What Should Homeowners Know Before Installing a Water Filtration System?

A visual guide to home water filtration in a modern kitchen, featuring clean drinking water pouring from a faucet, water quality testing equipment, a multi-stage under-sink filter, and maintenance planning icons

Installing a water filtration system is one of the best ways to improve your home’s water quality, but choosing the right solution involves more than simply purchasing the first system you find. Every home has unique water conditions, and selecting the wrong filtration system can leave contaminants untreated or result in unnecessary expenses over time.

Before investing in a filtration system, homeowners should understand their water quality, compare available filtration options, and consider the long-term costs of ownership. At Kinetico of Salt Lake City, homeowners are encouraged to take a thoughtful approach so they can select a system that delivers clean, reliable water for years to come.

Start with a Professional Water Quality Test

The first step before purchasing any water filtration system is determining exactly what’s in your water.

Water can contain a variety of contaminants depending on where you live, including:

  • Sediment
  • Chlorine
  • Hard water minerals
  • Lead
  • Nitrates
  • Iron
  • Sulfur
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Bacteria or other microorganisms

Without proper testing, it’s impossible to know which contaminants need to be addressed. A system designed to reduce chlorine, for example, may not effectively remove heavy metals or dissolved minerals.

Professional water testing helps identify your home’s specific water concerns, allowing you to choose a filtration solution designed to meet those needs instead of paying for unnecessary features.

Understand the Different Types of Water Filtration Systems

Not every water filtration system serves the same purpose. Understanding the available options can help homeowners make a more informed decision.

Whole-House Water Filtration Systems

Whole-house systems are installed where the main water line enters the home. They treat water before it reaches every faucet, appliance, and fixture.

Benefits include:

  • Filtered water throughout the entire home
  • Protection for plumbing and appliances
  • Improved water for bathing, laundry, and cleaning
  • Reduced sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants, depending on the system

These systems are ideal for homeowners who want comprehensive water treatment rather than filtration at a single location.

Under-Sink Water Filters

Under-sink systems are installed beneath a kitchen sink to filter water used for drinking and cooking.

They provide:

  • Convenient access to filtered water
  • Hidden installation
  • Better taste and odor
  • Lower upfront cost than whole-house systems

However, they only treat water from one faucet rather than the entire home’s water supply.

Countertop Filtration Units

Countertop filters connect directly to a faucet and require little to no permanent installation.

These systems can be a practical option for renters or homeowners looking for a temporary solution, though they typically offer less filtration capacity than larger systems.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems use multiple filtration stages and a specialized membrane to remove a wide range of dissolved contaminants from drinking water.

Many homeowners choose reverse osmosis systems because they can reduce:

  • Dissolved solids
  • Certain heavy metals
  • Nitrates
  • Chlorine
  • Unpleasant tastes and odors

Reverse osmosis is commonly installed at the kitchen sink to provide high-quality drinking water while complementing a whole-house filtration system.

Consider Your Household’s Water Usage

Every family’s water usage is different.

When selecting a water filtration system, think about:

  • Number of people in the home
  • Daily water consumption
  • Number of bathrooms
  • Water-using appliances
  • Outdoor water needs
  • Future household growth

Choosing a system that’s too small may reduce water pressure or require more frequent maintenance, while purchasing an oversized system may increase unnecessary costs.

Working with experienced professionals like Kinetico helps ensure the selected system is appropriately sized for your household.

Review Installation Requirements

Some filtration systems are simple enough for basic installation, while others require professional expertise.

Before purchasing, consider:

  • Available installation space
  • Existing plumbing configuration
  • Drain connections
  • Electrical requirements (if applicable)
  • Local plumbing codes

Professional installation can help ensure your filtration system operates efficiently while protecting manufacturer warranties.

Understand Maintenance Requirements

Every filtration system requires ongoing maintenance to continue performing properly.

Routine maintenance may include:

  • Replacing filter cartridges
  • Sanitizing components
  • Monitoring system performance
  • Inspecting plumbing connections
  • Servicing specialized filtration equipment

Ignoring recommended maintenance schedules can reduce filtration performance and shorten the lifespan of the equipment.

