The Difference Between Salt and Saltless Water Softener Systems

When it comes to buying a new water softener, consumers quickly learn that there is an overwhelming large number of options in terms of make, model, capacity, and efficiency. It is important to do your research and learn as much as you can about how water softeners work and the various versions currently available on the market in order to make the right decision for your home or office.  Once you have a basic understanding of the water softener market, you can decide which version best meets your needs. The most basic decision is deciding between a salt-based and saltless water softener.

Continue reading to learn the difference between salt-using and salt-less water softener systems, plus who to trust for sales, service, and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.

Saltfree Water Softeners Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Saltfree Water Softeners Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Water Softening: Salt Versus Saltfree

Traditional Water Softeners

Traditional salt-style water softeners use a process called ion exchange to eliminate hard mineral ions in water. They remove hard mineral ions from water by using negatively charged polymer resin beads that attract the positively charged ions, and then exchanges them with sodium potassium, which comes from the salt pellets used in the unit. Once the resin beads become too saturated, the water softener flushes them out through a drainpipe. This cleaning cycle is triggered automatically by an electronic meter valve on top of the unit.

Saltless Water Softeners

In contrast to salt-based water softeners, saltfree water softeners do not remove hard mineral ions. Instead, they change their chemical composition so that they do not adhere to anything. This process is known as Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC), which processes water through a catalytic media. The hard mineral ions are changed to hardened crystals that is not capable of sticking to any surface. Because of this fact, saltless water softening does not technically soften water, but rather, conditions it. For this reason, non-salt water softeners are more accurately described as water conditioners.

Saltfree Water Softeners in Indianapolis

To determine which water softening and conditioning system is best for your home or office, talk to a trusted Indianapolis IN water softener plumber who can offer professional advice, information, and installation. Choosing a water softener is just the beginning. Ensuring proper installation and routine maintenance sets the tone for problem-free water softening.

Are you looking for affordable water softeners and water softener service near you? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional sales, installation, service, and repair for saltless water softeners, today. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services for all make and model water softeners.

Related Posts:

Where to Start When You Need to Buy a Water Softener
Top 3 Ways to Test For Hard Water
Deciding Between a Single-Tank and Twin Tank Water Softener