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The Impact of Hard Water on Your Appliances and How a Water Softener Can Help

Hard water

Hard water can be more than just a nuisance; it can have a significant impact on the longevity and efficiency of your home appliances. When minerals like calcium and magnesium are present in your water and build up in your appliances, they can cause damage and reduce efficiency, leading to increased utility bills and costly repairs or replacements. A water softener can help mitigate these effects by removing these minerals, enhancing the lifespan of your appliances and saving you money in the long run. In this blog, we’ll delve into the effects of hard water on your appliances and how a water softener can be a game changer.

Understanding Hard Water: Definition and Common Issues

Hard water refers to water that has a high mineral content, primarily consisting of calcium and magnesium. These minerals can cause several issues when they interact with your home appliances. Over time, these minerals can accumulate on the surfaces of appliances that frequently come into contact with water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. This build-up, known as scale, can lead to reduced efficiency and even damage. Appliances may need to work harder and use more energy to overcome the issues caused by scale, leading to increased utility bills and potential breakdowns.

The Effect of Hard Water on Various Household Appliances

Washing Machines and Dishwashers

Washing machines and dishwashers are particularly susceptible to hard water damage. The mineral build-up can interfere with the action of detergents, rendering them less effective. Consequently, more soap is needed for cleaning, increasing your expenses. In addition, the scale can accumulate in pipes, valves, and mechanical parts, hampering their functionality. This can cause your appliances to run longer cycles, use more energy, and eventually wear out sooner. Furthermore, clothes washed in hard water often appear dull and feel harsh, while dishes may have spots or film left on them after a cycle, detracting from their cleanliness.

Water Heaters

Water heaters are another appliance severely impacted by hard water. The minerals in hard water can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, forming a layer of sediment. This sediment can act as an insulator, forcing the heater to use more energy and time to heat water. Over time, this can severely reduce the efficiency of your water heater, increase energy costs, and even cause the heater to fail prematurely. By causing unnecessary strain on the heater, hard water significantly shortens the lifespan of the appliance.

Faucets and Showerheads

Over time, minerals can accumulate on faucets and showerheads, causing unsightly discoloration and reducing water flow. Showerheads may become clogged, reducing water pressure and affecting your showering experience. Similarly, faucets may develop leaks and require more frequent repairs or replacements. Not only does this lead to increased maintenance costs, but it also detracts from the aesthetics of your bathroom and kitchen fixtures.

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a device that reduces the hardness of your water by eliminating the minerals that cause this condition. It functions by passing the hard water through a tank containing resin beads that are saturated with sodium ions. When hard water flows over these beads, the calcium and magnesium ions are replaced with sodium ions, thus softening the water. This process is known as ion exchange. The softened water then flows through your pipes, reducing the likelihood of scale build-up in your appliances and fixtures. This significantly enhances the lifespan of your appliances, improves their efficiency, and reduces maintenance costs.

Kinetico’s Water Softeners Are Your Answer

Hard water can wreak havoc on your home appliances, reducing their efficiency, increasing utility costs, and shortening their lifespan. But with a Kinetico water softener, you can effectively combat these issues, ensuring that your appliances run smoothly and last longer. Don’t wait until hard water causes irreversible damage. Make the smart choice today and invest in a Kinetico water softener. Your appliances, and your wallet, will thank you! Contact us now for more information or to schedule a free water hardness test in your home. Remember, the quality of your water matters. Let Kinetico help you take the first step towards better water today. Contact Us

 

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5 Frequently Asked Questions About Water Softeners

Best water softeners for Utah

Water is an essential element in our day-to-day lives, but not all water is created equal. Depending on your geographical location and source of water, you might be dealing with ‘hard’ water, containing high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While this doesn’t pose health risks, it can cause a variety of household issues, from clogged pipes to less effective soaps and detergents. This is where water softeners come in, providing a solution to these problems. Water softeners remove these minerals, transforming hard water into ‘soft’ water. This blog aims to answer five of the most frequently asked questions about water softeners, providing you with the information you need to decide whether a water softener is right for your home. Let’s jump right into it:

1) What is soft water?

