Types Of Water Softeners: 4 Most Common Types

Types-Of-Water-SoftenersIf you face the dangers of hard water, a water softener is a must-have device that you would immediately look for. A water softener helps reduce the hardness level present in the water, reducing the number of harsh chemicals and impurities making the water soft and more convenient to use.

There are different types of water softeners available in the market depending on the level of hardness in the water and also on the preference of the user. 

The most prominent types that you will come across in the market are; magnetic, salt-free, ion-exchange which is also known as a salt-based, dual-tank, shower head, and lastly the RO (reverse osmosis) water softener.

This article lists all the advantages and disadvantages of the above-mentioned water softener types and highlights the best one out of them all.

Here’s an explainer video of how a water softener works:

Types of Water Softeners

Magnetic Water Softener

Magnetic Water Softener

This magnetic system, which is a new type of system in the market, does not utilise salt similar to the salt-free system and that is why it is the least costly water softener type, especially if you are looking for a cost-effective option.

Although this system does not entirely remove the hard minerals present in the water, it neutralises their effects and prevents them from forming a bond which is the reason why they are able to be dissolved in the water, making the water soft and ready for use.

Their installation is pretty easy too, you may want to bind them with your electric supply system but for installation and its usage, all you have to do is wrap this system around your present water pipelines and it’s good to go.

Though at the end of the day, it solely depends on your budget and preference because the magnetic water softener does not actually remove calcium and magnesium rather it neutralises their effects and your electricity bill might go up depending on your use and hardness level of the water.

Salt-free Water Softener

Salt-free Water Softener

As suggested by its name, the salt-free water softener system works without the use of salt and that allows you to save money and water usage in the long run. Because there is no requirement for regeneration every week and no salt usage, this system is relatively easy to maintain, especially if you are a lazy person.

This is an expensive option but saves you a lot of money because the filters used in this system allow the water to be softened as well as purified from impurities as well as bacteria.

Salt-based Water Softener

Salt-based Water Softener

This salt-based water softener works through a process called the ‘ion exchange’ where the sodium in the water softener salt replaces the hard water minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, as a result, the water is filtered and the harsh minerals are trapped in the resin bed.

This system only softens the water and does not purify it from bacteria so you should keep this in mind.

It is also on the expensive side as you require it to be maintained every week for regeneration and a lot of salt bags to keep it running but overall, it is a great system that proves its longevity and performance for a lifetime.

Dual-tank Water Softener

Dual-tank Water Softener

If you are looking for a durable water softener system and if you have a large family where you need large quantities of purified and softened water on a regular basis then this is the right choice for you.

The dual tank water system is a lot similar to the salt-based system but the only thing that sets them apart is the presence and use of two resin tanks.

This is an effective way to ensure that one tank will always function while the other goes through a clarification or regeneration process so you will never run out of water due to its high capacity performance. It is an overall expensive option but it is a good option in the long run.

Showerhead Water Softener

The shower-head water softener is a best investment for those people who care about the health of their skin and hair.

Because the shower-head filters consist of cartridge filters, the impurities stay far away from the water and you will notice your shower area to be extra cleaner, with no hard water stains, healthier and cleaner skin, and soft hair. These are also inexpensive but the filters need to be replaced every 2 months for effective performance.

It is very easy to install them, you just need to remove the old shower head and install the shower-head water softener with a filter. Though it only provides the softened water through the shower head so you will need another system for the whole house.

RO Water Softener

The RO water softener process uses a special multi layered membrane system as well as a forceful flow of water to filter out the minerals and impurities present in the water.

The membranes are made up of premium materials such as carbon and coconut shells that ensure a microscopic level of water filtration process that effectively purifies and softens the water. Though it is not thought of as a water softener, it is simple yet effective.

Additionally, the filtration process through reverse osmosis also makes sure that the essential nutrients to maintain a healthy lifestyle that has been filtered out, are re-added to the filtered water. However, it has a built-in faucet that provides clean and safe drinking water, so it just filters and purifies water for one source and it can be a relatively costly option, so the choice is yours.

FAQS

Which is the best option for the water softener?

According to me, I would suggest using the salt-based system as it is more efficient but it is also a bit costly.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a water softener is a necessity nowadays with water being more impure and unsafe to use. Overall, the choice of the water softener depends on your preference, house size, hardness level, and budget, so choose wisely.