Three Reasons Homeowners Should Invest in a Water Softener

How Water Softeners Benefit Homeowners

Hard water contains a high concentration of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can cause issues for the home and homeowners, such as build-up on and inside plumbing fixtures, impede the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, lead to dry skin and hair, and leave a chalky residue when dishes are washed or clothes are laundered.

A water softener is a device that helps reduce the effects of hard water by removing minerals from the water supply. It passes the water through a bed of tiny beads that act as a filter, trapping calcium and magnesium particles and allowing other minerals to pass through. The device then replenishes itself with salt so that it can continue to remove impurities. By using a water softener, the effects of hard water can be significantly reduced. Below is a discussion of three reasons homes and their inhabitants can benefit from a water softener.

It Makes Cleaning Easier and More Effective

cleaningThe thing about hard water and cleaning is that the minerals react with soap in unpleasant ways. Calcium in hard water is responsible for the soap scum on sinks and tubs. A few of the everyday inconveniences that come with hard water include:

  • Spotted or cloudy-looking glasses and dishes after washing
  • Faded clothes
  • Scale buildup on plumbing fixtures and surfaces 

Soft water does not cause these issues and makes creating a lather easier with soap and other cleansers. It will leave glasses and dishes squeaky clean, and clothes will be less likely to fade and will last longer. In addition, there will be less soap scum and buildup to clean from the plumbing fixtures. 

It’s Better for the Plumbing System

Scale buildup from hard water happens on more than just the plumbing fixtures. A big part of the problem with hard water is scale buildup within the pipes and appliances it enters. This can narrow the pipes, making them more prone to clogging, and can build up in appliances like the water heater, reducing their energy efficiency and raising energy bills. Additionally, this can lead to shorter lifespans for the plumbing, fixtures, and appliances. The benefits of a water softener concerning the plumbing include:

  • Consistent Water Pressure: Water lines free from hard water buildup mean homeowners don’t have to worry about poor water pressure from this issue.
  • Fewer Clogs: A lack of scale buildup means the water flows better, and the pipes are less likely to clog.
  • Better Efficiency:  Water heaters will function better and more efficiently, saving homeowners from high water heating costs. 
  • Longer Lifespans: Without the hard water buildup and issues it can cause for the plumbing and appliances like the water heater, they can function better and last longer.

It Leaves Hair and Skin More Hydrated

healthHard water contains high levels of minerals that can also leave residue and deposits on hair and skin. This can strip away natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness. Hair may become frizzy and brittle, while the skin may become flaky and itchy. In contrast, soft water eliminates these harsh minerals, making hair and skin feel softer and more hydrated. 

With a water softener, people can enjoy the benefits of healthier-looking hair and skin with added moisture and fewer dry patches. Additionally, less residue left on the skin means it’s easier to remove dirt and makeup for a smoother complexion overall. Soft water can also be gentler on soaps and shampoos, allowing for a more moisturizing cleanse. With these benefits, it’s easy to see why investing in a water softener is the key to improved skin and hair health.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly 30 years of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, emergency services, and prompt arrivals. Call them today for water softener installation or repair in West Salem, WI.  

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Get a New Water Heater and Start the New Year Off Right

The Benefits of a New Water Heater Installation 

Nothing beats a hot shower to drive away the cold of the winter, and despite the excitement of the new year, there is still plenty of winter left to make it through. Year after year, the water heater provides reliable and comfortable hot water but eventually, it will leave the family out in the cold. The winter time is not the season to take that risk, so homeowners should consider water heater replacements during the cold season. 

Replacing the water heater is a decision that should be carefully considered to make sure it’s the right time. Here is some advice from local experts regarding water heater replacement that can ensure that homeowners make the right decision at the right time. Read on to learn the benefits of upgrading the water heater in the coming year. 

Efficiency and Water Heating Cost

It’s no secret that energy bills are on the rise. Whether a water heater is powered by fossil fuels or electricity, chances are that it is costing more money than ever to heat water for the home. Another fact that is less well known is that water heaters lose efficiency every year they are in service. This means that over the course of five years, a water heater can cost more to heat the same amount of water. 

A new water heater restores lost efficiency and thus lowers utility bills. Instead of struggling to keep up with bills, consider a water heater an investment. A new water heater will likely pay for itself during its lifetime in saved energy. 

Get Hot Water Faster

waterEvery water heater manufacturer is constantly striving to put new innovations out on the market. This results in better and better water heaters every time homeowners need to upgrade. Generally, homeowners will only need to install a new water heater around every 10 years, so each time this occurs, homeowners will have more options to choose from. 

When shopping for a new water heater, homeowners may come across the term ‘hot water recovery rate.’ This refers to a water heater’s ability to replenish its supply of hot water after it has been depleted. A higher recovery rate indicates the appliance can produce more hot water in shorter periods and with fewer interruptions compared to a water heater with a lower rating. 

Investing in a new water heater with a higher hot water recovery rate means a family can enjoy consistent access to hot showers or baths without worrying about running out of hot water. This benefit is especially important in households with multiple bathrooms since hot water usage is typically higher, and the recovery rate will be heavily relied upon.

Save Space With a Tankless Water Heater 

heaterIn many homes, space is an issue. Today’s water heaters are more efficient than their predecessors and can save a great deal of space. This is especially true for tankless water heaters, which require far less real estate than traditional units. These highly compact units can be mounted to a wall, freeing up valuable storage space that would have otherwise been taken up by a bulky hot water tank. This makes them ideal for tight spaces such as garages, basements, and closets. 

Additionally, since these units are only activated when hot water is required, they will not only save space but also help reduce energy bills.  With all these advantages, it is no wonder why more and more people are turning to tankless water heaters as their go-to solution. For homeowners that need to save space and are conscious of their water heating bills, a tankless water heater is a great choice. 

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has nearly three decades of experience serving West Salem, WI, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and the latest technology. Call them today for water heater and tankless water heater services in West Salem, WI.