How Do Kinetico Water Softeners So Little Salt?

How much salt does a water softener use

One key reason many people choose Kinetico water softeners is that they use about 70 percent less salt than competing brands. Investing in one means not having to pay for or lug around nearly as many bags of salt, something everyone appreciates.

But, many of our customers want to know why our softening systems don’t need much salt. If you’re curious, read on to learn about the three features of Kinetico water softeners that cut down on salt usage.

Regeneration Based on Real-Time Water Use

Traditional softening systems have computerized controls that are set to regenerate at specific times. They cannot soften water and regenerate at the same time, so the regeneration has to happen when no one is using water, like in the middle of the night.

The problem is, these types of softeners regenerate as scheduled, whether or not they actually need regeneration – and that results in burning through as much as 25 to 30 percent more salt than really necessary.

Kinetico softeners don’t regenerate on any schedule. The advanced engineering allows for regeneration at any time, without any effect on their softening capacity. As such, no salt is wasted with a Kinetico system.

Innovative Countercurrent Regeneration Process

The regeneration process for a traditional softening system starts at the top of the brine tank and moves downward. This is not an efficient approach – we’d compare it to cleaning a sink full of greasy pots and pans, then using the same dishwater to wash glassware.

How so? The concentration of hard water contaminants is highest at the top of the tank, so the top-down approach basically regenerates contaminated water with contaminated water.

Kinetico softeners feature counter current regeneration, starting at the bottom of the brine tank and working its way upward. This technology cuts unnecessary salt use by roughly 25 percent.

System Regeneration Process Uses Soft Water

Traditional water softeners use hard water in the regeneration process. And as you might expect, this is counterproductive – and wastes a great deal of salt.

Kinetico softening systems don’t operate this way. Instead, they regenerate with soft water, which makes a world of difference. In fact, this state-of-the-art design feature cuts down on salt usage by 20 percent.

Now you know why Kinetico water softeners use much less salt – and if you’d like to learn more about our high-quality, innovative softening systems, reach out to Kinetico Utah today.

A trusted local industry leader for over 30 years, Kinetico Utah has helped countless homeowners enjoy better household water quality. Contact us and schedule a free, no-pressure consultation to discuss the many benefits of Kinetico water softeners today!

Are You Concerned About the Quality of Your Utah Drinking Water?

What’s the safest drinking water in Utah?

If you’re worried about your household drinking water supply, you’re not alone. Independent research commissioned by the Water Quality Association (WQA) shows that many people across the country share your concerns.

A non-profit organization, the WQA tracks consumer opinions on water quality with national studies about once every two years. And according to their most recent data, Americans are growing increasingly less confident in their household supply. Here’s a look at the major findings from the WQA study and how to make sure your drinking water is safe.

Key Concerns Regarding Water Quality

When it comes to the quality of water from the household tap, people have several worries. The many reasons for not drinking it include:

  • Concern about contaminants and pollutants in the supply
  • Concern over whether it’s actually safe to consume
  • Tap drinks don’t taste as good as store-bought bottles
  • Water from the tap looks cloudy or has a strange odor

Compared to the results from the 2017 WQA study, these and other concerns regarding drinking water quality are on the rise. And, both those who get their supply from a municipal source and those with private wells are unsure about its safety.

Dealing with Drinking Water Quality Concerns

Most people have at least some familiarity with contaminants in the water supply, and many can name some of the major substances of concern. Consumers are growing more aware of the potential for quality issues, and most rely on bottled water or install home treatment systems.

However, WQA research reveals that many people have a limited understanding of the various types of treatment systems and how they compare. So, some consumers who invest on one may not get the greatest value or the best possible water quality.

Testing and Treating Your Drinking Water Supply

If you’re not confident in the quality of your household supply, getting it professionally tested is your first step – and the expert team at Kinetico Utah will perform one at no cost.

Homeowners throughout Utah have trusted us for water quality testing and high-quality treatment systems for over 30 years. We’ll take a sample, complete a thorough analysis and explain your options for getting better drinking water straight from the tap.

At Kinetico Utah, we offer a range of highly effective filtration, purification and softening systems. And, we back our products with a warranty that’s one of the best in the industry. Turn to us, and we’ll find a treatment solution that makes your household supply safe to drink and meets your budget.

For more information on Kinetico Utah or the treatment systems we install – or to arrange for a free, no-obligation household drinking water quality test – reach out to our office in Draper, Utah, today.

How Long Will a New Water Softener Last?