‘Soft water’ is water that has undergone a process to remove minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which are commonly found in ‘hard’ water. The result is water that is less harsh on your home’s plumbing system and is more compatible with soaps and detergents. Soft water creates fewer build-ups in pipes and appliances, thus increasing their lifespan and efficiency. Additionally, it enhances the effectiveness of soaps, resulting in cleaner dishes, softer clothes, and less soap scum in bathrooms. It’s also gentler on the skin and hair, making showers and baths more pleasant. It’s important to note that while soft water is beneficial for household use, it’s not necessarily better for drinking.

2) Is a water softener necessary?

The necessity of a water softener largely depends on the hardness of your water and your personal preferences. If your household water source yields hard water, which leads to scale build-up, reduced soap effectiveness, and wear on your appliances and plumbing system, then a water softener can be a worthwhile investment. It can increase the lifespan of home appliances, improve the effectiveness of soaps, and enhance the quality of washing clothes and dishes. However, if your water is naturally soft or you’re comfortable with the current state of your water, then a water softener might not be necessary. It’s always good to get a water hardness test to understand the extent of hardness and make an informed decision. Remember, the implementation of a water softener should align with your needs, preferences, and budget.

3) What are the benefits of a water softener?

Water softeners offer several benefits, adding value to your home and lifestyle. Notably, they reduce limescale buildup, extending the lifespan of appliances and plumbing systems. They improve the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, leading to cleaner dishes and clothes. Soft water is also gentler on skin and hair, providing a better bathing experience. Additionally, water softeners can contribute to energy savings through enhanced efficiency of water heaters. 

4) How long does a water softener last?

The lifespan of a water softener can vary greatly depending on the quality, usage, and maintenance. Typically, a well-maintained unit can last between 10 to 20 years. A typical water softener, if it’s pretty good quality, will last about 10 years. A Kinetico system will last closer to 20 years.

5) How do water softeners work?

Water softeners work on a principle known as ‘ion exchange.’ They’re filled with resin beads that carry a negative charge. When hard water passes through the resin tank, the positively charged calcium and magnesium ions are attracted to the negatively charged resin beads, effectively ‘sticking’ to them. In exchange, the resin releases sodium ions into the water. This process effectively removes the hardness from the water, turning it into ‘soft’ water. Over time, the resin beads become saturated with hardness ions and need to be regenerated. This is typically accomplished using a brine solution, which flushes the hardness ions off the beads and replaces them with sodium ions, ready for the next cycle of softening.

More Questions? Contact Kinetico To Learn More

We hope we’ve managed to quench your curiosity about water softeners. As we’ve discussed, they can bring a myriad of benefits to your home, but whether you need one or not ultimately depends on your water hardness and personal preferences. Should you have any more questions or if you’re considering getting a water softener, don’t hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team at Kinetico. We’re here to guide you through the process, provide advice, and help you make the best choice for your home and lifestyle. Contact us today and start enjoying the benefits of soft water.

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10 Reasons Why You Need a Water Softener

Why You Need a Water Softener

Water is a vital resource in our everyday life, yet not all water is created equal. Hard water, which is high in minerals like calcium and magnesium, can cause myriad problems in the home and for your health. While it’s not harmful to drink, the long-term effects on your plumbing and appliances can be devastating. This is where a water softener comes into play. It’s not just a luxury but a necessity for anyone dealing with hard water issues. In this blog, we delve into ten compelling reasons why you need a water softener, shedding light on the benefits it can bring to your home and your lifestyle.

1) Soft Water is Better For Your Skin

Soft water is gentle, nurturing, and better for your skin. Hard water can dry out your skin, leaving it feeling itchy and irritated, and can exacerbate conditions like eczema. The minerals in hard water can also clog your pores, leading to breakouts and acne. By contrast, soft water can leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed. Plus, you’ll likely find you need less soap with soft water, which can also reduce skin irritation.

