Having access to good quality drinking and household water is important. Unfortunately, in many areas, this isn’t possible without installing a water system. Water treatment systems are designed to clean water of the dissolved content which can be harmful to your health as well as your pipes, fixtures, and household appliances.

If you would like to buy a water treatment system for your home, there are a few questions that you should be able to answer first.

Top Questions You Should Be Asking & Have the Answers to When Buying a Water System (H2)

1. Does My Water Require a Water System?
   This can only really be answered with a water test that should be carried out by an independent, state-certified lab. This test will tell you what is in your water and give you some direction in terms of what type of treatment and treatment system is required.
2. Who Is the Best to Choose to Install the Water Treatment System?
   Many people mistakenly believe that a general plumber can install the water system. This is wrong. The system should be installed by a certified and experienced water treatment company to ensure that it is:

• Correctly installed, and
• Functions at peak performance.

3. Has the Water Treatment’s Performance Standards Been Certified by A Reliable Third Party?
   Buying just any water treatment system could be looking for trouble. Look for products that have been certified by reliable third parties such as the National Sanitation Foundation.
4. Is There a Need to Install a Water System on All the Taps in The Home?
   This really does come down to what sort of contaminants are present in your water. If the water contains a contaminant that is only unsafe if it’s consumed (or when cooked with), then it’s best to install treatment systems on all the taps that are used for this purpose. It may not be necessary on the others. If the contaminants are harmful for washing and other tasks, all the taps in the home may require a treatment system. The most important first step is to identify what the water contains and the risks, if any, that those contaminants pose when consumed.
5. What Additional Costs Can You Expect with Each Water Treatment System Available?
   When consulting with a supplier, always find out how much it will cost to maintain and service the unit going forward. A system that isn’t maintained may present re-contamination. Filter cartridges need changing, waste must be disposed of and so on.

6. What Sort of Power Consumption Does the Unit Need?
   When shopping around, consider the various energy consumption ratings. If the unit requires more power to run than another brand and model, you could find your electricity bill increasing.
7. What Sort of Lifespan Do the Various Water Treatment Systems Offer?
   Not all water treatment systems are made equal. So, make sure that you ask questions pertaining to guarantees, warranties, and expected lifespans.
8. What Effect Will the Water Treatment System Have on The Taste and Feel of Your Water?
   This can vary from water system to water system, but most water softeners will add salt to the water in order to remove the contaminants. You may be able to taste this. The water can also feel more slippery in comparison to the hard water that you are used to.
9. Is A Follow-Up Test Included in The Initial Purchase Price of The Water System?Once the water treatment system has been installed, how will you know that it is actually operating correctly? Ask suppliers if follow-up testing after installation is included in the service or not.

10. If the System Malfunctions, Will I Know About It or Will I End Up Consuming Contaminated Water?Invest in a water treatment system that has a shut-off valve or a warning light that indicates a malfunction or problem with the system. This is the only way to ensure that you don’t expose yourself and your family to contaminated water.

Learn more about the value of installing water systems in the home. Contact us via email or telephone today!