Utah water softener

A new water softener is a smart investment, as the appliance can pay for itself in as little as a year. Beyond that, a softening system will continue to save you money in monthly energy bills – and by having one, you’ll spend less on soap, detergent, clothes and textiles. Plus, your plumbing pipes and household appliance won’t need to be repaired or replaced nearly as often.

But how long will you get to enjoy these savings?

No one can predict exactly how many years a new water softener will last, but with today’s advanced technology, softening systems can provide decades of trouble-free operation. With traditional models, however, the lifespan isn’t quite as impressive.

Longevity of a New Water Softener

Traditional single-tank softening systems generally last about 10 years – at most. They can fail sooner, and that’s often the case in homes with extremely hard water.

A high-tech water softener, on the other hand, can easily remain in good working order for twice as long. And a system designed by Kinetico can continue to function for 30 years or more.

Water Softening System Maintenance

For the longest possible lifespan, softening systems require some regular care – and the amount of attention you’ll need to give your softener depends upon the type you install.

With a traditional model, you may have to run down to the basement to reset the electronic controls quite frequently. And as the computerized component is finicky, it’ll likely need to be replaced at some point – and the part doesn’t come cheap.

If you install a top-quality water softener, like those engineered by Kinetico, you won’t have much to maintain. There are no filters to change, and since the system doesn’t use electricity, it doesn’t have any electronic controls to set.

Importance of an Annual Service Call

Servicing your water softening system on a yearly basis is the best way to ensure it remains in peak condition for as long as possible.

During an annual service visit, a water treatment professional can sanitize the softener, optimize the settings, inspect the appliance for potential issues and test the quality of your household water supply. By scheduling a yearly service appointment, you’ll extend the lifespan of your new water softener, thereby protecting your investment.

Are you planning to install a water softening system? Turn to Kinetico Utah, a trusted industry leader known for high-quality, innovative water treatment systems. We’ve been helping homeowners eliminate their hard water problems for over 30 years, and our products com with a 10-year manufacturer warranty.

For more information, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss water softener installation with the Kinetico Utah team, contact our Draper office today.

Contaminants Removed by Reverse Osmosis Water Purification

What an RO system does

Installing a reverse osmosis water purification system can eliminate many concerns over your household water quality?

Contamination can be a serious problem. The crisis in Flint, Michigan, the more recent lead problem in Newark, New Jersey and the fact that similar situations continue to hit the headlines tell us that anyone can have dangerous contaminants in their water.

Fortunately, a reverse osmosis (RO) system, which forces every drop of water though a semi-permeable membrane, can effectively trap many different types of contaminants.

Biological Contaminants

Experts call organisms in the water supply biological, microbial or microbiological contaminants, or they may be referred to as microbes. Examples of biological contaminants that a reverse osmosis water purification system can remove include:

  • Cryptosporidium
  • Giardia lamblia
  • Legionella
  • Bacteria
  • Viruses

Chemical Contaminants

Naturally occurring and man-made elements and compounds that compromise water quality are considered chemical contaminants. Examples of problematic elements and compounds that can be removed with an RO system include:

  • Arsenic
  • Copper
  • Lead
  • Mercury
  • Nitrate
  • Fluoride

Disinfection Byproducts

Disinfection byproducts are organic, inorganic and chemical substances formed during the water disinfection process. Examples of byproducts that can be eliminated with a reverse osmosis system include:

  • Bromate
  • Chlorite
  • Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
  • Total trihalomethanees (TTHMs)

Physical Contaminants

Physical contaminants are generally not hazardous – they primarily affect the water’s appearance and physical properties. That said, these impurities can have a significant impact on the taste, smell and quality of a household’s water supply. To remove contaminates, a high-quality RO system includes two to four additional filters that can remove sediments and particulates.

Installing a Reverse Osmosis System

When you consider the cost per glass, an RO system is one of the most affordable water purification options available. The components are highly durable, and the system requires very little maintenance. Invest in one, and it’ll pay for itself quite quickly, as buying bottled will be a thing of the past for your family.

You can choose to install an RO system under your kitchen sink or basement. And if you like, the system can connect to your refrigerator and ice maker.

After installing a high-quality reverse osmosis water purification system – like those we offer here at Kinetico Utah — your family will have a safe, clean and delicious supply of drinking water.