Understanding maintenance expectations before purchasing helps homeowners avoid surprises later.

Factor in Filter Replacement Costs

The purchase price is only one part of owning a water filtration system.

Homeowners should also consider recurring expenses such as:

  • Replacement filters
  • Scheduled maintenance
  • Professional servicing
  • Water testing after installation
  • Replacement components over time

Some systems require filter changes every few months, while others may only need annual maintenance. Comparing long-term ownership costs provides a more accurate picture than focusing solely on the initial purchase price.

Look for Trusted Certifications

Not all filtration systems perform equally.

When evaluating products, look for systems that have been independently tested and certified to verify their performance.

Trusted certifications help confirm that a system has been evaluated for:

  • Contaminant reduction
  • Material safety
  • Structural integrity
  • Product performance

It’s also important to carefully review manufacturer claims. Marketing language can sometimes sound impressive without clearly explaining which contaminants a system is actually designed to reduce.

Understanding certifications and verified performance data helps homeowners make confident purchasing decisions.

Think Beyond the Purchase Price

The least expensive filtration system isn’t always the most economical over the long term.

Higher-quality systems may offer:

  • Longer equipment lifespan
  • Lower maintenance requirements
  • Greater filtration capacity
  • Improved efficiency
  • Better warranty coverage

Evaluating total ownership costs—including maintenance, repairs, filter replacements, and expected lifespan—can help homeowners identify the best long-term value.

If you’re researching a water filtration system in Utah, comparing both upfront and ongoing costs will help ensure your investment continues to provide reliable performance for years to come.

Make an Informed Investment in Your Home’s Water

Installing a water filtration system is an investment in your family’s comfort, health, and home. By testing your water first, understanding the different filtration options, evaluating maintenance requirements, reviewing certifications, and considering long-term ownership costs, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right solution for your needs.

Whether you’re interested in whole-house filtration, reverse osmosis, or another customized solution, Kinetico can help you evaluate your water quality and recommend a system designed to provide dependable performance for your household.

Water Filtration System Types: Which Is Best for You?

Water Filtration System Types

With so many types of water filtration systems on the market, finding the right one for your home can feel overwhelming. Each system offers unique features and benefits that address specific water quality issues. Whether you’re looking to reduce contaminants, improve taste, or soften hard water, choosing the right filtration system can significantly affect your daily life. Here’s an overview of popular types of water filtration systems and some guidance on selecting the best one for your needs.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters are one of the most common and effective filtration systems for household use. They work by trapping contaminants and impurities in a carbon bed, improving water taste and odor. Activated carbon is particularly effective at removing chlorine and organic compounds, making it an excellent choice for city water supplies where these are common issues.

It’s best for Improving taste and odor, removing chlorine, and reducing organic contaminants. It’s a good choice for households primarily concerned with taste and essential filtration.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are highly efficient at removing many contaminants, including heavy metals, salts, and dissolved solids. These systems use a semi-permeable membrane to filter out impurities, leaving only pure water. Many RO systems come with a multi-stage filtration process, often including sediment and activated carbon filters to enhance water quality further.

Best for: Those seeking comprehensive filtration to remove heavy metals, dissolved solids, and other contaminants. It’s ideal for households with concerns about water safety and purity.

Ultraviolet (UV) Water Purifiers

UV water purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in the water. This system is especially effective for homes that rely on a private well for their water, as it addresses microbial contamination that other filtration systems may not handle. However, UV purifiers typically work best with other filtration systems, as they don’t remove physical impurities or chemicals.

Best for: Homes concerned about microbial contamination. It’s perfect for extra protection in areas where bacterial or viral contamination is risky.

Water Softeners

Water softeners are designed to reduce hardness in water, which is caused by high levels of calcium and magnesium. Hard water can lead to mineral buildup in pipes, dry skin, and premature appliance wear. Water softeners work through an ion exchange process, replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions, making the water “softer” and more manageable on plumbing and appliances.

Best for: Households with complex water issues. If you notice mineral buildup, soap scum, or dry skin, a water softener can improve your water’s quality and prevent costly damage.

