Plumbing experts are fully qualified to install water softening systems. The best water softener solutions use sodium to promote the ion exchange process. Simply installing a water softener is not enough. There are many things to consider when you are having a water softener installed. Professional plumbers are able to assist you in planning and installing your softening solution to maximize the benefits. There are several issues that one Atlanta plumber addresses when installing sodium water softener solutions.

Not everyone should use water softeners for drinking and cooking water. People that have health problems related to the heart or circulatory system or be on low sodium diets may want to avoid water softeners that are linked to cooking and drinking water. In some medical surveys, lower levels of mineral content in water correlates to higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Since water softeners remove many of these minerals, this concern should also be addressed. If you do have concerns, there are ways to work around having drinking and cooking water on non-softened systems. A Houston plumber recommends having professionals to assist with the planning and installation of these ‘dual plumbing’ systems.

Sprinkler systems should be isolated from softened water. Sodium based water softeners replace the mineral content with sodium during the ion exchange process. Sodium is not healthy for plants and gardens, and prolonged use of softened water can cause damage to lawns. Special care should be taken when recharging the softening agent. Due to the sodium content, discharged water must be handled appropriately. Sewage lines, septic systems and storm drains are ideal areas to dispose of the brine water. Other options include having a drain field that is located well away from water supplies, neighboring property and gardens. There are some services that will rent tanks to hold the water and they will come out and dispose of the water in the tanks.

While many appliances benefit from using softened water, a Dallas plumber reminds us that some equipment may also need special attention if hooked up to a softened water supply. Dishwashers, washing machines and other appliances benefit from lower operating costs and generally longer life spans. Evaporators need to be cleaned more often, and this is especially cool water evaporators. The sodium will leave buildup on the pads and will need to be removed on a monthly basis. Steamers will also need to be cleaned, because softened water is not free of minerals.

There are great benefits from using water softeners. They reduce the amounts of detergents, minerals, and soap that need to be used. Appliances last longer and run more efficiently, but you need to make sure that using a water softener meets all of your needs. Speak to a professional plumber about how to design a system that works for all of your needs. They will be able to find the best plumbing solutions to fit your needs and budget.