Let’s dive into the popular internet search topic “Do water filtration systems work for hard water?”
In this post, we dive into hard water and the different water treatment systems for home that are out there. In short, the answer is yet, but the levels of effectiveness and longevity can vary greatly depending on the type and quality of system.
If you live in Clearwater, Tampa, St. Pete, or other areas of central Florida, you’re likely familiar with the challenges of dealing with hard water. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can cause various issues in your household. Unlike the beneficial versions of these minerals found in health food stores, these are in the form of tiny indigestible crushed rock particles that make water hard. One reason is that they mostly come from water sources in the ground.
The impact of hard water goes beyond leaving unsightly stains on fixtures and surfaces. It can also affect the performance and lifespan of your appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Fortunately, there are several water filtration solutions available to address this common problem, which we explore in this post.
Water Filters
Certain water filters, such as activated carbon filters, are primarily designed to improve taste and odor by reducing impurities like chlorine. They can be in filter containers like Brita or in your refrigerator. These are sold at any grocery store as well as major retailers like Target, Walmart and Amazon.
They aren’t specifically designed to remove hardness-causing minerals, but they can offer a modest reduction in mineral content. Activated carbon filters are commonly found in pitcher or faucet-mounted systems, and they can be an affordable solution for addressing some of the effects of hard water.
Keep in mind that these filters require more frequent replacements due to potential bacteria growth caused by the carbon filters.
Water Softeners
Invented over 100 years ago, these systems have transformed the quality of life in homes struggling with hard water. Water softeners use an ion exchange process, replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. They are typically installed at the point of entry and require professional installation and regular maintenance.
While they are a more long-term solution than fridge or drinking container filters, they do require heavy maintenance and with the current severe hard water situation in Florida, we have been seeing them often breaking down in a year or two. Low-cost filters from national brands are especially vulnerable.
Water Conditioners
Water conditioners also use an ion exchange process for water softening. They consist of a tank filled with resin beads infused with sodium ions. As hard water flows through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions are captured, effectively replacing them with sodium ions.
Water conditioners offer the benefit of incorporating a carbon filter, reducing chlorine and lead levels in the water and enhancing its suitability for consumption.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
Reverse osmosis systems are often smaller in scale and go under a specific sink/faucet. These remove a wide range of impurities, including minerals that cause hardness. These systems utilize a semipermeable membrane to separate contaminants from the water. RO systems are often installed under one or more sinks to provide ideal drinking water.
These provide purified, softened water that is suitable for various household uses, including drinking and cooking. However, an RO would not address hard water throughout the whole house and its effects on plumbing and appliances.
Whole Home Water Systems
These would be any system to addresses hard water for the entire household, and could be more advanced than water conditioners, though some companies use this term for a water conditioner.
The Purity Bay 10-stage whole home water system provides more than 40 benefits, spanning environmental benefits, improved health outcomes, and economic advantages. Using top quality components, the system addresses hard water and provides filtration without the bacteria created by other water filters. Our commitment is to deliver the finest home water systems available in the market, enabling you and your family to enjoy the highest quality water in your everyday life.
Finding the Right System
Getting the right system includes testing your water to understand what’s in it. That’s why we offer free in-home water testing.
Purity Bay specializes in a wide range of home water solutions. This includes water softeners, reverse-osmosis systems, whole home water filtration systems and anything in between. Whether you need help selecting a water system or servicing an existing system, our experienced team can help!
