Water softeners and water filters are two different systems used to treat water in homes and buildings. Plumber Wilson, NC can install both systems. While both systems improve the quality of the water, they serve different purposes and address different water problems.

A water softener is used to remove minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which cause water hardness. Hard water can cause a variety of problems such as spots on dishes and fixtures, damage to appliances, and a buildup of mineral deposits in pipes and water heaters. A water softener works by exchanging the minerals in the water with sodium ions, which do not cause hardness. The process involves passing the water through a resin tank filled with ion exchange resin beads. The minerals in the water are attracted to the resin beads, and the sodium ions are released into the water in their place. Once the resin beads are saturated with minerals, the water softener goes through a regeneration cycle, in which a strong salt solution is used to flush out the minerals from the resin beads, and the beads are then recharged with sodium ions.

A water filter, on the other hand, is used to remove contaminants from the water, such as chlorine, bacteria, viruses, lead, and pesticides. These contaminants can cause a variety of health problems and can also impact the taste and odor of the water. There are several different types of water filters, including activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis filters, and ceramic filters.

Activated carbon filters are the most common type of water filter. They work by passing the water through a tank filled with activated carbon, which attracts and removes contaminants from the water. Activated carbon filters are effective at removing chlorine, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but they are not effective at removing minerals or heavy metals from leaky pipes.

Reverse osmosis filters are more complex systems that use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from the water. The water is forced through the membrane under pressure, and the contaminants are left behind. Reverse osmosis filters are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including minerals, heavy metals, and bacteria. However, they can also remove beneficial minerals from the water, and they require a significant amount of water to operate.

Ceramic filters are similar to activated carbon filters, but they use a ceramic material to filter out contaminants. Ceramic filters are effective at removing bacteria, viruses, and other microscopic contaminants from the water.

While water softeners and water filters serve different purposes, it is possible to have both systems in a home or building. In fact, many people choose to have a water softener and a water filter to ensure that they have the best quality water possible. However, it is important to note that a water softener can decrease the effectiveness of a water filter by removing the minerals that the filter needs to function properly.

In conclusion, water softeners and water filters are two different systems used to improve the quality of the water in homes and buildings. While both systems serve important purposes, it is important to understand the difference between the two so that you can make an informed decision about which system is right for you. If you are unsure about which system to choose, you may want to consider giving Plumber Wilson, NC a call we will have a water test performed to determine the specific contaminants in your water and which system will best address your needs.