While hard water isn’t dangerous, its high mineral content creates numerous problems for homes and businesses. Scale builds up in pipes and on fixtures to reduce functionality and efficiency while leaving dishes, glasses, and silverware spotty. Hard water also dries out skin and hair and makes clothing look dull, among other problems. Water softeners solve these issues, but numerous myths are attached to the devices. Learn about them here before contacting your local plumber about softener installation.

Water Softener Misconceptions to Stop Believing

1. Softened Water Is Salty

The ion exchange process water undergoes in a softening device does involve salt, or sodium chloride; however, it gets rinsed away during the backwash cycle along with other minerals. Only sodium remains when the process finishes, which does not make water taste salty.

2. Water Softeners Filter Contaminants

While the devices eliminate inorganic minerals that do nothing for bodily health and create the issues noted above, they do not remove pollutants like bacterial strains and fertilizer. If you rely on a water well, schedule testing any time the liquid tastes, looks, or smells different. Annual testing services from experienced plumbers also help keep your water pure, as do reverse osmosis systems.

3. The Sodium Content Is Unhealthy

The body needs no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium every day to stay healthy, as too much of the mineral can cause high blood pressure and other health problems. Sodium content in softened water can seem concerning; however, it is not considered enough to cause health issues.

4. Softeners Waste Energy

Adding a water softener to your household plumbing plan does not waste energy. Instead, it helps water-using devices operate efficiently by eliminating scale buildup; this saves money on energy bills and untimely replacements. A water heater unencumbered by mineral deposits, for example, doesn’t have to work as hard and lasts up to 15 years.

5. The Devices Leave Skin Filmy

The slickness you may feel after bathing in softened water is due to the absence of minerals and soapy residue. Hard water leaves soap film behind that dries out skin and makes it itchy. Soft water promotes soft, itch-free skin, something especially crucial in dry winter weather.

Discuss your water needs with the plumbers at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, the residential and commercial company serving northeastern Ohio since 1973. The plumbers provide fixed rates and warranties on most products, as well as 24-hour emergency response services. Call (440) 286-6002 today to make an appointment, or visit them online for the latest special offers. Get additional plumbing tips on Facebook.