Home Water Softening FAQ Proudly Serving Greys Harbor, King, Mason, Pierce, Thurston and Lewis Counties

Home Water Softening FAQ

Do you have questions about water softeners? West Coast Pumps & Filtration has answers! Check out our FAQ to learn more about this useful water quality system, then call us to schedule a consultation!

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What is hard water?

Hard water is water that contains a higher-than-normal amount of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. It is formed when water flows over or through deposits of limestone and chalk, which are mostly made up of calcium carbonate. Hard water can leave behind residue on dishes and clothing after washing, cause buildup in pipes and plumbing fixtures, affect the lathering ability of soaps and detergents, reduce the effectiveness of some cleaning products, create scale buildup on appliances (such as kettles or irons), or have an unpleasant taste.

How do water softeners work?

Water softeners use an ion exchange process to remove hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium from hard water. The process involves passing the hard water through a tank containing resin beads that have a positive charge. When the minerals come into contact with these beads, they are attracted to them and replace positively charged sodium ions in the same way magnets attract iron filings. These minerals are then flushed out of the system, leaving behind softer water that is free of harmful deposits.

Is softened water safe to drink?

Softened water is generally safe to drink, though there are a few potential concerns that could arise. Softened water contains an increased amount of sodium, which can be harmful to people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease. If you or someone in your household has a sensitivity to sodium intake, you should consult with a healthcare professional before deciding whether drinking softened water is the right choice for you.

How often do I need to add salt to my water softener?

Adding salt to your water softener is an important maintenance task that should be done on a regular basis. Depending on the hardness of the water, how frequently you use it, and the size of your softener, adding salt may need to be done anywhere from once every two months to once every six months. To determine how often you should add salt, you'll want to check with the manufacturer's instructions first.

How much does a home water softening system cost?

The cost for a typical home water softening system varies with the size of the system and other factors. To match the right system to your needs and budget, get in touch with West Coast Pumps & Filtration today to request a consultation and installation quote.

Do you have any additional questions about water softeners not answered here? Feel free to contact West Coast Pumps & Filtration today to consult an expert!

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    “They were prompt and informative, tested the water on-site and examined the filtration system, giving us a couple options for solutions. They were able to come back the very next day to install the new tank”

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