2) Soft Water Makes For a Lower Energy Bill

Because there’s less of a mineral build-up, soft water allows appliances to operate more efficiently. This means less energy is needed to heat up your shower or washing machine, and as such, you’ll notice a decrease in your energy bill.

3) Soft Water is Better For Your Clothes

Hard water interacts negatively with laundry detergent, reducing its cleaning power and causing your clothes to appear dingy and worn out. Over time, the minerals in hard water can damage the fibers in your clothes, making them feel stiff and scratchy. With soft water, your clothes will stay vibrant and soft for longer.

4) A Water Softener Means Longer Lasting Plumbing

The minerals in hard water build up over time, causing corrosion and clogs in your home’s plumbing. This can lead to costly repairs and reduced lifespan of your pipes. A water softener helps prevent this buildup, extending the life of your plumbing system.

5) Soft Water is Better For Your Hair

Just like with your skin, hard water can wreak havoc on your hair. The minerals can build up and make your hair feel rough, dry, and less manageable. Soft water, on the other hand, can enhance the texture of your hair, making it softer, shinier, and healthier.

6) Soft Water Doesn’t Leave Stains Like Hard Water

Hard water often leaves unsightly mineral stains on your fixtures and surfaces over time. These can be tough to clean and can tarnish the appearance of your sinks, bathtubs, and faucets. Soft water, in contrast, doesn’t leave such deposits, keeping your fixtures shining and stain-free.

7) Soft Water Leaves Your Dishes Cleaner

One of the most noticeable benefits of soft water is the way it improves dishwashing. Hard water can leave your dishes and glassware with spots and film even after a thorough wash. In contrast, soft water helps your dish detergent dissolve fully and rinse off completely, resulting in cleaner, spot-free dishes.

8) Soft Water is Better For The Environment

Soft water results in less soap and detergent usage, leading to a decline in the amount of chemicals released into the environment. Moreover, it enhances the efficiency of appliances, reducing energy consumption and contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.

9) A Water Softener Can Save You Money

In the long run, a water softener can indeed save you money. The reduction in energy bills, lessened soap and detergent usage, elongated lifespan of appliances, and minimized plumbing repairs all contribute to significant savings. This makes the investment in a water softener worthwhile, providing not just softer water, but also a softer hit to your wallet.

10) Soft Water Saves You Time

Soft water significantly reduces the time spent on cleaning. Hard water stains and build-up require constant attention and scrubbing, which can be time-consuming. Soft water, on the other hand, eliminates these problems, freeing up your time for other tasks. Furthermore, you’ll spend less time shopping for detergents and soaps as you use less with soft water. Thus, having a water softener not only provides softer water but also adds extra time to your schedule.

Let Kinetico Install Your Water Softener Today

The benefits of installing a water softener in your home are clear. From saving you money and promoting a healthier lifestyle, to extending the life of your appliances and even saving the environment, there’s no denying the advantage of soft water. Don’t let hard water diminish your quality of life. Make the switch to soft water and feel the difference. Contact Kinetico today to have your water softener installed, and start enjoying the many benefits of soft water.

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Why Is My Tap Water Cloudy?

Why Is My Tap Water Cloudy?

Cloudy or milky tap water can sometimes be a cause for concern in residential settings, although it is typically not a serious matter. It’s important to note that water quality in the US is generally of high standard thanks to rigorous testing procedures that ensure its safety. However, it is worth mentioning that certain neighborhoods or even specific households may occasionally experience isolated issues that can affect water quality.

In this blog, we will discuss two of the most common causes of cloudy tap water, as well as what you can do to correct it.

What Causes Cloudy Tap Water?

There are several possible causes of cloudy tap water. Two of the most common of these causes include:

Trapped Air In The Pipes

A common cause of cloudy water is typically due to the presence of aerated water. This can occur as a result of changes in water supply network pressure, such as burst pipes or ongoing repair work in the locality. In such instances, air may become trapped in the water flowing through the pipes, and eventually expelled through the taps.

