Frequently Asked Questions About Whole House Water Softener Installations

What Does a Whole House Water Softener Do?

A whole house water softener installation helps to soften your home’s water supply in each area of your home including the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, laundry room, and even your backyard hose. A whole house water softener installation reduces the concentration of minerals in your water to prevent “hard water.”

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that has a high concentration of the minerals calcium and magnesium. While these minerals aren’t harmful, they can cause build-up in your plumbing system, which can lead to clogs and water heater failure. Hard water can also make it difficult to wash away soap, which can leave a soapy residue on your skin, dishes, and clothes. This residue can lead to dry skin, dingy-looking clothing, and spotting on your dishes.

What Are the Benefits of a Whole House Water Softener?

A whole house water softener installation allows you to reduce the concentration of calcium and magnesium in your water all through your house. This means you’re not only reducing the risk of mineral build-up in your pipelines. You’re also preventing soapy residue in your shower, kitchen sink, dishwasher, and washing machine.

How Is Water Softened?

Water softening works using a process called ion exchange. Tiny resin beads charged with sodium and potassium ions collect the calcium and magnesium ions in your hard water. The resin beads swap out the extra calcium and magnesium ions for sodium and potassium, which allows you to keep healthy minerals in your drinking water without those minerals causing problems for your pipes and the rest of your home.

How Does a Water Softener Know to Soften?

Whole house water softeners typically soften your home’s hard water on a timer. However, some units use computerized sensors to determine when it’s time to soften your water.