If you’re tired of dealing with inefficient dish cleaning and water spots on your bowls and plates, it’s time to consider installing a water softener. However, you may have a few questions for your plumber about these systems before deciding whether you want one. Consider these answers to some of the common questions people have about water softening systems.

Common Questions About Water Softeners

How do you know you have hard water?

There are many signs you have hard water (water with an unusually high amount of minerals). Your laundry may feel stiff and scratchy, even immediately after it is washed. Your skin may always feel dry, and you may have trouble getting soap to lather properly. Your appliances may wear out before they should, and you may have an unusually high water bill. If you notice these signs often, a water softener can relieve these issues.

How does a salt system work?

A salt system traps the water’s minerals in resin beads and exchanges them for sodium or potassium ions. This removes the minerals from the water and leaves them in the resin beads. A concentrated salt solution then flushes out the minerals from the beads, disposing of them in a chloride solution. While having your plumber install this system may be costlier than others, it fully removes the problematic minerals from the water, thereby making it the most effective option.

How does a salt-free system work?

A salt-free system charges the minerals in the water with electricity so they become crystals and cannot bind to surfaces. While this helps with some of the unpleasant side effects of hard water, it won’t provide the same level of effectiveness as a salt system. For example, mineral crystals can still clog your appliances.

What are the benefits of softening?

Having your plumber install a water softener provides a range of benefits. It stops mineral scale from building up inside your plumbing and appliances, letting them have a longer lifespan and work more efficiently. It lets soap lather properly, giving you cleaner dishes and moisturizing your skin. You can use less soap for laundry, dishes, and bathing, since your water won’t inhibit the soap’s performance. Softer water will also prevent mineral spots on glassware.

If you’re interested in learning more about your softening options, it’s time to talk with a plumbing contractor. AAA Plumbing Repair Service has been the trusted plumber of the Roanoke, VA, area since 1976. Bernie Hall and his team offer a full range of plumbing repairs and installations, including water softeners. Learn more about their services online and call (540) 344-6800 to schedule an appointment.