Water Softener System | How Does It Work?
If you've ever experienced the annoying effects of hard water—like soap not lathering properly, dull laundry, or mineral buildup on faucets—you may have considered installing a water softener system in your home.
In this blog post, we'll explore:
1. What is a Water Softener System?
3. Scaling your Water Softener Needs
5. Maintaining Your Water Softener
Contact the professional at WaterSmart if you have questions about a new water softener system and how it works.
Water Softener System | How Does It Work?
1. What is a Water Softener System?
A water softener system is designed to remove minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water supply, which are the culprits behind hard water.
These systems use a process called ion exchange, where hard water minerals are replaced with sodium ions, resulting in “softer” water.
This not only improves the quality of your water but also extends the life of your plumbing and appliances.
Whole-Home Water Softener Systems
Whole-home water softener systems treat all the water entering your home, providing consistent quality for drinking, bathing, and cleaning.
This is especially important if you have a larger family or live in a spacious home, as water demands can vary significantly based on usage.
2. Types of Water Softeners
Salt-Based Softeners: These are the most common type. They use sodium chloride (salt) to remove hardness minerals through ion exchange.
Salt-Free Softeners: These systems don’t remove minerals but instead condition the water to prevent scale buildup. They are suitable for those who prefer low-sodium options but may not be as effective in very hard water areas.
Dual-Tank Softeners: Ideal for larger families or homes, these systems have two tanks, allowing for a continuous soft water supply. One tank can be in regeneration mode while the other is in use, ensuring you never run out of softened water.
Portable Softeners: If you have a smaller property like a cottage or RV, portable water softeners are compact and can be used on a temporary basis.
Our water softeners are 100% Canadian made and we install our Smart Series water softeners a little differently than the conventional softener to make it more water-efficient.
3. Scaling Your Water Softener Needs
When choosing a water softener, consider your family size and the hardness of your water supply.
Larger families typically require systems with higher grain capacities, as they need to treat more water daily.
Similarly, if you have a larger home with multiple bathrooms and appliances, a higher capacity system may be necessary to meet your demand.
You can find the ideal softener for your home in 30 seconds or less using our handy water softener calculator.
4. Installation Process
Installing a whole-home water softener is a significant home improvement project, but it’s well worth the investment. Here’s what you can generally expect during the installation process:
Consultation: A professional will assess your water hardness, flow rate, and home size to recommend the right system.
Installation Time: The actual installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the complexity of your plumbing system and the type of softener you choose.
Budget Estimate: On average, a whole-home water softener system can range from $1,500 to $4,000, including installation. This price can vary based on the brand, features, and labour costs in your area.
Finding a Good Company: Look for reputable local plumbers or water treatment companies with positive reviews and warranties on their installations. It’s also beneficial to get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
WaterSmart not only sells the best water softeners in the business, but we also do water softener installations.
Our factory-trained technicians can expertly set up and install any water softener, and installation is always free when you purchase a new water softener from WaterSmart.
Installing a whole-home water softener is a significant home improvement project, but it’s well worth the investment
Best Practices for Maintaining Your Water Softener
Once your water softener is installed, it’s important to follow some best practices to keep it running smoothly:
Regular Servicing: Schedule a professional service every 1-2 years to check the system, refill salt, and clean components as needed. This ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your unit.
Addressing Issues: If your softener breaks down or doesn’t seem to be working correctly, consult your owner’s manual and contact a professional. Common issues can often be resolved with simple adjustments or repairs.
Consider Smaller-Scale Products: If you have a smaller property like a cottage, consider smaller-scale products such as faucet-mounted filters or showerhead filters. These can help improve water quality without the need for a full home system.
So, investing in a whole-home water softener system can significantly enhance your quality of life by providing you with soft, clean water.
By understanding the different options available, estimating costs, and following best maintenance practices, you can ensure your home’s water supply remains in top condition.
Whether you have a large family or a cozy cottage, there are solutions tailored to fit your needs and improve your water experience.
Get a Water Softener System That Works For You
If you need a water softener installed or repaired in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, trust WaterSmart.
Our expert, experienced plumbers will come to your home, take a look at your system, and advise you about the best course of action.
Whenever possible, we will fix your existing unit, and if you need a replacement, we can advise you on what type of softener would best meet your needs.
We even offer financing.
“I was impressed, even amazed, at how helpful and pleasant the staff at Watersmart Systems and Plumbing were in solving my water softener problems. They will be the first place I’ll go to with any water softener concerns.”