Whole-House Filtration Systems

Whole-house filtration systems offer a comprehensive approach to water treatment, filtering water as it enters the home. This system addresses contaminants throughout the house, ensuring every tap delivers filtered water. Whole-house systems often combine various filtration methods, such as sediment filters, activated carbon, and UV purification, making them customizable to specific household needs.

Best for: Households that want clean, filtered water at every faucet. This system provides all-around filtration and is ideal for those with specific water quality concerns.

Choosing the Right Water Filtration System for Your Needs

Selecting the best filtration system depends on several factors, including water quality, household size, and specific needs. Here are some tips to help guide your decision:

  • Test Your Water Quality: Start by testing your water to identify contaminants. A carbon filter may be sufficient if your water source has high levels of chlorine or organic compounds. An RO system is a better choice for heavy metals or dissolved solids.
  • Determine Your Health Concerns: If you’re concerned about bacteria or viruses, adding a UV purifier to your filtration system will provide protection. A water softener is essential if you struggle with complex water issues.

Why Choose Kinetico?

Kinetico‘s water filtration systems are designed to address various water quality concerns, with options tailored to meet specific household needs. Whether you’re seeking clean drinking water, softened water for your appliances, or protection from contaminants, Kinetico offers a range of efficient and effective solutions. Known for non-electric systems, Kinetico prioritizes reliability and sustainability, making their filtration systems an intelligent, long-lasting investment for any home.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Home

Choosing the right water filtration system can seem daunting, but understanding the different options can help you make an informed decision. By evaluating your home’s water quality and determining your family’s unique needs, you can select a system that provides safe, clean water for years. With Kinetico‘s range of reliable and high-quality filtration options, finding the best system to suit your home’s requirements is simpler than ever.

The Cost-Benefit of Investing in a Water Filtration System

Water Filtration System

Clean, safe water is a basic necessity, but many homeowners need help with water quality. Investing in a water filtration system can address these issues, but is it worth the cost? This guide will help you weigh the financial, health, and environmental benefits of installing a water filtration system, with insights into why Kinetico systems stand out.

Why Clean Water Matters

Health Benefits of Clean Water

Clean water improves health by removing harmful contaminants like chlorine, lead, and pesticides. A reliable filtration system ensures that you’re drinking water that is not only safe but also tastes better.

Impacts on Household Efficiency

Beyond health, water quality affects your household appliances and plumbing. Hard water can cause scale buildup, reducing efficiency and leading to costly repairs.

Types of Water Filtration Systems

Whole-House Systems

These systems filter water as it enters your home, providing clean water for protecting your appliances and fixtures, bathing, and cleaning. Kinetico’s whole-house filters effectively remove dirt, sediment, and chlorine.

Under-Sink Filters

Smaller systems focus on drinking water but need more comprehensive coverage of whole-house systems. While more affordable initially, they often require more frequent maintenance.

Initial Costs of Water Filtration Systems

Factors Influencing Cost

The price depends on the system type, size, and features. While under-sink systems are more expensive up front, their comprehensive benefits justify the investment.

Comparing Kinetico to Other Options

Kinetico systems stand out for their non-electric operation, energy efficiency, and durability, making them a cost-effective choice.

Long-Term Financial Benefits

Reduction in Bottled Water Costs

Filtered water eliminates the need for expensive bottled water, saving families hundreds of dollars annually.

Lower Appliance Maintenance and Repairs

Hard water leads to scale buildup, reducing appliance efficiency and lifespan. A Kinetico filtration system helps extend appliance life, reducing repair and replacement costs.

Reduced Plumbing Repairs

Filtered water removes chlorine protecting the rubber components in your fixtures and appliances from degrading, reducing the likelihood of costly plumbing repairs.

Savings on Cleaning Supplies

Soft water requires less soap and detergent, resulting in ongoing savings on household products.

Health Benefits of Filtered Water

Removing Harmful Contaminants

Kinetico systems effectively remove harmful substances, ensuring your water is safe for drinking and cooking.

Softer Skin and Healthier Hair

Soft water helps prevent dryness and irritation, leaving skin and hair feeling softer and healthier.

Environmental Benefits

Reducing Plastic Waste

Filtered water reduces reliance on single-use plastic bottles, helping to protect the environment.

