If you’re tired of seeing water spots on all of your dishes and dealing with laundry that doesn’t seem to ever get clean, installing a water softener is the solution. Whether you’re purchasing a new system or want to know when it’s time for water softener repair, you likely have a lot of questions about this system. See a few of the most common questions that people have below.  

Water Softener FAQ

What does it do?

Water is naturally full of minerals, and some water sources have more than others. A water softener removes those unwanted minerals from the water, which is also called hardness. Some common minerals that are found in water include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.

What’s the difference between salt water and salt-free? 

These two types of systems differ in how they remove the hardness from the water. A salt-free system doesn’t remove the minerals. Instead, it charges the minerals with electricity using Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC), so they won’t bind to surfaces (such as your dishes or laundry). A salt softener uses salt transfer to remove the minerals from the water. This type of softener is more expensive to install and requires additional maintenance but provides more effective results.

Why does a softener make the water feel slimy? 

You may notice after installing your system that the new water feels slick in the shower. This is because hard water stops soap from properly lathering as the minerals adhere to the soap. With softened water, the soap is more effective and its slick qualities are brought out, creating a slippery sensation even while using far less soap. This means that you can now use less soap with better cleaning results.

What are the signs that I need water softener repair? 

There are several indications that a softener system needs repairs. Your system isn’t working properly if your dishes appear cloudy after cleaning, if soap lathers poorly, or if your skin feels itchy and dry after a shower. Additionally, if hard water issues like stiff laundry returns, these are signs that you need water softener repairs. 

If your system stops doing its job, having your water softener repair done by a professional will get your high-quality water back again as soon as possible. B&B Plumbing & Heating has served Southwest Ohio and Southeast Indiana with plumbing and HVAC services for more than 20 years. Their team is fully licensed and trained to ensure top-notch handiwork and results you can trust. Learn more about their services online or call (513) 523-4010 to schedule an appointment with a plumber.