In this post, we answer the common question “Is soft water better for your health?”
Water is an essential element of life, and its quality can have a significant impact on our well-being. Hard water is a nuisance in some areas of the US including central Florida.
Hard water, containing higher mineral content, can have adverse effects on plumbing and household fixtures due to the buildup of limescale. Many people are also curious if soft water is beneficial for their health.
Let’s explore the potential health implications of using soft water, shedding light on what it does and doesn’t do.
The Difference Between Soft Water and Hard Water
Before diving into the health aspects, let’s clarify the distinction between soft water and hard water. Soft water is water that has been treated to remove the minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, that cause water hardness. On the other hand, hard water contains a higher concentration of these minerals, leading to issues such as scale buildup in pipes and appliances.
Health Benefits of Soft Water
Home water system users commonly report these benefits:
- Skin and Hair Care: One of the effects of hard water is dry hair and dry skin. On the other hand, a major benefit of soft water is improved skin and hair health. Soft water is believed to be gentler on the skin, causing less dryness and irritation. It can also prevent hair from becoming brittle and reduce the need for excessive moisturizers and conditioners.
- Soap and Detergent Efficiency: Soft water tends to interact more effectively with soap and detergents. This means you can use less soap for cleaning, which can be advantageous for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Additionally, softer water may help clothes feel softer after washing.
- Reduced Limescale: Soft water’s lack of mineral content contributes to a reduction in limescale buildup in household appliances and plumbing. This can extend the lifespan of appliances and contribute to overall better water flow.
Drawbacks of Water Softeners
While soft water offers numerous benefits, it’s important to acknowledge the drawbacks of water softener systems. Routine maintenance can be expensive, and systems are more prone to breakdowns, especially in areas with very hard water, such as Central Florida. Additionally, water softeners do not address water contamination issues.
The Role of Reverse Osmosis Systems
A reverse osmosis (RO) system, installable beneath your sink, offers a comprehensive solution to address water contaminants. Purity Bay’s reverse osmosis system excels at removing a wide range of impurities, including:
- Lead
- Arsenic
- Fluoride
- Chlorine
- Herbicides
- Pesticides
- Mercury
- Nitrates
- Nitrites
- Selenium
- Trihalomethanes
- Barium
- Cadmium
- Chromium
Note on Re-Mineralization
For those who prefer their water to emulate the taste of spring water or possess alkalinity, Purity Bay provides a re-mineralizer as an optional feature. This addition restores essential minerals to the purified water, enhancing its flavor and promoting alkalinity.
Related Links:
Does Hard Water Cause Dry Hair?
Best Hard Water Treatment Systems
What are the Benefits of Using a Hard Water Filter?
Finding the Right System
Getting the right system includes testing your water to understand what’s in it. Purity Bay specializes in a wide range of home water solutions, including 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 you out!
