• How do you maintain a water softener?

Just like all other aspects of a home, to keep your water softener functional, you will need to maintain it on a regular basis. The general rule of thumb is that the system should be serviced at least once every year. Remember, that you will also need to add salt to the softener and clean out the brine tank as is necessary according to the system that you purchase.

• Can my water softener have a negative effect on my household’s septic tanks?

No. On the contrary. According to the Water Quality Association (WQA), not only will your household’s septic tanks remain unaffected, but the regeneration wastes from your water softener have been shown to improve soil percolation in fine-textured soils.

• I use a humidifier in the home. Should I use soft water in it?

If you want to ensure a longer lifespan for your humidifier, as well as easier maintenance and cleaning, soft water is the better choice. Hard water can leave a hard scale within the appliance upon evaporation which can prove difficult to remove.

• Why is soft water so slippery?

If it feels as though your skin is slippery after a shower and you’re worried that your water is now too soft, fear not! This slippery feeling is quite normal. It only proves that your water softener is working effectively. The slippery feeling simply means that you are cleaner than you have been in a while! Hard water leaves an insoluble coating on the skin, whereas soft water does not.

• Does soft water taste salty?

Surprisingly, no. Despite what many people will tell you, softening your water will not result in salty-tasting water. Sodium bicarbonate, which is different from sodium chloride (table salt), is formed by the water softening process.

• How common is hard water in the USA?

Hard water is an extremely common problem in the USA. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than three-quarters of the United States geography has hard water.