water softener for your needs. Keep reading for more information.
Call 317-784-1870 For Professional Water Softener Service in Indianapolis!
Water Hardness and its Effects on Your Home
In order to understand how to find the proper water softener or conditioner for your home, you must have an understanding of what a water softener treats. And that is hard water. Water hardness is caused by dissolved minerals in the water, most commonly calcium and magnesium. Hard water can cause a variety of problems in your home, including:
► Clogged pipes and appliances: Hard water can cause scale to build up on your pipes and appliances, which can lead to clogs and other problems.
► Bad tasting and smelling water: Hard water can make your water taste and smell bad.
► Dirty dishes and clothes: Hard water can also cause your dishes and clothes to be dirtier than they should be.
Are you experiencing any of these problems? By answering yes or even maybe, you are wise to consider installing a water softener to help reduce the hardness of your water. Water softeners work by exchanging the hard minerals in your water for softer minerals, such as sodium or potassium. This helps to reduce the amount of scale that builds up on your pipes and appliances, and it also makes your water taste and smell better.
What is a Water Softener and What Does It Do?
Have you ever noticed a white, chalky substance on your dishes after they’ve been sitting in the dishwasher for a while? That’s minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium, left behind by what is known as hard water. Water becomes hard when it picks up these minerals from underground rocks and deposits them into water supplies. Although hard water isn’t harmful to consume, it can cause all sorts of problems around the house. That’s where water softeners come in.
Water softeners are devices that remove minerals from water, making it soft. Soft water is simply water that has had its mineral content reduced. The most common type of water softener works by running hard water through a bed of small resin beads. These beads are negatively charged and attract the positively charged minerals in the water, effectively removing them.
Once all the beads are full of minerals, they need to be cleaned, a process known as regeneration. Typically, this is done by running a saltwater solution through the beads, which flushes out the minerals and allows the water softener to start fresh. As you can see, water softeners play an important role in keeping our homes running smoothly. If you have hard water, consider investing in one of these handy devices.
Types of Water Softeners
There are three main types of water softeners: salt-based, salt-free, and magnetic.
Salt-based water softeners work by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions in hard water with sodium ions. A brine solution is created by adding salt to water, and this is used to regenerate the softener’s resin beads. Salt-free water softeners work by using a mineral called zeolite to trap the hard water minerals. Magnetic water softeners use magnets to change the structure of the hard water minerals, making them softer. These are also called no-salt, saltless, saltfree, and zero salt water softeners.
Pros and Cons:
Each type of water softener has its own benefits and drawbacks. Salt-based water softeners are the most common type, and they are typically the most effective at removing hard water minerals. However, they require periodic maintenance and use a lot of salt, which can be bad for the environment and your wallet. Salt-free water softeners are better for the environment, but they may not be as effective at removing hard water minerals. Magnetic water softeners are the most environmentally friendly option, but they are also the least effective at removing hard water minerals.
Water Softener Installation
Thinking about installing a water softener in your home now? This can be a great way to improve the quality of your water, and it’s not as difficult as you might think. Here’s a quick guide to water softener installation:
First, you’ll need to choose the right water softener for your needs. There are many different models on the market, so take some time to research your options. Once you’ve made your selection, it’s time to install the unit. Most water softeners come with detailed instructions, so simply follow the directions that come with your particular model.
In general, water softener installation involves hooking up the unit to your home’s water supply. You’ll also need to connect a drain line to allow for the discharge of brine water. Once everything is hooked up, simply turn on the unit and let it do its job. With proper maintenance, your water softener will provide years of trouble-free operation.
Water Softener Maintenance
If you spend the time and money to have a water softener installed, it only makes sense that you would want to keep it in good working order. Proper water softener maintenance will not only extend the life of your unit, but it will also ensure that it continues to work effectively. Here are a few tips for maintaining your water softener:
► Service your water softener regularly. This means having a professional come out to clean and inspect the unit on a yearly basis.
► Be sure to keep an eye on the salt level in the brine tank. The water softener needs salt to function properly, so you’ll need to add more salt to the tank on a regular basis.
► If you notice any problems with your water softener, don’t hesitate to call a service technician. Catching problems early can often save you time and money in the long run.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your water softener in good working order for years to come! If you’re thinking about getting a water softener, be sure to consult with a professional Indianapolis soft water company to find out what type of unit would be best for your home or business.
It’s that time of year again! We’re rounding up the highest rated water softeners on the market for 2022. If you’re in the market for a new water softener, this is the blog post for you. We’ll be covering the top 5 highest rated water softeners, based on a variety of factors including performance, price, and features.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Call 317-784-1870 for Licensed Water Softener Sales and Installation in Indianapolis!
Top 5 Home Water Softeners With the Highest Ratings
#5 – GE Hybrid Water Softener
Number 5 on our list is the GE Hybrid Water Softener. This water softener is one of the more affordable options on the market, and it boasts some impressive features. The GE Hybrid uses a two-tank system to provide softened water while using less salt and water than traditional water softeners. It also has a built-in filtration system to remove impurities from your water.
#4 – Aquios Full House Water Softener and Filtration System
Number 4 on our list is the Aquios Full House Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 3-4 bathrooms. The Aquios system uses a 4-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.
