Understanding Water Softeners & Reverse Osmosis Systems

If you’re trying to upgrade your water system but aren’t sure if you need a water softener or reverse osmosis system, look no further. It can be difficult to understand the complex language online about water treatment products, as it’s not written for the everyday person. Browse the following sections to gain a better understanding of these products, the differences between them, and how they can better serve you and your home.

What is the Difference Between Water Softening & Reverse Osmosis?

You’ve probably heard the term “hard water.” What that means is that the water has high levels of magnesium and calcium ions, which can cause dry skin, water spots on glasses and silverware, faded laundry, and scale buildup in plumbing. A water softener uses ionization to replace magnesium and calcium ions in the water with sodium or salt ions. Installing a water softener can provide you with the following benefits:

• Natural-tasting water
• Brighter laundry
• Cleaner dishes
• Fewer clogs in pipes
• Extends the lifespan of appliances
• Softer skin and hair

As previously discussed, reverse osmosis systems purify water filtering out contaminants and minerals. An RO water system can effectively remove impurities such as fluoride, chlorine, detergents, salt, lead, pesticides, nitrates, and sulfates. Installing a whole-house reverse osmosis system means you will have filtered water throughout your entire home, including sinks, showers, and household appliances. The advantages of adding a reverse osmosis water treatment system to your home include:

• Improves water taste
• Non-chemical filtration system
• Softer water
• Removes odors and colors

Which One Do I Need?

Whether you need water softening and reverse osmosis depends on your home’s needs. Check out the following section to learn about the benefits of having both.

Water Softeners Protect Reverse Osmosis Systems:

Having a water softener to take out the magnesium and chloride will take off some of the pressure on the reverse osmosis filter, allowing it to have a longer life.

Different Functions:

While water softeners “soften” the water, reverse osmosis water systems filter it. If you just have a water softener, there may still be many contaminants in your water. For those who only have a reverse osmosis system, your hard water could still be taking a toll on your skin, plumbing, laundry, and appliances.

Cost:

Water softeners can help to save energy and extend the lifespan of your appliances. Installing a reverse osmosis system can save hundreds of dollars per year after you stop buying water bottles, which helps reduce your environmental impact.

Get Cleaner Water in Your Home with a Water Conditioning Treatment

If you’re interested in adding a water softener or reverse osmosis system to your home, turn to Al's Water Inc. No matter the current condition of your water, we have a range of treatment options to improve its overall quality and taste. Whether you have an existing system or not, we’re here to ensure the water throughout your home is always safe to use and drink. We’re proud to provide innovative water conditioning treatments to homeowners across Midland, Odessa, Pecos, Andrews, Big Spring, TX and the surrounding regions. Reach out to schedule a water softener or RO water system installation service!