The vast improvement in the safety and quality of your household drinking water supply is reason enough to install an RO system, but you’ll love the convenience of enjoying tasty and refreshing water straight from the tap. A reverse osmosis water purification system is a valuable addition to any home. For more information, contact Kinetico Utah and schedule a free consultation today.

Drinking Water Filtration System vs. Bottled Water: Which Is Best?

Home water filtration in Utah

Should you invest in a drinking water filtration system? Or is buying bottled water the best way to go?

As water treatment specialists, we’re obviously in favor of the first approach. But, we have several good reasons for recommending home filtration over bottled water. Once you see how the two options for drinking water compare, you’ll understand our opinion.

Safety

Bottled water may not be any purer or safer than what flows through the taps. And because the companies that produce it aren’t required to issue annual quality reports, you really don’t know what contaminants it may contain.

With a filtration system, you can ensure every glass your family consumes is fresh, clean and safe. The filter will trap impurities, leaving you with the highest quality drinking water.

Convenience

Sure, grabbing a bottle out of the fridge is easy. And, you can buy bottled water just about everywhere, which does make it convenient.

That said, having a drinking water filtration system at your home is even more convenient – getting a glass is as simple as turning on the faucet. Plus, you’ll have a safe supply for use in cooking. Using bottles for that purpose would be rather expensive…which brings us to our next point.

Cost

Bottled water isn’t very budget-friendly. Each bottle might only cost a dollar or two, but if you’re drinking as much as you should, that can add up to hundreds of dollars every month.

A home filtration system does require an upfront investment. But because it can produce great-tasting, high-quality drinking water for just pennies a gallon, the purchase will pay for itself rather quickly. And if you invest in the right system, like one from Kinetico, it can last for twenty years.

Sustainability

The environmental cost is one of the biggest downsides to bottled water. Packaging and transporting it uses a large amount of fossil fuels, and most bottles end up in landfills.

A drinking water filtration system is a far more eco-friendly option. By not throwing away countless plastic bottles every month, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, especially if you choose an efficient system – like those made by Kinetico.

Have we convinced you to forgo the bottled water and opt for home filtration? If you live in Salt Lake City or the surrounding northern Utah area and you’re ready to explore your options, call on the professional team at Kinetico Utah.

At Kinetico, a decades-long industry leader, we’re known for providing innovative water treatment solutions. We also have a reputation for exceptional customer service, and we’re happy to answer your questions, offer expert advice and help you find the best solution for your northern Utah home.

For more information on our drinking water filtration systems, contact our Draper, Utah, office and schedule a free consultation today.

How to Maintain a Reverse Osmosis System

Utah RO system repair and maintenance

A reverse osmosis system can provide you with a convenient supply of clean, great-tasting drinking water. And with proper maintenance, the system can easily last ten to twenty years.

But what does it take to maintain a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system?

The amount of maintenance required depends upon the type of system you install, where your water comes from and how much your household uses. That said, maintaining a reverse osmosis system typically involves periodic filter changes.

Filter Changes

Most reverse osmosis water filtration systems have multiple filters, and manufacturers provide recommendations on how often to change the cartridges.

Usually, replacement filters are necessary every 9 to 12 months. However, if you get your water from a well, you may need more frequent changes due to the sediment and dissolved solids well water contains. Your RO water filtration system will also require new cartridges more often if you have a large household or above-average consumption.

Make Maintenance Easier

One of the best ways to ensure easy maintenance is to pair your reverse osmosis system with a water softener. The minerals in hard water put a strain on the filters, which reduces their lifespan. A softener removes these minerals before they reach the filters. And, the RO system removes the sodium added to the water by the softener.

Another way to make maintenance easier is to choose a Kinetico water filtration system. Our unique design allows you to change the filters with a simple twist, and you’ll know when a change is necessary thanks to our MACguard® Filter and PureMometer® Filter Life indicator.

Or, if you prefer, you can simply rely on Kinetico Utah for your RO water filtration system maintenance. Our professional team can take care of the necessary filter changes, and we’ll also check your water quality to ensure the system is working properly.

For more information on our home water filtration systems and water softeners, or to schedule a free consultation to discuss reverse osmosis system installation with the experts at Kinetico Utah, contact our Draper office today.

Soft Water or RO: What’s Best for Your Houseplants?

RO systems vs water softeners

The benefits of soft water are undeniable. After installing a softener, you can look forward to having healthier skin, getting suds with much less soap, extending the lifespan of your appliances and saving money on your monthly energy bills.

But how will the softened water affect your houseplants? Is it safe for them to drink?