Lower Energy Consumption

Kinetico’s non-electric systems minimize energy use, contributing to a more sustainable household.

Why Kinetico Water Filtration Systems Stand Out

Non-Electric Design

Kinetico systems operate without electricity, ensuring reliability even during power outages.

Regeneration on Demand

These systems regenerate only when necessary, saving water and maximizing efficiency.

Certified Performance and Durability

With certifications from the Water Quality Association, Kinetico systems guarantee top-notch performance and long-term value.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Balancing Cost and Value

A water filtration system is a smart investment when you consider the savings on bottled water, appliance repairs, and plumbing maintenance.

Peace of Mind and Long-Term Savings

Knowing your family uses clean, safe water adds invaluable peace of mind.

Tips for Choosing the Right Water Filtration System

Assessing Your Home’s Water Quality

Start by testing your water to identify contaminants and determine the best filtration system.

Considering Household Needs

Choose a system based on your household size and water usage patterns.

Evaluating Maintenance Requirements

Opt for systems like Kinetico that require minimal maintenance for hassle-free operation.

Conclusion

Investing in a water filtration system offers financial, health, and environmental benefits. With systems like Kinetico, you gain high-quality water while saving money and protecting the planet. Long-term savings and improved quality of life quickly outweigh the upfront cost.

The Science Behind Water Filtration: How It Works

Water Filtration

Water filtration is vital to ensure your water is clean and safe. But have you ever wondered about the science behind how water filtration systems work? This article discusses the mechanisms that make water filtration effective and why it is crucial for your health and well-being.

Understanding Water Contaminants

Before diving into the filtration process, it’s essential to understand what contaminants water filtration systems target. Water can contain a variety of impurities, including sediments, chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, and chemical pollutants. Each of these contaminants can impact health and affect the taste and quality of water. Effective filtration systems are designed to remove or reduce these impurities, ensuring you get clean, safe water.

How Water Filtration Systems Work

Water filtration systems operate using different technologies to purify water. Here are some standard methods and how they work:

Activated Carbon Filtration

Activated carbon filters are one of the most popular filtration methods. These filters use activated carbon, a form of carbon treated to have a large surface area. As water flows through the filter, contaminants are adsorbed onto the surface of the carbon. This process removes chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and unpleasant odors and tastes.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a highly effective filtration method that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. During the process, water is forced through the membrane, which traps impurities while allowing clean water to pass through. RO systems can remove many contaminants, including heavy metals, salts, and microorganisms.

Ceramic Filtration

Ceramic filters use porous ceramic material to remove contaminants. The tiny pores allow water to pass through while trapping larger particles, bacteria, and sediments. This type of filtration effectively removes particulate matter and some pathogens from water.

UV Purification

Ultraviolet (UV) purification uses UV light to kill or inactivate microorganisms in the water. As water passes through the UV chamber, the UV light disrupts the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, rendering them harmless. UV purification is highly effective in ensuring the microbial safety of water.

The Role of Kinetico in Water Filtration

For those seeking reliable and advanced water filtration solutions, Kinetico offers a range of high-quality systems to address various water quality issues. Kinetico water filtration systems are known for their effectiveness and efficiency. Combining advanced technology with ease of use, Kinetico systems ensure you have access to clean and safe water throughout your home.

Why Choose Kinetico?

Kinetico‘s water filtration systems are designed to meet high performance and reliability standards. With certifications from the Water Quality Association (WQA and NSF), these systems provide peace of mind, knowing your water is being effectively treated. Kinetico’s solutions include non-electric technology, which eliminates the need for timers or electrical components, ensuring uninterrupted water purification even during power outages.

The Importance of Effective Water Filtration

Understanding the science behind water filtration helps you appreciate the importance of a reliable system. By removing contaminants and ensuring the purity of your water, you are taking a crucial step towards better health and quality of life. With Kinetico’s advanced filtration systems, you can be confident that your water is treated to the highest standards, providing you and your family with clean, safe water every day.

Visit Kinetico for more information on how it can enhance your water quality. Explore its range of filtration systems and find the perfect solution for your home.

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.