If the cloudiness in water is caused by trapped air, allow it a minute to settle and naturally clear in your glass. During this process, you will notice that the cloudiness dissipates from the bottom upwards as the tiny air bubbles rise to the surface. In the event that the water from a hot water tap appears cloudy, it may indicate an issue with your boiler. We recommend reaching out to a qualified plumber as soon as possible for assistance.

For the purpose of identifying whether the problem lies within your household pipework or the wider supply network, it is advisable to check if your neighbors are experiencing similar issues. If the problem remains isolated to your property, it would be prudent to contact a plumber or the local council to ascertain if the problem lies within your household’s pipework.

It is important to note that aeration is generally not a health concern and the water is perfectly safe to consume. Should you find the cloudiness unsightly, you can simply run the tap for a few seconds before filling your glass to help clear any trapped air.

In the event that the issue persists for an extended duration, we recommend reaching out to your local water supplier to inquire about any ongoing repair work that may be affecting your area.

Hard Water

If you happen to reside in an area with hard water, it is possible that you may encounter the inconvenience of limescale build-up in your pipes or appliances. This occurrence can be attributed to the agitation of hard water through heating, resulting in the formation of chalky white deposits. Although primarily noticed after boiling water in a kettle, these deposits can also manifest within taps and pipework connected to boilers or water heaters.

It is worth mentioning that hard water does not pose any health risks when consumed. However, the discoloration it causes in water-based drinks may be unappealing, particularly if chalky deposits accumulate on taps and other appliances.

In the case of hard water which stems from a high mineral content, there are a variety of approaches you can employ to diminish the mineral concentration responsible for hard water. These methods include the use of a water softening system.

Kinetico Can Help Solve This Problem

While cloudy tap water can be unsettling, it’s usually not a cause for immediate alarm. However, if you’re experiencing persistent issues, it’s a good idea to reach out to the team of skilled professionals at Kinetico. We can install a water softener in your home to make sure you never have to worry about cloudy water again. Whether you live in Bountiful, Ogden, Park City, Provo, or Salt Lake City, we’re here for you. Don’t let cloudy water ruin your peace of mind. Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to ensure you have access to clear, clean, and safe water. Visit our website or call us now to learn more about our products and services tailored to meet your unique water needs.

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The Positive Effects of Soft Water

The Positive Effects of Soft Water

If you’ve ever come across the terms “hard water” and “soft water,” you may be perplexed. After all, water is just water. How can it have varying degrees of hardness or softness? Are there distinguishable differences between these two types of water?

These questions are excellent, and if you’re asking them, it means you’re heading in the right direction. When we refer to hard water and soft water, we are discussing the mineral content in water, and there is a definite distinction between the two. Although it may seem trivial to dismiss these differences as remote, scientific concepts that don’t affect your daily life, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The quality of your water has a significant impact on various aspects of your home and everyday routines, and today, we would like to explore these effects in detail. In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between the two and the many positive effects of soft water.

 

What’s the Difference between Hard and Soft Water?

The water we use in our sinks, showers, and plumbing systems originates from deep underground, either through wells or the piping systems of our town or city. During its journey through the ground, the water encounters various elements such as stone, calcium deposits, and mineral pockets. Consequently, it absorbs trace amounts of substances like iron, calcium, and magnesium. This untreated water, abundant in minerals, is referred to as hard water.

Many people opt for soft water over hard water in their homes. Soft water is created by removing the harsh minerals found in hard water, ensuring that your home’s water systems are clean, fresh, and free of unwanted elements. Soft water offers many benefits over hard water. These benefits include:

Protect Your Home and Plumbing

Incorporating soft water into your home offers both benefits for your plumbing systems and your home as a whole. Unlike hard water, which is harsh and contains harmful contaminants that can corrode your plumbing, soft water is much gentler, reducing the strain on your entire plumbing system. This can increase the lifespan of your plumbing systems, decrease the amount of maintenance needed to keep your plumbing running smoothly, and keep your other appliances healthy.

