Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Water Softening System
A water softening system works by removing hard metals from the water. Sodium is often used to soften water, but is sometimes replaced by potassium. Hard water damages water-using appliances such as washing machines, coffee makers, heaters and dishwashers. Untreated water can also lead to dry skin and hair. Over time, hard water can damage water pipes and faucets, leaving a thick layer of salts on them.
Water softeners can also have some negative effects, but these are easily outweighed by the benefits of soft water. Depending on the hardness of the water in your home, you may or may not need a water softener. If your water is really hard, it makes sense to spend the money on a water softener. In the end, you’ll save money on plumbing and appliance repairs. Here’s a brief overview of what a water softener can do for you.
Hard water can cause soap buildup in your washing machine, dishes and glassware. If you don’t have a water softener in your home, you may notice that clothes come out of the washer and dryer very hard and slightly discolored. Hard water doesn’t dissolve soap very well, so soap particles remain on freshly washed clothes. Dishes and glasses may also be cloudy and contain white deposits. A water softening system can reduce or eliminate these problems.
Water softeners can reduce mineral deposits in pipes, faucets, showers and appliances. For some water-using appliances, such as the dishwasher, coffee maker, water heater and washing machine, problems may occur sooner than they should. If calcium and magnesium build up in the water line from hard water, the shower head does not produce good water flow and water pressure drops. The water pipe becomes clogged. Hard salt deposits will permanently damage the device. If you had a water softener in your home, you wouldn’t have to spend so much money on repairs and replacements.
There are some disadvantages to installing a water softener in your home. Some people complain of a sticky feeling on their skin after showering or washing their hands at the tap. You will feel that the soap stays on your skin, which can cause irritation to some people. Another effect of softened salt water is the high sodium content. People with heart problems, kidney problems and high blood pressure should use a salt substitute to soften the water if they drink tap water. Potassium is a safer alternative for people on a sodium-restricted diet, but it is also more expensive than sodium.
Another disadvantage of using a water softener is corrosion. Water softeners that use salt can cause corrosion of water heaters and damage to clothing if left in the water for long periods of time. You need to weigh the pros and cons of using a water softener system. If you are content to change appliances and taps frequently, you may not need a water softener. For most people, the trade-off seems too great. Installing a water softener may be more financially advantageous in the long run. Plus, you won’t have to deal with all the downsides of hard water, such as bad skin and hair, dirty dishes and glasses, or faulty showers.