Is Water Softener Necessary?

water softener

Wondering if a water softener is necessary in your Utah home? Hard water dries skin and hair, shortens the life span and effectiveness of appliances and plumbing fixtures, and leaves a build up on shower stalls and dishes. So while there are no state regulations mandating water softeners, many Utah residents choose to get them on their own from Kinetico Water Systems.

How Hard Is Hard?

According to the Water Systems Council, a nonprofit established in 1932 to make well water safer to drink, water hardness is determined by how many parts per million of minerals there are in a sample of water. According to the council, 0-17.1 ppm is soft water, 17.2-60 is slightly hard, 61-120 is moderately hard and 121-180 is very hard.

In northern Utah, many cities and towns have extremely hard water. These include:

  • American Fork: 256
  • Bountiful: 513
  • Brigham City: 324
  • Draper: 657
  • Herriman: 359
  • Layton: 352
  • Lehi: 200
  • Logan: 272
  • Ogden: 170
  • Orem: 239
  • Park City: 444
  • Provo: 164
  • Salt Lake City: 158
  • Sandy: 307
  • South Jordan: 145
  • Spanish Fork: 427
  • Tooele: 310
  • West Jordan: 148
  • West Valley City: 170

What Is Hard Water?

Water is considered “hard” if it contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. Groundwater passes over rocks underground before it is pumped into your home, and during the process, water picks up minerals from the rocks. Northern Utah has some of the hardest water in the country.

What’s So Bad About Hard Water?

Hard water is not hazardous to your health, but it could do in your good looks. Hard water is bad for your skin because the minerals in the water react with soap, making it hard to rinse off. The residue builds up causing dry skin and may lead to acne, dermatitis and eczema. Hard water is also bad for your hair and scalp, causing them to dry out and become dull and itchy.

If you have hard water in your home, you may notice that your soap doesn’t lather in your hands as easily. For this reason, hard water doesn’t clean as well. Your laundry is dingier and not as clean, and your clothes and linens may feel scratchy.

The minerals in hard water can also stain bathroom fixtures and appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers.

What to Do About Hard Water

When customers in Salt Lake City, Provo and Ogden learn about how hard the water is in their homes, they often opt to buy a water softener. Water softeners are extremely common in homes in Bountiful, Herriman, Park City and Toole, where the water is much harder.

A water softener works by removing the calcium, magnesium and other minerals from your water supply and adding salt. When you opt to get soft water in your Salt Lake City home or any other location in northern Utah, you will notice the difference right away.

To learn more about getting a water softener in your Utah home, contact Kinetico today.

Environmental Benefits of Water Purification Systems

environmental benefits water purification

When considering water filters or purification systems for any part of their homes or buildings, many people naturally consider the individual benefits first and foremost. Beyond the improved taste and health-related benefits that come to individual users of a water purification system, however, there’s another key plus area to consider as well: Environmental benefits.

At Kinetico, we’re proud to offer a variety of reverse osmosis water purification systems, which are used alongside our water softeners and other water treatment solutions for several major purposes. What are the major ways a water purification system benefits not just you and the other people in your home or building, but also the environment itself? Here’s a basic primer.

Limiting Plastic Water Bottle Consumption

Water purification systems are a primary alternative to the constant production and consumption of plastic water bottles that can end up in a landfill or even a waterway, where they never biodegrade. Plastic pollution is a huge issue for the globe’s rivers and oceans – with an estimated five trillion plastic pieces weighing over 250,000 tons currently floating around the world’s waters.

When you install water purification systems in your home or office building, you’re able to eliminate the need plastic water bottles.

Reducing Fossil Fuel Consumption

In addition to the massive pollution issues plastic water bottles lead to, their manufacturing also requires fossil fuels and natural gas – to produce the plastic bottles themselves, generate power for their production and transportation, etc. By eliminating a need for as many of these types of plastic water bottles – whether through home filtration systems or simply by not buying them – you can reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and help preserve natural resources for future generations.

For more on the environmental benefits of water purification systems and water softeners, or to learn about any of our water treatment programs, speak to the pros at Kinetico today.