Clean More Efficiently

Water plays a crucial role in various cleaning tasks in your household, such as laundry, dishwashing, and surface cleaning. However, the presence of unwanted elements and minerals in your water can hinder the effectiveness of cleaning. Hard water, in particular, leads to the formation of soap curd or soap scum, which reduces cleaning efficiency. As a result, you may find yourself spending more money on soap and cleaning products to achieve the desired level of cleanliness. Switching to soft water allows for more effective cleaning and rinsing due to its ability to produce a rich lather from soap. As a result, you can enjoy a more cost-effective cleaning process, as your cleaning products will do their jobs more effectively.

Enjoy Softer Skin and Hair

The use of hard water in showers can have a detrimental effect on our skin and hair. Although a single shower or bath may not have an immediate impact, consistent exposure to hard water over time can result in significant damage, leaving our skin and hair lacking their natural vitality. Skin may become dry and irritable, while hair may lose its luster and become fragile. Soft water has the ability to reverse the negative impacts caused by hard water, bringing vitality back to your hair and skin. Experience the transformation for yourself by indulging in a few showers with soft water. You will soon notice a remarkable difference as your hair and skin regain their softness and become more moisturized.

Protect The Environment

In today’s climate-conscious world, there is a collective effort to safeguard the environment and promote sustainability. By installing a water softener in your home, you can play your part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Soft water enables more efficient heating compared to hard water, leading to reduced energy consumption and, subsequently, fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Save Some Money

A water softener offers numerous financial benefits. Not only will you experience reduced spending on cleaning products, as softened water is more effective at cleaning, but you will also save on soap since soft water enhances lathering. Moreover, you will cut down on energy costs as soft water heats up more efficiently, resulting in lower heating expenses.

A Water Softener From Kinetico Is The Answer

Overall, the use of soft water in your home offers a multitude of positive effects. From protecting your home and plumbing systems to saving money on energy bills, you can benefit from switching to softened water today. With a Kinetico water softener installed in your home, you can enjoy all these advantages without having to worry about hard water damaging your home. Contact us today to learn more about the water-softening solutions that Kinetico has to offer. We look forward to hearing from you!

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The Negative Effects of Hard Water

Hard Water

It’s no secret that hard water can be a nuisance. From clogged pipes to scaly deposits on your shower head, it can cause all sorts of problems in the home. But what many people don’t realize is that those are just the beginning when it comes to the negative effects of hard water.

Hard water is caused by calcium and magnesium ions present in groundwater, which react with soap and other cleaning products to form an insoluble substance known as “soap scum”. This makes it difficult for detergents to clean properly, leading to dingy clothes and lackluster dishes. It also causes buildup in plumbing fixtures and appliances, reducing their efficiency over time and resulting in higher utility bills. But these issues pale in comparison to some of the more serious health concerns associated with drinking hard water on a regular basis. In this blog we’ll be going over what exactly hard water is, and the negative impacts of hard water on your health, your skin, and your home.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that contains calcium and magnesium. These minerals are naturally present in groundwater and can be found in both municipal and private wells. While these minerals are not harmful in small amounts, they can cause problems when the levels become too high. High levels of calcium and magnesium ions can create issues with plumbing fixtures such as shower heads, dishwashers, and washing machines, as well as lead to skin and hair irritations

Hard Water and Skin Problems

Hard water has a significant impact on the skin, causing irritation and even eczema in children. The presence of numerous minerals in hard water hinders the effectiveness of cleansing products, resulting in dry and rough patches on the skin. These products may also exacerbate skin irritation if they are not thoroughly rinsed off the skin, which can be difficult with hard water. Taking measures to avoid the negative effects of hard water on your skin to maintain healthy and smooth skin is an essential step for anyone who has to battle against hard water.

Effects of Hard Water on Your Home

The prevalence of minerals in hard water can result in obstructed or clogged pipes. When your pipes become clogged, your appliances will operate less effectively. This can ultimately lead to increased energy expenses and damaged appliances due to less efficient appliances. Moreover, these obstructions can cause pipe leaks and can vastly decrease the lifespan of many of your appliances.