Yes, but as any gardener knows, certain varieties can be extra sensitive. Here’s what you need to consider if you’re planning on installing a softening system.

Softeners Don’t Add Salt to Your Water

Most softening systems use salt. However, that doesn’t mean they provide you with salty water to use.

Salt contains sodium. And the salt you add to the softener tank gets broken down for its sodium – the element has a positive charge, so it attracts and removes the negatively charged calcium and magnesium molecules responsible for your household’s hard water.

As only a trace amount of sodium remains in soft water, you can safely use what flows from your taps for watering your houseplants. Chances are, you won’t notice any ill effects.

Keeping Your Houseplants Happy

The tiny amount of sodium in soft water can gradually build up in potting soil, and that may cause sensitive plant varieties to suffer stunted growth.

If you’re concerned about soft water being too hard on your houseplants, opt for an alternate solution:

  • Collect rainwater or melt snow and use it for watering
  • Purchase distilled, purified or spring water for your plants
  • Use potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride pellets in your softener tank

You can also give your houseplants water from a reverse osmosis system – and installing one along with a softener can be a smart investment.

Invest in a Reverse Osmosis System

The reverse osmosis process greatly reduces the contaminants in your household water. The result is a supply that’s nearly pure – and that allows you to easily control the pH level and create balanced nutrient solutions for plants in need of special care.

Plus, with a reverse osmosis system, you’ll have an in-house supply of great-tasting drinking water. No more buying bottled water at the grocery store brings big savings, and system maintenance is a breeze.

If you install both a softener and a reverse osmosis system, you’ll enjoy the benefits of soft water and have purified drinking water that’s safe for both your family and your houseplants. Furthermore, because a softening system eliminates the calcium and magnesium molecules from your household supply, it will significantly extend the already long lifespan of your reverse osmosis unit.

To learn more about softeners and reverse osmosis systems, turn to the professional team at Kinetico Utah.

An industry leader in Salt Lake City and throughout northern Utah, Kinetico has been providing innovative, efficient and effective water treatment solutions for decades. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to homeowners, and our specialists are ready to explain your options, answer your questions and offer expert advice.

For more information on our products or the many benefits of having soft water and purified drinking water in your home, contact Kinetico Utah today.

Water Softening Systems & Warranties: What You Need to Know

Utah water softening systems

So, you’re thinking of investing in a water softener. As you research your options for water softening systems, warranty coverage is one of the many important details to consider.

The warranties offered by the various water softener manufacturers are not all alike. You need to make sure the product you choose comes with sufficient coverage – you don’t want the warranty to fall short if your softening system experiences a problem.

To make the task of comparing warranties for water softening systems a little easier, the following guide explains the essentials.

Standard Warranties for Water Softeners

Though many manufacturers stand behind their water softeners, most have a limited warranty window of one year on parts – and only on certain parts. Exclusions are common, and the components that are more likely to break down may not be covered. And keep in mind, warranties typically do not include labor charges for repairs.

Some manufacturers, including Kinetico, offer extended warranty coverage for the softener tanks. This is a definite benefit, but these components are usually not the cause of softening system problems.

Water Softener Warranty Requirements

In many cases, manufacturers have specific guidelines on water softener installation. For the warranty to be valid, the softening system must be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Generally, this means that the softener must be appropriate for the household water conditions and that the installation must meet all applicable local codes. And to maintain the validity of the warranty, any servicing of the softening system needs to be completed as the manufacturer directs.

Why Kinetico Warranties are Stronger than Others

Kinetico offers impressive warranty coverage on our water softening systems – we’re proud of the fact that our warranties are among the best in the industry.

Our coverage is better than what you’ll find with our competitors. Our Premier Series™ water softeners, for example, come with a 10-year warranty on all parts. That includes the ion exchange resin, the filtration media, the bypass valves and prefilter assemblies, assuming normal maintenance requirements are met.

In addition, if you decide to move, you can transfer the warranty to the new homeowner. Or, you can have the softening system moved to your new residence and the coverage will continue. Plus, with Kinetico, you can look forward to having a warranty with no fine print. We keep our warranties clear and easy to read – you can tell at a glance exactly what’s covered.

Do you have questions? Or are you interested in learning more about what Kinetico water softeners have to offer? For details on our warranties for water softening systems, or to schedule a free consultation and estimate, contact our Draper, Utah, office today.

https://www.kinetico.com/media/1576/15206_warranty_limited_kinetico_premier_series_022013.pdf