What Are Water Softeners?
If you happen to be one of the many homeowners living with a "hard" water supply, water softeners are important appliances to consider installing as they can greatly improve the water quality of your home. When water is referred to as "hard", it means that it contains a higher concentration of minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which can be damaging to your pipes, clothes, and even hair in the long run.
How do Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners work by removing the magnesium and calcium ions in the water to produce a softer water quality. But, like all appliances, they won't last forever, and it's important to know when you can expect to replace them.Let's dive in deeper to find out more about the benefits of water softeners, the typical water softener lifespan, and signs to watch out for that will help you determine when to replace water softener.
Why Use a Water Softener?
Although water softeners can be expensive, they can end up saving you money in the long run by helping to prevent mineral deposits in your pipes and thus improving the lifespan of other water-based appliances. They also improve the efficiency of these appliances, leading to a cleaner wash from your washing machine and dishwasher.The advantages of water softeners even extend beyond the hardware in your home. Softer water can be beneficial for those with dry skin, and it is much less damaging for hair.
How Long Do Water Softeners Last?
The average life of a water softener is typically anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, the water softener lifespan will vary depending on a few different factors, such as its quality, maintenance, and how much use it gets on a day-to-day basis.
How Do You Know When to Replace Water Softener?
In general, there are several signs to look for that may indicate your water softener has issues and needs to be replaced. Some of the most obvious signs that something is amiss are the water taste and the appearance of water spots on dishes and glassware. This, combined with noticeable scale build-up around faucets, definitely means it's time to get your water softener checked out.Depending on the state of your current unit and how close it is to reaching the average water softener life expectancy, it's important to consider whether it’s more cost-effective to repair it or to replace it with a newer, more efficient model.
Conclusion
Overall, a water softener can be a very worthwhile investment for those dealing with hard water and its accompanying problems. If properly installed and maintained, this useful piece of equipment can do its job for upwards of a decade, saving you the headache of clogged pipes and damaged appliances.If you're thinking about setting up a water softener in your home, be sure to choose an efficient unit that will help save water and salt throughout its life, therefore giving you the biggest bang for your buck. Green Energy of San Antonio water softeners use up to 75% less salt and 64% less water, and they cost only $1.75 a year to run. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.