A Water Softener From Kinetico Can Help

Hard water can be a headache for many homeowners for several reasons, but with the help of Kinetico, you can protect not just your home, but also your loved ones from the negative effects of hard water. A professionally installed water softener from Kinetico removes calcium and magnesium ions that cause hard water, leaving you with sparkling dishes, softer skin, and greater energy efficiency. Our expert technicians will ensure that your water softener is installed correctly and provide ongoing maintenance services to keep it running efficiently.

Don’t let hard water continue to plague your home and health – contact Kinetico today for more information on installing a water softener in your Utah home. Our experienced technicians will provide you with the best solution tailored to meet your needs. Make the switch today and enjoy the benefits of soft water!

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Soft Water vs. Hard Water: What Makes Them Different?

Soft Water vs. Hard Water

Water – the fundamental necessity of life. It is easy to assume that all water is created equal, especially when we use it for daily tasks such as cleaning, bathing, and drinking. However, you may have heard of hard and soft water and might be wondering about the differences between the two. The truth is that the dissimilarities go beyond just taste and texture. Despite being an integral part of our lives, we don’t usually pay attention to the variance in the quality of water we use. So, in this blog, we’ll delve deeper and understand why all water is not the same.

When it comes to water, there are two distinct types: hard and soft. It’s essential to understand which type you have in your home, as they have different properties and characteristics. Are you curious to know more about hard and soft water? Keep reading to find out what sets them apart.

What is Hard Water?

Water can accumulate tiny particles as it travels from its source to your faucet. The level of these minerals present determines the water’s position on the hardness scale. Excessive amounts of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, cause it to become hard.

Is Hard Water Bad For You?

Fortunately, consuming hard water poses no direct health risks, despite variations in its taste due to varying mineral content. Although hard water is not detrimental when ingested, it can negatively impact your hair, skin, and your home.

Hard water can harm your body by removing natural oils and leaving mineral buildup on your skin and hair. Despite washing with shampoo and soap, you may not feel clean. Additionally, hard water can cause hair to become stiff and limp and even cause increased hair loss. Skin conditions can also worsen when in direct and prolonged contact with hard water minerals.

Upon contact with surfaces, hard water deposits sediment that appears scaly, leaving residues on showerheads, shower doors, and dishes. The evaporation process causes these mineral deposits to accumulate, resulting in unsightly white film or spots on silverware and plates. These deposits also cause streaks on surfaces. Besides being an eyesore, hard water residue also creates additional cleaning costs and time.

The accumulation of sediment can lead to expensive and time-consuming repairs. Exposure to hard water results in the buildup of minerals, which can obstruct pipes and valves, leading to their malfunction. Consequently, appliances like your refrigerator and laundry machine that rely on water may experience a reduced lifespan. The minerals present in hard water are abrasive, and even the tiniest sediment can escalate into a major issue for your household.

Despite its lack of direct harm from being ingested, hard water may create issues that require extensive resources to solve. From spending more on cleaning supplies to repeatedly seeking plumbing assistance for appliances, hard water can bring about additional challenges for your household. You may be experiencing these difficulties if you have hard water. Fortunately, the solution lies in soft water.

What is Soft Water?

Hard water contains an overabundance of calcium and magnesium, which can be harmful to both your home and body. On the other hand, soft water is devoid of these harsh minerals and is much more gentle. Water softener systems work to remove calcium and magnesium, resulting in water that is safer and healthier for you and your home.

Benefits of Soft Water

By removing hard water minerals at the point of entry to your home, you can extend the lifespan of your pipes and appliances. By eliminating sediment particles before they reach your dishwasher or water heater, they remain free from buildup and operate effectively for longer periods of time.

The presence of minerals in hard water can impede the effectiveness of soap, resulting in the need for excessive use of soap or shampoo to produce lather. This explains why it may be challenging to foam up soap while in the shower or when washing your hands, potentially causing you to purchase soap or detergents more frequently. The installation of a water softener system can both enhance the performance of your soap and decrease the frequency of cleaning required to combat stains.

