Common Myths About Water Softener Systems

Homeowners should consider installing a water softener system when plagued by hard water issues like stained fixtures or skin irritation. However, you may have heard negative things about them in the past, which may have deterred you from investing in these systems. This article will help dispel some common myths about water softener systems and help show that you have nothing to worry about.

Myth #1: The Water Is Salty

It’s true thatwater softener systems use salt to help condition water and remove minerals like calcium and magnesium. However, you don’t need to worry about your water tasting salty or having any salt in it.

Water softeners use ion exchange to filter hard water so that it contains sodium (Na) rather than table salt (NaCl). So, while there’s no salt, there is a small sodium concentration. Therefore, be cautious if you have high blood pressure.

Myth #2: The System Removes Healthy Minerals

We need minerals like calcium and magnesium to maintain a healthy lifestyle, so it’s natural to be concerned that removing them from hard water could affect your well-being. Fortunately, calcium and magnesium deposits in hard water are inorganic minerals. Consequently, they don’t offer the same advantages as minerals obtained in your diet. Hard water minerals don’t easily absorb into your body’s cells, so you don’t need to worry about losing out on nutrients.

Myth #3: Soft Water Can Leave You Feeling Sticky

After taking an initial shower or bath after installing a water softener, you may feel a greasy or slimy feeling that can be unsettling. This isn’t because a film has developed on your skin or because your soap hasn’t washed away. Instead, when you shower in soft water, the slickness on your skin is due to your body’s natural oils.

Hard water can, in fact, leave a sticky residue behind on your skin and fixtures. This is because minerals attach to soaps and detergents, causing them to thicken. You feel like you need more soap to get clean, which causes stickier residue in a vicious cycle.

Understanding and debunking the common myths about water softener systems can help put you at ease when you’re considering investing in one for your home. These systems can help ensure you have clean and refreshing water from every faucet.