Hard water has minerals like magnesium and calcium dissolved in it. These mineral ions form crystal deposits called scale in pipes and on any surface the water contacts. Scale causes household problems like low water flow and soap scum in sinks and bathtubs. The minerals in hard water are harsh on skin and hair, causing dryness and itching. Hard water also interferes with the effectiveness of chemical cleaning solutions, making it difficult to fully clean clothing and dishes.
Can Whole House Water Filtration Remove Hard Water Ions?
A whole house water filtration system treats water as it enters the home’s plumbing system. Water filtration systems can include ion exchange filters or water softeners to combat hard water. Water softeners replace the magnesium and calcium ions in hard water with sodium ions. Ion exchange filters work by running hard water through a tank filled with resin beads. While the water flows over these beads, sodium ions are released by the beads, allowing calcium and magnesium ions to take their place. The hard water ions remain trapped on the resin beads while the softened water flows into the home. The beads are then recharged by running water from a brine tank back through the beads and out through the home’s wastewater pipes.
What Benefits Does Soft Water Offer?
Sodium ions do not lead to scale buildup in pipes like calcium and magnesium ions do. Homeowners experience higher water pressure and improved water flow without scale in their plumbing system. Soft water helps keep the home’s plumbing fixtures in good condition for longer. Appliances using soft water are protected from mineral deposits, extending their lifespan and enhancing efficiency. Dishwashers and washing machines using soft water clean dishes and laundry more thoroughly when hard water ions aren’t interfering with water flow or detergents.
A whole house filtration system with an ion exchanger keeps surfaces within the home cleaner. The softened water prevents limescale and soap scum buildups in and around sinks, tubs, and showers. Soft water also prevents skin irritation and dryness for the home’s occupants. People who wash with soft water may experience softer skin and hair when hard water ions aren’t causing dehydration and damage.
Find a Water Filtration System for Your Home
Hard water is a common problem in the United States, but water filtration systems provide a solution. Installing a water softener or point-of-entry filtration system in your home’s plumbing reduces the amount of mineral buildup in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Solving your home from hard water issues can save you time and money on repairs caused by scale deposits. Contact Palm Beach Water Purification today to learn more about the right water filtration and purification solutions for your home.