Salt-Free Softeners: An Alternative To Traditional Water Softener Systems

Traditional salt-based water softeners can be difficult to maintain and operate, as they require a constant supply of salt while they may also be vulnerable to multiple functional problems that could cost you a lot in repairs. If you are seeking an alternative to traditional water softening systems, you could benefit from a modern, salt-free water softener that uses alternative methods to condition your home water. Read on to learn how salt-free water softeners work and why they might be ideal for you. 

How do they work?

Unlike traditional water softeners that exchange calcium and magnesium ions in hard water with sodium ions, salt-free water softeners alter the state of hard water minerals into chemicals that are not able to bind to surfaces. This is done via a descaling process, where the hard water is conditioned to alter the chemical structure of hard water minerals. This makes the water feel silky and smooth to the touch, while also eliminating the formation of lime deposits.

The descaling process allows for vital minerals to be retained in the water while preventing scale from forming along piping or in your water-using fixtures. The technology employed by such systems may vary from using electrical or magnetic pulses to filtration via a catalytic media so as to prevent scaling.

Are salt-free water softeners the way to go?

Salt-free water softeners do have a number of advantages which make them a great alternative to their traditional counterparts.

Firstly, these modern systems do not produce saline water as is the case with salt-based systems, which makes them more environmentally friendly. Salt-based softeners often produce waste water that contaminates ground sources, which has led to them being banned in some areas.

Salt-free softeners also require less maintenance as they don't capture water hardening minerals, which eliminates the need to purge any deposits. There is also no need to constantly add heavy and expensive water softener salt to the system and to deal with salt contaminants that could clog up filters and valves as is the case with salt-based systems.

Additionally, salt-based systems require a lot of space for the installation of their bulky tank and other components, which is not required in salt-free systems.

Finally, a salt-free system would suit you if you don't want to strip healthy minerals such as calcium from your drinking water, or are on a low-sodium diet and want to avoid introducing too much salt into your home water.

Contact a local outlet, such as Dupage Water Conditioning, for further assistance.