How to Compare Whole House Water Softeners

Water softeners make bathrooms easier to clean.

Water softeners remove minerals from the water, usually by filtering them out with a salt, making the water feel softer. Softened water tends to taste better and will not leave mineral deposits on surfaces that are difficult to clean. With a water softener, you will need less soap to do dishes and laundry. In addition dishes will have fewer water spots and laundry will look less dingy. There are many types of water softeners on the market. Looking at the basic function and features will help you narrow down your choices.

Instructions

1. Choose between a water softener that uses salt, potassium chloride salt or no salt at all to remove the minerals from your home's water. The regular salt used in water softeners causes environmental problems. The Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency reports that salt, "especially from sodium chloride water softeners, is threatening this resource (recycled water) because it damages plants by restricting their root absorption." Potassium chloride salt or salt-free softeners are considered better for the environment.

2. Read about the maintenance that will be required to keep the unit functioning on a daily basis. Some units will need filter changes and regular cleaning but cost less upfront.

3. Determine your water usage on an average day by looking at your monthly water bill and dividing it by the number of days that month. An average person uses 80 gallons of water per day, according to All Water Purification. Buy a softener that will meet or exceed that demand each day.

4. Choose between an automatic softener or an on-demand softener to meet your water use needs. On-demand softeners treat water as you need it. Automatic softeners treat water on a timed schedule, whether you will be using that water. On-demand softeners are more efficient and often more expensive.

5. Set your budget then consider the cost of each unit and features to compare that to what your budget will allow you to purchase. Include the potential lifespan and warranty when pricing units. Also include the maintenance costs, such as salt and filter purchases.

References

• WaterBoss: Hard Water
• Waterboss.com: Water Softener Myths
• Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency: The Problem With Salt
• All Water Purification: Home Water Softeners
• Bureau of Wastewater Management: Water Softeners and Environment

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish