Water softeners are must-haves technologies to have at home. It performs a notable role in bringing you the best soft water you need. It removes all the dirt, unwanted bacteria, and chemicals from your water to help you stay well and healthy.
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By having a water softener at home, you’re also extending the lifespan of your appliances, pipes, as well as improving your skin texture. But how does a water softener do all the work? It’s through a process called ion exchange.
The ion exchange is an event where dissolved ions such as calcium and magnesium present in your hard water are replacing with similar sodium ions. This event happens simultaneously inside your tank.
As time goes by, you might notice that your water softener starts to degenerate. Maybe your system is calling for maintenance or a replacement. If you’re not sure about how to determine when to replace your system, here are some signs if you need a new one.
Bad taste
If your water tastes differently, there is something wrong. There’s a big difference between the taste of soft and hard water. So if you’re a soft water drinker, you will notice a difference between the two.
Bad water taste can be a result of various system problems. Overall, unwanted water taste can be a sign that your water softener is no longer filtering minerals and other contaminants.
Scale build-up
Scale build-up is also a sign that you need to replace your water softener system. Usually, scale build-up is not only inside the pipes but also on your faucets and shower.
Minerals in hard water are natural. But the job of a water softener is to filter out these minerals. If your water system is running well, but still scale is building up, then there is a problem with your water softening system.
Watch out for these chalk-like rusts in your faucets and shower. It can be an indication that you need a new water softening system.
Changes in water pressure
There are several reasons why water pressure changes, but the key factors would be the main water supply and faucet. As the water filter becomes a part of your whole plumbing system, changes in the water pressure can be a result of water system deterioration.
The water pressure can be higher or lower, depending on the situation. Build up scales can also be the culprit why there’s a sudden change in your water flow. It can happen if your water softener is not functioning well.
Changes in water pressure is a serious matter. If you can’t track down why you’re having changes in your water flow, consult the experts.
Water spots
Another indication that you need a new water softener system is when you begin to see hard water marks. Usually, you’ll see water spots on glassware and shower doors.
These spots are noticeable. If you look closely, there are flaky white or gray spots where water should dry. It can also be in other wet areas around the house like bathtubs, sink, and faucet fixtures.
These water spots are not only indicators of possible build-up scales inside your plumbing system. It can also be an indicator of the water softener system malfunction or deterioration.
Too much salt
A traditional water softener uses salt to filter various water minerals and contaminants. The salt takes part with the ion exchange within the tanks. Even though salt is the main ingredient, the water should not change in taste at all.
However, a deteriorating water system may not do the job well. If so, your water will taste salty because saltwater will flow in your whole water system.
On the other hand, homeowners are to be responsible for maintaining the salt levels of the water tank to ensure the right amount of salt. If the salt levels start to drop, refilling it should be fine. If not, consult a professional right away.
There are new water softener devices that do not require salt anymore. Experts say that these new water softener devices are more durable and last longer than the old ones.
10-year mark
If all of these signs show up, check the dates. When did you purchase your water softener? If it passed the 10-year mark, it’s retirement time for your softener.
Keep in mind that water softeners are home devices that only last for at least 10 to 15 years. After the ten year mark, these signs will start to show up as the machine gives its few last flows. It has been ten years of good service, giving you the best soft water you need.
You can ask your maintenance personnel if you have your water softener before moving in. You can also ask how old the unit is. So you’ll have an idea of how long the device will last.
Other reasons
The possibility of changing your water softener system is not only enclosed with mechanical problems. There are also some factors you can consider.
You may want to consider changing your water softener system if your family changes in size. Water consumption is a contributor to the size of the water softener system.
There’s also a need to change your water softener if the hardness of water changes in your area. Before purchasing a new water softener, keep in mind to find a great review about it and check if it fits your needs according to your location.
If you wish to see new water softeners, try comparing Filtersmart versus GE water softener. There are numerous water filters out there, but make sure to have the best one for you.
Extra Tip: How to Extend the life of your water softener
To extend the lifespan of a water filter, you will need a pre-filter. Too much water contaminant can clog your water softener. Having a pre-filter can save you time and money as well.
In other words, a pre-filter catches chemicals and other contaminants before it reaches your water softener to prevent future damages.