Water softeners are essential in mitigating the unfavorable effects of hard water in your household. They promote a safe and healthy environment for your body and save you time and money on maintenance and cleaning. If you’re interested in investing in a water softener to experience the benefits of softer water, contact the team at Kinetico today to learn more.

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5 Benefits of a Water Softener

Water Softener

Investing in a product, such as a water softener, requires careful consideration of the benefits it can provide. It’s essential to comprehend how a water softener can be advantageous and make your daily activities much easier. Knowing the advantages of soft water is essential to making a wise purchase decision. Adding a water softener to your household can bring numerous benefits that will enhance your daily life. Especially in regions where hard water is prevalent, a water softener can be exceptionally useful.

Water that is high in calcium and magnesium ions, known as hard water, can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing while also making soaps and cleaning products less effective. However, the solution is simple – opting for soft water. Households that invest in water softeners can save significant amounts of money by avoiding costly repairs and enjoying the benefits of more effective cleaning products. In this blog, we’ll take a look at 5 of the greatest benefits of investing in a water softener.

Save Money on Cleaning Products

The presence of magnesium and calcium ions in hard water can make cleaning a challenging task. With soap and other cleaning agents, creating suds can be tough, resulting in suboptimal cleaning results. Whether it’s washing your hands, your car, your clothes, or your dishes, hard water can cause problems for all. Fortunately, soft water is treated to eliminate these impurities, resulting in a superior cleaning experience. With soft water, you can achieve the same level of cleanliness using less detergent and lower water temperatures. This means you’ll have to use fewer cleaning agents overall, resulting in a cost-effective, efficient cleaning solution.

Improve Your Water Heater’s Efficiency

Do you ever wonder why your water heating system seems to be struggling? The culprit could be hard water, which can cause scum and scale deposits that can block your pipes and damage your boiler. Imagine an extra layer of insulation preventing your system from heating up your water efficiently. These deposits can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 50%. Don’t let hard water ruin your water heating system! By opting for soft water, you can dissolve away scale and have your system running smoothly again.

Help Your Skin

Studies show that using soft water can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of your skin. Unlike hard water, soft water is gentle and won’t exacerbate eczema or other dry skin conditions. Hard water can produce soap scum, which can irritate your skin and even leave unsightly particles on your clothing. But with soft water, your clothes will feel softer, and your skin will be free from irritation. All of these reasons point to a water softener being the answer to all of your skincare prayers.

Reduce Cleaning Time

Cleaning can often require a lot of effort, but did you know that the type of water you use can make a big difference? Soft water is a game-changer when it comes to removing dirt and grime from surfaces around your home. Its magical powers make it easier to rinse dirt away, leaving no unsightly streaks or residue. On the other hand, hard water can make cleaning harder than it needs to be. Not only does hard water struggle to create a frothy lather, but it also leaves behind pesky mineral deposits that can give surfaces a spotted and unkempt appearance. So, if you want to make cleaning a breeze, embrace the power of soft water.

Protect Your Appliances

Concerned about the build-up of limescale in your plumbing? Hard water can be the culprit, clogging pipes and causing headaches. But fear not! Soft water can be the perfect solution for tackling these deposits in the long term. By installing a water softener, over time, the softer water can gradually dissolve these pesky deposits and eliminate the issue altogether. Say goodbye to blockages and hello to hassle-free plumbing.

Soft water is a great way to reduce costs, improve your skin health and hygiene, save time on cleaning tasks, and protect your appliances. Investing in a water softener can help you reap the benefits of softer water that will last for years to come. Whether you’re looking for an effective cleaning solution or want to maintain plumbing efficiency, opting for soft water could be just the thing you need. With all these advantages combined, it’s no wonder why more people are making the switch from hard to soft water! To get started on the process of installing a water softener in your home, contact the team of experts at Kinetico, and we’ll help get you on the path to reaping the benefits of a water softener.

