If you have a water softener system in your home, you’ve probably noticed how the water feels extra slimy or slick when you’re in the shower. It’s hard to imagine water feeling, well, wetter—but that’s exactly the sensation you might experience when you install a water softening system. Read on to brush up on your water softener education in Columbus, IN.
How do water softeners work?
Most untreated water is full of calcium and magnesium, the minerals responsible for making water feel “hard.” This can make your laundry feel stiff and leave mineral scale buildup in your sinks and pipes and around your faucets. Water softeners remove excess calcium and magnesium by forcing water through resin beads. Calcium and magnesium are positively charged molecules, while the resin beads are negatively charged. Like magnets, they’re attracted to each other. As the water is forced through the beads, the minerals stick to the beads and the soft water flows out through your pipes.
When it’s time to clean the system (also known as regeneration), the system uses salt—another positively charged molecule—and water to rinse the beads. The positive charges in the beads, water and salt repel each other, dislodging the calcium and magnesium and sending it out with the salty wastewater.
Why does soft water feel slimy?
Instead of water full of calcium and magnesium, your softened water now has a lot more salt in it—so if you’re using the wrong kind of soap, it will leave a slick film all over your skin. Hard water makes “curds” and suds. The curds stick to your skin and in your pores. In fact, if you have sensitive skin, hard water can leave you feeling itchy and dry.
In short, the reason soft water feels “slimy” is because soap, detergent and minerals aren’t sticking to your skin. If you can’t abide the slick feeling, experiment with different soaps (like Ivory) until you find one that works for you.
Benefits of softened water
If you can handle soft water, you’ll probably be glad you invested in a water softener. Not only is it better for sensitive skin, but it will make a big difference in your entire household. You’ll save money on detergent, soap and shampoo—it’s easier for them to foam up and clean surfaces, rather than using extra to combat magnesium and calcium in the water.
Softened water usually tastes better, too. While calcium and magnesium aren’t dangerous, they also don’t taste great on their own. To get delicious, fresh water every time, install a whole-house water softener.
Finally, you’ll never have to deal with water spots or mineral scale again. Since softened water has a much lower mineral content, you’ll end up with flawlessly clean laundry, dishes and plumbing.
When you’re ready to install a water softener system in your Columbus, IN home or workplace, reach out to Barr Plumbing Service, Inc. for assistance. We’d be glad to recommend and install a high-quality water softener at your property.