The problem is there are many filtration systems out there. Two systems that are often compared are water filters and water softeners though most people do not know the difference between the two.
The following will explore the differences between regular water filters and water softeners.
A Closer Look at the Water Softener
The main purpose of the water softener is to soften hard water. Everyone knows how troubling hard water can be for a homeowner. This type of water can cause the following issues in your household:
- Dry, itchy skin after showering
- Clothes feel dull and itchy
- May see spots on glass dishes
- See a buildup of soap scum around water fixtures
The reason you are dealing with some of the aforementioned issues is because the high mineral content is making it harder for soap to dissolve as it should. This means the soap lingers, which leads to issues.
Mineral-rich water is usually linked to hot weather or areas where it does not rain much. Big-city dwellers usually deal with this issue more than others.
The minerals that usually cause the most trouble are magnesium and calcium. These minerals are everywhere. You have probably heard positive things about them, but everything must be done in moderation.
The water softening filter is meant to help people deal with this particular problem by targeting the minerals mentioned, amongst many others. Now, it is important to note that this process is going to take about two days to show results.
You should remember that water softeners do not completely remove the minerals. They are meant to severely reduce the amount of minerals, but do not fret. The machines also neutralize the remaining minerals before the water comes out of your faucet.
The machine normally does this by using electro-magnetic waves. Some people call this machine a water conditioner rather than a water softener to reflect that it does not remove the minerals completely. Keep in mind that taking this step also helps prolong the life of your water pipes, making this investment priceless.
Zooming in on the Water Filtration System
A filtration system attacks contaminants in the water rather than excessive minerals.
Water can get contaminated by harmful bacteria and environmental toxins that no homeowner wants in their home.
Spotting contamination can be a little difficult, but the following are some signs:
- Strange smells coming from the water
- Feeling nauseous or gassy after consuming the water
- Water looks discolored or cloudy
- Has a metallic or bitter taste
Of course, the amount of contaminants depends on where you live. Cities that put a lot effort into their water filtration operation will likely provide decent water to homes, but that does not mean the water cannot get contaminated before it reaches your home.
It should also be noted that homeowner’s who draw water from private wells or community wells may also have to worry about additional contaminants, like pesticides. These ingredients are widely used for gardening and normally seep into the ground, which could reach your water. Pesticides and herbicides are usually linked to metallic or bitter-tasting water.
You should remember that the pipes under your home can also get compromised for a number of reasons. Old piping, for one, could develop holes that allow contaminants in. You could end up with not only bacteria or pesticides but also harmful chemicals from various sources like paint thinners.
These contaminants can cause you and your family to suffer from health problems in the long run, which is something no one should have to go through.
The water filtration system focuses on removing some of these contaminants, keeping your home and family a little safer.
Safer Water is in Your Hands
Some people may be wondering why the government doesn’t step in to ensure that every citizen has access to clean water that will not hurt them. The problem is that the traces of these contaminants is so small that it is not considered dangerous to a person’s health.
You probably think, like many other Americans, that you would prefer to drink and use water that is free of any contaminants. You can provide your family with clean water by using a filtration system.
Water filters usually use some form of reverse osmosis to try to remove all of these contaminants before they make it inside your home. Of course, there are many machines to choose from, so it is important to do a little comparison between a few before making a choice. Be sure to pay attention to third-party reviewers to get a feel for each product before making a decision.
Regular water filters do not really focus on mineral build-up inside the water, so you need to be aware of the issues you are dealing with. There are water strip testers that can give you an understanding of the overall makeup of your water. These strips are normally inexpensive and should help you figure out what type of filter your home really needs.
Make sure that you pay attention to your budget to make a decision, too. These devices can be moderately priced, but some can be expensive. Do take into account installation costs when deciding which device is going to work best for your overall needs.
Hopefully, some of these points make it easier to know what to do about this water problem you are having. Be sure to pass some of this information along to others because a water problem is everyone’s problem.
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