Softening

Although not dangerous for human health, hard water conditions are less than ideal. Hard water is water that has relatively high concentrations of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium that can precipitate out of solution and form deposits. If allowed to persist, mineral deposits can build up and block pipes and restrict water flow. There are also some minor, although highly frustrating, problems associated with hard water. Hard water can cause scale build-up in appliances and sinks, irritate and dry out skin, stain materials and clothes, and reduce the effectiveness of soaps, shampoos, and detergents.

To soften water, ion-exchange resins substitute calcium and magnesium ions for sodium or potassium ions. The resins contain polymers with negatively charged mineral binding sites. When hard water passes through the resin, the minerals are trapped and removed from water. Once all the binding sites of the ion-exchange resin are filled, the resin can be regenerated with a salt like sodium chloride or potassium chloride. Salts are necessary to flush out the resin and prepare it for further water treatment.

We offer both ion-exchange resins and salts that can be used together to reduce mineral concentrations and soften water.