Water Softener Repair or Replacement – How to Decide

water softener repair Salt Lake City

Should you look into water softener repair? Or would replacing your softening system be a smarter choice?

Many homeowners in Salt Lake City and the surrounding northern Utah area have hard water, but a traditional water softener should last 8-10 years. That may not be the case for yours, however, as your household usage and the efficiency of your softening system can affect the timeline for water softener replacement.

That said, you don’t want to assume the worst. Some problems have simple fixes, and your softener could be worth repairing. Below, the Kinetico Utah team offers advice on how to decide if you should repair or replace your softening system.

Signs Your Water Softening System Has a Problem

  • Is your freshly washed laundry not looking all that clean?
  • Have you seen crusty scale deposits on your faucets and fixtures?
  • Do you need to use more soap than usual to create a lather?
  • Does your skin feel itchy and dry when you get out of the shower?

All of these issues point to an issue with your softening system — and to once again start enjoying soft water every day, you’ll need to figure out if repairing or replacing the unit is the right decision.

When Repair May Be Worth the Effort

At the first sign of trouble, immediately scheduling water softener replacement doesn’t make sense. Instead, scout out the situation. You may find that the unit isn’t plugged into a live outlet, for example, or that a previous power outage caused the timer to reset. Or, you might have forgotten to add salt.

If none of these seem to be the problem, you should reach out to a professional for a water softener repair consultation. An experienced technician can determine the cause of your system malfunction and how to provide a solution. But before you make an appointment, check your owner’s manual – if your system is still under warranty, you’ll need to contact the company that installed the unit.

When to Consider Softener Replacement

Repairing a softener typically costs less than replacing the unit, but sometimes, the latter is the right route to take. If you’re questioning whether or not you should replace your water softening system, consider the following:

  • Is your softener close to or over 10 years old?
  • Does the system frequently have problems that require repair?
  • Are you interested in upgrading to a more efficient softener that will save on operating costs and use much less salt?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, now may be the time to move forward with water softener replacement. To make an informed decision, however, you’ll want to consult with an experienced professional.

Call Kinetico Utah for an Expert Opinion

When faced with a water softening system that isn’t functioning as it should, homeowners in the greater Salt Lake City area call on the expert team at Kinetico Utah. We know how to troubleshoot problems, and we can help you decide if repairing or replacing your softener is the best option.

Do you want more information on water softener repair and replacement? Or would you like to learn about our innovative, high-quality water softening systems? Contact Kinetico Utah to schedule a free repair consultation and estimate for water softener replacement at your Salt Lake City home today.

Reverse Osmosis Systems vs. Pitcher Water Filters

Water filter Utah

When you first consider your options for fresh, clean-tasting water at your Utah home, you may lean toward getting a pitcher water filter rather than a reverse osmosis system.

This is understandable, as pitcher filters are easy to use and cheap to buy.

However, relying on a pitcher to filter your drinking water may not be the best move. Here, the expert team at Kinetico Utah explains the reasons why investing in an RO water filtration system is a wise decision.

Pitchers Filter Only a Small Amount of Water

Pitcher water filters aren’t all that productive because the pitchers have a limited capacity. The amount that can be filtered at a time might not be enough to satisfy your household needs – and filling up the pitcher every time you empty it may soon become a nuisance. If you invest in a reverse osmosis filtration system, everyone will have plenty to drink every time they turn on the faucet.

Pitchers Require More Frequent Filter Changes

Most manufacturers recommend replacing pitcher filters every two months or once 40 gallons has been filtered, whichever comes first. The cost of replacement water filters could add up to nearly $100 per year, and swapping out the filters is a chore that’s easy to forget. With a reverse osmosis water filtration system, filter changes are a breeze, and they’re typically only necessary every 12 months.

Pitcher Filters Remove Fewer Contaminants

Some water filter pitchers remove only chlorine, while others also remove certain bacteria, organic compounds and heavy metals. But regardless of which brand you choose, a pitcher water filter won’t eliminate as many contaminants as a reverse osmosis system can. RO technology works to trap up to 99 percent of the contaminants commonly found in Utah, which makes for safer, cleaner and better-tasting water.

