What factors should you review when buying a water softener

There are five factors you should consider before buying a water softener.   You need to decide what type of water softener is best for your particular needs and you also need to decide what capacity you will need based on how much water you use.  You will need to decide what brand to buy and we rate the Top 10 Water Softener brands.  You will need to decide waht brand to use and you will also need to decide whether you are going to install the water softener yourself or get help.  Finally, you should decide what price range you are comfortable with after evaluating the other factors.  We review all five factors to consider here.

What is hard water?

Hard water is water that contains a lot of calcium and or magnesium dissolved in it. This water condition is commonly found in the homes that use well water, but can also be found in water supplied by public water systems.

Why care about hard water?

The minerals in hard water tend to leave mineral deposits, which are also called scale. The depositing process happens a little at a time and is called scaling. The scale builds up inside pipes, faucets and fixtures, which ultimately can require the replacement of part or all of your home's plumbing infrastructure. The deposits can also form inside your water heater, and as a result it will heat water (and use energy) up to 30% less efficiently. Finally, hard water reacts with soap in a way that keeps soap from creating lather. Instead, soap forms a sticky scum, making the washing and bathing process less effective and enjoyable.

What do water softeners do?

Water softeners either remove the damaging minerals or change them chemically so they are no longer scale. There are many water softener products sold on the market, and most use one of three methods, which are described in our Top Water Softener Types section.

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