Water Softener Installation: Treat Hard Water

Cities treat water to eliminate bacteria, but they don’t remove hard minerals. This means you can still have hard water if you use public water.

Water softening removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium using a process called ion exchange. Softeners contain hundreds of resin beads charged with sodium. As water enters the tank, the resin attracts dissolved minerals and exchanges its sodium ions. This gives you soft water that doesn’t leave behind limescale or soap scum. Water filtration removes other types of contaminants— like sediment, chlorine, or bacteria —using filters or chemical processes. Some homes may benefit from both types of systems working together.

There are many signs that may point to hard water in your home. You might notice white spots on dishes and glassware, dry or itchy skin, or soap that doesn’t lather well. Laundry can feel stiff or scratchy, and you may see scale buildup on faucets or showerheads. In some cases, hard water can even reduce your water pressure by clogging pipes with mineral deposits. If any of these problems sound familiar, it’s a good idea to have your water tested.

A water softener typically lasts about 10-15 years. With regular water softener maintenance, it can last even longer. If your system isn’t working properly, it may be time for a water softener repair or replacement.

A water softener should generally be serviced once per year to maintain optimal performance. However, a brine tank may require more frequent attention. Maintenance needs can increase if your water is particularly hard or you have high system usage.