Choosing a Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

If you opt for a reverse osmosis water filtration system instead of a water filter pitcher, you’ll have a virtually endless supply of delicious filtered water for drinking, cooking and making beverages like iced tea and lemonade. To make the most of your investment, however, you’ll want to contact Kinetico Utah.

Kinetico, an industry leader, has been manufacturing innovative RO systems that outperform other brands and operate for decades. What’s more, Kinetico’s reverse osmosis filtration systems are certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) to remove more contaminants than other systems out on the market – and for your peace of mind, our systems come with an outstanding warranty.

After serving homeowners in Ogden, Park City, Provo, Salt Lake City and surrounding northern Utah area for 30 years, the Kinetico Utah team knows that providing information is essential – we’re ready to answer your questions and explain everything you need to know about water filters and RO technology. For a free, no-obligation consultation, contact Kinetico Utah today.

Do You Need a Water Filtration System or a Water Softener?

Water filtration Salt Lake City, water softener Salt Lake City

Many Salt Lake City homeowners assume that they should get a water softener, but, at least in some cases, a water filtration system would better meet their needs – and in some cases, the opposite is true. So how do you know what’s right for your Utah home?

The decision on whether to invest in a water filtration system or a water softener depends mainly upon your goals and objectives, as well as the quality of your household water supply. Different types of equipment perform different functions

Here’s what you need to know to make a decision on the best water treatment approach for you.

Why Might You Need a Water Softener?

Softeners are designed to filter out calcium and magnesium ions, which are the primary minerals that make water hard. Hardness isn’t a health hazard, but it can bring about several unpleasant issues, including:

  • Limescale or soap scum deposits on faucets and showerheads
  • Rust-colored staining in and around sinks and toilets
  • Residue on clothing after it goes through the washing machine
  • Dry, itchy and irritated skin and dingy, dull-looking hair
  • Appliances becoming less efficient, leading to higher energy bills and shorter lifespans

If you suspect that your Salt Lake City home has hard water, a softener may be what you need to resolve these problems. However, keep in mind that installing a softening system won’t ensure that what’s flowing from your taps is necessarily pleasant or safe to drink.

Why Might You Need a Whole-Home Water Filtration System?

Filtration systems, particularly whole-home water filtration systems, are effective for removing sediment and particles. Even more important, a filtration system can remove chlorine from your water. In Salt Lake City, whole home filtration for chlorine removal is a very popular option, due to the unpleasant nature of our municipal water supply.

So, while a softener system will help with spotty glassware and scale buildup on plumbing fixtures, filtration systems will provide you with water that looks cleaner and tastes (and smells) much better.

Filtration systems can also help neutralize high acidity levels. In some cases, highly acidic water can cause excess corrosion in the home’s plumbing system, including pipes, faucets and fixtures.

What About Water Purification Systems?

Purification systems are designed to remove the majority of harmful particulates and impurities. These systems typically use reverse osmosis (RO) technology, which is capable of trapping many different types of pollutants. Some of the contaminants that a reverse osmosis system can eliminate from your household supply include:

  • Viruses
  • Bacteria
  • Protozoa
  • Lead
  • Arsenic
  • Nitrate
  • Metal ions
  • Sulfate

If you’re concerned about the safety of your household drinking water, you might also want to want to invest in a reverse osmosis filtration system. These systems are typically installed at the kitchen sink, so you have it conveniently available for cooking and drinking. However, the nature of RO systems don’t facilitate the filtration of large volumes.

Get the Right Water Treatment System for You

If you want to have the best possible drinking water, you could install our exclusive reverse osmosis K5 drinking water station. To improve the quality and safety of the water throughout your home, talk to us about installing Kinetico’s whole home water filtration system.

To reach the right decision, you’ll need to get a clear picture of your household water quality – and the expert team at Kinetico Utah can perform a test at no cost to you. Once we see the results, we can recommend a treatment option. We offer a range of effective and efficient filtration systems and top-of-the-line water softeners, all of which come with our industry-leading warranty.

Call on Kinetico Utah, and we’ll find a solution that meets your needs and fits your budget. We’d be happy to come to your Salt Lake City are home to provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation and discuss our highly efficient and cost-effective water filtration and water softening systems.