Arizona is predominantly an arid landscape with water quality challenges. Water availability is a major concern, and good-quality water is rare. In such circumstances, homeowners need to understand the difference between a water filter and a water softener. Arizona is a region which not have polluted water but is also rich in minerals, which makes the water hard and causes clogging and damage to the plumbing system. Both systems have their benefits and limitations and are useful in certain situations.
Understanding the Basics: Water Filter vs Water Softener
Water Filter: Purifying Water
Water filter is mainly used for purifying water from impurities, pollutants, and toxic substances dangerous to human health. The technology focuses on removing sediments, harmful chemicals, pathogens, heavy metals, bacteria, and chlorine. This process ensures you only consume safe and clean water. A water filter is installed at the point of use, commonly at the faucets or the sink. For getting a more comprehensive access to clean water, you could install a centralised filtration system for your home. Such filtration systems will clean up the water supply directly coming into your home. This would not only provide safe drinking water for you and your family but also protect the plumbing system from mineral and sediment buildup.
Water Softener: Minimizing Hardness
Unlike water filters, water softeners have a specific function and that is softening hard water. Hard water is concentrated with minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals make it harder for soap to lather, making it difficult to wash and clean with the water supply. Consuming such water can be detrimental to your health and cause a buildup in the plumbing system. They also damage household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. Water softeners are built to remove such minerals from the water supply and soften them. Water softeners use ion exchange to replace the hard metals, such as calcium and magnesium, with sodium and potassium. However, you will need professional plumbing services in Chandler, AZ, as the area is notorious for hard water supply.
Key Takeaways
The difference between the two devices lies in their functions: water filters clean water at a holistic level and make the water drinkable. On the other hand, a water softener removes heavy metals from the water to make it more usable for regular chores such as cleaning, cooking, and washing. It also prevents mineral buildup and protects the plumbing system from damage. Deciding which device you should use depends on your needs and the problem you face. In an area like Chandler, Arizona, the water quality is affected by pollutants and heavy metals. Therefore, both these devices have their needs.
Benefits of Water Filters for an Arizona Home
Healtheir Drinking Water
The primary function of a water filter is to clean the water supply to make it safe for drinking. Arizona’s water supply is filled and concentrated with pollutants such as chlorine, lead, and other toxic chemicals. Therefore, water filters are necessary to access clean and safe water for drinking and cooking. Water filters remove these contaminants and ensure the consumption of clean water. Water filter systems eliminated the need for consuming packaged water.
Plumbing and Appliances Protection
Heavy metals, sediments, dirt, and other hard contaminants deposit themselves inside the pipeline. They rust and damage the pipeline, especially in old homes where the pipes are metallic. Sediments also build up layers and cause the plumbing system to be clogged, causing leaks, low water pressure, and bursts. A water filter removes these substances from the water supply and prevents plumbing system damage. These substances also cause damage to kitchen and bathroom appliances such as dishwashers and geysers. Hence, water filters also protect appliances and increase their longevity.
Improving Skin and Hair Condition
A water filter removes chemicals, pathogens, and materials that are harmful to your skin and hair. Dirt and mud can also significantly damage your skin and hair, and a water filter removes them from the water supply as well. Water filtration is fundamentally responsible for preventing dry and brittle skin from the presence of heavy metals. You may also notice fewer cases of allergies, skin diseases, and hairfall issues.
Environmental and Cost Savings
Water filters eliminate the need for consuming bottled water and thus save the family added costs and the environment from plastic pollution. Water filters, especially the central filtration systems, clean the water supply the moment it enters the home pipeline. It provides safe water for drinking and other chores and keeps the plumbing systems healthy. The plumbing system does not face any issues with clogging and corrosion. Therefore, it saves costs for plumbing repairs and maintenance.
Advantages of a Water Softener in Hard Water Areas
Minimized Mineral Buildup
Mineral buildup through hard water damages the plumbing system of the house. In places like Chandler, Arizona, hard water is common and renders water unusable and corrodes the pipes. A water softener replaces the heavy minerals in hard water and prevents mineral buildup from forming a layer within the pipes. Thus, it also prevents water clogging and leaks by making the water supply run smoothly. Water filters replace minerals such as calcium and magnesium with sodium and potassium, which prevents limescale accumulation. Such an arrangement sustains the plumbing system and enhances longevity.
Enhanced Cleaning Efficiency
Hard water is obsolete for cleaning and washing in household chores. The water is concentrated with metallic ions that don’t allow soap and detergents to lather. It makes cleaning difficult, requiring more detergent and cleaning liquids. Dishes can be cleaned with hard water as it leaves behind corrosion. Water softeners produce soft water, which interacts with soap and detergents to make them work more efficiently. With soft water, you can clean more effectively without using much detergent and soap, saving money and environmental impact. Your clothes will be softer with no stains, dishes shinier, and bathrooms more sanitized.
Improved Water Taste and Aesthetics
Hard water tastes salty and alters the natural flavour of ingredients. Thus, it is not suitable to use hard water for cooking. For some, hard water can come off as bitter or metallic, ruining the experience. Soft water has a pleasant taste and is healthy for consumption. Hard water can also appear murky, whereas soft water appears clearer, encouraging more hydration.
How to Choose the Right System: Expert Plumbing Services in Chandler
Understand Your Water Needs
Installing a water filter or softener depends on the needs of your home and location. Arizona is an arid desert with a shortage of drinkable water. In areas like Chandler, Arizona, hard water is common. Therefore, both types of water treatment systems are needed.
Consider a Combined System
While two devices offer distinct advantages, having a combined system for protecting the water quality for your home can come in handy. A combined system will ensure that the water supply remains safe from impurities and is softened to be used for household work.
Seek Expert Guidance
To make more informed decisions, seek out professional plumbing services in Chandler, Arizona. Professional plumbing experts know the local topography, water conditions, and access to the latest technology.
Conclusion
Water filter and softener have their distinct benefits that can keep our water supply safe and usable. However, the adoption depends solely on your needs and specifications. A water filter removes contaminants, and a water softener removes calcium and magnesium and softens the water. Both of these devices prolong the plumbing system’s functioning and expand its longevity. Therefore, both these devices have their usefulness in a household. However, both of those devices need maintenance. You need to replace the filter frequently, otherwise it’s going to reduce system effectiveness. Schedule frequent and regular maintenance service and watch out for warning signs such as funny odors or noises.
