The Truth About Water Softeners: Debunking Myths
Is your Michigan home’s water making daily life harder than it needs to be? If you live in Michigan, especially around Traverse City, chances are you’re dealing with hard water. However, despite the numerous side effects of hard water, many homeowners avoid installing water softeners because of common myths. Let’s examine the facts about water softeners so you can make the best choice for your home and needs.
Common Water Softener Myths: Separating Fact From Fiction
“Soft Water Leaves a Slick Film on Your Skin”
That smooth feeling you notice after showering in soft water isn’t a film on your skin, although many people believe it is. Hard water leaves behind calcium and magnesium that your skin can’t absorb, leading to dryness. When you remove these minerals through softening, nothing is left behind. This means you feel your clean skin without mineral buildup or soap residue.
“Water Softeners = Salty Water”
If you’re considering investing in a softener, you might be asking, “Do water softeners add salt to water?” The answer to this question is yes, but the facts might surprise you. Typically, there is less than 12.5 milligrams (mg) of sodium in an 8-ounce glass of softened water.
The FDA allows up to 2,300 mg of sodium daily. For those who have concerns about sodium in their diet, Pure Water Works offers salt-free and low-salt softener options. These systems are often preferred by people who have high blood pressure or other health conditions.
So, if you’re wondering if you can drink softened water, the answer is yes. In some rare cases, if your water is exceptionally hard to start with, the sodium content can be high after softening. This is when we will apply a water filtration method to reduce sodium levels, like a reverse osmosis system.
If you’re still unsure of what type of water softener will work best for you, contact us at Pure Water Works! Our water treatment experts can help you choose the perfect solution for your home and health needs.
“Water Softeners Remove Important Minerals”
While softeners do remove calcium and magnesium from water, the amount they remove from your diet is not significant. You get the majority of minerals you need from food and daily supplements.
“Water Softeners Waste Energy and Money”
Michigan homeowners actually save money with water softeners because they:
- Protect appliances from scale buildup
- Protect fixtures from staining and damage
- Extend the lifespan of water heaters (tankless and traditional)
- Prevent pipe damage
- Help clothes last longer
- Reduce the amount of soap and detergent you go through
- Reduce the amount of bottled water you buy/use
“Water Softeners Cost Too Much”
The average water softener requires 1-2 bags (40lb) of salt a month to operate. Bags typically range between $5-$20, depending on the product you choose. Potassium chloride water softener salt is more expensive than sodium chloride and usually ranges between $30-$50 a bag.
While the cost of regular maintenance still has to be factored in, investing in a water softener system will be far more affordable than what can happen if you don’t. For example, a water heater that requires replacement due to sediment buildup in the tank can cost anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 dollars or more. That doesn’t account for any water damage that may have occurred due to leaks.
With a water softener, you can defend against the need for:
- Premature water heater replacement
- Plumbing repairs
- Water damage repairs
- Premature dishwasher replacement
You will also benefit from these savings:
- Lower utility bills
- Fewer appliance repairs
- Less soap and detergent use
- Longer-lasting clothes and linens
- Reduced cleaning time (and therefore less energy waste)
Contact Pure Water Works for Water Softening Solutions
Are you ready to solve the problems impacting your water supply? Contact Pure Water Works in Traverse City, MI, for a free water test. Our local experts will analyze your home’s water quality and recommend the perfect solution for your needs. Say goodbye to hard water and hello to softer skin, cleaner dishes, and protected appliances!