Hard Water vs. Soft Water | Why a Water Softener is Important

Let’s begin this article with a quick science lesson on solvents. 

A solvent is a substance that dissolves other substances (such as chemicals) and while no substance can truly dissolve everything, water is known as the “universal solvent” because of its ability to dissolve nearly every chemical it touches. 

What this means is whether water is in the form of a gas (as water vapor) or a liquid, when it comes into contact with chemicals like magnesium, sulfur, iron, or lead, it takes on a part of these substances and effectively mixes with them. 

Depending on where you live, smoke from the air and waste products on the ground can seep into your water supply and cause what has come to be known as hard water.

What is Hard Water?

We tend to associate hard water with the orange stains on our toilets or bathtubs or the extra work it takes to get soap residue out of our clothes or hair. Sometimes it causes a foul smell in our water and if left untreated, it may clog plumbing or cause irreparable damage to appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.

The most common indicator of hard water is scale deposits. Scale is the build-up of minerals (most commonly magnesium and calcium) that stick to your pipes and appliances. This build-up can lead to problems in the kitchen, bath, and laundry.

How Does a Water Softener Help?

Water softeners effectively eliminate the effects of hard water by removing “hard” minerals like calcium and magnesium from the water. 

Water softeners work through a process called ion exchange. Hard water is passed through a media tank that contains resin beads coated with sodium ions. The sodium ions are “exchanged” for the ions of magnesium and calcium, softening the water.

Investing in a water softener can save you time and money all while protecting your home and property. As Perry’s president Eric likes to say: “Water treatment is insurance for your home.” When you invest in a water softener, you will see a noticeable difference in several areas of your home. 

In your laundry room, clothes will feel softer, look cleaner, and appear brighter. Not to mention, they will last longer. In fact, it’s said that soft water can make clothes, linens, and towels last up to 40% longer. If your favorite pair of pants currently last you five years, with soft water they might last seven!

In your kitchen, you will notice that your dishes will clean up more easily without the need to rewash the soap scum or spots that are common with hard water. Additionally, appliances that use water like your dishwasher and refrigerator will last longer and run smoother.

In the bathroom, soap and shampoo will lather better and rinse off easier. No longer will your sinks, toilets, and shower drains be plagued with the yellow, pink, or orange rings left by mineral deposits.

Do You Need a Water Softener?

If you’re experiencing any of the signs discussed above, we highly encourage you to get your water tested. Private well testing should be done regularly, but even if you live on city water, a proper water test can help identify whether these problems can be solved with the addition of a water softener.

Our water softening systems are the best in the industry and designed with one purpose in mind: to take the hard minerals out of your water and soften it for you and your family’s benefit. 
Trust us, your hair, clothes, appliances, and plumbing will thank you. Contact our team today. We’d love to schedule a water test and help you navigate the best water softener options for your home and budget.