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4 Signs You Need a Water Softener

hard water

In Utah, our water is considered hard, especially compared to other areas of the country. Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals, chiefly calcium and magnesium. But not everyone is aware of the effects of hard water. They may believe their skin problems and other issues are due to another cause. The team at Kinetico wants you to know the warning signs of hard water. If you have these bothersome issues in your home, a water softener can help.

1. Dry Skin & Hair

Hard water is drying, and showering with hard water can dry out your skin and hair, leaving you flaky and itchy. Moisturizing and conditioning can help, but it’s an issue many people in the Salt Lake City area fight constantly.

It has not been scientifically proven that hard water causes eczema, but most dermatologists agree that it can exacerbate the condition. Additionally, hard water can cause or worsen acne. Soft water is kinder to the skin and hair.

2. Appliances Break Down

Any appliances in your home that use water — the hot water tank, clothes washer, icemaker, dishwater — can break down more frequently if your home has hard water. That’s because of limescale, a chalky substance that builds up in these machines, as well as other parts such as sprayers, nozzles and drain hoses.

Soft water helps appliances last longer.

3. Plumbing Problems

Especially in older homes, scale and minerals can build up so thickly in pipes that the space for water to flow is reduced to the size of a pencil. This affects water pressure and makes it easier for pipes to become clogged.

With hard water, clogs can also form in the showerhead and faucets in your home. If you’re frequently calling the plumber for help with clogs, hard water may be to blame.

4. Dingy Laundry

Minerals make soap less effective, making it harder to clean your skin, your clothes and anything else in your home. After a while, your laundry will look dingy and stains will remain stubbornly behind. Minerals will also stay behind in your clothes, making them feel stiff. Additionally, your clothes will not last as long because the minerals break down the fabrics faster.

Have you noticed any of these signs in your home? Contact Kinetico today to schedule water softener installation. We serve Salt Lake City, Herriman, Bountiful, Ogden, Park City, Toole and the surrounding areas.

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How Do You Maintain a Water Softener?

How Do You Maintain a Water Softener?

If you’re considering buying a water softener, you may wonder how much maintenance it requires and if it’s difficult to do. The answer is, thankfully, that although water softeners do require some maintenance, it’s minimal and usually easily accomplished by the homeowner. When Kinetico installs water softeners in Utah, we ensure that homeowners know everything they need to know about water softener maintenance.

How Do Water Softeners Work?

Water softeners essentially filter water, removing the calcium and magnesium that makes water hard. Homeowners don’t like hard water because it makes cleaning more difficult, whether it is your clothes, your body or your home. It can also cause buildup in pipes and appliances, resulting in breakdowns sooner than expected and leaving stains in sinks, tubs and toilets.

Water softeners work by using negatively charged resin balls to attract positively charged calcium and magnesium molecules. Periodically, the resin beads in your water softener tank need to be purged of their calcium and magnesium molecules — but you don’t have to do it! Water softening systems include a second tank containing salt, and the salt molecules detach the calcium and magnesium ions from the resins, then wash them away as waste.

However, homeowners who live in an area with iron-rich water may want to periodically clean their water softener tanks with a product that removes iron deposits.

What Homeowners Need to Do for Water Softeners

The most important — and easiest — part of water softener maintenance is adding salt to the brine tank. How much salt to add and how often is dependent upon your water usage. Generally speaking, Kinetico recommends a bag per month. If you forget to add salt and your brine tank runs out, your water softener will stop working and your water will be hard again.

Sometimes salt can build up in the brine tank, forming a crusty barrier that prevents the salt water from getting into the water softener tank. You can usually fix this problem fairly easily by breaking up the “salt bridge” and removing the chunks of salt from the tank. After you clean out the tank, just add more salt and water and the problem should be resolved.

How Long Do Water Softeners Last?

With proper maintenance, water softeners can last for decades. And as you can see, water softeners are not particularly onerous to maintain, which makes them a particularly useful and popular device in your home. They save homeowners a lot of money over the years by preventing damage to appliances and clothing in your home.

For tips on making your water softener last as long as possible, contact the team at Kinetico. We’re here to help Utah homeowners throughout northern Utah reverse the negative effects of hard water in their homes.