Water Conditioners vs. Water Softeners: Which Is the Better Choice?
Water is such an integral part of our everyday lives, but in almost all cases, water does not start out clean. This is why water typically goes through many stages of treatment before it ever gets to you. Even once water has already been treated by your city and makes its way to your storage tank and pipes, it may not be in the condition you want it.
In any case, you need to take the right steps to make hard water a problem of the past. As you look up your options for hard water remediation, you might come across two terms: water conditioning and water softening. Typically, these words describe two different types of systems that can lessen the effects of hard water in your home and on your plumbing system, but which one is right for you?
While both water conditioners and water softeners are used to improve the quality of the water, they are significantly different. To understand which system is right for you, compare your needs against the three criteria below.
Water Conditioners vs. Water Softeners: Which Is the Better Choice?
- By definition, a water conditioner is any system that changes water quality for the better.
- Water softeners are a specific type of water conditioner that reduces water hardness.
The terms “water conditioner,” “descaler,” and “salt-free conditioner” describe a different type of system. A descaler cannot remove minerals from the water completely. Rather, it changes the chemical structure of the water to stop minerals from forming scale along your pipes and fixtures. It is not a true water softener because minerals are left in the water, but it’s still the best option in many homes.
The term “water softener” describes a system that uses a process of ionic exchange to pull hard water minerals (calcium, magnesium) out of the water and replace them with sodium ions. The minerals are flushed to drain out of your water system, meaning your water supply is now completely free of minerals that cause hard water.
When a water softener is the best option
Water softeners have many benefits to offer a homeowner looking for a solution to hard water and the many problems that can result. A water softener eliminates most of the minerals in the water supply for something that can truly be called “soft water.”
- Reduces scaling in pipes.
- Reduces white or yellow-ish spots around faucets and drains.
- Allows soap to lather with ease, reducing soap scum.
- Allows you to use less soap, detergent, and dish soap.
- Eliminates water spots from dishes.
Homeowners choose to install water softeners when they’ve reached their last straw dealing with the frustrations of hard water. However, there are plenty of reasons to explore your other options.
Why water conditioners are so popular
While water conditioners that don’t use salt cannot completely eliminate hardness from the water, they are a popular system for homeowners in our area and throughout the country. The downside is that, since minerals are still present, you’ll still have the same issues with lathering and water quality. There are many benefits to a salt-free water conditioner as well, and for some homeowners, this system is preferable.
- Reduces scaling in pipes.
- Reduces white or yellow-ish spots around faucets or drains.
- Does not require as much maintenance as water softeners (refilling salt).
- Typically costs less to install.
- Does not waste water.
- Many people prefer water to feel a little less “slippery.”
Water Conditioners & Water Softeners: Which Is the Better Choice
There is no simple answer to that question – much of it depends upon where you live and your lifestyle. For example, some counties (especially in California) have banned water softeners, so you are limited to a salt-free conditioner, even if you don’t want one. However, in most parts of the country you are free to choose what you want. The answer to that question depends upon you. We would caution you that when deciding which one is right for you, you should deal with a water treatment company that sells more than just one type of product
We offer several product options to meet your specific needs. You can count on our products to thoroughly address the issues of scale, bacteria, and algae. Contact us today if you have any questions or want to learn more about how Ethix water conditioners.
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