#3 – Fleck 5600 SXT Water Softener
Number 3 on our list is the Fleck 5600 SXT Water Softener. This unit is one of the more popular water softeners on the market, and for good reason. The Fleck 5600 SXT is a high-performance water softener that is designed for use in homes with 3-4 bathrooms. It includes a digital control panel for easy operation, and it can soften water for up to 80 people.
#2 – Aquatrol Reverse Osmosis Water Softener and Filtration System
Number 2 on our list is the Aquatrol Reverse Osmosis Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 4-5 bathrooms. The Aquatrol system uses a 5-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.
#1 – Rainsoft Ultrefiner II Water Softener and Filtration System
Number 1 on our list is the Rainsoft Ultrefiner II Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 5-6 bathrooms. The Rainsoft Ultrefiner II uses a 6-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.
So, there you have it, the top 5 highest rated water softeners on the market for 2022. We hope this list has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect water softener for your home.Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.
Hard water is an issue that no one wants to live with, which is why water softeners are such prevalent and popular purchases among consumers. But what if you do not own your house or apartment? It’s not likely that you would want to spend a few thousand dollars on a water softener for a place you don’t even own. And you can’t just ask your landlord to buy and install a water softener because they are probably not willing to shell out the thousands of dollars needed for one. Unless you have an extremely understanding and generous landlord that wishes to increase their property value with a new water softener, you are probably going to need to figure out another way to get softer water for yourself. One way is through portable water softener services.
What if you own an RV or motor coach that comes equipped with interior plumbing amenities? Wouldn’t you want your showers and dish water to be softened? Perhaps are you an avid camper? If so, a portable water softener might be the best fit for your water softening needs.
Continue reading to learn more about portable water softeners, including what they are and how their services work.
Indianapolis Water Softener Company 317-784-1870
Facts About Portable Water Conditioners
A water softener company may provide portable water conditioning services through the use of a portable water softener tank. It works by outsourcing the service and paying an assigned fee on a monthly or weekly basis. A professional water softener technician actually delivers a soft water exchange tank to your home or apartment and installs it for you.
Depending on the number of occupants in your home, you will set up a schedule to have the technician come back and switch out the old tank for a new one. This can be done on a weekly basis, a bi-weekly basis, or a monthly basis. And there are set rates for each.
After the technician picks up the old soft water exchange tank, it is returned to the company and regenerated for the next delivery. It is an affordable and Eco-friendly way to soften your water! These tanks don’t require any drainage or electricity, making them an easy and hassle-free addition to any rented home or residence.
Additional Types of Water Softening Options
Salt-Free Water Softeners – Salt-free water softeners operate using a catalytic nanotechnology media filter, in a process called Template Assisted Crystallization, or TAC. This process first de-scales, eliminating any existing buildup; and then implements future scale protection by further removing mineral ions from the water supply. This process is not “true” water softening, but water conditioning instead.
Ion Exchange Water Softeners (Salt-Based) – These water softeners use ion exchange technology to eliminate iron, magnesium, and calcium ions in hard water. They simply replace “hard” ions, with “non-hard” ions. This conditions and softens a property’s water supply without the use of chemicals.
Electromagnetic or Magnetic Water Softeners – Electromagnetic water softeners are often times, reviewed poorly. They are intended to “blend-in” carbonate salts in the water to reduce the formation of harmful deposits and residues. This process is supposed to subsequently reduce the number of mineral ions as well. Although these units are inexpensive and easy to install, they are not proven to be as effectual as a salt or salt-free model.
When it comes to home water conditioning, it is important to know how to size a water softener correctly. This way, you are sure to purchase the appropriate and most effective water purification system for your household. There are a few different ways to measure or size-up a water conditioning system. One full-proof way to determine which system to buy for your property is to consult a professional in the industry. They retain the experience and knowledge to set you in the right direction.
In the meantime, it is always a good idea to catch up on simple tips and general advice for water softener systems. With that said, continue reading to learn how to size a water softener for your home and how to be sure it is the right system for your water conditioning needs.
Water Softeners Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Water Softener Sizing Directions
The best place to start, when it comes to learning how to size a water softener, is by learning how the entire system all works. Basically, water softeners swap hard minerals for soft ones in a property’s water supply. Hard minerals include calcium, magnesium, and other metal ions and compounds, while soft minerals include sodium and potassium. Within a water softener, there are several tiny chemical magnets called ion exchange resin. These magnets are the agents that facilitate the mineral exchanges within the system. The more chemical magnets a water softener has, the higher its capacity will be.
Understanding Water Softener Capacity
Capacity is a common term measuring the number of gallons a system can purify before needing more salt or a new cartridge; depending on the type of system it is. Capacity is measured in “grains” or its rate or grain removal; and one grain per gallon is equal to 17.1 parts per million. On average, the water in the U.S. contains nearly ten grains of hardness per gallon and the average person uses 80 gallons of water per day.
Hard Water Testing
By using a water hardness testing kit, you can quickly determine the level of hardness in your home’s water supply. In order to calculate the amount of water you need to purify, multiply the number of people living within the home by the number 80; and then multiply that number by the number of grains per gallon (10) to get the total number of grains used per day in a home.
Here is an example of the formula for a family of five:
Number of People: 5 Gallons of Water Used per Person: 80 Gallons of Water Used Per Day: 5 x 80 = 400 Average Grains of Hardness: 10 Total Grains Used per Day: 400 x 10 = 4,000
Answer: Using this example, a 40,000 grain capacity water softener would likely be recommended for the average family of five.