You asked, we answered! A common recent internet search topic has been “What water filtration system is best for hard water?”
In this post, we explore different water filtration systems out there, pros and cons and compare the features of each.
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 passes through the resin bed, it captures calcium and magnesium ions and effectively replaces 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 sink. These remove a wide range of impurities, including minerals that cause hardness. These systems utilize a semipermeable membrane to separate contaminants from the water. Generally, people install RO systems under a sink for high-quality drinking water due to their smaller size. These provide purified water that is suitable for cooking and washing fruits and vegetables as well. However, if this is an under-the-sink system, it 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. Keep in mind a water conditioner addresses the hardness of the water, it does not necessarily remove all the contaminants to ensure it is ideal for drinking.
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!
