Is a Water Softener Worth the Investment?

Like most homeowners, you probably have a perpetual list of home improvement projects to tackle. And while outdated countertops or chipped paint may be obvious eyesores, have you considered what hard water may be doing to your home’s pipes and water-using appliances? If your home is not equipped with a water softener, it may be a smart investment—let’s explore why.

The Damaging Effects of Hard Water

“Hard” water describes water with a high concentration of naturally occurring minerals, most notably dissolved calcium and magnesium. Conversely, “soft” water refers to water that is largely free of these dissolved minerals. A water softener is an appliance that effectively removes high concentrations of minerals from a home’s water supply, making the water “soft.” While hard water isn’t considered hazardous to human health, it can do its fair share of damage to your home and even your clothes, skin, and hair. Specifically, hard water can:

• Lead to stubborn mineral buildup in plumbing pipes and around faucets
• Shorten the lifespan of water-using appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, in addition to reducing their efficiency and driving up utility costs
• Leave behind scummy residues in showers, tubs, and sinks
• Reduce the lathering and cleaning abilities of soaps and detergents
• Leave skin and hair feeling dry after bathing
• Cause dishes to look cloudy or spotty after washing
• Negatively impact the taste of coffee, tea, and other foods and beverages made with tap water
• Strip color away from clothes, making them appear faded
• Increase the risk of pipe corrosion and other costly problems

So, is it worth it to invest in a home water softener? If you bathe, wash dishes, or clean your clothes, the answer is yes!

Does Your Home Have Hard Water?

As we’ve just learned, hard water can leave behind a trail of scum, stains, and damage in its wake. But, does your home even have hard water? Unfortunately, it most likely does. Only about 15% of the country has naturally occurring soft water, including the Pacific Northwest and small portions of New England and the Southeast. If you live in Florida, you’re probably all too familiar with the effects of hard water. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) says most of Florida’s ground water contains between 121 and 181 milligrams of hard minerals per liter. Yikes!

Top-Tier Water Softeners & Installation Services

Florida Energy Water & Air is a trusted provider of top-tier water softeners and other problem-solving solutions for homeowners throughout Central and South Florida. We’re proud to be among the top dealers of RainSoft products worldwide, and uphold a sterling reputation for outstanding customer care. In fact, we maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have more than 1,000 positive online reviews. Make a smart investment in your home and start enjoying the benefits of soft water! Contact our friendly professionals at Florida Energy Water & Air today if you’re interested in scheduling a free estimate or home water analysis. Easy-term financing is also available. Give us a call—we’re standing by to answer any questions you may have.